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Itinerary
A city of the sea, Helsinki was built along a series of oddly shaped peninsulas and islands jutting into the Baltic coast along the Gulf of Finland. Streets and avenues curve around bays, bridges reach to nearby islands, and ferries ply among offshore islands.Having grown dramatically since World War II, Helsinki now absorbs more than one-tenth of the Finnish population. The metro area covers 764 square km (474 square miles) and 315 islands. Most sights, hotels, and restaurants cluster on one peninsula, forming a compact central hub. The greater Helsinki metropolitan area, which includes Espoo and Vantaa, has a total population of more than a million people.Helsinki is a relatively young city compared with other European capitals. In the 16th century, King Gustav Vasa of Sweden decided to woo trade from the Estonian city of Tallinn and thus challenge the Hanseatic League’s monopoly on Baltic trade. Accordingly, he commanded the people of four Finnish towns to pack up their belongings and relocate to the rapids on the River Vantaa. The new town, founded on June 12, 1550, was named Helsinki.For three centuries, Helsinki (Helsingfors in Swedish) had its ups and downs as a trading town. Turku, to the west, remained Finland’s capital and intellectual center. However, Helsinki’s fortunes improved when Finland fell under Russian rule as an autonomous grand duchy. Czar Alexander I wanted Finland’s political center closer to Russia and, in 1812, selected Helsinki as the new capital. Shortly afterward, Turku suffered a disastrous fire, forcing the university to move to Helsinki. The town’s future was secure.Just before the czar’s proclamation, a fire destroyed many of Helsinki’s traditional wooden structures, precipitating the construction of new buildings suitable for a nation’s capital. The German-born architect Carl Ludvig Engel was commissioned to rebuild the city, and as a result, Helsinki has some of the purest neoclassical architecture in the world. Add to this foundation the influence of Stockholm and St. Petersburg with the local inspiration of 20th-century Finnish design, and the result is a European capital city that is as architecturally eye-catching as it is distinct from other Scandinavian capitals. You are bound to discover endless engaging details—a grimacing gargoyle; a foursome of males supporting a balcony’s weight on their shoulders; a building painted in striking colors with contrasting flowers in the windows. The city’s 400 or so parks make it particularly inviting in summer.Today, Helsinki is still a meeting point of eastern and western Europe, which is reflected in its cosmopolitan image, the influx of Russians and Estonians, and generally multilingual population. Outdoor summer bars (“terrassit” as the locals call them) and cafés in the city center are perfect for people watching on a summer afternoon.
Estonia’s history is sprinkled liberally with long stretches of foreign domination, beginning in 1219 with the Danes, followed without interruption by the Germans, Swedes, and Russians. Only after World War I, with Russia in revolutionary wreckage, was Estonia able to declare its independence. Shortly before World War II, in 1940, that independence was usurped by the Soviets, who—save for a brief three-year occupation by Hitler’s Nazis—proceeded to suppress all forms of national Estonian pride for the next 50 years. Estonia finally regained independence in 1991. In the early 1990s, Estonia’s own Riigikogu (Parliament), not some other nation’s puppet ruler, handed down from the Upper City reforms that forced Estonia to blaze its post-Soviet trail to the European Union. Estonia has been a member of the EU since 2004, and in 2011, the country and its growing economy joined the Eurozone. Tallinn was also named the European City of Culture in 2011, cementing its growing reputation as a cultural hot spot.
Gotland is Sweden’s main holiday island, a place of ancient history, a relaxed summer-party vibe, wide sandy beaches, and wild cliff formations called raukar (the remnants of reefs formed more than 400 million years ago). Measuring 125 km (78 miles) long and 52 km (32 miles) at its widest point, Gotland is where Swedish sheep farming has its home. In its charming glades, 35 varieties of wild orchids thrive, attracting botanists from all over the world.
Stockholm is a city in the flush of its second youth. Since the mid-1990s, Sweden’s capital has emerged from its cold, Nordic shadow to take the stage as a truly international city. What started with entry into the European Union in 1995 gained pace with the extraordinary IT boom of the late 1990s, strengthened with the Skype-led IT second wave of 2003, and solidified with the hedge-fund invasion that is still happening today as Stockholm gains even more global confidence. And despite more recent economic turmoil, Stockholm’s 1 million or so inhabitants have, almost as one, realized that their city is one to rival Paris, London, New York, or any other great metropolis.With this realization comes change. Stockholm has become a city of design, fashion, innovation, technology, and world-class food, pairing homegrown talent with an international outlook. The streets are flowing with a young and confident population keen to drink in everything the city has to offer. The glittering feeling of optimism, success, and living in the here and now is rampant in Stockholm.Stockholm also has plenty of history. Positioned where the waters of Lake Mälaren rush into the Baltic, it’s been an important trading site and a wealthy international city for centuries. Built on 14 islands joined by bridges crossing open bays and narrow channels, Stockholm boasts the story of its history in its glorious medieval old town, grand palaces, ancient churches, sturdy edifices, public parks, and 19th-century museums—its history is soaked into the very fabric of its airy boulevards, built as a public display of trading glory.
Stockholm is a city in the flush of its second youth. Since the mid-1990s, Sweden’s capital has emerged from its cold, Nordic shadow to take the stage as a truly international city. What started with entry into the European Union in 1995 gained pace with the extraordinary IT boom of the late 1990s, strengthened with the Skype-led IT second wave of 2003, and solidified with the hedge-fund invasion that is still happening today as Stockholm gains even more global confidence. And despite more recent economic turmoil, Stockholm’s 1 million or so inhabitants have, almost as one, realized that their city is one to rival Paris, London, New York, or any other great metropolis.With this realization comes change. Stockholm has become a city of design, fashion, innovation, technology, and world-class food, pairing homegrown talent with an international outlook. The streets are flowing with a young and confident population keen to drink in everything the city has to offer. The glittering feeling of optimism, success, and living in the here and now is rampant in Stockholm.Stockholm also has plenty of history. Positioned where the waters of Lake Mälaren rush into the Baltic, it’s been an important trading site and a wealthy international city for centuries. Built on 14 islands joined by bridges crossing open bays and narrow channels, Stockholm boasts the story of its history in its glorious medieval old town, grand palaces, ancient churches, sturdy edifices, public parks, and 19th-century museums—its history is soaked into the very fabric of its airy boulevards, built as a public display of trading glory.
Rīga has an upscale, big-city feel unmatched in the region. The capital (almost as large as Tallinn and Vilnius combined) is the business center of the area while original, high-quality restaurants and hotels have earned Rīga some bragging rights among its Western European counterparts. The city also doesn’t lack for beauty—Rīga’s Old Town (now a UNESCO World Heritage site) is one of Europe’s most striking examples of the art nouveau architectural style. Long avenues of complex and sometimes whimsical Jugendstil facades hint at Rīga’s grand past. Many were designed by Mikhail Eisenstein, the father of Soviet director Sergei. This style dominates the city center. In many ways, the wonder of Rīga resides less in its individual attractions and more in the fabric of the town itself. In the medieval Old Town, an ornate gable or architrave catches the eye at every turn. The somber and the flamboyant are both represented in this quarter’s 1,000 years of architectural history. Don’t hesitate to just follow where your desire leads—the Old Town is compact and bounded by canals, so it’s difficult to get totally lost. When the Old Town eventually became too crowded, the city burst out into the newer inner suburbs. The rich could afford to leave and build themselves fine fashionable mansions in the style of the day; consequently, city planners created a whole new Rīga. Across the narrow canal, you’ll find the Esplanāde, a vast expanse of parkland with formal gardens and period mansions where the well-heeled stroll and play. Surrounding this is the art nouveau district. Encompassing avenues of splendid family homes (now spruced up in the postcommunist era), the collection has been praised by UNESCO as Europe’s finest in the art nouveau style. The best examples are at Alberta 2, 2a, 4, 6, 8, and 13; Elizabetes 10b; and Strēlnieku 4a. If the weather permits, eschew public transport and stroll between the two districts, taking in the varied skylines and multifaceted facades, and perhaps stopping at a café or two as you go. The city has churches in five Christian denominations and more than 50 museums, many of which cater to eclectic or specialist tastes.
By the 11th century, Copenhagen was already an important trading and fishing centre and today you will find an attractive city which, although the largest in Scandinavia, has managed to retain its low-level skyline. Discover some of the famous attractions including Gefion Fountain and Amalienborg Palace, perhaps cruise the city’s waterways, visit Rosenborg Castle or explore the medieval fishing village of Dragoer. Once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen features many reminders of its fairytale heritage and lives up to the reputation immortalised in the famous song ‘Wonderful Copenhagen’.
By the 11th century, Copenhagen was already an important trading and fishing centre and today you will find an attractive city which, although the largest in Scandinavia, has managed to retain its low-level skyline. Discover some of the famous attractions including Gefion Fountain and Amalienborg Palace, perhaps cruise the city’s waterways, visit Rosenborg Castle or explore the medieval fishing village of Dragoer. Once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen features many reminders of its fairytale heritage and lives up to the reputation immortalised in the famous song ‘Wonderful Copenhagen’.
Ship features
Owner's Suite
Details
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
- A private 430 ft² terrace with hot tub and lounge area with 2 deck chairs, sofa, and armchair
- Two sliding panoramic windows
- A bathroom with shower, spa bathtub, and smart mirror
- Butler service
- A one-hour treatment per person (for 2 people) in the wellness area, including body and facial treatments
- A private return transfer
- Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
- Champagne and fruit on arrival
- A fruit basket every day
- A living room with a convertible sofa into a double bed, armchair, and TV
- One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
- Included premium pass: access to a selection of premium spirits at the bar
Included in all staterooms
- Minibar
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- 110V American / 220V European
- Direct line telephone
- Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- 2 ADA stateroom
- Electronic safe
- Inclusive Wifi internet
Grand Suite
Details
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
- A private 344 ft² terrace with two deck chairs and a dining table for four people
- Two sliding panoramic windows
- A bathroom with shower and spa bathtub
- Butler service
- Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
- Champagne and fruit on arrival
- A fruit basket every day
- One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
- A living room with a convertible sofa into a double or single bed, armchair, and TV
Included in all staterooms
- Minibar
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- 110V American / 220V European
- Direct line telephone
- Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- 2 ADA stateroom
- Electronic safe
- Inclusive Wifi internet
Privilege Suite
Details
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
- Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
- Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival
- Butler service
- A fruit basket every day
- One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
- A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair
- A bathroom with shower
- A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs
- A panoramic sliding bay window
Included in all staterooms
- Minibar
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- 110V American / 220V European
- Direct line telephone
- Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- 2 ADA stateroom
- Electronic safe
- Inclusive Wifi internet
Prestige Suite
Details
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
- A private 86 ft² balcony with four armchairs
- Two sliding panoramic windows
- Champagne and fruit on arrival (Suite Prestige deck 6)
- Priority boarding (Suite Prestige deck 6)
- Butler service (Suite Prestige deck 6)
- A fruit basket every day (Suite Prestige deck 6)
- One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
- A living room with a convertible sofa into a king-size or two single beds, armchair, TV, and a courtesy sliding door
- Two bathrooms with showers
Included in all staterooms
- Minibar
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- 110V American / 220V European
- Direct line telephone
- Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- 2 ADA stateroom
- Electronic safe
- Inclusive Wifi internet
Deluxe Suite
Details
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
- On Decks 3, 4, and 6, a private 6m² balcony with two armchairs; on Deck 5, a private 43 ft² balcony with two armchairs
- On Deck 3, a panoramic glass door and porthole; on Decks 4, 5, and 6, a sliding panoramic window
- One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
- An armchair and sofa
- A bathroom with shower
- Champagne and fruit on arrival for suites on Decks 5 and 6
Included in all staterooms
- Minibar
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- 110V American / 220V European
- Direct line telephone
- Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- 2 ADA stateroom
- Electronic safe
- Inclusive Wifi internet
Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom
Details
- In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
- A private 43 ft² balcony with two armchairs
- Depending on the stateroom, either a sliding panoramic window or a glass door
- One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
- A chaise lounge
- A bathroom with shower
Included in all staterooms
- Minibar
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- 110V American / 220V European
- Direct line telephone
- Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- 2 ADA stateroom
- Electronic safe
- Inclusive Wifi internet
Lower Decks Balcony Stateroom
Details
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
- A private 43 ft² balcony with two armchairs
- Depending on the stateroom, either a sliding panoramic window or a glass door
- One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
- A chaise lounge
- A bathroom with shower
Included in all staterooms
- Minibar
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- 110V American / 220V European
- Direct line telephone
- Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- 2 ADA stateroom
- Electronic safe
- Inclusive Wifi internet
Le Nautilus
At the back of deck 4, you will find a gourmet restaurant complete with wine cellar, offering French and international cuisine. It can accommodate all guests in a single service for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Enjoy a menu crafted by the Ducasse Conseil teams at the gourmet restaurant. At Nautilus as well as Céleste, the freedom of a generous buffet blends with the elegance of table service: your chef offers you a selection of expertly prepared hot dishes, accompanied by carefully chosen fine wines by your sommelier.
Grill Restaurant- Le Nemo
In a relaxed atmosphere, the grill restaurant located on deck 3 welcomes you for breakfast and buffet lunches as well as themed dinners.
Room Service
Whether you want to fully enjoy your cabin for breakfast, savor a peaceful snack in the middle of the day, or have your meal in complete privacy, room service is at your disposal. Treat yourself to a moment of indulgence and enjoy a diverse menu available at any time of day and night.
Excursions
There are many ways to see the world. But to truly discover it? Unexplored shores, authentic encounters, iconic wildlife… Our experts imagine the most beautiful travel stories for you.
Unforgettable moments
Holding your breath to better perceive that of a distant whale, stepping foot on Antarctica for the first time, watching through binoculars the passage of a polar bear in the Arctic, marvelling at the splendour of the Mediterranean architectural heritage… Moments of pure emotion as time seems to suspended.
Unique exchanges
Share the art of living, wisdom and hospitality of communities with strong ancestral traditions. Exchanges about their philosophy in connection with the environment are an endless source of teachings.
Explore further
Navigating close to the almost inaccessible coasts of Greenland, exploring the confidential shores of Oceania, reaching the most remote seas of Antarctica, taking new paths in the Mediterranean or Northern Europe: our experts are constantly seeking new travel experiences to offer you.
Experts by your side
Captains, expedition leaders, experienced naturalist guides, lecturers, wildlife photographers, personalities from the world of art, science, culture and gastronomy… Experts share their passions with you on board or on land.
Captains
Your captain is responsible for ensuring the smooth running of your journey on board. An expert in navigating polar or tropical waters, their announcements punctuate your day. And when wildlife appears on the horizon, do not hesitate to accept their invitation to join the outer decks for magnificent observations. Gala dinners are also unmissable opportunities to meet your captain and share with them your passion for travel.
Expedition leaders
Alongside the captain, the expedition leader conducts your exploration. They supervise the team of naturalist guides, ensure the safety of the proposed experiences, and adjust the highlights of your journey according to the navigation conditions, to reveal all the riches of these fascinating ecosystems.
Photo ambassadors
During some trips, having renowned photographers on board offers you the unique opportunity to participate in workshops, and conferences, and receive personalised advice to enhance your images.
Activity guides
Scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, polar hiking on foot or snowshoes, cross-country skiing, dog sledding… Whether it’s for an introduction or to deepen your practice, experience immersive activities led by certified guides, ambassadors of local cultures and communities.
Guests and partners
Dancers, musicians, writers, journalists, researchers, adventurers… Experts and prestigious partners share their passion, whether it is artistic or scientific.
Speakers
Art historians, journalists, ethnologists, naturalists… Every journey is a unique opportunity to learn more about the regions visited.
The Hydraulic Platform
- Deck 2
- Much easier onboard access than on any other cruise ship
- Easier disembarking and embarking by Zodiac when participating in expeditions
- Swimming and bathing in the sea and various nautical sports, such as kayaking and paddle-boarding
The Observatory Lounge
Library, internet space, bar, occasional live entertainment, terrace: enjoy a 180° panorama of the horizon from the observatory lounge.
Swimming Pool
With its water blending into the surrounding landscapes, the pool is perfect for relaxing in the sun. From the marina platform, embark on your sea excursions or water activities in complete tranquility.
The Main Lounge Room
Tea room, bar, live music, dance floor, terrace: the main lounge is an essential meeting place throughout your journey.
The Theatre
Comfortably seated, you can attend conferences given by the guests and teams of naturalists, as well as the various shows, concerts, and performances organised by professional dancers and musicians.
Music and dance
Opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts or ballets at sea or on land: musical cruises and dance cruises offer privileged experiences, in small groups, alongside prestigious partners, such as Radio Classique or the Paris National Opera and talented artists of international renown.
Art and literature
Share high-quality moments and attend conferences by curators from national and international museums, women and men from the world of culture, renowned writers, actors and philosophers. They discuss their passion during conferences or private visits. Experience the opportunity to open up to new perspectives.
The Blue Eye
Located below the waterline of the ship, the Blue Eye is an innovative underwater lounge. Its design, inspired by the beauty of cetaceans, pays tribute to oceanographic environments.
Boutique
An extension of the journey and the ship, la Boutique offers an exclusive shopping experience with a wide range of technical and casual ready-to-wear and equipment, with or without PONANT personalization. It also features unique souvenirs to extend the journey back home, as well as jewelry, accessories and luxury items. Opening hours follow the voyage schedule, including days at sea, and all purchases on board are tax-free.
PONANT Studio
A photography and videography team escort you throughout your trip. These professionals capture the most beautiful moments of your cruise, which you can share with family and friends upon your return. Meet them on DECK 5 (DECK 6 on the PONANT Explorers ships) at the photo/video area, where you can also order souvenir pictures and videos.
Excursion Reception and Office
If you have not made a pre-booking before your cruise, you can book your excursions on board during one of the daily opening times of the excursion desk (timetables available in your daily program). It is only possible to pre-book one excursion per port day. If you would like to book a second excursion on the same day, please contact the excursion desk to check availability.
Open Bar
From the moment of boarding, unlimited drinks are included at any time of the day. A drink with friends at the bar, a refreshment upon returning from an excursion, or quietly on the balcony of your cabin: enjoy a wide selection of beverages (mineral water, soft drinks, cruise wines, beer, champagne, spirits, coffee, tea).
The offer does not include premium alcoholic beverages listed on the bar menu.
The Spa
Onboard our ships, in the heart of an intimate and privileged environment with the ocean as your backdrop, discover a new way to enjoy the Spa experience.
In association with SOTHYS™ Paris, we are offering you a selection of expert face and body treatments. The “savoir-faire” and expertise of our hair professional partner DAVINES® will be able to satisfy all your expectations.
The Gym
The fitness room offers a wide range of exercises suitable for all levels to train facing magnificent views.
The Hairdressing Salon
Each product has been crafted using the most advanced cosmetic technologies and natural ingredients. Developed and packaged while minimising the environmental impact, Davines® products are inspired by the Sustainable Beauty ideal, an inseparable unit between Beauty and Being. During your cruise, treat your hair to a unique beauty experience. Our expert stylist will do an in-depth analysis of your hair and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
The Kids Explorers Club
During your cruise, PONANT EXPLORATIONS offers a program of activities dedicated to children, from 4 to 13 years old on our entire fleet.
A team of experienced facilitators on board offers daily manual activities, educational workshops, board games, introductory meditation sessions, and much more, as well as content specific to each itinerary and the number of participants.
Kid Explorers have the opportunity to extend this experience on land with the possibility of enjoying a tailor-made excursion, swimming outings, walks and scavenger hunts.
This program of activities will be offered to children every day. (The exact times will be communicated to you by the activity leaders.)
To best meet your needs, the schedule is adapted to your cruise itinerary. For more information, please contact the entertainment team beforehand.
The program of entertainment and activities is communicated daily in the logbook.
A welcome kit with gifts is offered to each child on board.
Laundry
Your staterllm attendant is at your disposal to provide a laundry service. It takes 24 to 48 hours to wash and iron your clothes. Only an ironing service can be provided on the same day. Dry cleaning is not possible, so we kindly ask you to only give us clothes that can be washed with water.
** These services are chargeable and billed directly to your cabin account.
Smoking Policy
Ships are non-smoking, even on accommodation balconies. Smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas of the ship.
Power Adapters
Electrical plug adapters are provided on board, they are available at the reception.
Are the electrical outlets on board compliant with European standards?
Yes, the alternating current 220 volts 50 Hertz is distributed through outlets compliant with European standards. The electricity on board is in 220 volts AC (European standard) and 110 volts AC (North American standard). For safety reasons, the use of hair straighteners and irons is not allowed in the staterooms. On board Le Ponant, the 110 volts AC is only distributed in the bathroom of the staterooms.
Age Restrictions
Children under one (1 year old / 12 months) are not permitted on PONANT EXPLORATIONS cruises.
On Classic cruises, children are permitted from one (1 year old), with a maximum of five children aged one to six (1 to 6 years old) on board each voyage.
Children aged four years and older are welcome at the Kids’ Club when the service is offered on board.
In all cases and at all times, both on board or on land, children and young minors are the full and total responsibility of their parents or accompanying adults.
Languages
The languages spoken on board are French and English. The signage is in French and English. On some cruises, crew members also speak other languages.
Telephone
To reach a correspondent around the world, a satellite communication system is available to you. The cost of communications is charged directly to your account (pricing depends on the navigation zone). Calls from your correspondents can be transferred directly to your accommodation or to any common area on the ships. You can also send and receive faxes. Contacting reception.
Wi-Fi
You have free Wi-Fi internet access on board all ships (cabins and common areas). On the Sisterships (L’Austral, Le Lyrial, The Boréal, Le Soléal), one or more computers are available to you in the leisure areas. Thanks to the Starlink network provided by Marlink, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP guarantees you quality Wi-Fi access, regardless of the location and navigation conditions.
Medical Facilities
There is a doctor on board available to the passengers on all our ships:
The schedules of consultation are listed each day in the log book (emergency consultation 24/7).
The Sisterships, PONANT Explorers and Le Commandant Charcot also have a hospital for any small surgery.
During the excursions, the passengers are accompanied by a doctor or a nurse.
There is a fee for consultations on board . The price may vary according to the time and place of the consultation (hospital or staterooms). You must also pay for medications.
The doctor on board is not authorised to distribute sick leaves and prescriptions. Only accounts and invoices are provided which may be used by the passenger to obtain a refund from his/her health insurance if his/her contract allows.
Medical Consultations
Consultations, medical and surgical procedures, laboratory tests or medical imaging examinations (radiology) carried out on board by the doctor or nurse are subject to charges. The price may vary depending on the time and location of the consultation (at the onboard hospital or in the cabin). The cost of all procedures is displayed in the waiting room. Guests are also required to pay for any medications.
The ship’s doctor is unable to provide medical certificates and prescriptions. Only reports and invoices are issued, which can be used by the guest to claim a refund from their health insurance if their policy allows it.
Special Medical Treatment
If you have a special treatment, please inform the reservation service at the time of your registration, indicate it on the information form filled out before departure, then inform the crew on board at the time of boarding and bring your specific medications for the duration of the cruise.
Seasickness
Our ships (with the exception of Le Ponant and the Spirit of Ponant) are equipped with stabilisers fitted with dynamic fins that adapt to the movements of the ship. This system allows for anticipation and compensation for pitch and roll to provide great stability. Guests anticipating seasickness experience reduced symptoms and are surprised not to be inconvenienced.
Guests with reduced mobility
Only the Sisterships, the PONANT Explorers, Paul Gauguin and Le Commandant Charcot have been designed to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility.
- Staterooms specially designed on board the Sisterships, decks 3 (307), 4 (407) and 5 (509) 3 c for two people aged 18. in a wheelchair, with a double bed (180 x 200) cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 shower and toilet in the bathroom as well as a balcony of 4 2 (only for cabins on the decks 4 and 5) having a small ramp Wheelchair accessible,
- on board the PONANT Explorers, decks 4 (431) and 5 (527) 2 cabins for two people each at 27.5 2in a wheelchair, with a double bed (180 x 200) cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 sink, shower, and toilet in the bathroom, as well as a balcony of 4 Wheelchair accessible,
- on board the Commandant Charcot, points 6 (626 and 628) and 8 (818) 3 cabins for two people each of 28
- 2I’m accIin a wheelchair, with a double bed (180 x 200) cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 shower and toilet in the bathroom, as well as abalcony of 7.5.2 a small ramp Wheelchair accessible,
- on board the Paul Gauguin, bridge 4 (415 and 416) 2 cabins for two people each aged 21 in a wheelchair, with a double queen size bed (160 x 200) cm) only for the 416, and a double queen size bed (160 x 200 cm) or two single beds (80 x 200 cm) for the 415, shower and toilet in the bathroom, as well as.a window with panoramic view.
Ramps providing easy access for movement in common areas.
Posters, signage, and cabin numbers translated into braille.
Despite these arrangements, each passenger must be able to be autonomous or travel with a companion who can provide all the necessary assistance during their journey. If a person is not deemed sufficiently fit to travel safely, the company reserves the right to refuse their boarding. Landings in difficult areas or on zodiacs are subject to the approval of the captain, always with the passenger’s well-being and safety in mind.
Packing Tips
Technical Accessories
We recommend that you bring a ski mask, sunglasses, walking sticks, a waterproof backpack, binoculars, a technical watch, a mosquito net for the face (in the Arctic), and a waterproof pouch. These accessories are also available for purchase at the onboard shop.
Dress Code
Dress Code
We recommend wearing casual and elegant outfits, cocktail attire for gala evenings, and white or black and white attire for the Officers’ evening. Shorts and bermudas are not allowed in the evening at gourmet restaurants.
Expedition Cruise
For an expedition cruise, pack practical clothing and comfortable shoes. During your polar cruises, a polar parka in your size will be provided and boots in your size will be loaned to you.
Sustainable Development
Sustainable development is enshrined in the company’s statutes and is at the heart of the PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP project. Founded over 30 years ago by committed sailors, the company was born out of a desire to share the passion for the oceans and the treasures of the Earth. This responsibility commits us to engage in a respectful dialogue with the environment and the populations encountered, and to invest in various areas related to the preservation and enhancement of the natural and cultural heritage of polar and oceanic regions.
To learn more about our commitments to sustainable development and about the PONANT Foundation, visit the page. Engagements.
Clean Ships
We were among the first in the world to abandon heavy fuel. Our ships are equipped with electric diesel engines and SCR catalytic converters, which help reduce our emissions and fuel consumption. Our high polar exploration ship, Le Commandant Charcot, is a hybrid electric ship, powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and light fuel. Thanks to LNG, there is a reduction of -25% in CO2 emissions, -85% in nitrogen oxide emissions, and -95% in fine particle emissions. Every time we design a new ship, we equip it with the latest eco-technologies available, allowing us to maintain our position as a leader in the cruise industry in terms of the environment, surpassing international regulations in some aspects. This commitment is recognised by numerous independent organisations. If you would like to learn more, please visit our section on ‘labels, certifications, and distinctions’ on the Engagements page.
Wastewater
Wastewater is treated using processes that exclude the use of chemicals. The treated water is sometimes reused on board for technical purposes (laundry, deck washing…) and is used for the external cleaning of the ship.
Waste
We have optimised our organisation to reduce waste at the source, waste is still produced on board. Equipment adapted for sorting each type of waste is in place. This equipment helps reduce the stored volume and facilitates their recovery. We ensure complete traceability of this waste and have a valuation rate of 80% by 2026.
Single-use plastics
We have eliminated single-use plastics (such as straws, cups, food portions, laundry bags, etc.). A metal water bottle is provided to each guests during expedition cruises, and water fountains are available in the common areas of the ships. We are also developing the bottling of our water in glass bottles.
Discover all our products in daily actions.
Special Diets
If you follow a specific diet (vegetarian, diabetic, low calorie, gluten-free, allergy…), it is essential to specify it when making your reservation. You will then receive adapted menus throughout your cruise.
Solo Travelling
Every season, we offer a wide range of cruises with ‘no single supplement’: you thus benefit from a double stateroom to yourself, at no extra cost. The onboard atmosphere is conducive to meeting and interacting with other guests, and the crew ensures your well-being and integration on board. Discover the cruises by consulting the single page offered.
Butler Service
Attentive and discreet, your butler offers you a fully personalized service.
The butler service is reserved for passengers traveling in one of the suites located on deck 6 aboard the Sisterships, as well as in all suites of the Shipowner, Deluxe Suites, Privilege Suites, and Prestige Suites located on deck 6 aboard the PONANT EXPLORERS.
Ponant App
Our app accompanies you in your preparations and during your stay on board. Find the services offered and the information that facilitates your journey.
Are you soon boarding with us?
Thanks to its app, PONANT accompanies you in your travel preparations, and then during your stay on board. Find our services and information that will make your cruise even easier.
Prepare your cruise with peace of mind
- Receive notifications to pre-book your programs before and after the cruise, as well as your excursions.
- Get a sneak peek of the captain and crew who will accompany you during your stay.
- Follow in real-time the positioning of the ship on which you will embark.
- Access your luggage checklist, the clothing outfits recommended by our experts for your destination, and the formalities to be expected before your departure.
- Check the steps of your journey and find out the details of the amenities in your cabin.
Once on board, the PONANT app makes all your procedures easier
- Use the guest mode to access onboard services without logging in.
- Find the highlights of your cruise, day by day.
- Add your favourite excursions to your wishlist.
- Check out the most beautiful photos from your cruise.
- Order your breakfast and room service from your smartphone.
- Conference schedules, spa relaxation sessions… All your important appointments on board are noted in your application.
Download the application
The companion of your next journey
Required Android version: 5.0 and later Required iOS version: 12.4 and later
Included on Every Cruise
A complete offer (excluding Spirit of PONANT and La Désirade¹)
SERVICES INCLUDED ON ALL OUR CRUISES
- Full board from arrival to departure day
- High-end gastronomy in all restaurants
- All drinks in restaurants, bars and minibars. All drinks are included² (selection of champagnes, wines and spirits, beers, cocktails, water, soft drinks, hot drinks)
- 24-hour room service
- Butler service for certain suites³
- Free and unlimited internet access on board
- Evenings, shows and other entertainment
- Access to the fitness area and the hammam or sauna, depending on the ship.
- All port and security fees
SERVICES INCLUDED DEPENDING ON THE TYPE OF CRUISE/SHIP
- Timeless: one included excursion⁴ per person, per day and per stopover, led by local guides (visits to monuments, tastings of local products, etc.)
- Discoveries: one included activity per person, per day and per stopover, which can be either an included excursion⁴ led by local guides or an included activity led by naturalist guides
- Expeditions: one activity included per person, per day, per port of call, led by naturalist guides (hiking, zodiac excursions, etc.).
- Some more secluded ports of call, with few or no facilities, will be offered for independent exploration. Passengers will thus have the freedom to explore the area and enjoy activities on their own (swimming at the beach, shopping, restaurants, shows, etc.).
- Lectures by our naturalist guides or our destination expert (excluding sea voyages)
- Non-motorized water sports activities (excluding diving), such as kayaking on the Commandant Charcot or stand-up paddleboarding depending on the ship, are subject to weather and safety conditions, local authorizations, and the Captain’s agreement.
- Taxes for national parks and protected areas
- The accompaniment of a team of naturalist guides is provided only on expedition and discovery cruises; on land or, depending on the destination, during excursions and/or landings by Zodiac.
Deck 7
- Spa
- Fitness Room
- Hair Salon
- Sun Deck
Deck 6
- Observatory Lounge
- Art Gallery Studio PONANT
- Library
- Grand Suite
- Privilege Suite
- Prestige Suite
- Deluxe Suite
- Upper Decks Balcony Suite
Deck 5
- Bridge
- Owner’s Suite
- Privilege Suite
- Prestige Suite
- Deluxe Suite
- Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom
- Accessible room
Deck 4
- Restaurant
- Deluxe Suite
- Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom
Deck 3
- Marina
- Pool
- Grill
- Bar
- Main Lounge
- Shop
- Excursion Desk
- Reception Desk
- Deluxe Suite
- Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom
- Medical Centre
- Theatre
Get in touch with our team to start planning
Our team will get back to you to provide you more information.
Need support now? Call and speak to a member of our team today for more details on +44 (0)1491 528 988 or email info@authenticcruises.co.uk.