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Ponant Explorations Group is expanding its offering with the launch of a new commercial brand, Ponant Yachting, showcasing the Group’s expertise in crafting ultra-intimate experiences. The Group has also ordered a new catamaran, the Spirit of Ponant II, built by Lagoon, a leading manufacturer of sailing catamarans. The vessel will join the fleet in late 2026 and will be based in French Polynesia.
“With the acquisition of the Spirit of Ponant II, the 22nd ship in the fleet, we are expanding our offering in the luxury sailing segment for intimate, sophisticated and responsible voyages. We are developing a unique world, where each experience is tailor-made: itineraries, gastronomy, excursions and more,” Hervé Gastinel, Ponant Explorations Group’s CEO said in a statement. “This strategy is also embodied in the launch of our new brand, Ponant Yachting, which combines the intimate experience of sailing with the sophisticated and personalized services of Ponant Explorations Group voyages. This strengthens our unique portfolio of brands in the cruise industry.”
In 2024, Ponant Explorations Group chose to innovate by launching a new range of tailor-made sea voyages aboard luxury catamarans. With the success of the Spirit of Ponant, the Group is continuing to develop this new market segment, which targets a more family-oriented customer base and groups of friends.
A crew of four (captain, first mate, chef, hostess) offers guests an all-inclusive experience: exclusive itineraries, personalized activities, refined gastronomy, a selection of wines & cocktails, bespoke menus, and a wide range of nautical activities (stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, water skiing, wing foiling, Tiwal sailing (inflatable dinghy), Sublue diving (underwater scooter).
By late 2026, Ponant Yachting will operate a fleet of three catamarans, the Spirit of Ponant, La Désirade and the Spirit of Ponant II, each with a capacity of nine to 12 guests. These offer a sailing experience and access to secluded anchorages. The destinations on offer—the Mediterranean, the Seychelles, the Caribbean and Polynesia—are particularly well suited to exploration under sail.
A Partnership Between French Companies
Built in France, the Spirit of Ponant II is part of the new Lagoon Eighty 2 series, a model combining contemporary design and comfort. Its operations will be supported by Sailoé’s expertise in all the destinations offered. This project strengthens the partnership between Ponant Explorations Group, Lagoon, the Bénéteau Group and Sailoé, united by a passion for sailing and a commitment to more sustainable tourism and French-style excellence.
Spirit of Ponant II
The Spirit of Ponant II is a catamaran in the brand-new Lagoon Eighty 2 series, a top-of-the-range yacht measuring 81.9 feet long and 36 feet wide.
Accommodating up to 10 guests, it features five double staterooms and 4,596 square feet of living space. It will be available exclusively for full private charter, from €64,000 (USD $ 74,930) (excluding flights and variable costs, mainly fuel, dining and drinks).
The maiden voyage will take place in late 2026, sailing to Polynesia, a destination where Ponant Exploration Group’s expertise is widely recognized. Itineraries are tailored to guests’ wishes and adjusted according to the weather conditions at the time of travel.
For information or bookings, contact +33 (0) 491 161 627.
Ponant Yachting is Ponant Explorations Group’s fourth commercial brand after Ponant Explorations, Paul Gauguin Cruises and Aqua Expeditions.
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