Le Ponant, the first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht, like the finest travel address on the waters of the world.


“Eternity. It is the sea mingled with the sun,” according to a poem by the French poet Rimbaud. Whether you are a lover of the sea or a curious traveller, experience once again the indescribable joy of navigating under sail surrounded by the elements. Take your place aboard Le Ponant, a majestic three-mast yacht with elegant lines and an interior designed by the Jean-Philippe Nuel studio to be a warm and intimate setting with a highly distinctive character. As if you were on your very own yacht, savour the freedom of living in the moment, being fully present for this exceptional 8-day cruise to the heart of the mythical French Riviera.


One of the world’s most popular holiday spots and an endless source of inspiration for the greatest artists, the iconic Côte d’Azur appears against the pure blue of the sky and sea.  On shore, hidden among pine trees or clinging to ochre rocks, timeless villages with citrus-coloured façades call to mind eternal images. Here, the ghosts of Picasso, Fitzgerald, Sagan, but also Vadim and Bardot appear as you wander through narrow streets lined with fig trees and wisteria. At anchor in these picturesque ports built for small vessels, surrender to the very essence of the French Riviera, a combination of glamour and historic charm.


From Nice, the capital of the French Riviera, you will sail to Portofino. Built in a small natural harbour protected by a pine forest, this lively port has successfully retained its traditions and authenticity.


In Menton, on the border between France and Italy, narrow streets wind their way inland to the region's gold: the Menton lemon. Follow the scent of citrus fruits as you stroll through this town, beloved by botanists and artists since the 19th century for its microclimate and its gentle way of life.


Carried by the wind, you will sail to Antibes. Just a stone's throw from the chic beaches of Juan-les-Pins and Pinède Gould, one of the world's leading jazz venues, immerse yourself in the history of modern art with Picasso, Matisse and others.


Then, at the foot of the Esterel Massif, in the ochre of the setting sun, Cannes will appear. The iconic Croisette is lined with jewellers, leather goods boutiques and other fashion houses facing an endless beach of fine sand. Across the water, the charming island of Saint-Honorat will reveal the secrets of the vineyards of the Abbey of Lérins.


In Saint-Tropez, the glamorous standard-bearer of the French Riviera, one breathtaking sight follows another: small boats rub shoulders with gleaming yachts, hidden streets lead to glittering establishments serving their iconic flavours, and the surrounding vineyards seem to cover the sea in a thick green mantle.


Further west, the wind will carry you to Cassis. More discreet than its neighbours, the town is home to a small, lesser-known port open to a limited number of cruise ships. In this tranquil place, soothed by the scent of pine trees, discover an unspoiled natural environment and striking landscapes on a hike or on a boat ride around the stunning “calanques”, narrow, steep-walled inlets.


The activities, designed for you and with you, create opportunities to reconnect with what is truly important, in a setting conducive to contemplation.


Away from the crowds and at your own pace, immerse yourself in wild and breathtaking landscapes and spend time in harmony with nature: kayaking, paddle boarding*.


*The activities on offer will be confirmed on board by the captain. They will depend on the weather conditions, the route and the itinerary.

Capital of the Cote d’Azur, Nice is surrounded by an amphitheatre of hills and mountains that protects it from the wind. You will probably want to explore the Promenade des Anglais, where you can sit on one of the famous blue chairs laid out opposite the baie des Anges. The Château hill is also a very pleasent place to walk. This is the entrance to the old city, with its bustling markets and regional products along the main street, the Cours Saleya.

 

Close to the Cinque Terre, Portofino is the jewel of the Ligurian Riviera. This "small village that stretches like a half moon around a silent basin", described by Guy de Maupassant, is today a pretty, lively little port that has managed to preserve the authenticity of its maritime traditions, which have been recognised since Ancient times. Built in the hollow of a small natural cove sheltered by the pine forest, the village is at the heart of a protected maritime reserve. The shimmering colours of its house fronts and the exceptional location of this village have inspired many authors and artists. You will also see the Portofino lighthouse, immaculate in its green setting. Perched on the Punta del Capo, it watches over the peninsula and its postcard setting.

 

City of art and history, Menton is located at the far eastern side of the Cote d’Azur. You will be won over by the Provence houses with their palms and lemon trees. Very close to the Saint-Michel-Archange basilica, take a mosey around the charming place aux Herbes, and the medieval streets that follow a sinuous plan. Here and there, you can see snatches of the coastline. These picturesque points of view have attracted artists since the beginning of the 20th century. Don’t miss works by the most famous Menton figure: Jean Cocteau. They are exhibited in two museums: the Bastion museum and the Séverin-Wunderman collection.

 

Under the Mediterranean sun, on the shores of the famous French Riviera, Antibes captivates and enchants travellers from around the world. The Antipolis trading post was founded by the Greeks shortly after Marseille, in the 5th century BC, but it was under the influence of the Romans that the city prospered. The expansion of the city towards the cape of Antibes began in 1860 under the Second French Empire, marking a boom in tourism. Wander through its old town, encircled by ramparts built by Vauban, and discover its cathedral, its Picasso museum and the many workshops and shops run by local craftspeople. Next, stroll along the path leading to the 16th-century Fort Carré (square fort) via the charming Vauban port, as you admire the sea and the endless horizon.

 

From the shadows into the light… In the 1800s, Cannes was still just a modest little fishing village which over time has been transformed into the elegant town we know today. You will be surprised to see the extent to which Cannes has retained its Provencal character, as you explore its most valuable treasures: the Castre Museum, built by the monks of Lérins and today a Historic Monument or the Gothic Notre Dame d’Espérance Church and bell tower.

 

Saint-Tropez is built on an attractive peninsula on the Côte d’Azur. In its delightful harbours, you will probably be surprised to see fishing trawlers alongside pleasure craft, yachts and jet-skis. You can do some celebrity spotting along the quays edged with Provence houses. Behind the waterfront, you can meander through the floral streets that lead to the baroque church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption. At the top of the village, the citadel provides a panorama overlooking the entire coastline. It is festooned with justifiably famous seaside sites, like the very beautiful Pampelonne beach.

 

A discreet outpost of the glittering French Riviera, the port of Cassis masterfully plays its Provençal music. Between the stunning calanques coves and Cap Canaille, the town stretches out with charming southern houses, their blinds repainted countless times, while the port exudes such a sunny and recognisable feeling, giving everything here a festive spirit. The surroundings are also well worth the visit: hills drooping beneath the vines, parasol pines curling up into the azure of the sky, prickly pears hanging onto white limestone, the Provence of the Fauvist painters unveils itself in this idyllic spot.

 

Capital of the Cote d’Azur, Nice is surrounded by an amphitheatre of hills and mountains that protects it from the wind. You will probably want to explore the Promenade des Anglais, where you can sit on one of the famous blue chairs laid out opposite the baie des Anges. The Château hill is also a very pleasent place to walk. This is the entrance to the old city, with its bustling markets and regional products along the main street, the Cours Saleya.

 

Itineraries are subject to change. 

MISTRAL STATEROOM

$16,080 AUD pp
MISTRAL STATEROOM
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A bathroom with shower One round porthole

MISTRAL PRESTIGE STATEROOM

$16,880 AUD pp
MISTRAL PRESTIGE STATEROOM
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A bathroom with shower One round porthole

MISTRAL JUNIOR SUITE

$21,670 AUD pp
MISTRAL JUNIOR SUITE
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A bathroom with shower A lounge area with sofa bed (170 x 70 cm), armchair Two round portholes

MISTRAL PRESTIGE SUITE

$23,270 AUD pp
MISTRAL PRESTIGE SUITE
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A bathroom with shower A lounge area with sofa bed (170 x 70 cm), armchair Two round portholes

ALIZÉS STATEROOM

$24,860 AUD pp
ALIZÉS STATEROOM
23m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

ALIZÉS PRESTIGE STATEROOM

$25,180 AUD pp
ALIZÉS PRESTIGE STATEROOM
23m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

ALIZÉS PRIVILEGE SUITE

$29,650 AUD pp
ALIZÉS PRIVILEGE SUITE
39m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

ALIZÉS GRAND PRIVILEGE SUITE

$34,750 AUD pp
ALIZÉS GRAND PRIVILEGE SUITE
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Champagne and fruit basket on arrival An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day Two king-size beds (180 x 200 cm) or four single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge area with sofa bed (160 x 190 cm), two armchairs, and second TV Two bathrooms: one with two showers and one with one shower Two one-hour spa care per person (for 2 people) in the well-being space, chosen from the facial and body treatments on offer Two rectangular panoramic portholes and two panoramic swing French doors A private 13 m² balcony with four armchairs

MISTRAL STATEROOM

$16,080 AUD pp
MISTRAL STATEROOM
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A bathroom with shower One round porthole

MISTRAL PRESTIGE STATEROOM

$16,880 AUD pp
MISTRAL PRESTIGE STATEROOM
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A bathroom with shower One round porthole

MISTRAL JUNIOR SUITE

$21,670 AUD pp
MISTRAL JUNIOR SUITE
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A bathroom with shower A lounge area with sofa bed (170 x 70 cm), armchair Two round portholes

MISTRAL PRESTIGE SUITE

$23,270 AUD pp
MISTRAL PRESTIGE SUITE
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A bathroom with shower A lounge area with sofa bed (170 x 70 cm), armchair Two round portholes

ALIZÉS STATEROOM

$24,860 AUD pp
ALIZÉS STATEROOM
23m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

ALIZÉS PRESTIGE STATEROOM

$25,180 AUD pp
ALIZÉS PRESTIGE STATEROOM
23m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

ALIZÉS PRIVILEGE SUITE

$29,650 AUD pp
ALIZÉS PRIVILEGE SUITE
39m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

ALIZÉS GRAND PRIVILEGE SUITE

$34,750 AUD pp
ALIZÉS GRAND PRIVILEGE SUITE
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Champagne and fruit basket on arrival An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day Two king-size beds (180 x 200 cm) or four single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge area with sofa bed (160 x 190 cm), two armchairs, and second TV Two bathrooms: one with two showers and one with one shower Two one-hour spa care per person (for 2 people) in the well-being space, chosen from the facial and body treatments on offer Two rectangular panoramic portholes and two panoramic swing French doors A private 13 m² balcony with four armchairs

Vessel Type: Three-Master Sailing Ship

Length: 288 feet

Passenger Capacity: 32

Built/refurbished: 1991/2021

This sleek, expertly designed 88-metre-long and 56-metre-high three-master is one of the most majestic yachts in the world. In an age when everything is becoming computer controlled, it shines the spotlight back on the more manual, skilful art of sailing, combined with comfort, elegance, exclusivity and sustainability.

The striking lines, the quality of the materials, the sophistication of the way they’re combined: the common areas, designed by French design studio Jean-Philippe Nuel, exude a sense of timelessness and offer a genuine connection with the exterior scenery and landscapes. Their design offers a blend of purity, excellence and a sense of easy living through the prominent use of stylish plain tones: off-white, taupe and caviar grey. No flourishes or embellishments here, but instead a unity between the common areas and the staterooms.

  • Exterior bar - Sun Deck

Sun Lounge area - Exterior bar

  • The Le Diamant panoramic restaurant - Zéphyr Deck

Seats 34 guests - 61 m² - Buffet breakfast and dinner - Fine gastronomic cuisine made using exceptionally high quality organic and local products - Veuve Clicquot champagne - Wines from French artisan wine producers and the regions visited.

  • The Marina - Alizés Deck

Two standard kayaks and two glass-bottomed kayaks - Four stand up paddleboards - Snorkelling equipment - Fishing equipment - Scuba diving equipment (for a group of four people) - Saltwater swimming pool - Small equipment for children (noodles, rings, armbands and safety equipment) - Bicycles

  • The lounge and Bar Emeraude - Alizés Deck

Interior surface : 92 m² - Seats 35 guests - Exterior surface : 85 m² - Seats 24 guests

  • The wellness space - Alizés Deck

Spa / massages (18.5 m²): one cabin offering massages and Biologique Recherche treatments - Gym (16 m²) with dedicated fitness instructor - Yoga sessions on the Sun Deck

Cabin layout for Le Ponant

Special Offers

Online prices reflect the current brochure fare savings of up to 30%. Prices may change based on demand. Terms and conditions apply. This special offer is subject to availability. Please contact us for more details.

Inclusions


The "all-inclusive" includes:

• Accommodation in stateroom
• The full meal plan
• The Open Bar: beginning with boarding, and during the duration of the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, Charles Heidsieck champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served on request and at any time of the day. (Certain premium alcoholic beverages on the menu are not included in the Open Bar)
• Free Wi-Fi internet access 24 hours a day - depending on location
• Activities offered during expedition cruises ( each itinerary has specific activities)
• Access to all the common areas on board our sister ships and Ponant Explorers: fitness room, steam room, hair salon, swimming pool (sea water, heated), solarium, lounges, theater, boutique & leisure area, and on board of our three-masted Le Ponant: Solarium of 400 m², marina, lounge, Boutique & leisure area.

Paul Gauguin Cruises:

• All shipboard meals, in your choice of venues
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits, beers, soft drinks, bottled water, and hot beverages served throughout the ship
• In-room refrigerator replenished daily with soft drinks, beer, and bottled water
• All shipboard entertainment, including our troupe of Polynesian performers and live music in the evenings
• Presentations by onboard experts, and select sailings feature guest hosts
• Onboard gratuities for room stewards, dining and bar staff
• Watersports, including complimentary kayaking and paddle boarding from our marina or destination beaches
• Complimentary snorkel gear for use throughout the cruise
• Use of our secluded, white-sand beach in Bora Bora (T&C apply)
• A day on our private islet, Motu Mahana, off the coast of Taha’a, featuring snorkeling, watersports, a barbecue, full bar service, and Polynesian hospitality (on select voyages)
• Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship

Exclusions


• Flights other than those mentioned in the itinerary
• Travel insurance
• Passport and visa costs if applicable
• Premium beverages package (Can be purchased on board)
• Optional Excursions where applicable
• Spa treatments on board
• Pre and post cruise accommodation unless otherwise stated
• Transfers unless specified
• Gratuities
Le Ponant
Italy and France Luxury Small Ship CruiseLuxury Small Ship Cruise
8 Days from
$2,010 AUD per day

Highlights

• Enjoy the extraordinary experience of sailing aboard Le Ponant as though you were on your own private yacht.

• A limited-capacity yacht: a maximum of 32 passengers and as many crew members; a dedicated chef.

• Sail on a ship propelled by the wind and enjoy the wonderful opportunities nature offers us to adapt the programme and navigate under sail whenever possible.

• As the wind carries you along, rediscover the feeling of shared joy and reconnect with what is essential.

• (Re)discover the glamour and the enduring charm of the French Riviera, between iconic ports of call and peaceful little towns, and enjoy exclusive activities off the beaten track.

• Two exceptional overnight stops in Antibes and Cannes.

• Discover Menton, “the land of lemons”, its picturesque old town, its romantic landscapes and its culinary traditions.

• Stop in Cassis, a small fishing port and the gateway to the “calanques”, cathedrals of white and golden rocks that plunge into the Mediterranean Sea.

• On board and ashore, immerse yourself in the cultural and natural treasures of the French Riviera, and enjoy authentic moments at the crossroads of art, botany and gastronomy.

• A rich programme of included excursions.

or call us on

NZ Freephone
0800 945 3327

AUS Freephone
1800 107 715

to help you make your reservation

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