Discover quieter corners of the Mediterranean on one of the few boats permitted to reach them
In an age of overcrowded wanderlust, one luxury sailboat is offering gentle, sustainable, and more intimate passage to the Mediterranean for those who prefer the hidden to the hyped.
BRANDVOICE – SPECIAL FEATURE
Few travel destinations evoke the senses quite like the Mediterranean. From swimming in crystal-blue waters to smelling salty air, sighting ancient ruins and sampling local fare, the immensely popular region is a visceral and vibrant mélange of history, culture, and natural beauty.
From the French Riveria, Corsica to the Cyclades, Ponant Explorations’ historic sailboat, Le Ponant, offers a more intimate and ethical escape than traditional luxury cruises. It’s also the first sailing yacht to be awarded the Relais & Châteaux label, traditionally reserved for the world’s finest hotels and restaurants.
“This unique affiliation allows us to offer an exceptional level of culinary excellence and personalised service that sets us apart from other yachts,” says Baptiste Regnault, Hotel Manager on board Le Ponant.
Whether you’ve never been or you’re longing to return, whether travelling solo or with company, there’s no better way to explore the Mediterranean than by sea. However, aboard the endless rotation of jam-packed mega-cruises churning through crowded tourist ports, this sensory paradise can become a nightmare.
In this era of overtourism and destination fatigue, luxury is no longer measured by extravagance. Refined travellers are seeking new, bespoke ways to traverse well-worn routes, grounded in authenticity and exclusivity. Beyond the beaten path awaits beauty, romance, and adventure.
By contrast, the island’s visited on Le Ponant feel relatively untouched, with the possibility of wandering off alone to explore secluded beaches that you have all to yourself.
Le Ponant is a radical, low-footprint alternative to standard, high-footprint cruises, providing yacht-like intimacy and hotel-level luxury. More like a private charter, she is a dashing three-masted schooner, steering only 32 guests per voyage.
With interiors recently redesigned by Jean-Philippe Nuel studio, the boat’s aesthetic is a perfect balance of French chic and effortless comfort. From shared spaces to the 16 private staterooms and suites, every space provides a stylish sanctuary from life on land. Plus, 1:1 crew to passenger ratio, 24-hour room service, and intuitive service tailored to each person’s habits mean you’ll never want for anything at sea.
Busy butlers and sophisticated suites are just two of the reasons Le Ponant received its history-making Relais & Châteaux label in 2023. This hallmark of excellence is awarded to hotels and restaurants boasting impeccable design, service, and cuisine. All three must work in harmony and meet the highest standards to earn and keep the elite stamp of approval.
“This philosophy aligns perfectly with our overall ethos of elegance, sophistication, and a deep connection to the environment,” Regnault says.
Guests can expect world-class gastronomy to rival any establishment in the Relais & Châteaux portfolio. Consummate chefs curate seasonal menus that hero the region’s rich culinary traditions, distinct flavours, and exceptional produce, with a contemporary French twist. Think fresh seafood and local fruits and vegetables alongside caviar, French cheeses, and pastries.
“Our approach is to offer an elevated yet simple dining experience, where the quality of the ingredients takes centre stage. My favourite dish is sea bream fillet with carrot mousseline, ras el hanout, and saffron, a fusion of sea and land, refinement and conviviality, bridging cultures while rooted in authenticity.”
Already cruised the Mediterranean? Not a problem. Make new memories in exclusive ports and hidden harbours inaccessible to most commercial cruises. While the large ships must stay anchored far from shore, Le Ponant glides in and out of secret coves, small islands, and lesser-known ports.
Explore the calanque coves, vineyards, and Provençal charm of Cassis; the Riviera glamour of Antibes; and the medieval streets of Monemvasia, to name a few.
Picture yourself wandering the cobblestone laneways,, discovering tiny cafés, sipping rosé under an olive tree, and finishing with fresh gelato.
Taking fewer passengers on tailored excursions in quieter ports allows for a more authentic immersion in the many and varied cultures you will encounter throughout your voyage. Skilled guides with extensive local knowledge will lead you through lively neighbourhood markets and into hidden wine cellars and family-run tavernas.
This kind of experience works well for solo travellers because everyone explores together during the day, and then reminisces over cocktails and dinner. Solo travellers and couples naturally mingle in a like-minded group, and after dinner, conversations continue in a relaxed, social atmosphere.
For the adventurous, guests can commune with nature through a range of activities. There’s paddleboarding, e-bike riding, guided walks, and kayaking around secret coves, as well as lounging and swimming at private beaches, and diving directly from the ship and marinas.
On board activities include sun deck yoga sessions and a luxury spa offering a range of indulgent beauty and wellness treatments from French skincare brand Biologique Recherche.
Imagine the possibility of swimming off the marina every night during a seven-night cruise, watching a movie projected onto the sails one night while the crew serves popcorn, champagne, and ice cream and you relax under blankets on sun loungers.
The Mediterranean is one of the world’s most popular travel regions for a million reasons. It’s impossible to run out of new places to go, sights to see, and local delicacies to try. Whether it’s your first visit or one of many, why not travel in quiet luxury on Le Ponant?
Explore Le Ponant Mediterranean sailings here.