Luxury cruise operator Ponant unveils intimate fleet addition

Travel

The 24-metre maxi-catamaran, Spirit of Ponant, is set to launch in June this year, as the cruise operator looks to broaden its intimate sailing options.

The new luxury catamaran accommodates up to 12 guests and four crew (a chef selected by Ponant, a seaman, a steward and a captain) and provides guests a cruise experience – with an intimate, exclusive twist.

The Spirit of Ponant will spend the summer in Corsica, France, where holidaymakers can opt for 7-night cruises from Bonifacio to Bonifacio. Then, the catamaran will head to the Seychelles for winter in 2025, where cruise-goers will sail Mahé to Mahé.

The individual itineraries are co-developed with crew and guest, Ponant said, made from a combination of the Captain’s recommendations and what guests want to do, so each experience is intimate and personalised.

“The Spirit of Ponant is a new expression of our pioneering spirit, as the travel format is a first in the luxury cruise sector,” Hervé Gastinel, CEO of Ponant, said.

“Our guests will experience what it is really like to be a sailor, including interacting with the captain to create a voyage that meets their desires and expectations. They will benefit from hidden away anchorages in magical places, while enjoying the high-end services for which Ponant is renowned.”

The Lagoon Seventy 7 yacht, featuring six cabins, was built in France, with high-end finishes and top sailing qualities, Guillaume Le Brec, experienced skipper, said.

Cockpit arriere // Rear cockpit

“Embarking on the Spirit of Ponant is to have an authentic experience of sailing at sea, with extremely easy access to the sea and water sports activities,” Le Brec said.

“The concept and design of this Lagoon Seventy 7 yacht has been praised by everyone in the industry, won over by the spacious interior and exterior areas.”

Prices start from AUD $12,400* per person.

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