PONANT Explorations Group is expanding operations in French Polynesia during the 2026–2027 winter season, basing two ships in the region. The move builds upon nearly three decades of experience with the m/s Paul Gauguin, a ship known for its tailored itineraries in Polynesian waters. The expansion adds Le Jacques Cartier, offering a series of new Discovery itineraries designed to reach remote island groups not typically included in standard routes.
These voyages cover six archipelagos—the Society, Tuamotu, Austral, Gambier and Marquesas Islands, as well as the British Overseas Territory of the Pitcairn Islands. The new itineraries are intended to provide deeper geographic coverage across the Pacific, serving destinations where local populations sometimes number only a few dozen.
Discovery Cruises, PONANT Style
Both ships will operate with distinct styles. The m/s Paul Gauguin, purpose-built for navigating French Polynesia’s shallow lagoons, continues to run year-round itineraries. With 165 staterooms and suites, it offers 66 departures during the 2026–2027 season, primarily around the Society Islands, Tuamotu and Marquesas, with select sailings extending to the Cook Islands, Fiji and Tonga. The onboard team of Gauguins and Gauguines—local Tahitian hosts—leads daily cultural programming that includes workshops in basket weaving and pareo-making, as well as performances of traditional music and dance. The ship also features a PADI-certified scuba program and a wide selection of optional excursions at each port. A multimillion‑dollar renovation in 2025 upgraded both public spaces and staterooms.
Le Jacques Cartier, equipped with 92 staterooms, will operate nine sailings during the same season. The ship’s itineraries reach the less-visited Austral, Gambier and Pitcairn Islands in addition to the Tuamotu and Marquesas groups. Among its highlights are three new Discovery routes that can be linked for a comprehensive 42‑night expedition crossing six archipelagos and 23 islands.
The Secret Polynesia cruise, from Papeete to Papeete, departs Oct. 18 and Dec. 13, 2026, for 14 nights. Polynesian Bliss: Marquesas and Tuamotu includes 6 round-trip Papeete departures between Nov. 2026 and Jan. 2027, also 14 nights. From Confidential French Polynesia to Pitcairn Island departs Nov. 15, 2026, for 14 nights. Each voyage features one included daily activity led by local guides, plus outings by Zodiac, tender or local boats.
To prepare for these routes, R&D Expedition Experience Director Jose Sarica traveled through the Austral and Tuamotu Islands to collaborate with local communities on new guest activities. These include workshops with artisans, cultural ceremonies, and visits to marae—sacred open‑air temples.
“The main goal of this scouting trip was to work together with very isolated communities, each with its own unique culture from one island to the next, in order to create a unique experience for future guests. We discovered hidden treasures, places of incredible beauty and a spirituality that is truly linked to the natural environment. The farewell ceremonies then took on their full meaning for me, signifying ‘see you soon’!” said Sarica in a press statement.
Six new stops have been confirmed. On the Tuamotu Archipelago: Mataiva, Hikueru and Makemo. Mataiva’s lagoon forms a natural mosaic of sandbanks, while Hikueru’s vast lagoon supports reef ecosystems and birdlife. Makemo offers wildlife-viewing opportunities, including large colonies of red-footed boobies and frigatebirds.
On the Austral Archipelago: Raivavae, Tubuai and Rurutu. Raivavae draws visitors to its sheltered motu pool for swimming. Tubuai, home to more than 200 marae sites and numerous clam colonies, invites exploration on foot and underwater. Rurutu’s limestone caves and seasonal humpback whale encounters—visible until mid‑November—add a natural science dimension to the itinerary.
For more information, visit us.ponant.com.
