by Jen Mallia
Last updated: 1:00 PM ET, Thu March 20, 2025
Ponant is rebranding itself as Ponant Explorations Group. Now that Aqua Expeditions is under the Ponant umbrella following its recent acquisition, the group will now operate three commercial brands: Ponant Explorations, Paul Gauguin Cruises and Aqua Expeditions.
“We remain true to our core identity: delivering an unparalleled travel experience to iconic destinations, providing exclusive access to confidential locations with our human-scale ships, and maintaining a commitment to excellence in service,” says CEO Hervé Gastinel.
The brand will stay loyal to its roots, continuing to offer “high-end exploration voyages aboard intimate ships embarking fewer than 500 guests.”
The brands that now make up the Ponant Explorations Group are differentiated thusly:
Ponant Explorations: The historic brand, specializing in natural and ancestral culture voyages, away from more crowded maritime routes. Expedition leaders, naturalists, and enthusiastic experts organise safe shore excursions and cultural, scientific or historical conferences on board.
Paul Gauguin Cruises: Offering cruises in Tahiti, French Polynesia, and the South of Pacific aboard the m/S Paul Gauguin, a 165-cabinship. The brand strives for a relaxed, international, and authentic atmosphere.
Aqua Expeditions: Specializing in luxury small-ship expeditions, Aqua Expeditions explores the world’s most biodiverse and culturally significant destinations aboard best-in-class vessels of stylish contemporary design. Expect tailored five-star itineraries, a highly exclusive 1:1 crew- to-guest ratio, cuisine by award-winning chefs, and small group expert-guided activities and excursions.
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