Le Ponant
- capacity
- 32
- year built
- 1991
- remodeled
- 2021
- crew members
- 33
- length
- 288 feet
- beam
- 59 feet
- draft
- 13 feet
- flag
- France
Come aboard the ship that started a full fleet or refined, luxury ships. The 3-masted Le Ponant is the original ship, and also by far the smallest at 32 guests. Enjoy the feel of a private yacht and the majesty of 5 sails, with the elevated service PONANT is known for.
Le Ponant Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Le Ponant review includes a detailed description of the small ship and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard many first-class vessels in the Mediterranean. Find the detailed ship description and deck plan below. Then contact our experts to compare this luxury motorsailer with other small cruise ships and upscale yachts offering Caribbean small ship cruises, Croatia small ship cruises, Greek Island small ship cruises, Mediterranean cruises and Mediterranean yacht charters.
Choose Le Ponant if you are seeking an exclusive ship with the ambiance of a high-end yacht and the heart of a historic vessel. Le Ponant’s prestige is supported by her accolade as the first sailing yacht in history to become a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux property group (2023). As such, Le Ponant helps protect and promote authentic culinary and hospitality traditions reflective of the regions through which she sails, while being mindful of the environment. And her 32 guests and 33 crew members ensure guests are never want for anything while cruising in spectacular locales. Guests appreciate open-air decks, a saltwater pool, haute cuisine and water-level living spaces.
Common Areas & Activities
Three of Le Ponant’s four decks invite guests to indulge in the warm breezes and radiant sunshine through which the ship sails. The Sun Deck beckons with a bar and chaise loungers. The Zephyr Deck offers space for small gatherings near the bow and aft. And the Alizes Deck features an aft marina area with steps down to the water.
Indoors, guests can enjoy a fully stocked library with tearoom in the Emeraude Bar and Lounge; this space converts to a stage for live entertainment on select evenings. The Multimedia Lounge is an engaging space to learn and relax between excursions. And the Reception desk is staffed around the clock, to ensure every guest’s needs are met.
Wellness Amenities
The onboard spa offers a full menu of wellness treatments, with options such as massage and a facial. Other wellness amenities include the fitness center, complete with a dedicated fitness coach, yoga classes (also available on the Sun Deck), and workout equipment such as a rowing machine, spin bike and exercise bike. Finally, an infirmary is also available should any ailments arise.
Activity Gear
Le Ponant comes equipped with a collection of activity gear also not available on most small yachts. Guests can enjoy kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, bicycles and all the necessary equipment for snorkeling, fishing, and diving (up to four guests at a time). Kids on board will appreciate the pool noodles and rings, and floating armbands. A unique saltwater pool structure at the back of the ship turns the warm ocean into your own private swimming area.
Dining Aboard
Le Diamant (The Diamond) restaurant features panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows and seating for the full passenger complement, both indoors and out. The menu features refined organic cuisine crafted with local ingredients. A fully stocked bar features selections such as Veuve Clicquot champagne, French artisan wines and wines sourced from the region in which guests are traveling. Highly trained servers treat guests to invigorating breakfasts, lunch buffets with options to please every palate, and nightly dinner options aimed at perfection.
Cabins & Le Ponant Deck Plan
Le Ponant’s 16 total staterooms and suites are spread across 9 categories and 3 decks. Every cabin comes equipped with either two twin beds or one king bed, except for the Grand Privilege Alizes Suite (the only interconnecting cabin), which has a second bedroom and a sofa bed, offering an optional configuration of up to max 4 twin beds or minimum 2 king beds for 5-6 total guests.
Common to all staterooms and suites are a modern, bright decor; a private bathroom with walk-in shower, hairdryer and premium bath products; satellite TV and phone; individually controlled air conditioning; minibar; Nespresso coffee maker and tea kettle; bluetooth speaker; desk with writing paper; electronic safe; vanity and closet with shelves; 110/220-volt electricity; unlimited complimentary WiFi (connectivity may vary); 24-hour room service and concierge service from booking through return home.
