PONANT Expands Polynesia Cruise Presence
Two new itineraries venture further into the South Pacific with visits to the Gambier and Austral Islands.
Le Jacques Cartier. Photo: Studio PONANT – Violette Vauchelle
PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP, parent company of PONANT EXPLORATIONS and Paul Gauguin Cruises, is expanding its presence in French Polynesia with the introduction of new itineraries onboard Le Jacques Cartier beginning with the 2026/27 season. This is the first time PONANT has sailed this specific ship in the region.
The new itineraries, which take guests deeper into French Polynesia than most other cruise lines, complement the Group’s long-established presence in the region with Paul Gauguin Cruises.
“With the debut of Le Jacques Cartier in French Polynesia, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP now offers two unique ways to experience the extraordinary with our distinctively positioned brands appealing to every inclination for both expedition and leisure travel,” said Samuel Chamberlain, PONANT EXPLORATION GROUP’s CEO of the Americas.
“While the m/s Paul Gauguin continues to define immersive, year-round discovery in the region, the winter deployment of Le Jacques Cartier brings a new perspective – more remote and more expeditionary,” he added.
The two new 14-night itineraries, which operate from October 2026 through December 2026, delve deeper into the region with rare calls to the rarely visited Gambier and Austral Islands, both locations that Paul Gauguin doesn’t visit. Le Jacques Cartier will also offer a 14-night itinerary to the Marquesas, running October 2026 through February 2027. All three itineraries travel roundtrip from Papeete, Tahiti.
Both itineraries – Secret Polynesia and From French Polynesia to Pitcairn Islands – visit the Gambier Islands, while the former is the only one to go as far as the Austral Islands. Secret Polynesia departs Oct. 18 and Dec. 13, 2026, while From French Polynesia to Pitcairn Islands operates only once, on Nov. 15, 2026.
“With Le Jacques Cartier joining The Gauguin in Polynesia, we’re expanding the choices available to discerning travelers seeking authenticity, elegance, and adventure…” Chamberlain added.
