PONANT has released official photography of its renovated three-masted sailing yacht Le Ponant, after extensive renovations at the San Giorgio del Porto yard in Italy.

Destined for the Kimberley in 2023, Le Ponant was the founding ship for the ultra-luxury French cruise line.

Following the overhaul, the yacht now offers a remarkably private setting and has been entirely updated with cutting-edge eco-responsible innovations. After an exclusive collection of itineraries in the Mediterranean, Le Ponant will spend the winter in the Seychelles before arriving in Australia in April 2023.Thirty years after her launch, Le Ponant has been transformed to provide guests with a unique travel experience. After undergoing a complete renovation, the ship now accommodates just 32 guests with a 1:1 passenger-to-crew ratio. The sleek, refined layout was designed by the Studio Jean-Philippe Nuel and Sterling Design International to create a sense of luxury, privacy and tranquillity that makes guests feel as if they are on their own private sailing yacht.

The 4 passenger decks provide 16 spacious staterooms including a 60 square metre Owner’s Suite on the upper deck ‘Zephyr’ with a private balcony. The common areas have been refitted to allow guests to fully enjoy the panoramic gastronomic restaurant; to re-energise in the spa, wellness area or gym; or relax in the sun lounge area in an ambiance of quiet contemplation.In line with the company’s policy, Le Ponant reflects an ongoing commitment to a more responsible tourism. The sailing ship is equipped with all the latest technologies to optimise emissions reduction: connecting to electricity grids where available in ports, using the sails, an innovative SCR filter system to eliminate fine particles and cut nitrogen oxide emissions by 90%, sorting waste and latest generation wastewater treatment.

Every guest experience has been thought through to help protect the environment and heritage, such as non-motorised water sports and individual or small-group landings at ports of call with the focus on local heritage.

“Le Ponant has regained her splendour and more, while setting new eco-responsible navigation standards,” said Hervé Gastinel, CEO of PONANT. “Aboard Le Ponant, the jewel in our fleet’s crown, everyone can reconnect with nature and their own inspirations, as they live out their desires following the wind.”

Le Ponant will offer 8-, 9-, and 10-night sailings in the Kimberley between 9 April and 9 October. View the full program here.