PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP has set out its vision for its bolstered French Polynesia program as it prepares to base two ships in the region from late 2026 and 2027, with six new stopovers confirmed.
Building on Paul Gauguin Cruises‘ 25 years of expertise in French Polynesian waters with m/s Paul Gauguin, the Group is now also introducing Le Jacques Cartier in order to explore the most remote and rarely visited islands in the Pacific.
Destinations will include the Society, Tuamotu, Austral, Gambier, and Marquesas Islands, as well as the Pitcairn Islands, a British Overseas Territory. Itineraries will take travellers deep into the Pacific, navigating remote archipelagos, untouched islets, and atolls where communities may number only a few dozen residents.
PONANT R&D Expedition Experience Director José Sarica recently returned from a scouting trip to the Austral and Tuamoto Islands. “The main challenge of this scouting trip was to gain acceptance from very isolated communities, each with their own unique culture from one island to the next, in order to work together to create a unique experience for future guests,” he said.
“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’!”
The m/s Paul Gauguin, Polynesia’s iconic ship for over 25 years, will remain based year-round in the region, offering an intimate, culturally immersive experience. Onboard, a team of Polynesian hosts known as the Gauguins and Gauguines “share the culture of the islands with guests and provide entertainment with singing and dancing and various workshops (weaving hats and baskets, sarongs, etc.).”
Meanwhile, Le Jacques Cartier will focus on exploration, featuring three “Discovery” itineraries designed to access the wildest and least visited corners of Polynesia. Guests can combine these itineraries for a 42-night journey across six archipelagos, 23 islands, and the Pitcairn Islands. Optional excursions, scuba diving, and activities led by local guides ensure a personalised adventure.
Six new stopovers have been confirmed, including Mataiva, Hikueru, and Makemo in the Tuamotu Archipelago, and Raivavae, Tubuai, and Rurutu in the Austral Islands. Highlights range from crystal-clear motu pools to limestone caves and snorkelling opportunities alongside humpback whales.
