Industry veteran of more than 30 years, Deb Corbett, will bring her three core life values to her new role as Chief Executive Officer at PONANT Asia Pacific, revealed yesterday to the industry. Speaking exclusively with LATTE, the always enthusiastic and ‘open book’ Corbett said she’ll be bringing “respect, trust and unity” to the table as she steps into the position this month, left vacant by the departing Chris Hall.

PONANT has announced the promotion of Deb Corbett to the position of Chief Executive Officer, Asia Pacific, amid a number of changes within the regional team. Corbett has been with PONANT for seven years, most recently as General Manager of Sales and Marketing for Asia Pacific. With 30 years industry experience, PONANT says Corbett is well positioned to take on the key leadership role in APAC.

PONANT has announced a series of unique Australian luxury expeditions, with departures in 2024 and 2025 aboard Le Jacques-Cartier and Le Soleal.

Cruise industry leaders have paid tribute to pioneering Australian businesswoman Sarina Bratton AM as she steps down from the board of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) in Australasia after almost three decades of service.

PONANT has announced the arrival of its EXPLORER ship, Le Jacques-Cartier, for the first time in Darwin after successfully completing her inaugural 2024 Japan season. The ship now sets course for her first 2024 Kimberley season, where she will embark on 13 departures from now until to September 2024.

Paspaley Pearl by PONANT has revealed the formation of a newly created team of industry experts, showcasing the brand’s strength in the Australian market. Aligned with the ongoing commitment to growth and innovation, these new appointments further bolster the brand’s positioning as a leader in the boutique expedition travel sector.

From 2026, PONANT is extending its French Polynesian cruise portfolio with two distinct propositions, reflecting the range of experiences that the company offers. Le Jacques-Cartier will be positioned from September 2026 to March 2027 in the Polynesian and Pacific archipelagos offering a unique expedition experience, while the m/s Paul Gauguin continues its 25-year legacy of delivering authentic, culturally immersive voyages year-round.

PONANT has realigned its Asia Pacific commercial team structure, aligning with the company’s commitment to meeting industry trends and growing needs of trade partners across the region.

PONANT has unveiled exclusive voyages to the majestic Emperor Penguin colonies of Snow Hill Island during their 2025 Antarctic season.

PONANT has announced a new vessel will join its fleet in mid-2024 with the debut of the 12-passenger Spirit of Ponant maxi-catamaran. Featuring just six staterooms and with a crew of four (including a chef), the Spirit of Ponant will offer a unique sailing experience, initially from Corsica.

PONANT has released its Antarctic 2025/26 program, spanning October 2025 to March 2026 with 34 departures sailing eight itineraries aboard PONANT Sisterships – Le Boréal, Le Soléal, L’Austral and Le Lyrial, as well as six departures aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s only luxury icebreaker.

PONANT releases 2025 European ‘Grand Voyages’ for Australian & New Zealand travellers