Ponant offers more of the yachting life

French-flagged Ponant Explorations Group is adding a new luxury catamaran by late 2026, to sail under new corporate brand Ponant Yachting.

The company tells us the new vessel Spirit of Ponant II is a top-of-the-range yacht accommodating up to 10 passengers that will be based in French Polynesia.

The French-built catamaran Lagoon EIGHTY 2 series is “a model combining contemporary design and exceptional comfort” featuring five double cabins and 427sqm of living space, and a crew of four (captain, first mate, chef and hostess). It measures almost 25m long and 11m wide.

Ponant Explorations Group chief executive Herve Gastinel says: “With the acquisition of the Spirit of Ponant II, the 22nd ship in the fleet, we are expanding our offering in the luxury sailing segment for intimate, sophisticated and responsible voyages,” he says.

“We are developing a unique world, where each experience is tailor-made: itineraries, gastronomy, excursions and more.”

The brand offers a range of custom sea voyages aboard luxury catamarans, that Ponant says are family-oriented and for groups of friends. Spirit of Ponant II will also be available for full private charter.

Ponant is promising exclusive itineraries, personalised activities, bespoke menus and a range of water-based activities including stand-up paddle boarding, snorkelling, waterskiing, wing foiling and underwater scooter diving.

By the time Spirit of Ponant II sails its maiden voyage in late 2026, Ponant Yachting will have a fleet of three catamarans covering the Mediterranean, the Seychelles, the Caribbean and Polynesia. Each yacht, including the Spirit of Ponant and La Desirade, has a capacity of nine to 12 passengers.

Ponant says itineraries are tailored to what guests want and adjusted to weather conditions at the time of sailing.

Lagoon’s heritage as a catamaran builder dates more than 40 years. Its EIGHTY 2 yacht design features open decks, a marina-style swim platform for launching watercraft aft, and plush interiors with 360-degree views of the horizon.

Herve goes on to say that the launch of Ponant Yachting strengthens its portfolio of brands in the cruise industry which also includes Ponant Explorations, Paul Gauguin Cruises and the newly acquired Aqua Expeditions.

ponant.com