In 2026, the Paul Gauguin cruise ship will have company in French Polynesia. Parent company Ponant will deploy one of its Explorer-class ships, Le Jacques Cartier, in the region from September 2026 to March 2027.
Le Jacques Cartier will sail a 14-day expedition experience, while the Paul Gauguin will "continue its 25-year legacy of delivering authentic, culturally immersive voyages year-round," Ponant said.
The nature-focused cruises on Le Jacques Cartier will be staffed with guides who are experts in the destination, Ponant said. The modular marina and semi-submerged platform will provide easy access for swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding.
Ponant CEO Hervé Gastinel said, "French Polynesia is a very popular destination with our guests. We want to offer them a wide range of itineraries and experiences."
Ponant said more details about Le Jacques Cartier's French Polynesia itineraries are forthcoming.