PONANT and Relais & Châteaux strengthen their ties. The three-masted sailboat Le Ponant, whose history dates back to 1991, became the first sailboat in history to join the portfolio.
Relais & Châteaux, created in 1954, is an association of 580 unique hotels and restaurants around the world, owned and operated by independent entrepreneurs – most often families – who are passionate about their profession and deeply committed to building lasting relationships with their clients.
The first marquee voyage will set sail for the Cape Verde Islands in August 2023.
“Our two companies are committed to sharing their expertise and promoting the inimitable French way of life in order to design trips that make sense,” says Hervé Gastinel, CEO of PONANT.
“Aboard the Ponant, the jewel of our fleet, everyone can reconnect with nature, their own inspirations and live out their sailing desires. »
Compared to a private yacht and recently reimagined by Jean-Philippe Nuel Studio, Le Ponant has only 16 cabins and suites and a staff/guest ratio of 1:1.
Some cabins and suites have large windows overlooking the sea, and the wellness area offers Biologique Recherche treatments and daily yoga sessions on deck. The cuisine is made from organic and local products and wines from French artisan winegrowers, such as Champagne Henriot, are served.
Co-branded voyages will sail to Cape Verde and the Caribbean in 2023 and 2024. Guests can expect pristine wilderness and off-the-beaten-path adventures. With four kayaks (two of which are glass-bottomed), stand-up paddle boards, snorkeling and scuba gear, and a saltwater pool, there’s no shortage of onboard and onboard experiences.
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