Ponant has opened bookings for more than 22 departures to the Antarctic for the 2019-2020 season featuring a selection of five itineraries to discover the White Continent, including one that is all new.

Between November 2019 and March 2020, Ponant has 22 cruises aboard four of its modern luxurious expedition ships – L’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial and Le Soléal – each voyage offering just 200 guests on each ship the opportunity to discover extraordinary landscapes and experience a unique adventure, sailing in the wake of the great explorers of these uninhabited lands.

A new season with new offerings

In addition to established itineraries, Ponant is drawing on more than 20 years of experience in the polar regions to introduce new offerings for the 2019-2020 season:

• On The Antarctic Odyssey, a brand-new itinerary, Le Lyrial will be sailing to the South Orkney Islands, an extension of the Andean Cordillera. These islands, more than 85% glaciated, are home to leopard seals and numerous penguin species.
• For this new season it is not just one but three expeditions that will be taking Ponant guests beyond the polar circle, at latitude 66° 33’ 39’’ south.
• For increased convenience and peace of mind, a new premium package is available for all cruises departing from Ushuaia. It includes an overnight stay in the luxurious Arakur Resort, as well as an excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Responsible luxury expeditions

Aboard limited-capacity vessels specially designed for expeditions, Ponant guests access the most remote parts of the globe in conditions offering unrivalled standards of comfort and service. These expedition cruises to the polar regions provide many opportunities for landings ashore from Zodiac dinghies in the company of expert naturalist-guides, in order to get as close as possible to the unspoiled natural surroundings, always with the utmost respect for this precious environment.

With more than 20 years’ experience in these remote regions, Ponant considers environment protection to be one of its highest priorities. The cruise line carefully considers its itineraries, educates passengers and crew, and is an executive member of the IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators). The mission of the IAATO is to promote responsible tourism in the Antarctic.