Ponant - Explorer Class Yachts

They say the best things come in small packages and there is a definite trend in the expedition cruising world towards smaller more luxurious ships. The cruise companies know this and are acting accordingly. One of these of the foremost of these is French company PONANT whose Explorer Class yachts are rapidly becoming regarded as something very special and this is certainly true of their vessel Le Laperouse.

From the second you catch first sight of her and walk into her sleek and attractive Scandinavian design interior you get an impression of opulence and being taken care of 100%. Add on to that her French flair and the luxurious little extras you get in your cabin that are unusual in the expedition cruising world you know you’re getting something special for your money.

The crew were extremely welcoming and very professional all speaking excellent English. All State Rooms have balconies whilst suites have larger verandas and butler service. Some even have their own personal hot tub. That’s not to say everything is perfect of course, I’ve yet to find the ship that is and I was surprised I couldn’t find any public washrooms on the same deck as the dining room. The gym is pretty small too but with only 184 people on board it’s unlikely you’re ever going to have to queue for an exercise bike.

It may be luxurious but first and foremost Le Laperouse is designed for deep exploration with a Polar standard strengthened hull and a large number of zodiacs. She is a small and intimate ship which means you’re not going to get all the frills of the larger vessels but her size allows her to visit ports and secluded places the larger vessels simply can’t access. It’s also worth while pointing out that Ponant offers outstanding destination itineraries. It doesn’t all have to be about exploration though as she has a marina at the stern for water sports in warmer climes an infinity pool, sauna and spa.

I do have to say the theatre where the evening lectures and presentations take place has some of the most comfortable seats I’ve encountered on a cruise ship and if you want some bragging rights nip down to the Blue Eyed Lounge. Situated below the waterline this evening bar allows you to view penguins or dolphins going about their daily lives via the underwater whale eye shaped viewing windows.  Hydrophones pick up the sounds of the sea outside and cameras project real time images. If you want an immersive experience this is it.

Dining on Le Laperouse is exceptional. ‘Le Cuisine’ is an essential part of French culture, so the food naturally holds a special place on board. No wonder really, as the ship is renowned for its partnership with Michelin starred chefs. The menus are decidedly French as the line is very popular in France, but you will find a mixture of international passengers. There are often charter groups on board as the company works with the luxury company Tauck and university alumni groups.

Service in the opulent dining room was excellent with a smart casual dress code in place although for the evening most men wear a jacket and ladies dress to match (Jeans, shorts, T shirts and flip flops are not allowed.)  The ship has many outside areas where you can eat including a grill outside the Panoramic Lounge near the infinity pool with an all-day dining menu of grilled meats, salads and desserts.  Indeed, there is always something special to me about eating outside on a cruise ship and this ship does not disappoint day or night plus room service is available 24 hours a day.

So, what then do you get for you money? The answer is quite a lot.

Like most people I hunt out the reviews for a ship before I book a cruise and it seems that nearly 95% of these are extremely positive about the ship. This is an all-round excellent vessel and allied with PONANT’s outstanding reputation for destination exploration makes it definitely one to consider for your next cruise.

Steve Newman                  November 2026