Le Ponant, the first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht, like the finest travel address on the waters of the world.
“Eternity. It is the sea mingled with the sun”, according to a poem by Rimbaud. Whether you are a lover of the sea or a curious traveller, experience once again the indescribable joy of navigating under sail, bathed by the wind and sea spray, surrounded by the elements. Take your place aboard Le Ponant, a majestic three-mast yacht with elegant lines and an interior design created by the Jean-Philippe Nuel studio to be a warm and intimate setting with a very distinctive personality. As if you were on your very own yacht, match your inner tempo to the boat’s subtle oscillations and savour the freedom of living in the moment, being fully present for your trip.
Aboard its emblematic yacht, PONANT is reshaping the contours of cruising and invites you to experience a new way of discovering the wonderful Mediterranean shores, between olive groves and sun-drenched vines. From unique and iconic ports of call to private moments, experience the very essence of the Mediterranean and welcome the unexpected like a breath of freedom.
From the port of Lavrio, located very close to beautiful Athens, you will set sail in the direction of the Cyclades, these small heavenly islets scattered around the Aegean Sea.
Off the beaten path, from exclusive paradises to emblematic landscapes, your journey takes shape, following the rhythm of the wind and the secret havens. Drink in the pure moments of sailing, cleaving through the foam, as you set off to explore intimate coves and hillside villages.
Carried by the wind, you will head towards Tinos, one of the Greek archipelago’s most preserved islands. The serene atmosphere of this spiritual centre infuses its sumptuous scenery. The white rocks of Polyaigos soften the jagged coasts of this uninhabited island, a natural sanctuary bathed by the crystal-clear and turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.
The discreet island of Serifos is ideal for a walk punctuated by the picturesque white houses that stretch into the distance, amidst a setting perfumed by the scents of thyme and marjoram. Here, the beach with its surreal blue will also tempt you for a swim.
You will leave the Cyclades and head towards the south-east of the Peloponnese. The fortified peninsula of Monemvasia will reveal itself, monumental, like a ship of stone overlooking the azure.
You will sail, senses heightened, towards Kythnos, a wild and hilly rock, tamed by traditional and environmentally friendly agriculture.
Planted with pine trees, olive trees and flowers, Spetses, known as “the island of jasmine”, is a popular haven of freshness in the Saronic Islands. The activities, designed for you and with you, create possibilities for going back to basics in a setting that is conducive to contemplation.
At your own pace, immerse yourself in wild and stunning panoramas, away from the crowds, and enjoy moments spent in harmony with nature: glass-bottom kayaking, snorkelling, paddle-boarding.
- Enjoy the extraordinary experience of sailing aboard Le Ponant as though you were on your own private yacht.
- A limited-capacity yacht: a maximum of 32 passengers and as many crew members; a dedicated chef.
- Sail on a ship propelled by the wind and enjoy the wonderful opportunities nature offers us to adapt the programme and navigate under sail whenever possible.
- As the wind carries you, rediscover your taste for shared happiness and the essential.
- (Re)discover the deep and secret soul of the Mediterranean and enjoy ports of call off the beaten path, revisited to offer you exclusive experiences.
- On board as on shore, soak up the local riches and traditions of Greece, and savour authentic moments through cultural encounters and gastronomy.
- Exceptional moments on board and numerous water-based activities to rediscover the natural coasts of the Cyclades and the Peloponnese.
- A rich programme of included excursions.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Near Athens, Lavrion is a peaceful port welcoming boats from around the world. The town has been known since ancient times for the silver-producing mines of Lavrion, which were major contributors to the wealth of Athens and to the Greek economy in the 20th century. Weather permitting, take a stroll through the town and discover the many vestiges of this industry that flourished until the 1980s: old Neoclassical-style constructions, industrial buildings, and worker houses. While at this port of call, also take the time to discover Athens and its acropolis, or Cape Sounion on which stands the magnificent temple of Poseidon.
At full sail, you will chart a course to Tinos, a wild island in the Cyclades where, according to mythology, Aiolos lived. The cerulean blue of the Aegean Sea reveals, in contrast, the pretty port with immaculate buildings. Called “the island of the Virgin”, this pilgrimage destination for Greek Orthodox Christians is also an intimate refuge where Athenians join their families for holidays. The magnificent landscapes of this unspoiled island are dotted with numerous dovecotes, each with a finely crafted architecture. Here, the pared-down decor of the picturesque villages with whitewashed stone houses reveals itself between the intertwining streets and colourful bursts of bougainvillea in bloom. Be captivated by the magic of a wine tasting. The breathtaking view of Mykonos offers an exquisite setting to this moment frozen in time. Included excursions are also possible to discover the island’s villages or a hike along a high point between two villages.
Further to the south of the Aegean Sea, Le Ponant will reach Polyaigos, an uninhabited, maquis-covered volcanic island protected for its flora and fauna. This white, craggy, sunlit rock with magnificent cliffs that plunge into the turquoise waters reveals its wild and natural beauty. With your yacht at anchor, you will discover the island’s secret contours and recesses, and enjoy magical moments swimming, snorkelling, paddle-boarding or kayaking. Enjoy the charms of this stunning island until sunset when the white rocks are reflected in the crystal-clear waters, creating a golden shimmer.
The best words to describe Serifos are probably serenity and authenticity. This small island in the Cyclades archipelago is a port of call off the beaten track, on the waters of the Aegean Sea. The whiteness of its villages contrasting with its hilly scenery illuminates the dry vegetation that characterises the Cyclades. Its main town Chora, perched on the heights, can be reached by a steep path that offers unique panoramas over the deep blue sea and its magnificent bay.
The jewel of the southern Peloponnese, Monemvasia is the romantic refuge for Athenians. Given the poetic nickname of the “stone ship”, this majestic peninsula is home to an incredible fortified medieval village, lying at the foot of its abrupt cliffs, which seems to have been cast by the gods from the Aegean Sea. Contemplate the horizon from its ramparts, a veritable walkway defying the azure waters, and stroll through its vaulted narrow streets with their thousand shades of ochre. At the crossroads of western and eastern influences and the maritime routes of the continent, Crete and the Cyclades, Monemvasia has preserved in this magical decor the treasures of Venetian and Byzantine architecture.
You will discover Kythnos, an arid and rocky island covered in maquis. Low dry stone walls delimit the terraces where olive groves stand alongside fig and almond trees that feed the imagination as much as the people. Discover the chora and its beautiful white houses by taking a stroll along the intertwined streets. Then, the welcoming shade of a parasol awaits you for a nap on the beach. You might also be tempted by a swim or a spot of paddle-boarding or kayaking to discover the exceptional landscapes of this island surrounded by the exceptionally beautiful Aegean Sea.
Spetses, “the jasmine island”, is an unspoiled paradise and the favourite holiday spot of Athenian high society. The shaded outdoor dining areas of the restaurants serving local cuisine stand alongside beautiful boutiques. Away from the hustle and bustle of the world, stroll or cycle around the small port lined with the beautiful Neoclassical homes of shipowners and enjoy the pleasantness of the moment. There is a distinct dolce vita atmosphere in the air. From hidden coves to beaches of fine sand, this island is brimming with charm. The hiking trails through the pine forest also promise beautiful panoramas.
Near Athens, Lavrion is a peaceful port welcoming boats from around the world. The town has been known since ancient times for the silver-producing mines of Lavrion, which were major contributors to the wealth of Athens and to the Greek economy in the 20th century. Weather permitting, take a stroll through the town and discover the many vestiges of this industry that flourished until the 1980s: old Neoclassical-style constructions, industrial buildings, and worker houses. While at this port of call, also take the time to discover Athens and its acropolis, or Cape Sounion on which stands the magnificent temple of Poseidon.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Le Ponant
| Length: | 88 metres |
|---|---|
| Built/rebuilt | 1991/2020 |
| Cabins | 16 |
| Crew | 34 |
Le Ponant becomes world’s first sailing yacht to obtain Relais & Châteaux label
After four years of regular ad hoc partnerships, PONANT and Relais & Châteaux are strengthening their ties. The three-master joins the large family of Relais & Châteaux establishments as a new member. It is the first sailing yacht in history to obtain the label and be included in its catalogue of the finest travel addresses in the world.
In 2019 & 2020 Le Ponant underwent a huge revamp. Her capacity was reduced from 64 to just 32 passengers who will be served by a crew of 34.
Following in the nautical tradition of three-masted sailing ships, Le Ponant will take you on a voyage of discovery. The ship provides intimacy and convivial atmosphere and the refined life on board, the welcoming charm to your cabin, the lounges and the restaurants setting are invitations to relax.
Le Ponant is one of the most majestic sailing vessels in the world. With 16 spacious cabins and suites, one crew member per passenger, a dedicated chef, and authentic and exclusive experiences to be enjoyed at every stop, designed for and with you, the ship redefines the concept of luxury yachting and promises you an extraordinary experience.
In addition to its tasteful and refined design by Jean-Philippe Nuel, it has many innovative and environmentally friendly amenities.
Conserving the environment is one of our priorities. We have therefore chosen to invest in innovations and equipment at the cutting edge of technology, with the aim of achieving the highest standards possible in the sector. Le Ponant is the only yacht in the world with a hybrid propulsion system. This uniquely designed three-masted schooner can rely solely on its sails but also can connect to the electricity network in certain ports to limit its ecological impact.
On board, we have banned the use of plastic in straws, laundry bags, cups and individual food portion packaging. Packaging is collected from our warehouses. Unavoidable plastic waste is sorted and entrusted to resource-recovery companies, who monitor its traceability until its elimination.
Le Ponant is equipped with a complete desalination and wastewater treatment system. This biodegradation process works without the use of chemicals. It provides clean water and meets the highest quality standards.
On board, 60% of packaging is recycled, while the rate elsewhere in the world is only 20%. The rest is 100% traced. We have on-board compactors adapted to each type of waste and are working to optimise their management on land.
Under full sail, gliding over the sea with the wind, you will fall under Le Ponant's spell.
Please click the following links to read more about Ponant and the other Ponant cruise ships.
