The French expedition and luxury yacht line: ships of 92 to 264 guests, French cuisine, an open bar included and a Zodiac fleet for landings. The Kimberley, Broome to Darwin, is Ponant’s biggest Australian season.
Ponant is a French line built around small ships that feel more like a private yacht than a cruise liner: the largest carries 264 guests, the smallest sailing yacht just 32. Zodiacs put guests ashore at cliffs and gorges too tight for a big ship, an expedition team leads every landing, and French chefs and crew give the food, wine and service a distinctly French character throughout. It suits couples and solo travellers who want remote places over resort-style ships and are happy to pay for it.
Ponant’s biggest Australian season is the Kimberley: Le Jacques Cartier sails Darwin to Broome and back over 10 nights from around May to September 2027, threading King George River and Talbot Bay’s Horizontal Falls with a Traditional Owner guide often aboard. Le Soléal joins the Kimberley season too, adds a West Coast Odyssey between Broome and Fremantle, and in late 2026 runs New Guinea Odyssey voyages between Darwin and Cairns and a Bali to Cairns crossing. A Singapore to Darwin sailing on the smaller Paul Gauguin is a lower-cost way to join the fleet, and in January and February of 2028 and 2029 Le Commandant Charcot sails between Hobart and Ushuaia by way of Antarctica.
Le Jacques Cartier and its five Explorer-class sisters carry 184 guests and include the Blue Eye, an underwater lounge below the waterline unique to Ponant. Le Soléal is one of four larger Sistership-class vessels at 264 guests, with balconies on 95 per cent of staterooms. For polar expeditions there is Le Commandant Charcot, a 245-guest hybrid electric icebreaker with a heated indoor pool and an Observatory Lounge, sailing Antarctica and the Arctic; Australians usually fly to Ushuaia via Buenos Aires to join it, or can start or finish in Hobart on the 2028 and 2029 Antarctic crossings.
Every Ponant sailing that starts or finishes in Darwin, Broome, Cairns, Fremantle or Hobart, soonest first. Fares are per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, as listed by the cruise line on 16 September at 8:19pm. Cabin types sell out and prices move between checks, so we confirm what is open and what it costs before you pay.
40 sailings
| Departs | Cruise | Cabins open | From | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 to 27 season | ||||
| Mon, 28 Sept 202616 nights | New Guinea Odyssey, Darwin to CairnsLe Soléal · One way, Darwin to CairnsKei Islands, Triton Bay, Kitikiti Waterfall, Cenderawasih Bay, Jayapura, Kopar, Madang, Tami Islands, Tufi, Alotau | 5 of 6 cabin types leftWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$40,760pp · A$81,520 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Sat, 24 Oct 202616 nights | New Guinea Odyssey, Cairns to DarwinLe Soléal · One way, Cairns to DarwinAlotau, Tufi, Tami Islands, Madang, Kopar, Jayapura, Cenderawasih Bay, Kitikiti Waterfall, Triton Bay, Kei Islands | 4 of 6 cabin types leftWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$39,040pp · A$78,080 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Mon, 9 Nov 202614 nights | Island Treasures of Indonesia and East Timor, Darwin to BenoaLe Soléal · One way, Darwin to BenoaDili, Baucau, Banda Neira, Kitikiti Waterfall, Triton Bay, Kei Islands, Barat Daya Islands, Kalabahi, Maumere, 17 Islands Marine Park, Komodo National Park, Badas | Last suites availableOwner's Suite | Owner's Suite fromA$105,720pp · A$211,440 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Fri, 4 Dec 202615 nights | Tropical Odyssey between Indonesia and North East Australia, Benoa to CairnsLe Soléal · One way, Benoa to CairnsKomodo National Park, Maumere, Kalabahi, Barat Daya Islands, Banda Neira, Kitikiti Waterfall, Triton Bay, Asmat, Cape York, Lizard Island | 2 of 6 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$36,900pp · A$73,800 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Tue, 16 Mar 202713 nights | Indonesia’s Sacred Temples and Natural Sanctuaries, Singapore to DarwinLe Paul Gauguin · One way, Singapore to DarwinParai Beach, Semarang, Surabaya, Benoa, Komodo National Park, Dili | 5 of 6 cabin types leftWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Veranda suite and stateroom, Grand Suite, Owner Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$23,260pp · A$46,520 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Mon, 29 Mar 202717 nights | An escapade in the heart of Melanesia, Darwin to LautokaLe Paul Gauguin · One way, Darwin to LautokaThursday Island, Alotau, Samarai Island, Honiara, Paradise Lagoon, Port Vila | 5 of 6 cabin types leftWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Veranda suite and stateroom, Owner Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$26,080pp · A$52,160 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Sat, 15 May 202711 nights | Benoa to DarwinLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Benoa to DarwinBadas, Komodo National Park, Maumere, Kalabahi, Barat Daya Islands, Banda Neira, Kitikiti Waterfall, Triton Bay, Kei Islands | 5 of 7 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite, Owner's Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$39,072pp · A$78,144 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Thu, 27 May 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Darwin to BroomeLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Darwin to BroomeKing George River, Vansittart Bay, Ashmore Reef, Careening Bay, Swift Bay, Hunter River, Collier Bay, Lacepede Islands | 6 of 7 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite, Grand Suite, Owner's Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$38,280pp · A$76,560 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Sun, 6 June 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Broome to DarwinLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Broome to DarwinLacepede Islands, Collier Bay, Careening Bay, Hunter River, Swift Bay, Vansittart Bay, King George River | 5 of 7 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite, Grand Suite, Owner's Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$36,320pp · A$72,640 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Tue, 15 June 202713 nights | Tropical Indonesian Odyssey, Benoa to DarwinLe Soléal · One way, Benoa to DarwinBadas, Komodo National Park, Maumere, Kalabahi, Barat Daya Islands, Banda Neira, Kitikiti Waterfall, Triton Bay, Kei Islands, Dili | 2 of 6 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$43,160pp · A$86,320 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Wed, 16 June 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Darwin to BroomeLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Darwin to BroomeKing George River, Vansittart Bay, Ashmore Reef, Careening Bay, Swift Bay, Hunter River, Collier Bay, Lacepede Islands | 5 of 7 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite, Grand Suite, Owner's Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$36,320pp · A$72,640 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Sat, 26 June 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Broome to DarwinLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Broome to DarwinLacepede Islands, Collier Bay, Careening Bay, Hunter River, Swift Bay, Vansittart Bay, King George River | 6 of 7 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite, Grand Suite, Owner's Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$36,320pp · A$72,640 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Tue, 29 June 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Darwin to BroomeLe Soléal · One way, Darwin to BroomeKing George River, Vansittart Bay, Ashmore Reef, Careening Bay, Swift Bay, Hunter River, Collier Bay, Lacepede Islands | All cabin types availableWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$34,940pp · A$69,880 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| 2027 to 28 season | ||||
| Tue, 6 July 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Darwin to BroomeLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Darwin to BroomeKing George River, Vansittart Bay, Ashmore Reef, Careening Bay, Swift Bay, Hunter River, Collier Bay, Lacepede Islands | 5 of 7 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite, Grand Suite, Owner's Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$38,280pp · A$76,560 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Fri, 9 July 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Broome to DarwinLe Soléal · One way, Broome to DarwinLacepede Islands, Collier Bay, Careening Bay, Hunter River, Swift Bay, Vansittart Bay, King George River | 5 of 6 cabin types leftWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$34,940pp · A$69,880 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Fri, 16 July 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Broome to DarwinLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Broome to DarwinLacepede Islands, Collier Bay, Careening Bay, Hunter River, Swift Bay, Vansittart Bay, King George River | 6 of 7 cabin types leftLower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite, Grand Suite, Owner's Suite | Lower deck balcony stateroom fromA$32,760pp · A$65,520 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Mon, 19 July 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Darwin to BroomeLe Soléal · One way, Darwin to BroomeKing George River, Vansittart Bay, Ashmore Reef, Careening Bay, Swift Bay, Hunter River, Collier Bay, Lacepede Islands | 5 of 6 cabin types leftLower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Lower deck balcony stateroom fromA$34,920pp · A$69,840 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Mon, 26 July 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Darwin to BroomeLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Darwin to BroomeKing George River, Vansittart Bay, Ashmore Reef, Careening Bay, Swift Bay, Hunter River, Collier Bay, Lacepede Islands | 4 of 7 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Privilege Suite, Grand Suite, Owner's Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$42,180pp · A$84,360 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Thu, 29 July 202710 nights | Australia’s West Coast Odyssey, Broome to FremantleLe Soléal · One way, Broome to FremantleBurrup Peninsula, Montebello Islands, Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area, Shark Bay World Heritage Area, Cape Peron, Abrolhos Islands Marine Park | 3 of 6 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$38,620pp · A$77,240 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Thu, 5 Aug 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Broome to DarwinLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Broome to DarwinLacepede Islands, Collier Bay, Careening Bay, Hunter River, Swift Bay, Vansittart Bay, King George River | 6 of 7 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite, Grand Suite, Owner's Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$38,280pp · A$76,560 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Sun, 8 Aug 202710 nights | Australia’s West Coast Odyssey, Fremantle to BroomeLe Soléal · One way, Fremantle to BroomeJurien Bay Marine Park, Abrolhos Islands Marine Park, Shark Bay World Heritage Area, Cape Peron, Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area, Montebello Islands, Burrup Peninsula | 5 of 6 cabin types leftWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$34,940pp · A$69,880 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Sun, 15 Aug 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Darwin to BroomeLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Darwin to BroomeKing George River, Vansittart Bay, Ashmore Reef, Careening Bay, Swift Bay, Hunter River, Collier Bay, Lacepede Islands | Last suites availablePrivilege Suite, Grand Suite, Owner's Suite | Privilege Suite fromA$67,180pp · A$134,360 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Wed, 18 Aug 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Broome to DarwinLe Soléal · One way, Broome to DarwinLacepede Islands, Collier Bay, Careening Bay, Hunter River, Swift Bay, Vansittart Bay, King George River | 4 of 6 cabin types leftWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$34,940pp · A$69,880 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Wed, 25 Aug 202710 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Broome to DarwinLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Broome to DarwinLacepede Islands, Collier Bay, Careening Bay, Hunter River, Swift Bay, Vansittart Bay, King George River | 4 of 7 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$36,320pp · A$72,640 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Sat, 28 Aug 202714 nights | Exploring the Malay Archipelago, Darwin to ManilaLe Soléal · One way, Darwin to ManilaKei Islands, Triton Bay, Kitikiti Waterfall, Banda Neira, Pulau Saparua, Pulau Molana, Tangkoko Nature Reserve, Limasawa, Cuatro Islands, Cresta de Gallo Island | 5 of 6 cabin types leftWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$30,240pp · A$60,480 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Sat, 4 Sept 202716 nights | An escapade in the heart of Melanesia, Darwin to LautokaLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Darwin to LautokaElcho Island, Thursday Island, Kwato Island, Njari Island, Roderick Bay, Santa Ana Island, Lata, Ureparapara Island, Mavea Island, Paradise Lagoon, Ambrym Island | 4 of 7 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$38,440pp · A$76,880 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Mon, 10 Jan 202829 nights | Unexplored Western Antarctica between Two Continents, Ushuaia to HobartLe Commandant Charcot · One way, Ushuaia to HobartCrossing the Drake Passage, Crossing the Antarctic Circle, Antarctic Peninsula, Marguerite Bay, Expedition to Charcot Island, At sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot, Marie Byrd Land exploration, Crossing the International Date Line, Ross Sea Region, Balleny Islands | 5 of 8 cabin types leftLower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Duplex Suite | Lower deck balcony stateroom fromA$201,300pp · A$402,600 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Fri, 11 Feb 202830 nights | Unexplored Eastern Antarctica between Two Continents, Hobart to UshuaiaLe Commandant Charcot · One way, Hobart to UshuaiaAt sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot, George V Land, Commonweatlh Bay, Adélie Land, Wilkes Land, Magnetic South Pole, Sailing along Shackleton Ice Shelf, Queen Maud Land, Antarctic Peninsula, Endurance wreck site | 2 of 8 cabin types leftUpper decks balcony stateroom, Grand Suite | Upper decks balcony stateroom fromA$229,560pp · A$459,120 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Sat, 27 May 202812 nights | Benoa to DarwinLe Jacques Cartier · One way, Benoa to DarwinSatonda Island, Saleh bay, Komodo National Park, Maumere, Barat Daya Islands, Banda Neira, Kitikiti Waterfall, Triton Bay, Kei Islands | All cabin types availableLower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite, Grand Suite, Owner's Suite | Lower deck balcony stateroom fromA$31,400pp · A$62,800 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Thu, 1 June 202814 nights | Exploring the Malay Archipelago, Manila to DarwinLe Soléal · One way, Manila to DarwinCresta de Gallo Island, Cuatro Islands, Limasawa, Tangkoko Nature Reserve, Pulau Saparua, Pulau Molana, Banda Neira, Kitikiti Waterfall, Triton Bay, Kei Islands | All cabin types availableWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$30,240pp · A$60,480 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Fri, 16 June 202810 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Darwin to BroomeLe Soléal · One way, Darwin to BroomeKing George River, Vansittart Bay, Ashmore Reef, Careening Bay, Swift Bay, Hunter River, Collier Bay, Lacepede Islands | All cabin types availableWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$31,020pp · A$62,040 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Mon, 26 June 202810 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Broome to DarwinLe Soléal · One way, Broome to DarwinLacepede Islands, Collier Bay, Careening Bay, Hunter River, Swift Bay, Vansittart Bay, King George River | All cabin types availableWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$30,840pp · A$61,680 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| 2028 to 29 season | ||||
| Thu, 6 July 202810 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Darwin to BroomeLe Soléal · One way, Darwin to BroomeKing George River, Vansittart Bay, Ashmore Reef, Careening Bay, Swift Bay, Hunter River, Collier Bay, Lacepede Islands | All cabin types availableWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$29,200pp · A$58,400 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Wed, 26 July 202810 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Darwin to BroomeLe Soléal · One way, Darwin to BroomeKing George River, Vansittart Bay, Ashmore Reef, Careening Bay, Swift Bay, Hunter River, Collier Bay, Lacepede Islands | All cabin types availableWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$31,020pp · A$62,040 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Sat, 5 Aug 202810 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Broome to DarwinLe Soléal · One way, Broome to DarwinLacepede Islands, Collier Bay, Careening Bay, Hunter River, Swift Bay, Vansittart Bay, King George River | All cabin types availableWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$30,840pp · A$61,680 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Tue, 15 Aug 202810 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Darwin to BroomeLe Soléal · One way, Darwin to BroomeKing George River, Vansittart Bay, Ashmore Reef, Careening Bay, Swift Bay, Hunter River, Collier Bay, Lacepede Islands | All cabin types availableWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$29,200pp · A$58,400 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Fri, 25 Aug 202810 nights | Australia's Iconic Kimberley, Broome to DarwinLe Soléal · One way, Broome to DarwinLacepede Islands, Collier Bay, Careening Bay, Hunter River, Swift Bay, Vansittart Bay, King George River | All cabin types availableWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite, Owner's Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$29,020pp · A$58,040 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Mon, 4 Sept 202814 nights | Exploring the Malay Archipelago, Darwin to ManilaLe Soléal · One way, Darwin to ManilaKei Islands, Triton Bay, Kitikiti Waterfall, Banda Neira, Pulau Saparua, Pulau Molana, Limasawa, Cuatro Islands, Cresta de Gallo Island | 5 of 6 cabin types leftWindow or Porthole Stateroom, Lower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite | Window or Porthole Stateroom fromA$28,480pp · A$56,960 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Wed, 10 Jan 202929 nights | Unexplored Western Antarctica between Two Continents, Ushuaia to HobartLe Commandant Charcot · One way, Ushuaia to HobartCrossing the Drake Passage, Crossing the Antarctic Circle, Antarctic Peninsula, Marguerite Bay, Expedition to Charcot Island, At sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot, Marie Byrd Land exploration, Crossing the International Date Line, Ross Sea Region, Balleny Islands | All cabin types availableLower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Grand Suite, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite, Duplex Suite, Owner's Suite | Lower deck balcony stateroom fromA$213,060pp · A$426,120 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
| Sun, 11 Feb 202930 nights | Unexplored Eastern Antarctica between Two Continents, Hobart to UshuaiaLe Commandant Charcot · One way, Hobart to UshuaiaAt sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot, George V Land, Commonweatlh Bay, Adélie Land, Wilkes Land, Magnetic South Pole, Sailing along Shackleton Ice Shelf, Queen Maud Land, Antarctic Peninsula, Endurance wreck site | 7 of 8 cabin types leftLower deck balcony stateroom, Upper decks balcony stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Grand Suite, Prestige Suite, Privilege Suite, Duplex Suite | Lower deck balcony stateroom fromA$235,060pp · A$470,120 for 2 | |
Itinerary
Times are local, as published by Ponant. Ports and times can change with weather and operations. Fares by cabin
Per person for two sharing, taxes and fees included, checked 16 September at 8:19pm. | ||||
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Call a Cruise Expert · 1300 214 840 Enquire TodayThree of the fleet: the two Kimberley ships, and the polar flagship that sails between Hobart and Antarctica in early 2028 and 2029.
The newest of six Explorer-class sisters, with 92 staterooms and suites and the Blue Eye, an underwater lounge below the waterline with curved windows shaped like a whale’s eye. Runs the 10-night Kimberley crossing between Darwin and Broome, with Zodiacs for King George River, Talbot Bay and the region’s Aboriginal rock art sites.
One of four larger Sistership-class vessels, with 132 staterooms and suites and a balcony on 95 per cent of them. Sails Kimberley voyages between Darwin and Broome and the West Coast Odyssey between Broome and Fremantle each winter, and in late 2026 New Guinea Odyssey voyages between Darwin and Cairns and a Tropical Odyssey from Bali to Cairns, with the same Zodiac fleet and expedition team as the smaller ships.
A hybrid electric and LNG-powered icebreaker built to reach the North Pole and deep into the Weddell Sea, with a heated indoor pool, the Observatory Lounge on deck 9 and onboard scientists. In January and February of 2028 and 2029 it sails between Hobart and Ushuaia via Antarctica; otherwise Australians fly to Buenos Aires and on to Ushuaia to join Antarctic sailings; the same ship also runs Arctic expeditions each northern summer.
Also in the fleet: Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont-d’Urville and Le Bellot (the rest of the Explorer class); L’Austral and Le Lyrial (Sistership class); the 32-guest sailing yacht Le Ponant; and Paul Gauguin in French Polynesia and on the Singapore to Darwin crossing.
Lowest fare we are quoting for each cabin type, per person twin share, taxes and fees included. Rates vary by sailing and date.
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A taste of the restaurants, bars and spaces. Anything marked Included carries no extra cost.
An underwater lounge below the waterline, its curved windows shaped like a whale’s eye, on every Explorer-class ship.
The main dining room, with a menu that changes through the voyage and a wine list chosen to match it.
Cocktails before dinner and live music most nights, with the open bar that comes with every fare.
A fireplace lounge on deck 9 for watching the ice, unique to the polar icebreaker.
Lectures from the expedition team by day and a stage for concerts and briefings by night.
Menus developed with the three-Michelin-starred chef, served across the fleet’s restaurants.
Books, clothing and expedition gear, including PONANT-branded parkas for polar sailings.
Shore landings and wildlife-watching led by the expedition team, weather and tides permitting.
A heated indoor pool aboard Le Commandant Charcot, built for polar sailings when the outer decks are too cold to use.
Massage, a sauna and treatments at sea, bookable once you are on board.
Morning yoga and fitness sessions on deck, weather permitting, on most sailings.
Naturalists, historians and polar guides brief each landing and lecture between ports.
Ponant fares cover full board, an open bar all day, Wi-Fi, port taxes and one guided activity at every stop. Gratuities are the notable exception.
Butler service comes with the top suites on each ship rather than with the fare.
The Ponant Bonus is an early booking discount on the stateroom price, not an extra inclusion.
Ponant’s main Australian season is the Kimberley, sailed by Le Jacques Cartier between Darwin and Broome from around May to September. Le Soléal also sails the Kimberley and a West Coast Odyssey between Broome and Fremantle, and a Singapore to Darwin sailing on Paul Gauguin is a fly-cruise option. For Antarctica, Le Commandant Charcot sails between Hobart and Ushuaia each January and February in 2028 and 2029; otherwise you fly to Buenos Aires and on to Ushuaia.
Your stateroom, all meals and a wine list at lunch and dinner, an open bar, Wi-Fi, and Zodiac excursions led by the expedition team. Ponant markets its fares as all-inclusive, covering accommodation, dining and excursions. Not included: flights to join the ship, gratuities, spa treatments, laundry and a handful of pre-bookable signature excursions.
The newest of six Explorer-class ships, carrying 184 guests in 92 staterooms and suites. Its signature space is the Blue Eye, an underwater lounge below the waterline for watching the sea through curved windows. It runs the Kimberley crossing between Darwin and Broome, with Zodiacs for King George River, Talbot Bay’s Horizontal Falls and Aboriginal rock art sites along the way.
Ponant suits couples and solo travellers who want small ships, remote landscapes and an expedition team over big-ship entertainment, and who are happy with informal, adventurous days ashore by Zodiac rather than a fixed shore-excursion menu. Families are welcome but Ponant has little dedicated for children, and anyone wanting waterslides or a large kids’ club should look elsewhere.
Guests go ashore in small groups aboard rigid inflatable Zodiacs, guided by the expedition team of naturalists and historians who lead each landing and brief the ship on what to expect. Landings depend on weather, tides and ice, so the itinerary is a guide rather than a guarantee; the captain and expedition leader adjust the programme as conditions allow.
The Kimberley season runs roughly May to September, in the dry season when rivers and gorges are accessible and the weather is reliably warm and clear. Sailings sell out well ahead for the most popular departures, so booking a year or more out gives you the widest choice of dates and cabin categories.
Tell us the region and dates in the enquiry form on this page, or call 1300 214 840. We are an independent Australian cruise agency: you get Ponant’s advertised fare, we confirm the total for two in AUD with taxes and fees included, and one specialist looks after the booking from quote to homecoming.
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Enquire TodayPonant sailings from Darwin, Broome, Cairns, Fremantle and Hobart start at A$30,500 per person right now. See every departure we are quoting in the next 30, 60 and 90 days.
Sailing SoonLuxury Cruises Guide is an independent Australian cruise agency operated by Orange Ninja Pty Ltd, ABN 17 682 640 713. It is not owned or operated by Ponant. Ponant and its ship names are trademarks of their owner and are used here to identify the cruise line. Fares shown were published by the cruise line at the time of writing and change with availability.