Le Ponant

Max Passengers: 56
Ship Type: Luxury Expedition Ship
Operated By: Exodus Travels

Le Ponant is the ultimate way to explore the Caribbean in style and comfort. She is an elegant, three-masted sailing vessel ideal for expedition cruising. When her sprawling sails are unfurled, Le Ponant glides through the water at a brisk 10–12 knots carrying up to 56 guests, a fleet of Zodiacs, and facilities for snorkeling and diving.

The four-deck sailboat has ample public space, has two restaurants serving French cuisine, a lounge, bar, and small reading room  (Sapphire Room) with a selection of books. Lounge on the Sun Deck, a large open space with deck chairs for relaxing and viewing the scenery. The Antigua Deck has guest staterooms and the al fresco restaurant. On the St. Barth Deck, there is a lounge for lectures, bar, formal dining room, and reception. There is an open-bridge policy, contingent upon weather and navigation conditions.
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Cabins:
Staterooms average 160 square feet, have a hair dryer, direct dial phone for international calls and cabin-to-cabin calls, safe deposit box, an intercom system for announcements, at least one closet and one shelf unit, European-type outlets (two round sockets) at 220 volts, individual heat/air conditioning controls, a minibar, and complimentary bottled water.

All cabins have lower beds. The bed configuration varies from two twins to one double. Several staterooms accommodate a third guest. Cabins 1–5 (Antigua Deck), 6, 7, and 9 have one double bed; staterooms 10,12, and 14 have one double bed and a convertible sleeper sofa; all other staterooms have two lower twin beds that can be moved together into one queen bed.

Dining:
Each restaurant holds all 56 guests at one seating. Special dietary requests (except Kosher) can be fulfilled with advance notice. Room service for breakfast is available with advance request.

Services:
• Snorkel gear and beach towels are available for all guests.
• Weights and tanks are available for certified divers. All divers must bring any additional equipment.
• Le Ponant carries a fleet of Zodiacs.
• A doctor and a small infirmary are available on board. Rates are posted.
• Laundry services are available (no dry cleaning). Rates are posted. No beauty salon on board.
• Small glass cases showcase Le Ponant ship and trip memorabilia for sale.
• Due to the active nature of the expeditions, no pool, gym, or sauna facilities are available.

Specifications:
Built: 1991
Refurbished: 2011
Gross Tonnage: 1,490
Length: 290 feet
Beam: 39 feet
Draft: 13 feet
Crew: 32
Crew Nationality: French & Filipino
Ship’s Registry: France