Ponant seals Nat Geographic deal

NATIONAL Geographic and Ponant have confirmed a new strategic partnership which includes a co-branded program of 130 special voyages through to 2022 ( CW breaking news).

National Geographic Partners vice president of travel for Asia-Pacific, Tim Jones, said the deal “marks a milestone in growing our National Geographic Expeditions business in Australia, New Zealand and the Asia Pacific region.

“In Ponant, we have a luxury & ethically minded partner with European flair, experience in travelling to ambitious locations, along with an expansive travel agent network.”

Jones said National Geographic and Ponant would work together to offer premium expedition experiences “creating unique itineraries that speak to the explorer in all of us”.

Ponant chairman Asia Pacific, Sarina Bratton AM, said the pact “brings together two highly respected global organisations with shared values and a common goal to inspire guests to live curiously, explore our planet and become ambassadors for sustainability”.

On the joint itineraries, which can be booked effective immediately, National Geographic will provide a range of expedition resources on board including experts and photographers to create an “immersive and quality experience”.

Ponant currently operates seven small ships, increasing to 12 by 2021 including the delivery of its new Expedition class vessels with the unique “Blue Eye” underwater lounge.

Adventure World, which represents Lindblad Expeditions in the Australasian market, said the Lindblad-National Geographic relationship “remains unaffected by the announcement of National Geographic adding to their cruise portfolio in Australia and NZ”.