OOH LA LA!

Australia will soon be home to one of the world’s most luxurious cruising experiences, as French company Ponant has announced plans to base its iconic three-masted yacht Le Ponant in the Kimberley next year.

With 16 staterooms, the newly refurbished yacht will carry a maximum of 32 guests on each voyage, which will follow bespoke itineraries customised to guest preferences.

“Taking into account the time of year and enormous tides the region is famous for, each voyage will offer a combination of iconic locations and hidden gems, showcasing the remarkable beauty of this magnificent coastline,” says

Mick Fogg, director of expeditions and destination development.

Ponant has partnered with iconic Australian pearling company Paspaley on the venture, with guests set to arrive or depart from the company’s pearl farm in Kuri Bay aboard Paspaley’s vintage Grumman Mallard flying boat. Designed to be the ultimate barefoot luxury experience, Le Ponant promises to protect and respect both the environment and culture of the region, as part of Ponant’s ongoing commitment to responsible tourism.

Le Ponant will begin sailing in April 2023, with seven- to 14-night experiences available, departing from Darwin and Broome. au.ponant.com