Luxury sailing is entering a new era with the expansion of PONANT Yachting, a brand dedicated to intimate and sustainable voyages. PONANT Explorations Group has confirmed the arrival of the Spirit of Ponant II in late 2026, a state-of-the-art catamaran that will be based in French Polynesia. This addition strengthens the brand’s presence in one of the world’s most desirable cruising regions while reshaping how luxury travelers experience the islands.
A New Chapter in Luxury Sailing
PONANT Yachting was introduced in 2024 with a vision of offering high-end, small-scale sailing experiences that prioritize exclusivity and environmental responsibility. Its first vessel, the Spirit of Ponant, set the tone for what has become a new approach to luxury cruising. The Spirit of Ponant II now joins the fleet as the third catamaran, reflecting the brand’s rapid growth and increasing demand for boutique sailing adventures.
What makes PONANT Yachting stand out is its focus on intimacy. Each catamaran is designed to host only nine to twelve guests. With just a handful of passengers on board, the atmosphere remains private and relaxed, offering the perfect alternative to large-scale cruise ships. A professional four-person crew ensures attentive service while guests enjoy gourmet dining, personalized excursions, and premium water activities such as snorkelling, paddleboarding, and wing foiling.
Spirit of Ponant II: The Flagship of a New Fleet
Built in France as part of Lagoon’s EIGHTY 2 series, the Spirit of Ponant II represents a new standard in luxury sailing. The design blends sleek aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, creating a vessel that balances performance with comfort. Its interiors are crafted for elegance, offering spacious lounges, fine dining areas, and panoramic views of the sea.
Environmentally conscious features are also central to the Spirit of Ponant II. From energy-efficient systems to eco-friendly materials, the catamaran reflects PONANT’s commitment to sustainable travel. Guests will enjoy a luxurious experience while knowing their journey leaves a lighter footprint on the destinations they visit.
Sailing Into French Polynesia
The decision to base the Spirit of Ponant II in French Polynesia highlights the region’s growing status as a global luxury travel hotspot. Known for its turquoise lagoons, lush islands, and rich Polynesian culture, French Polynesia offers the ideal setting for intimate sailing voyages. Travelers can expect tailored itineraries that move away from crowded ports and instead focus on secluded beaches, coral reefs, and authentic cultural encounters.
This move also supports the region’s tourism industry by attracting high-value visitors who stay longer, spend more, and engage with local experiences. PONANT’s presence reinforces French Polynesia’s image as both a luxury destination and a leader in sustainable travel.
Beyond the Pacific: Global Expansion
While the Spirit of Ponant II will be dedicated to French Polynesia, PONANT Yachting’s fleet will also explore other world-class destinations. Its catamarans are already charting routes through the Mediterranean, the Seychelles, and the Caribbean. These voyages allow travelers to experience some of the most beautiful coastlines on earth in an intimate and eco-friendly way.
By offering access to these diverse destinations, PONANT Yachting ensures its guests can choose from a wide range of experiences — from island-hopping in the Caribbean to exploring remote Indian Ocean atolls. Each journey combines adventure with comfort, giving travelers the best of both worlds.
Collaborative Success and Design Excellence
The development of PONANT Yachting is the result of a strong collaboration between PONANT Explorations Group, Lagoon, the Bénéteau Group, and Sailoé. Together, they ensure each vessel meets the highest standards of design, innovation, and safety. This partnership allows PONANT to deliver an exceptional level of service and quality, reinforcing its reputation as a pioneer in luxury cruising.
The Spirit of Ponant II is a testament to this teamwork. By merging Lagoon’s expertise in catamaran construction with PONANT’s vision of intimate travel, the vessel sets a new benchmark for luxury sailing worldwide.
Boosting Global Tourism
The concept of boutique sailing is increasingly popular among affluent travelers who want unique, responsible, and personalized experiences. Unlike large cruises, small catamarans can visit less accessible destinations, spreading tourism more evenly and supporting local economies.
The Spirit of Ponant II brings a steady stream of high-end visitors drawn by both the luxury of the vessel and the natural beauty of the islands. This kind of sustainable, high-value tourism helps protect cultural traditions while providing communities with economic opportunities.
Looking Toward the Future of Luxury Travel
PONANT Yachting is not just expanding its fleet; it is reshaping how people think about cruising. By focusing on smaller vessels, personalized service, and eco-conscious practices, it is setting a new standard in the luxury market. The Spirit of Ponant II is more than a ship — it is a symbol of a new travel philosophy that blends intimacy, adventure, and responsibility.
As demand for exclusive experiences continues to rise, PONANT’s ability to adapt and innovate ensures its place as a leader in luxury sailing. For travelers seeking unforgettable voyages in pristine destinations, the future of cruising may well be aboard a catamaran like the Spirit of Ponant II.
Conclusion
The arrival of the Spirit of Ponant II in 2026 marks a turning point for luxury tourism in French Polynesia. With its focus on intimacy, sustainability, and world-class service, PONANT Yachting is offering travelers a fresh way to experience the world’s most beautiful waters.
As the brand expands globally, it is creating a blueprint for the future of sailing: one that combines luxury with responsibility. For discerning travelers, this is not just a new cruise option — it is the beginning of a new era in luxury exploration.
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