Ponant Expands 2026 French Polynesia Cruises: New Remote Island Itineraries and Luxury Expeditions

Starting in the winter of 2026, Ponant will have two distinct vessels calling Papeete, Tahiti, their homeport. This dual-ship strategy allows the cruise line to offer two very different, yet equally refined, ways to experience the islands.

The second ship, joining the fleet in these waters for a limited series of departures, is the Le Jacques Cartier. As part of Ponant’s Explorer Class, this ship is built for discovery. While the Paul Gauguin focuses on the classic beauty of the Society Islands, Le Jacques Cartier is destined for the wild fringes of the map.

This itinerary is for the traveler who wants to see the world as it was centuries ago. The Austral Islands are the southernmost archipelago in French Polynesia, characterized by cool breezes and ancient troglodyte caves. On the coral island of Rurutu, guests can hike through lush landscapes and witness a culture that remains deeply connected to the land.

Whether it’s participating in ancestral ceremonies, snorkeling in the UNESCO-listed biosphere of the Tuamotus, or simply enjoying a glass of French champagne as the sun sets over a deserted atoll, the 2026 season represents a new pinnacle for Pacific cruising.