Ponant announces new French Polynesia itineraries for 2026-27

Ponant is deepening its presence in French Polynesia with the introduction of brand-new winter itineraries aboard Le Jacques Cartier beginning with the 2026-27 season.  

These new itineraries complement the Group’s long-established leadership in the region with Paul Gauguin Cruises, which has been sailing the islands year-round for more than 26 years as French Polynesia’s destination expert.  

The new itineraries aboard Le Jacques Cartier will take guests deeper into French Polynesia than ever before, with rare calls to the remote Gambier and Austral Islands. In addition to exploring the Society Islands, Tuamotus, and Marquesas, these exclusive voyages offer an exceptional opportunity to experience the full richness of the region to archipelagos that The Gauguin doesn’t visit. Each archipelago is shaped by its own vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty, revealing the diverse character of French Polynesia in extraordinary depth.  

 “With the debut of Le Jacques Cartier in French Polynesia, Ponant Explorations Group now offers two unique ways to experience the extraordinary with our distinctively positioned brands appealing to every inclination for both expedition and leisure travel,” said Samuel Chamberlain, Ponant Exploration Group’s CEO of the Americas. “While the m/s Paul Gauguin continues to define immersive, year-round discovery in the region, the winter deployment of Le Jacques Cartier brings a new perspective—more remote and more expeditionary. Both brands share the hallmarks of our Group: a commitment to meaningful travel through cultural immersion, French flair, environmental stewardship, and expert-led enrichment.  

“With Le Jacques Cartier joining The Gauguin in Polynesia, we’re expanding the choices available to discerning travelers seeking authenticity, elegance, and adventure,and cementing our leadership position in the region as the destination expert,” Chamberlain added. 

From October 2026 through February 2027, the two new itineraries aboard Le Jacques Cartier will be offered in addition to voyages to the Marquesas. All three 14-night itineraries travel roundtrip from Papeete, Tahiti, and are available for booking now. 

New itineraries ready to book 

Secret Polynesia: From the Society to the Austral Islands 

• October 18 & December 13, 2026 
• These voyages showcase the untouched beauty of the Tuamotus, the wild Gambier Islands, and the remote Austral archipelago. 
• Fares from $11,550 per guest, double occupancy 

From French Polynesia to Pitcairn Island 

• November 15, 2026  
• This is a rare adventure through Tuamotu and the Gambier Islands to legendary Pitcairn, rich in ancestral traditions and pristine natural wonders. 
• Fares from $11,080 per guest, double occupancy 

Polynesian Bliss: Marquesas, Tuamotu and Society Islands 

• October 4, November 1 & 29, December 27, 2026; January 24, 2027 
• Immerse yourself in the mystical spirit of the Marquesas, coral-ringed atolls of the Tuamotus, and beloved Society Islands. 
• Fares from $10,900 per guest, double occupancy.