French Polynesia: a Unique Approach to the Five Archipelagos
7 January 2026
Two ships in the area
Exploring the five archipelagos of French Polynesia - the Society, Tuamotu, Austral, Gambier and Marquesas Islands, as well as the Pitcairn Islands, a British Overseas Territory: this is the innovative proposal of the Group for the 2026-2027 winter season onwards, setting course for the wildest and most remote archipelagos on islets and atolls sometimes populated by just a few dozen inhabitants. Two of the Group's ships will be located in the South Pacific, offering two very different sailing.
Reference vessel for the destination
The intimate knowledge of the area, nurtured for over 25 years, promises guests an authentic and enriching experience, with extended stopovers to soak up the Polynesian way of life. On board, a team of Polynesian hosts, the Gauguins and Gauguines, welcome guests. These ambassadors will share the culture of the islands with guests and provide entertainment with singing and dancing and various workshops.
Number of departures 2026–2027
66
Cabins and suites
165
Territories visited
Society Islands, Tuamotu Islands, Marquesas Islands. A few departures to the Cook Islands, Fiji, and Tonga.
Experience
Discover Polynesian culture in a relaxed, international atmosphere.
Activities
On board, the Gauguins and Gauguines, ambassadors of Polynesian culture, offer singing and dancing performances and workshops. A wide range of optional excursions are available at each port of call. Scuba diving is also available.
The most
Ship refurbished in 2025.
Secret Polynesia aboard Le Jacques Cartier
The latest ship destined for tropical exploration, Le Jacques Cartier offers you a voyage to the most remote Polynesian islands with three never-before-seen "Discovery" itineraries. As they can be linked together, they enable you to put together the most comprehensive trip on the market and the only one currently available: 42 nights on board, 6 archipelagos, 23 islands, as well as the Pitcairn Islands.
Number of departures 2026–2027
9
Cabins and suites
92
Territories visited
Tuamotu Islands, Marquesas Islands, Austral Islands, Gambier Islands, Pitcairn Islands.
Experience
Explore Polynesia's most secluded archipelagos, rarely visited.
Activities
On board, a diving instructor. One activity per day per person led by local guides. Excursions and landings by tender, local boats and zodiac.
The most
Completely new itineraries in the wildest islands of Polynesia.
Discover three brand new itineraries aboard Le Jacques Cartier
Tracking in the Pacific
José Sarica, R&D Expedition Experience Director, recently flew to the Austral and Tuamotu Islands to prepare for the new itineraries on Le Jacques Cartier. The aim was to work hand-in-hand with local residents to design immersive activities to experience Polynesian culture - welcome ceremonies, workshops with basket-makers or sculptors, visits to marae (sacred open-air temples).
R&D Expedition Experience Director, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP
José Sarica
« The main challenge of this scouting trip was to gain acceptance from very isolated communities, each with their own unique culture from one island to the next, in order to work together to create a unique experience for future guests. We discovered hidden treasures, places of incredible beauty and a spirituality that is truly linked to the natural environment. The farewell ceremonies then took on their full meaning for me, signifying ‘see you soon’! »
On the Tuamotu archipelago
Mataiva and its incredible mosaic lagoon. Hikueru and its vast lagoon. Makemo and its preserved fauna of red-footed boobies and frigatebirds.
Mataiva and its incredible mosaic lagoon. Hikueru and its vast lagoon. Makemo and its preserved fauna of red-footed boobies and frigatebirds.