There’s something magic about being at sea—open sky above you, water stretching to the horizon, and nothing on the agenda but slowing down, indulging deeply, and discovering somewhere new. But forget everything you think you know about cruises. This isn’t a giant floating city with a buffet and bingo night. If you’ve been craving a different kind of voyage, luxury small ship cruises like those with PONANT offer the perfect blend of intimacy and exploration. These aren’t your typical mega-ships. They’re thoughtfully designed to feel personal, refined, and built for reaching the kinds of destinations that feel worlds away.

Why PONANT? Small Ship Cruising, Done Beautifully

PONANT’s fleet of luxury yachts is purpose-built for travelers who crave exclusivity without excess. With no more than 132 guests onboard, you’ll never feel lost in the crowd. Think private-yacht ambiance with world-class service and a captain who can navigate into the kinds of secluded coves and polar regions the big ships only dream of. The design? Understated French sophistication. The vibe? Polished but relaxed, like a glass of Sancerre at golden hour.

A Floating Base for Big Adventures

Whether you’re tracing Arctic glaciers, snorkeling in the Seychelles, or following the spice trails of Southeast Asia, each PONANT itinerary is thoughtfully curated to bring you closer to the places most travelers never reach.

Some standouts from recent itineraries include:

• Antarctica aboard an ice-rated yacht with a team of naturalists.
• The Kimberley in Australia’s rugged northwest—accessible only by sea.
• Hidden Mediterranean islands, far from the tourist trail, with private beach access and expert guides.

No matter the destination, every detail is handled!

The Blue Eye Lounge: Yes, It’s as Cool as It Sounds

Only on PONANT’s Explorers series ships will you find the Blue Eye Lounge—an underwater observatory where you can literally see and hear the ocean in motion. It’s an experience that’s hard to describe and even harder to forget. This is not your average cruise bar. It’s Jacques Cousteau meets architectural daydream.

A Commitment to the Planet, Not Just the View

Luxury doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense. PONANT leads the industry with its sustainability efforts from reducing emissions to eliminating single-use plastics to partnering with scientists for onboard research missions. So you can explore remote ecosystems while supporting their preservation.

Let’s Get You on the Water

At Aiden & Ivy Travel, we craft custom itineraries with meaning. Our specialty is curating journeys that match your pace, passions, and purpose. PONANT is a favorite for clients who want immersive experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and the luxury of not lifting a finger. Ready to see the world in a new way without the crowds with luxury small ship cruises? Book a consultation to start your PONANT journey.