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Representative of the PONANT EXPLORERS series, Le Champlain achieves the subtle alliance between the desire to explore the most remote regions of the world and the comfort and intimacy of an intimate ship.
To the innovative and environmentally friendly equipment are added a sleek design and a unique atmosphere faithful to the PONANT universe. Authenticity of travel and discreet luxury allow you to realize your dream of cruising aboard an intimate ship .
This was my fourth cruise with Ponant, my third an an Explorer Class ship, and my second on this particular one. It was a combination of Expedition and Excursion formats and, I believe, the first time Ponant had done one so structured. It worked very well. The zodiac adventures were led by bilingual naturalists and zodiacs were sorted by language so that English Speakers were as fully engaged as their French Speaking fellow passengers. Given the ports of call in Canada and the US, excursions were generally led by English speakers and the participants were mixed in terms of native language. The fact is, most French speakers also speak English, while the reverse not the case, so I had the sense that the excursions were enjoyed equally by both groups. In general, Ponant did a good job of addressing the bilingual nature of their passenger list with lectures and announcements given twice. I've seen many complaints in Ponant reviews from English speakers who felt they were treated badly and, on one cruise, I experienced that as well, but the problem was acknowledged and corrected to a great extent during the voyage. The itinerary was wonderful, every experience rewarding. Passenger numbers were, I'm sure, smaller than the line expected, 80 or so on this cruise, fewer on the one before, but I hope Ponant will stick with it and I think it will find it's audience as an intimate expedition trip to Lake Superior is unforgettably beautiful and inspiring. I would do it again. As for the ship, it is small, understatedly elegant, and easy to explore. I was on Deck 4 and the cabin was a joy -- well and beautifully designed, small but adequate in terms of storage and with a heavenly bed. Cabin attendance was frequent and professional Food was good to great, the breads and pastries wonderful, the entrees and mains consistently enjoyable. A highlight was a lunch with smoked fish from Lake Superior that the chef collected during an excursion stop -- a very Ponant touch. Another was rounding an island in a zodiac to find the Hotel Manager and a bartender waiting for us in another zodiac with champagne served in glass, not plastic, flutes. Too cool. The Captain was everywhere, engaging passengers boarding zodiacs, talking in the lounge, just very approachable and responsive, and that was true of the other officers as well. I found all the staff on the ship to be similarly responsive. WiFi worked perfectly. Negatives? I can't think of one, really. I absolutely loved this cruise and have another booked with Ponant for early next year. Vive le France! .
Just like on a private yacht
The 92 staterooms and suites of Le Champlain are the very embodiment of the PONANT spirit and approach: to offer a combination of finesse, cosy intimacy and well-being. Equipped with private balconies, they benefit from soft and gentle light and radiance throughout the day. You'll be delighted to have the elegant ambiance of your cabin to return to after a trip out in a Zodiac® inflatable or a refined restaurant dinner.
An essential component of French culture, gastronomy naturally has a place of honour onboard this PONANT EXPLORER.
Marvel at the sun rising over the pristine glaciers of Spitsbergen, set out to discover the mysteries of Scotland, enjoy enriching encounters in Alaska∘ or just relax, take your time, and choose a sun kissed journey through the Mediterranean.
The trip of a lifetime, a romantic getaway or a family holiday: cruising the PONANT way allows∘ you the freedom to organise your Odyssey∘ as a unique experience and tailor it according to your desires. Whether you have the spirit of a refined adventurer, a meditative mind or you love the great outdoors, Ponant will fulfil all your travel desires.
Take the time to extend the pleasure of a stay in a country before boarding your yacht, get to the heart of a culture or simply have fun for a while: the guides, lecturers and travel advisers are there to assist you. Music, golf, gastronomy; from port to port, the themed cruises allow passengers∘ to live their hobby to the full - or to discover a new one.
Carefully designed itineraries, quality guest speakers, attentive service: for more than 25 years, on land and at sea, or teams and their crews have been there to help you get the most out of your cruise.
Our ship Le Champlain features a number of spaces designed and arranged to serve your needs and requirements whilst at the same time preserving the privacy of each passenger.
Leisure and well-being
Our ships* have many spaces designed to offer guests privileged moments of relaxation and comfort.
Because a cruise offers the ideal environment in which to take time for yourself, our ships offer special spaces dedicated to wellness and relaxation.
*As Le Ponant has a different layout due to its smaller size, it cannot accommodate certain equipment.
Wellness area - Deck 7
Please note: There are no designated children's facilities on board.
