On July 10, Ponant took delivery of Le Jacques Cartier successfully concluding the company’s series of a new generation of ships flying the French flag over just two years.

“The delivery of Le Jacques Cartier is a success. It marks the completion of the Ponant Explorers series, which has revolutionised the concept of ocean voyages. These six vessels combining cutting-edge technology and respect for the environment are the symbol of a new generation of ships flying the French flag,” declared Jean Emmanuel Sauvée, CEO of Ponant.

With just 92 rooms and suites, all with balconies or private terraces, sleek and elegant exterior lines and a refined design, Le Jacques Cartier joins its sisterships featuring the latest technology and innovations while respecting the environment. Le Jacques Cartier also features Ponant’s pioneering concept the “Blue Eye.” This underwater multi-sensory lounge allows guests to discover and experience the underwater world through two giant windows resembling the eyes of a whale looking out to the seabed. Non-intrusive underwater spotlights reveal the views while hydrophones built into the keel capture the natural symphony of the sea and ‘Body Listening’ sofas offer sensory accompaniment by vibrating in unison with the sounds.

New on Le Jacques Cartier, the ship will feature a hidden work of art by Shuck One an acclaimed French graffiti artist known for TK. During the construction of the ship, the artist produced an allegorical diptych on the raw steel of the ship showcasing the oceans and nature. Shuck One’s piece was then covered up when then ship completed construction and is now only available for viewing via a porthole.

With the delivery of Le Jacques Cartier, Ponant completes the Ponant Explorer series and expands to a fleet of 12 ships. Ponant will continue its development strategy in 2021 with the launch of Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury hybrid electric polar exploration vessel.