Does your meeting planning “wish list” include a venue that is:

a) Eco-friendly,
b) Casually upscale,
c) Inspiring and motivating,
d) Discreet and private, and…
e) Easy on your budget?

If so, we’d like to introduce you to the leading French-flagged cruise line that’s beginning to make waves on this side of the pond – Compagnie du Ponant. Three one-of-a-kind yachts and an expedition ship offer exceptional journeys for a cruise experience unlike any other.

The intimate size of Ponant vessels (accommodating 64 to 264 passengers) make them ideal for ship charter; but even smaller groups feel like they’re sailing on their own private yacht. And, with a staff-to-guest ratio of 1:2, your attendees will enjoy personalized service from the attentive crew dedicated to making your program a success.

Perfect for Recognition Programs

What better way to show appreciation for a job well done than with an elegant yacht cruise, and chartering a vessel of your own gives you the ultimate flexibility to customize your experience – both on board and ashore. Best yet, these amazing voyages are surprisingly affordable. In addition to all meals, meeting space, AV, and entertainment; your cruise price also includes wine, beer, mineral water, soft drinks and specialty coffees served with meals.

During their Ponant cruise, your group will enjoy all best hallmarks of a sophisticated French destination: delicious cuisine (both haute and country French), stylish accommodations, elegant design and a chic, yet informal style. Expansive sun decks and open-air restaurants give your attendees an authentic sailing experience, inspiring fresh ideas and out-of-the-box thinking.

Inspiring Destinations

Ponant’s small ships visit off-the-beaten path destinations and exotic ports that are inaccessible to larger cruise ships, creating more emotionally engaging experiences. Whether sailing in the Mediterranean, South America, Iceland or Antarctica, your group will have an opportunity to discover new cultures and enjoy close encounters with the wonders of nature.  Coast along exotic islands, moor in secret coves in the Mediterranean, meet a family of whales, and sail to the gateways of the Amazon – mythical landscapes and unimaginable adventures await you.

Spontaneous Moments – Lifetime Memories

All Ponant vessels are equipped with zodiac fleets, and unexpected surprises are the norm. For example, if a Ponant captain decides to show guests a pod of dolphins, wake them for the Aurora Borealis, or sail to a private cove, he will – to the delight of all onboard. After your cruise program, your attendees will return to work refreshed and revitalized, with a collection of lifetime memories.

THE PONANT FLEET

Le Ponant - Three-masted Le Ponant is a 290-foot sailing yacht that accommodates 64 guests in 32 outside staterooms. This majestic yacht captivates all who step aboard; and with two restaurants, two lounges and a library, there is plenty of space for your group to meet for business or pleasure. Imagine the “wow effect” of a group event on the expansive 4,300-square-foot deck – especially when the ship has its sails unfurled – all 16,000 feet of them!

Le Levant, a sleek and stylish yacht carrying 90 guests in 45 outside staterooms, has two restaurants, a spacious lounge, several bars, a library, a swimming pool and fitness area. Its 4,300-square-foot Sun Deck provides plenty of room to enjoy the sea air, and is a stunning setting for dinner under the stars.

Le Diamant, the cruise line’s ice-class expedition ship, accommodates 226 guests in 113 staterooms and suites, some with private verandas. The classic liner (the former Song of Flower) has three restaurants, two lounges, bars, a theatre, library, and a fitness area.

IMAGINE SAILING ON THE WORLD’S NEWEST MEGA YACHT

Le Boréal – In May 2010, Compagnie du Ponant introduced the world’s newest mega-yacht – 264-guest Le Boréal. This stunning $150 million vessel combines chic French design and distinctly nautical ambiance with cutting-edge technology. Spacious and airy, Le Boréal features an abundance of public spaces and sweeping sea views.

Although small in size, there is no shortage of onboard meeting space and entertainment options including a theatre for performances and lectures, the Main Lounge with a dance floor and live music, the Observatory Lounge with entertainment throughout the day, an Internet area, a Library, and two open-air bars. Wi-Fi access is available throughout the vessel.

Le Boreal has two restaurants – one serving French and international cuisine in an elegant setting, and a more casual venue where guests can dine on lighter fare inside or in the open-air. The yacht also provides complimentary 24-hour room service.

As far as leisure activities, attendees can unwind in the Carita spa or work out in the Fitness Center while enjoying gorgeous sea views. There’s ample room to enjoy the sea air on the expansive Sun Deck or on the Panoramic Terrace. With Le Boréal’s fleet of zodiacs, your attendees are free to explore private coves and deserted islets, and on a hot summer day in the Mediterranean, they may want to jump off the marina platform for a refreshing swim!

Le Boréal‘s 132 spacious suites and staterooms are designed in a comfortable, contemporary style with king or twin beds, bathtubs or showers with L’Occitane amenities, flat screen satellite TV, complementary on-demand movies, CD and Ipod™ players, satellite direct-dial telephone and Internet access. Suites also have Nespresso machines and Carita amenities. All but eight of the yacht’s accommodations have verandas.

L’Austral, Le Boréal‘s sister ship, will debut in spring 2011.

GREEN SHIPS

If you want to keep your meetings green, you’ll be glad to know that Compagnie du Ponant is also committed to reducing its impact on the environment. Le Boréal and L’Austral have the “Green Ship” label for their advanced waste water treatment, reduced fuel consumption and lower exhaust emissions.  The electric propulsion system is quiet and economic and the diesel engines use a lighter less polluting bio fuel. The mega yachts’ dynamic positioning means no anchor will destroy coral reefs or sea beds. The optimal underwater detection system avoids collision with whales and ice floes.

Your wish has been granted. Now you know a cost-effective, sure-fire way to top last year’s program – Compagnie du Ponant yachts are chic, green, and surprisingly affordable.

To find out more about Compagnie du Ponant, click here Then, click here to book a yacht for your next group event.

Filed under: Cruise News, Miscellaneous