Explore to inspire, a PONANT podcast
PONANT's cruises
PONANT is no stranger to luxury. That’s why we’re so proud of our partnership with Relais & Châteaux, the prestigious authority of the finer things in life. Together, we believe travel is not just about visiting new destinations; it’s about enhancing your discoveries by bringing an elegant flair to the world’s culinary traditions, creating extraordinary dining experiences, and savoring generous and attentive hospitality.
Relais & Châteaux is an exclusive association of gourmands that recognizes over 580 of the world’s finest hotels and restaurants, uniting them under a shared ethos of excellence. Their mission is simple: to make the world a better place through hospitality and gastronomy. They welcome only the very best into their portfolio, from historic stately buildings impeccably restored into models of epicurean pleasure to ships that curate and serve the most succulent dishes at sea.
PONANT and Relais & Châteaux elevate your journey into an unforgettable gourmet adventure in two ways. First, our flagship yacht, Le Ponant, is part of the Relais & Châteaux collection. Our iconic three-mast yacht is the world’s first sailing ship to be awarded the Relais & Châteaux label. Second, we’ve invited a world-renowned chef from a Relais & Châteaux property to bring his talents to our Iberian Shores journey on our PONANT ship Le Lapérouse, giving you the rare opportunity to delight in his culinary artistry.
Le Ponant: Relais & Châteaux Excellence at Sea
We are honored that our luxurious flagship, Le Ponant, has been recognized by Relais & Châteaux for its extraordinary gastronomic offerings and exceptional service. Le Ponant epitomizes our commitment to providing world-class dining experiences. Our expert chefs work closely with local producers to curate your destination’s freshest ingredients, then transform them into elegant, innovative dishes. Sailing to destinations like Cape Verde, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean, Le Ponant introduces travelers to an array of diverse and vibrant cuisines.
As Le Ponant sails around Cape Verde, for instance, our chef fuses African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences typical of the islands. He interprets the region’s fresh seafood, spicy stews, and tropical fruits for your palate, creating a rich and dynamic dining experience.
Meanwhile, the Mediterranean offers some of the most cherished gastronomy: healthy and flavorful dishes created from simple, fresh ingredients, including tomatoes, olive oil, herbs, and seafood.
As you sail aboard Le Ponant, each meal is more than just a dining experience – it’s a celebration of the world’s diverse cultures and cuisines, expertly prepared by our own Relais & Châteaux-recognized chefs.
Master Chefs Transform Your Journey into an Epicurean’s Delight
Our partnership with Relais & Châteaux extends onto our other luxury small ships, too. On select voyages, we’ve invited the world’s most innovative and acclaimed chefs from Relais & Châteaux properties to share their mastery with you. Renowned for their skill in the kitchen, these virtuosos are also known for their commitment to excellence and sustainable, local ingredients.
From intimate cooking demonstrations to exclusive tasting menus, we’ll immerse you in the art of fine dining. On our Iberian Shores itinerary, join João Oliveira on aboard our ship Le Lapérouse. Chef Oliveira brings his unparalleled talents to the Bela Vista Hotel & Spa in Portimao, Portugal. You will have the high privilege of sampling his creations yourself.
On future select voyages all around the world, we’ve invited Relais & Châteaux chefs to bring their unique touches to our Alain Ducasse-influenced kitchens, allowing you to taste the world’s finest flavors and culinary traditions amidst the elegance of our fine shipboard dining rooms. Stay tuned!
Embark a Voyage for the Senses
From the refined sophistication of Le Ponant to our guest-chefs on board our other ships, our collaboration with Relais & Châteaux elevates PONANT’s commitment to exploration and inspiration, ensuring that every meal is a feast for the senses and a deep dive into the gastronomic cultures that shape our world. We hope you’ll take advantage of this exclusive opportunity to explore the art of fine dining and discover new tastes that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
For the most luxurious dining at sea, reserve your stateroom on our Relais & Chateaux-recognized ship Le Ponant. Or join us on our very special sailing along Iberian Shores with Chef João Oliveira.
