49 INTERVIEW Evolving for a new environmentally conscious era Ponant’s Hervé Gastinel explains to Susan Parker how the company’s acquisition of Aqua Expeditions and its Swap2Zero project will enable it to become a responsible travel company Luxury cruise brand Ponant announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions, the small ship expedition company known for its river and ocean cruises in South America, Southeast Asia and beyond, on 16 January 2025. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision of excellence and sustainability in the luxury sector,” says Hervé Gastinel, CEO and chief sustainable officer at Ponant. “It reflects our commitment to offering unparalleled travel experiences in iconic destinations such as the Galapagos and now also river journeys, while preserving the natural beauty of the places we explore. “Our primary objective is to become the leader in more responsible tourism by evolving from a cruise company into a travel company. We aim to take a comprehensive approach to our customers’ travel projects, including not only the cruise itself but also transfers and land stays before and after.” The company also wants to expand its pre- and post-cruise travel offerings. This means developing a comprehensive package that includes transportation, accommodation, tours or participation in events before and after the onboard experience. Ponant is investing in partnerships with local communities too. Before each cruise, it conducts reconnaissance missions to validate itineraries and minimise environmental impacts, for example, by using satellite systems for geostationary positioning of ships without anchoring to protect the seabed. “Innovation is a priority for us to develop a more tailored and responsible offering, helping us move away from overtourism,” says Gastinel. When it comes to innovation, Ponant is prioritising technical aspects over commercial concerns, investing heavily in R&D to create a fundamentally new cruise experience tailored to a market that Gastinel predicts will likely change significantly. “In 2020 we were the first international cruise line to join the Green Marine environmental certification programme. And, in 2024, Ponant was the first cruise line to receive Green Globe certification, having made a commitment to minimise the environmental and social impact we have on the areas we visit.” Another of Ponant’s environmental goals is to reach net zero. “A major “ We are very much at the forefront of the industry, aiming to sail a decarbonised ship by 2030”
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