3 9 spend more time in destinations, even if it means we can’t include as many calls in the itinerary.” A growing number of Ponant’s guests are also searching for opportunities to contribute to both the local communities and the sustainable development of the destinations they visit, particularly in the most remote places. “We’re catering to this where possible,” says CarassouMaillan. “For example, guests onboard Le Commandant Charcot can participate in citizen science activities.” Based on these new trends, Ponant has focused on several new areas when planning cruise itineraries for the coming seasons. “We’re very excited about the development of new expeditions for Lake Superior in North America,” says Carassou-Maillan. “We’ve just had an interesting scouting experience in the region and plan to offer itineraries there for the first time in summer 2024. Ponant’s latest luxury expedition cruise ship, Le Commandant Charcot, will also sail new itineraries in 2023. “The ship naturally comes to mind when we think about exploring new territories and next year, it will sail two iconic half-circumnavigations of Antarctica,” says Carassou-Maillan. “It will be an ambitious journey to the boundaries of the known world from the far south of the American continent to New Zealand. In November 2023, it will also offer another new expedition itinerary so guests can explore the lush landscapes and shores of Belize, Honduras and Guatemala.” Meanwhile, Ponant will provide its first winter voyages in Norway in March 2024. “We’ve created an innovative itinerary dedicated to enabling guests to discover Nordic traditions and immerse themselves in the immenseness of the Norwegian Arctic polar world as they look for the northern lights,” says Carassou-Maillan. “This project is particularly important to Ponant as we had to postpone it due to the pandemic.” Le Commandant Charcot ’s guests kayaking near Storo Island in Greenland Photo: Ponant/Julien Fabro Photo: Ponant/Daniel Ernst Photo: Ponant/Olivier Blaud
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