With operations resuming 28 April 2022, the monumental moment comes as Le Lapérouse anticipates setting sail for PONANT's highly anticipated Kimberley 2022 season, operating between Darwin and Broome.
Sarina Bratton AM Chairman for PONANT Asia Pacific, met with Captain Xavier Rutten in Darwin on Monday 25 April to welcome the ship, a few days before the inaugural sailing of the almost sold-out 2022 Kimberley expedition season.
“We celebrate the restart of cruising in Australia, and specifically expedition cruising in the northwest region of Australia. I am personally thrilled that PONANT's Le Lapérouse will be the first international ship to return to operations in Australia and the first international expedition ship to commence the 2022 Kimberley season. ,” Ms Bratton said.
“Not only is this an emotional moment for thousands of Australians whose travel dreams were put on hold since 2020, it is a major milestone in terms of economic benefits to the north-west indigenous communities who work with us to showcase the beauty of the Kimberley region and whose income relies on the international expedition sector. Our suppliers, port authorities, food and beverage providers, hoteliers and last but not least, our supportive network of travel agents and trade partners are also excited with our company restarting Kimberley operations. It has been a long two years of inactivity in Australia for our suppliers, our travel partners, and for our company.” she said.
Le Lapérouse will be accompanied late May in the Kimberley by small luxury expedition ship Le Soléal, PONANT's second expedition vessel showcasing the wild and grandiose landscapes of the Kimberley across multiple departures of their popular 10-night 'Australia's Iconic Kimberley' luxury expedition itinerary between April and September this year. Due to high demand, PONANT has recently released two new sailings available for booking, departing on 28 May and 7 June on board Le Soléal.
Environmentally friendly, fitted with state-of-the-art equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, PONANT's Le Lapérouse and Le Soléal are modern, purpose-built, small expedition ships offering a unique experience at sea, with unparalleled comfort and luxury for exploring the region.
Embarking on a 10-night expedition from Darwin to Broome, Le Lapérouse sets sail on 28 April and will offer guests the chance to explore beautiful landscapes of the Kimberley, from the Hunter River exploring the mangrove forests to discovering King George River and the majestic Twin Falls alongside PONANT's renowned team of expedition and destination experts.
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