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PONANT EXPLORATIONS is unveiling a brand-new itinerary along the Côte d’Azur, aboard the company’s iconic three-master, Le Ponant. From May 2026, the first Relais & Châteaux labelled sailing yacht will be offering 32 guests a unique travel experience, both self-indulgent and revitalising.
With a breeze ruffling the sails, waves lapping gently on the hull and sunlight glinting off the wake, it’s no wonder that sailing is synonymous with freedom and being in total harmony with the elements. And when the mistral makes an appearance, sailing aboard Le Ponant is infused with the fragrances of the Mediterranean.
From Iconic Destinations to Emblematic Harbours
Like a stroll along the Côte d’Azur, this new itinerary unveils the charms of legendary ports of call and hidden harbours. With her size (88 metres in length, 12-metre beam) and a shallow draft, Le Ponant can access intimate ports and secluded coves along the French Riviera. May is also the perfect time to enjoy the stunning scenery and pleasures of the sea before the high season begins.
This part of the coast never fails to inspire, whether Nice, the pearl of the Riviera or Portofino and the Italian ‘dolce vita’, the picturesque queen of lemons that is Menton, Cannes with its stars and boutiques, Antibes the favourite of painters, Saint-Tropez and its stunning setting or Cassis and the intimate side of Provence in the Calanques. Against these fabulous time-honoured natural backdrops, guests can enjoy a programme of included excursions from scenic hikes to enriching cultural visits and activities, far from the usual busy circuits.
Close to the Sea, as If Aboard Their Own Sailboat
“Le Ponant is a proper sailing yacht for sailors, as we are managing the wind and sea every day. Le Ponant is also a state of mind and connection with the marine element and environment, shared by the crew and the guests. Like a big family for the duration of this sailing cruise,” Jean-David Lemaire, Captain on Le Ponant.
Le Ponant is equipped with facilities that prioritise environmental sustainability. When conditions allow, the marina is deployed at anchor for watersports, offering guests the chance to swim, explore the coastline on a paddleboard, or observe marine flora and fauna from a glass-bottomed kayak. Zodiac outings also provide a unique perspective on the region’s sun-drenched coves.
On board, the crew embodies the values of authentic hospitality and bespoke experiences, in line with the finest Relais & Châteaux properties. Naturally, gastronomy is a highlight with a dedicated chef crafting exquisite menus inspired by local produce and the vibrant flavours of the South of France.
The French Riviera under Le Ponant’s sails
From Nice to Nice
Departs 7 and 23 May 2026,
7 nights
Discover more about these sailings
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