Le Champlain

Le Champlain is the second ship of Ponant's Explorers class, delivered in September 2018. She carries 184 passengers across 92 staterooms, making her a small ship, and takes her name from Samuel de Champlain, known as "The Father of New France". She was built to bring expedition style cruising to a genuinely luxury market.

The Explorers class ships are marketed as polar cruise yachts, and Le Champlain's shallow draft of just 4.5 metres (15 feet) makes her purpose built for a private yacht style polar cruising experience. She features an ice strengthened hull and advanced marine expedition technology, including the long range 3D sonar FarSounder 1000, a forward looking system integrated into the bridge navigation setup.

Aboard, the atmosphere stays intimate and refined. The ship offers two restaurants, one indoor and one outdoor, four lounges and bars, a swimming pool, a wellness complex with spa and fitness centre, and a boutique. A retractable marina platform enables watersports, and a fleet of Zodiacs supports landings in remote areas. Fares include an open bar covering unlimited complimentary beverages throughout the voyage, from fine wines and champagnes to spirits and coffee.

Her exterior was designed by Stirling Design International of France, with interiors by Jean Philippe Nuel. Staterooms span nine categories, ranging from 40 balcony cabins up to the largest, a two room Owners Suite. Suite guests also enjoy complimentary butler service, adding a further layer of personal attention.

Le Champlain was designed for top luxury expedition voyages across Oceania, South America, the Orinoco River in the Amazon, Papua New Guinea, the Indian Ocean, and the polar regions.

She suits explorers and discerning travellers after intimate access to remote destinations, paired with the comfort and refinement of a genuine luxury vessel.

Cruised aboard this French expedition yacht? Log your Le Champlain voyage on The Cruise Globe to trace the precise route that your specific cruise took!