It is certainly a perfect fit, and possibly a marriage made in heaven, as Ponant, the only French cruise line, announces its acquisition of Paul Gauguin Cruises, the renowned specialist in sailings to exotic ports in French Polynesia and the South Pacific.
For a start, both cruise lines combine exceptional itineraries with luxury hotel services and fine cuisine to create memorable experiences at sea.
“We are pleased to welcome Paul Gauguin Cruises to our Ponant family,” said Jean-Emmanuel Sauvée, founder and president of Ponant.
“Our guests can now select from a wider range of iconic destinations and become enriched by cultural and expedition cruises of their choice, that literally travel to the ends of the earth from the most remote ports to more perennial favourites, on our combined fleet of small ships.
“We share the same core values. The synergy between our operations makes this the perfect collaboration while preserving the unique DNA of both brand experiences.”
“Our guests can now select from a wider range of iconic destinations and become enriched by cultural and expedition cruises of their choice”
Kayaking alongside cruise ship Paul Gauguin, top of page
It is understood that, following the acquisition, the two cruise lines will keep their management, Diane Moore acting as CEO of Gauguin Cruises with her America team still based in Bellevue and Navin Sawhney acting as CEO Americas of Ponant, based in New York.
Moore said: “As we join the Ponant family, we remain dedicated to our shared passion for authentic experiences, high quality service and sustainable practices.
“We are excited about introducing our guests to the wider world of Ponant and to welcoming Ponant guests on board Paul Gauguin.”