Pearl of a cruise

Ponant has joined forces with Paspaley in a new boutique cruise vessel to explore the Kimberley region.

Photography by Nick Rains

23 November 2023

Ponant, world leader of luxury expeditions, and Paspaley, renowned luxury pearling company have further strengthened their relationship by announcing the launch of the 30-guest, boutique expedition motor yacht – Paspaley Pearl by Ponant.

The newly announced M/Y Paspaley Pearl is set to commence her inaugural Kimberley season in June 2024, signalling a new era of luxury explorations in the Kimberley.

“The launch of Paspaley Pearl by Ponant marks a milestone in the development of boutique expedition travel and we are proud to offer a new and different standard of excellence in this pristine region,” says Sarina Bratton AM, Ponant Chairwoman Asia-Pacific.

“With our long-term relationship and vast combined experience, this venture is a testament to our joint commitment to sharing unique and exclusive experiences to discerning travellers.”

The 30-guest, boutique expedition motor yacht will cruise the Kimberley, Indonesia (Raja Ampat and Spice Islands) and Papua New Guinea.

Ashmore Reef on the Kimberley Coast. (Pic: Margaux Coupez.)

The pristine Kimberley region is home to some of the most ancient cultural sites in the world.

Guests will follow in the wake of the pearl luggers and experience the beauty of Paspaley pearls.

Along the west coast, the Paspaley Pearl by Ponant will explore pristine waterways.

The islands of Indonesia, Raja Ampat and Spice Islands, are on the itinerary.

This region is blessed with natural wonders and diverse marine life.

Culture and customs in Papua New Guinea.

M/Y Paspaley Pearl by Ponant offers a new era of luxury expeditions.

With a combined history of more than 85 years of expertise in the Kimberley region and remote maritime operations, Ponant and Paspaley are poised to deliver an unprecedented level of excellence to travellers seeking extraordinary experiences in one of the world’s most unique destinations.

“Sharing the routes that my crew and I pioneered in the 1970s onboard our pearl luggers will provide wonderful opportunities for guests,” says Nicholas Paspaley AC, Paspaley Executive Chairman.

“An in-depth immersion into and understanding of the pearling industry will enrich many.”

M/Y Paspaley Pearl will emerge as the newest and only boutique expedition motor yacht in the Kimberley with private balconies. She also has the highest level of environmental and technical systems rarely seen on boutique vessels of this size.

Offering year-round operations, the yacht will provide a diverse range of itineraries including seven, 10, 12 and 14-night journeys through the Kimberley, Indonesia (Raja Ampat and Spice Islands) and Papua New Guinea.

Reservations opened in November.

au.ponant.com

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