Ponant – Exceptional value FREE FLIGHTS and Balcony staterooms from just $12,020pp!

Sail with global expedition leaders Ponant aboard their state of the art yachts –  Le Laperouse & Le Jacques-Cartier

Overview

About Ponant

Ponant has been long recognised as one of the world’s leading expedition companies. For many years now, Ponant has consistently delivered exceptional adventures in some of the most remote corners of the globe. Now is your opportunity to experience an expedition of an international standard both ashore and on board-right here Australia’s mighty Kimberley.

Immerse your senses…

The Kimberley is an ancient land built on 1.8 billion year old sandstone that has been uplifted, contorted and eroded to form spectacular gorges, desolate mountains and magnificent waterfalls. Here is a living indigenous culture dating back more than 40,000 years, and Australia’s oldest rock art galleries contained within the rocky outcrops.

The isolated coastline boasts more than 2,633 islands, extensive mangrove forests, wild rivers and important seabird breeding colonies. It is a national biodiversity hotspot listed in the top 3.7% of least impacted marine environments worldwide.

Some of the highlights:

  • Set sail for the wild and magnificent landscapes of Kimberley, following Ponant’s comprehensive itinerary.
  • From Darwin to Broome or reversed, embark aboard brand new Le Laperouse (2019) for an 11-day expedition cruise.
  • At 424,517 KM SQ The Kimberley is twice the size of Victoria and one of the last unspoiled regions on the planet. Yet there is only  ocean, or 1 unsealed road to explore the region.
  • In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the Hunter River, you will see wild mangrove forests where saltwater crocodiles live along with many species of birds.
  • The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the King George River and the majestic Twin Falls, the highest falls in Western Australia.
  • You will also visit Collier Bay, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.
  • Le Laperouseus will also take you as far as the Buccaneer Archipelago, whose coast is one of the most spectacular in the entire region.
  • With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of an exceptional adventure.

Your complete Kimberley expedition with Ponant

  • Experience a refined adventure on board Le Laperouse 92 staterooms & suites, all with private balcony: French lifestyle, unique comfort & service, Open Bar, Sophisticated Cuisine & Fine Wines, and the facilities of a 5-star yacht including a pool
  • Join Ponant’s highly qualified local expedition team led by highly acclaimed expedition veteran Mick Fogg having led over 120 expeditions through the Kimberley.
  • Enjoy regular daily Zodiac expeditions & shore visits in groups of no more than 10 with interpretative expedition leader per zodiac
  • Discover billions of years-old landscapes & ancient rock art
  • Listen to stories of the dreamtime from the oldest continuous culture on the planet
  • Explore pristine mangrove environments, home to the world’s largest living reptile
  • Witness unique tidal phenomena such as the Horizontal Falls
  • Encounter the world’s largest population of migrating humpback whales
  • Travel on the most environmentally sustainable vessel in the region, certified “Green ship”

Ask About Our Specials

Dates & Rates 2025

Ponant Dates 2025

Ponant – Dates 2025
Cruise Route Dates Vessel
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 24 May – 3 Jun Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 3 Jun – 13 Jun Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 13 Jun – 23 Jun Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 23 Jun – 3 Jul Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 2 Jul – 12 Jul Le Soleal
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 3 Jul – 13 Jul Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 12 Jul – 22 Jul Le Soleal
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 13 Jul – 23 Jul Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 22 Jul – 1 Aug Le Soleal
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 23 Jul – 2 Aug Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 1 Aug – 11 Aug Le Soleal
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 2 Aug – 12 Aug Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Darwin 12 Aug – 22 Aug Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 22 Aug – 1 Sep Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 31 Aug – 10 Sep Le Soleal
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 1 Sep – 11 Sep Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 11 Sep – 21 Sep Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 21 Sep – 1 Oct Le Jacques-Cartier

Ponant Rates 2025

Ponant – 2025 (per person twin share)
Room Type SQR Mtrs Fares
Balcony – Deluxe Stateroom 21 inc verandah $12,520
Balcony – Prestige Deck 4 21 inc verandah $13,870
Balcony – Prestige Deck 5 21 inc verandah $14,540
Balcony – Prestige Deck 6 21 inc verandah $15,350
Balcony – Deluxe Suite 27 inc verandah $19,940
Balcony – Prestige Deck 5 32 inc verandah $24,000
Balcony – Privilege Suite 6 32 inc verandah $24,000
Balcony – Grand Deluxe Suite 5/6 45 inc verandah $26,700
Balcony – Owners Suite 45 inc verandah $38,920
Dates & Rates 2026

Ponant Dates 2026

Ponant – Dates 2026
Cruise Route Dates Vessel
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 13 May – 23 May Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 23 May -2 Jun Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 2 Jun – 12 Jun Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 22 Jun – 2 Jul Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 29 Jun – 9 Jul Le Soleal
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 2 Jul – 13 Jul Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 9 Jul – 19 Jul Le Soleal
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 12 Jul – 22 Jul Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 19 Jul – 29 Jul Le Soleal
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 22 Jul – 1 Aug Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 1 Aug – 11 Aug Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 11 Aug – 21 Aug Le Jacques-Cartier
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 18 Aug – 28 Aug Le Soleal
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Darwin to Broome 28 Aug – 7 Sep Le Soleal
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley Broome to Darwin 11 Sep – 21 Sep Le Soleal

Ponant Rates 2026

Ponant – 2026 Le Jacques Cartier

(per person twin share)

Room Type SQR Mtrs Fares
Balcony – Deluxe Stateroom 21 inc verandah $12,630
Balcony – Prestige Deck 4 21 inc verandah $14,010
Balcony – Prestige Deck 5 21 inc verandah $14,360
Balcony – Prestige Deck 6 21 inc verandah $15,500
Balcony – Deluxe Suite 27 inc verandah $20,030
Balcony – Prestige Deck 5 38 inc verandah $24,200
Balcony – Privilege Suite 6 38 inc verandah $25,310
Balcony – Grand Deluxe Suite 5/6 45 inc verandah $26,150
Balcony – Owners Suite 45 inc verandah $39,070

Fares are inclusive of exclusive KCE club savings up to $1000 pp

Fares are based on 30% Ponant bonus savings which are capacity controlled and reduce in 5%’s as the ship’s inventory becomes booked. Some dates will vary to this fare range – call for your preferred timing and our guaranteed best fares

1800 000 130  or info@kimberleycruiseescapes.com.au

Ponant Rates 2026

Ponant – 2026  Le Soleal

(per person twin share)

Room Type SQR Mtrs Fares
Window – Superior 21 interior $11,710
Balcony – Deluxe Stateroom 21 inc verandah $12,680
Balcony – Prestige Deck 4 21 inc verandah $14,010
Balcony – Prestige Deck 5 21 inc verandah $14,710
Balcony – Prestige Deck 6 21 inc verandah $15,550
Balcony – Deluxe Suite 27 inc verandah $20,030
Balcony – Prestige Suite  from 37 inc verandah $24,200
Balcony – Owners Suite 45 inc verandah $39,070

Fares are inclusive of exclusive KCE club savings up to $1000 pp

Fares are based on 30% Ponant bonus savings which are capacity controlled and reduce in 5%’s as the ship’s inventory becomes booked. Some dates will vary to this fare range – call for your preferred timing and our guaranteed best fares

1800 000 130  or info@kimberleycruiseescapes.com.au

Accommodation

DELUXE STATEROOM

  • Area : 19 m²
  • Capacity :up to 2 passengers per cabin
  • 4m² Private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • Shower
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet acces wifi.

DELUXE SUITE DECK 3

  • Area : 27 m²
  • Capacity :up to 3 passengers per cabin
  • 6m² private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • 1 sofa
  • Shower
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet acces wifi.

DELUXE SUITE DECK 4

  • Area : 27 m²
  • Capacity :up to 3 passengers per cabin
  • 6m² Private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • Shower
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet acces wifi.

DELUXE SUITE DECK 5

  • Area : 27 m²
  • Capacity :up to 3 passengers per cabin
  • 6m² private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • 1 sofa
  • Shower
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet acces wifi.

DELUXE SUITE DECK 6

  • Area : 27 m²
  • Capacity :up to 3 passengers per cabin
  • 6m² private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • 1 sofa
  • Shower
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet acces wifi.

GRAND DELUXE SUITE DECK 5

  • Area : 45 m²
  • Capacity :up to 2 passengers per cabin
  • 40m² private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • Bathtub
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet acces wifi.

GRAND DELUXE SUITE DECK 6

  • Area : 45 m²
  • Capacity :up to 2 passengers per cabin
  • 30m² private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • Bathtub
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet acces wifi.

PRESTIGE STATEROOM DECK 4

  • Area : 19 m²
  • Capacity :up to 2 passengers per cabin
  • 4m² private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • Shower
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet acces wifi
  • 2 staterooms of 27
  • 5 m² with a private balcony of 6 m² for people with reduced mobility.

PRESTIGE STATEROOM DECK 5

  • Area : 19 m²
  • Capacity :up to 2 passengers per cabin
  • 4m² private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • Shower
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet acces wifi.

PRESTIGE DECK 6

  • Area : 19 m²
  • Capacity :up to 2 passengers per cabin
  • 4m² private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • Shower
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet acces wifi.

PRESTIGE SUITE DECK 5

  • Area : 32 m²
  • Capacity :up to 3 passengers per cabin
  • 8m² private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • Shower
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet access wifi.

PRESTIGE SUITE DECK 6

  • Area : 32 m²
  • Capacity :up to 3 passengers per cabin
  • 8m² private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • Shower
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet access wifi.

PRIVILEGE SUITE DECK 5

  • Area : 32 m²
  • Capacity :up to 3 passengers per cabin
  • 8m² private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  •  1sofa
  • Shower
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet access wifi.

OWNER’S SUITE

  • Area : 45 m²
  • Capacity :up to 2 passengers per cabin
  • 30mprivate balcony
  •  Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed
  • or twin beds
  • Shower & Bathtub + Jacuzzi on terrace
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players

PRIVILEGE SUITE DECK 6

  • Area : 32 m²
  • Capacity :up to 3 passengers per cabin
  • 8m² private balcony
  • Individually-controlled air-conditioning
  • King-size bed or twin beds
  • 1 sofa
  • Shower
  • Minibar
  • Flat screen
  • Satellite TV
  • Desk with stationery
  • Ipod(TM) players
  • Video on demand
  • Safe
  • Hairdryer
  • Bath robes
  • Satellite direct line telephone
  • 110/220 volts outlet
  • French bath products
  • 24hr room service
  • Internet access wifi.
Ship

Introducing Le Laperouse

Built and launched in 2018, Le Laperouse features innovative and environmentally-friendly equipment, elegantly designed staterooms complimented by spacious lounge areas that open onto the outside balcony – this brand new state of the art yacht boasting just 92 staterooms and suites will offer you a truly unique expedition cruise experience.

As the first ship in a new series that remains true to the Ponant spirit, Le Lapérouse will embody the unique atmosphere that is the cruise line’s hallmark: a subtle blend of refinement, intimacy and comfort.

Aboard this ship that flies the French flag, you will experience the incomparable pleasure of an intimate cruise, with the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic-chic ambiance with luxury service.

Experience a luxurious setting where the accent is on authenticity and passion for travel.

Life Onboard

Here you will find a special ambiance, PONANT’s signature: a feeling that you are on board your own yacht.
Most-often all in the Kimberley-days will feature lectures and discussions in the theatre highlighting the sights and experiences being enjoyed ashore. Outside of thse times, relax by the pool and let the scenery come to you or enjoy one of the ships many public rooms or lounge areas. L’Austral really has been designed to meet the needs of every guest.

Spacious and comfortable cabins, nearly all with private balconies, allow you to also enjoy peace and solitude and yet not miss a moment of what’s passing you by. Roooms are designed and furnished to the highest calibre and is complimented by 24 hr room service. Your time is your own to do as you please.

There is a spa and gym on board fitted with the latest equipment (Kinesis Wall, running machine) and in partnership with the famous Sothys™ brand, the Beauty Centre on L’Austral welcomes you for some unforgettable moments of relaxation and pampering (beauty treatments, hairdresser, hammam, balneotherapy).

Restaurants

As it is an essential part of French culture, gastronomy will naturally have pride of place aboard this new ship. Through its two restaurants, Le Lapérouse will invite you on a journey to elegance and epicureanism.

  • In a relaxed atmosphere, a first dining area located on Deck 3 and able to seat 70 will serve grilled meats daily, along with a variety of salads and desserts.
  • To the back of Deck 4, you will find a 260 m² panoramic restaurant which can accommodate all of our passengers in a single sitting. Designed differently to that on our other ships, this dining area, which opens onto the outside, will have a buffet of salads, desserts and cheeses at your disposal. Our discreet and attentive crew will provide table service for hot meals.

Public Areas

Like Le Boréal and its sisterships, Le Lapérouse has many common areas that are designed and equipped to meet all of your needs while preserving the intimacy of each passenger.

A 140 m² reception area includes:

  • A reception/concierge desk,
  • An excursions desk,
  • The ship’s administrative services,
  • The sales office, manned by our Guest Relations Officer,
  • Our 50 m² boutique which sells clothing, jewellery, beauty products, postcards and various accessories,
  • Toilets accessible to passengers with reduced mobility.

A new hydraulic platform with adjustable height provides:

  • Easier boarding than on any other cruise ship,
  • Easier Zodiac embarkation and disembarkation for expeditions,
  • Easier access to the sea for swimming and practising various water sports such as kayaking or paddle-boarding.

A pool deck offering:

  • A pool with a panoramic view, equipped with a counter-current swimming system,
  • A pleasant solarium,
  • An outdoor bar and lounge with armchairs and sofas.

A 200 m² main lounge which can accommodate all of our passengers to share convivial moments and to host activities organised during the day or evening.

Lastly, a theatre that seats 188, equipped with:

  • The latest sound and lighting technology,
  • A LED wall as the stage backdrop, for the projection of high-resolution images and videos.

Introducing the ‘Multi Sensory’ Blue Eye Underwater Lounge

PONANT, in keeping with its pioneering spirit, is launching a world-first:
Le Lapérouse will be the first cruise ship on Earth to be equipped with a multi-sensory underwater space, called Blue Eye.
Le Champlain, Le Bougainville and Le Dumont-d’Urville will be the next.

The design of this technical prowess was entrusted to architect Jacques Rougerie, who is deeply passionate about the sea. Rougerie’s mission is to enable PONANT guests to perceive and feel the underwater universe that has never ceased to amaze and inspire him during his career through three innovative concepts.

Bionic & Biomimetic

The Blue Eye lounge space’s graphical references evoke cetaceans and jellyfish. This inspiration is evident in the lines of the lounge, the furniture and the fittings. All focus is drawn towards the two portholes, shaped like the eye of a cetacean looking out upon the subaquatic world. The lighting in the lounge is developed through subtly, disseminated in the space, allowing the spirit and the eye to wonder at the spectacle unfolding outside.
The mural décor disappears to make way for the integrated digital screens projecting the images filmed live by three underwater cameras. Placed at the ship’s strategic points, these cameras enable guests to witness, for example, the spectacle of dolphins playing in the bow waves.

Global Listening

The sound staging has been entrusted to Michel Redolfi, a contemporary music composer and sound design expert. A result of his research into subaquatic music and his own inventions, the sound design of the underwater lounge develops state-of-the-art technology and offers guests an experience in acoustic immersion that is unique in the world.

An immersive sound experience can be felt in the Body Listening sofas, which discreetly vibrate in unison while offering unique sensory listening through corporal resonance. This global listening through the entire body, in harmony with the ocean’s natural cycles, will bring guests closer to the marine mammals they might see and hear behind the giant portholes.

Innovative Underwater Vision

The non-intrusive underwater projectors developed expressly for the PONANT EXPLORERS enable the observation of the seabed and photo-luminescent organisms from the Blue Eye lounge as well as from the outside decks, balconies and the marina-without any risk to the marine biosphere.

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