PONANT L'Austral

A uniquely French approach to luxury cruising
VERIFIED LUXURY
PONANT L'Austral embodies the essence of a French cruise experience with a chic, understated style. It features a sleek, dark-gray hull and sumptuous interiors, along with two impressive dining venues that offer alfresco options and multi-course dinner menus, all defined by easy, relaxed elegance. 

With a capacity for just 264 passengers, the ship allows for personalized service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy an open bar and are invited to visit the bridge to watch as the captain navigates the ship. The 132 staterooms and suites are comfortably furnished, many of which come with private balconies.

Onboard amenities strike a balance between leisure and wellness, with a fitness center and a tranquil spa equipped with a Davines hair salon, hammam and relaxation area being the centerpiece.
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Our Inspector's Highlights

  • The ship’s interior features a signature, understated luxury with a French style, showcasing a palette of taupe, cream and white, complemented by occasional pops of blue. The furnishings are sumptuously crafted using white leather, marble and silk, with subtle touches of sparkle — like the Swarovski crystal lights in the atrium.
  • Every stateroom and suite ensures a comfortable respite on board, thanks to a thoughtful selection of amenities (Bose Bluetooth speakers) and conveniences (dressing tables). Cabins also include Diptyque toiletries and a Nespresso coffee machine.
  • L'Austral’s “open bridge policy” allows guests a unique opportunity to see the captain navigate the ship and helps foster an intimate onboard atmosphere.
  • Fittingly for a ship with French roots, the culinary offerings onboard are remarkable. Dinner is a particular highlight, featuring an elegantly presented multiple-course menu. Guests can expect dishes like freshly caught fish, locally sourced vegetables, duck confit and wild boar, all served with rich, flavorful sauces.
  • A spa featuring Sothys products offers a range of treatments, a hammam, a serene relaxation room with an outdoor space and a hair salon. A compact yet well-equipped forward-facing fitness area completes the offerings.

Things to Know

  • The ship has six accommodation categories: Window or Porthole Stateroom, Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom, Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom, Deluxe Suite, Prestige Suite and Owner Suite.
  • Guests have access to the ship's well-stocked open bar, which includes mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, champagne (either Veuve Clicquot or Henriot, depending on availability), spirits, coffee and tea. Premium cocktails from one of the three lounges onboard are available for an additional fee.
  • It’s worth waking up early to enjoy the daily breakfast served at Le Coromandel from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. The generous spread features made-to-order omelets, a daily hot dish, exceptional freshly baked pastries, cakes, breads and regionally sourced fruits.
  • The elegant Karikal lounge serves as the ship’s main gathering space, featuring a station with coffee, tea and fruit available all day.
  • Although there are no formal dress codes on board, passengers tend to dress stylishly. Ladies are advised to pack a cocktail dress and heels for one of the dressier nights.

Cruise Line
PONANT Explorations
TEL888-400-1082
WEBSITEponant.com
WEBSITEponant.com
MORE ABOUT THIS SHIP
PONANT L'Austral
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