About S/Y LE PONANT

Jean-David has a unique bond with this vessel, since his father was one of the founding partners in it's construction as well as the original Captain of the vessel. Jean-David literally grew up with LE PONANT. Jean-David qualified to become Master and gained the necessary experience, he had the pleasure of taking command of LE PONANT and overseeing the massive three-year refit of the vessel. Jean-David is a wonderfully charming man who assumes the role of Captain of a vessel of this nature perfectly. He is discreet and also engaging as circumstances dictate. He is a true mariner, and is in his element when making the most of the unique sailing characteristics of LE PONANT.

Pascal’s family have been sailors from generation to generation – records show that one was a privateer captain! Having served as captain on different luxury yachts and 5 stars cruise ships for 27 years. His experience is like his maritime knowledges, impressive. Pascal has solid luxury charter experience and knows the most beautiful and intimism place of the world. He is a great specialist of the remote atoll in the Pacific, Indian Ocean and southeast Asia. Before to turn around the world he was sailing everywhere in the Mediterranean Sea and Caribbean. He is owned an unlimited captain licence.

I've been drawn to the world of the sea since I was a child, but it wasn't all plain sailing, and for the last 5 years I've finally been able to follow my passion. For the last 3 years, I've been working as a deckhand and zodiac pilot, serving our passengers on our unique emblematic and beautiful sailing ship, LE PONANT with a passion that never ceases to regenerate.

Gaspard joined the family line of sailors, that of his grandfather, a sea captain, and his great-grandfather, Chief Engineer. After 9 years of experience on navigating cable ships on all the seas of the world, he chose in 2022 to join Le Ponant and took on the responsibilities of Chief Engineer. The technical and mechanical aspects are his priority, and he demonstrates with experience a very rigorous spirit to always reinforce the safety of a 5 stars cruise ship, providing a high-class standard to our guests. He also cultivates a taste for friendly and respectful relationships

Marc’s childhood was spent on the wild seaside of Baie de Somme. Youngly passionate by sailing sports he decided to make the sea his playground by being a sailor. He has been sailing on tall ships Bel Espoir and Rara Avis as cadet then few years later as captain on board Sea Pearl. Now mate for one year on board Le Ponant he is proud to bring all is knowledge, passion and sympathy on this emblematic yacht to make the life on board safer every day.

Whom carrier started well back in the commercial navy have crossed the blue seas for many years, carefully preparing the Passage Plans from all aspects, relentlessly taking his midnight and noon watch and always willing to give a hand for anyone in need, lighting the mood, when necessary, with a joke and a smile on his face, a real team player. Being passionate about pomiculture. Radu studied ecological agriculture during pandemic but came back at sea where he regained his joy for sailing on Le Ponant and has been a real asset for the vessel ever since she finished the refit, back in 2022. He is in charge of the navigation.

Quentin is the bosun of LE PONANT since the origin. It is not necessary to speak about his love for this iconic ship. He is the great specialist of the rigging. Sailing since he was young on famous sailing racer and tall ship like Le Belem. He is an essential key of the maintenance of the ship, managing his team of deckhands; he is aboard more than 30 years.

Born with my feet in salt water, my vision of the future has always been focused on the oceans and their sailors. Coming from a line of sailors, I am beginning my career as a deckhand with the desire to learn all the tricks of the trade. My future will be on the oceans by passion and choice. Next year I will be joining the high French maritime school to continue my progression. I really enjoying my first step as deckhand to take care the famous and iconic sailing yacht LE PONANT.

A passionate nurse, Inès has been practicing her profession for 9 years in many places around the world: French Guiana, India, the Central African Republic, Saint Pierre and Miquelon. Very close to nature and the oceans, she joined Ponant in 2023 for magnificent onboard adventures.

Trained in emergencies and isolated environments, she takes care of passengers and crew members with great commitment and dedication.

An experienced bartender who never gets tired of satisfying our guests with his versatility and charm. Always eager to create cocktails and drinks that suit our guests personality and never let them leave the bar without having an amazing experience. Gilbert is from the Philippines and is passionate about travelling, singing and dancing.

Cédric has worked in many of the world’s top Michelin stared restaurants, switching a few times to reach the top of the spell and to improve his knowledge of world menu specialities. He can adapt his menu to your preferences with excellence. He is passionate and working with communicative pleasure. He gave his passion to his team, managing 5 peoples in the galley.

A highly experienced housekeeper that worked for several companies from worldwide liners to luxurious ships, Leonilo is from the Philippines and joined Le Ponant team two years ago. He oversees all housekeeping operations with professionalism and passion. He will ensure the wellbeing of each and every one on board.

With a constant smile on her face, Lucia, our Hostess, is in charge of taking care of our guest’s needs. Thanks to her experience in luxury hospitality, she handles things in a professional but always friendly way, to make sure everyone is comfortable onboard.