The Le Champlain, operated by Ponant, delivers an intimate and elegant cruise experience for travellers seeking adventure with French sophistication. Launched in 2018, this eco-friendly yacht, accommodating up to 184 guests across seven decks, blends luxurious design with innovative technology, ideal for exploring remote destinations like the Caribbean and Northern Europe.
Reception Areas
Guests are welcomed into the Lobby on Deck 3, featuring sleek taupe and cream decor with natural wood accents by Jean-Philippe Nuel. The space includes a 24-hour reception desk, an excursion office, and a 50-square-metre boutique selling clothing and jewellery. Adjacent to the Karikal Main Lounge with its tearoom and bar, it offers plush seating and a Swarovski crystal chandelier, creating a refined social hub.
Dining Options
Dining is a sophisticated experience with two venues. Le Nautilus Restaurant on Deck 4, a panoramic dining room, seats all guests at once, serving French and international cuisine with buffet-style breakfast and lunch and waiter-served dinners, paired with complimentary fine wines, champagne, and spirits. Le Nemo Grill on Deck 3 offers casual buffet meals and alfresco dining for up to 70 guests by the pool, with grilled meats and salads. Complimentary open-bar drinks are available throughout the day. Room service is available 24 hours at no extra cost.
Entertainment
Entertainment focuses on enrichment and leisure. The Theatre on Deck 4, seating 188, features advanced audio-visual systems and an LED wall for lectures, live music, and dance performances. The Karikal Main Lounge on Deck 3 hosts piano music, dance nights, and art auctions, with an outdoor terrace. The Panoramic Lounge on Deck 6 includes a library, internet corner, and grand piano. The Blue Eye Lounge, below the waterline, offers underwater views through cetacean-eye-shaped windows. The Sun Deck provides shuffleboard and a golf driving net, while Zodiac cruises enhance exploration.
Accommodation
The ship’s 92 staterooms and suites, ranging from 200 to 484 square feet, feature ocean views, with 95% offering private balconies. Decorated in soft neutrals with silk and leather accents, cabins include king-size beds (convertible to twins), air conditioning, minibars, flat-screen TVs, Bose sound systems, and Hermès or SOTHYS bath products. The Owner’s Suite offers butler service, a dining area, and a Jacuzzi. Three wheelchair-accessible cabins are near elevators.
Hospitality Features
The crew of 118 provides near 1:1 service, catering to English- and French-speaking guests. The SOTHYS Spa on Deck 7 offers massages, a hammam, and a balneotherapy room, with one complimentary hour for suite guests. The fitness centre includes Kinesis equipment and running machines. The heated infinity pool on Deck 3 features a counter-current system. Unlimited Wi-Fi, stocked minibars, and daily canapés are complimentary. The PONANT app assists with excursion bookings and schedules.
Guest Experience
Visitors can expect a holiday balancing luxury and exploration. The intimate setting fosters a convivial atmosphere, with lounges encouraging socialising over cocktails or lectures. Solo travellers and couples enjoy personalised service, while families benefit from connecting cabins and a Kids’ Club with games. Onboard activities like lectures and live music complement Zodiac excursions, ensuring a seamless blend of comfort and adventure.
Standout Features
The Blue Eye underwater lounge, Le Nautilus Restaurant’s gourmet dining, and the all-balcony staterooms are key attractions. The Theatre’s advanced technology, the SOTHYS Spa’s indulgent treatments, and the hydraulic Marina platform for water sports elevate the experience. The ship’s Clean Ship certification and eco-friendly propulsion ensure sustainable cruising.
