CLIA Certified (Cruise Lines International Association)
Why Book Your Ponant Expedition With Vincent Vacations?
Luxury expedition cruising is a nuanced, high-investment journey. You need more than an online booking engine; you need seasoned specialists who understand polar ratings, cabin layouts, and complex logistics.
Certified Firsthand Expertise
Our travel designers have sailed Ponant’s ships, tested the expedition gear, and navigated polar permits. We give you honest, firsthand guidance on stateroom selection and itinerary timing.
Signature Travel Network Perks
Unlock exclusive amenities unavailable to direct bookers—including up to $500 per stateroom in shipboard credit, welcome champagne, and priority cabin upgrades.
Seamless Flight & Pre/Post Logistics
From remote polar charter flights and private airport transfers to luxury 5-star pre-cruise hotel stays, we handle every detail so your journey is completely effortless.
Already Booked Directly on Ponant.com?
If you reserved directly with Ponant within the last 30 days, we can easily transfer your booking to Vincent Vacations at zero additional cost. You retain your exact price and cabin while gaining our exclusive Signature perks and dedicated advisor care!
Itinerary & Expedition Highlights
Two Dedicated Smithsonian Experts on Every Sailing
Engage in fascinating discussions and lectures with world-renowned academics, Smithsonian scholars, and authors.
Curated Shore Excursions Included
Special access tours to UNESCO archeological sites, private museum viewings, and exclusive cultural performances.
Intimate Small-Ship Luxury
Sailing aboard Ponant’s modern 184-guest Explorer and Sister-ship fleets with open bar and fine French gastronomy.
Global Academic Itineraries
Spanning the Mediterranean, British Isles, Baltic, Norwegian Fjords, Panama Canal, Japan, and Antarctica.
Client Reviews & Testimonials
Intellectually Enriching and Luxurious
"The lectures on Greek and Roman history brought the Aegean ruins to life. Traveling with curious, engaging fellow guests made dinner conversations fascinating."
Superb Organization and Service
"Our Smithsonian expert on Celtic history in Scotland was brilliant. Vincent Vacations handled all our flights and London hotel seamlessly."
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a standard Ponant cruise and Smithsonian Journeys?
Smithsonian Journeys sailings feature dedicated English-language academic programming, two Smithsonian Experts giving lectures and participating in shore excursions, and a primarily North American intellectual cohort.
Are shore excursions included on Smithsonian sailings?
Yes! Smithsonian Journeys Ponant cruises include curated shore excursions in every port of call.
Do I get Signature Travel Network benefits on Smithsonian Ponant cruises?
Yes! Booking through Vincent Vacations provides exclusive shipboard credits and personalized pre/post travel concierge support.
Meet Our Certified Ponant Expedition Specialists
Jennifer Sampley
Certified Luxury & Expedition Specialist"Ponant delivers the ultimate French art de vivre with world-class expedition capability. My Pro Tip: Book early to secure complimentary stateroom upgrades and let us coordinate your pre-cruise polar air charters."
Aimee Byrd
Certified Luxury & Yachting Specialist"From the Mediterranean to polar ice, Ponant combines intimate yachting elegance with unforgettable luxury. My Pro Tip: Take advantage of Signature Travel Network shipboard credits and private transfers for seamless luxury travel."
Karen Barton
Certified Expedition & Cruise Specialist"Ponant's small ships access secluded bays and cultural ports larger vessels can never reach. My Pro Tip: Ask us about zero single supplement departures and back-to-back Grand Voyage savings."
Ready to experience French luxury expedition cruising?
Request a Custom Ponant QuoteOr call our luxury cruise team directly at 1-888-883-0460
