Ponant waives solo supplement amid soaring demand
Ponant Explorations has waived solo supplements on selected sailings amid an increase in demand from independent cruisers
Solos will now be able to book double staterooms or suites without an extra charge. The luxury expedition line claimed it is one of the only luxury lines to waive the surcharge.
The new policy is designed to support solo travellers and groups of “solo friends” travelling together on polar expeditions and warm weather itineraries.
The company has more than 160 cruises with solo staterooms available at any given time, each sold to a certain capacity on each ship.
The line said the move comes in a bid to empower agents to reframe polar expeditions as accessible and enriching options for solo sailors.
Anthony Daniels, general manager UK and Ireland for Ponant Explorations, said: “Solo travellers often seek introspection, and the polar regions provide unmatched stillness, vastness and personal space – with no compromise on comfort.”
He continued: “Equally, with as few as 132 guests, Ponant Explorations’ small ships make it easy to meet like-minded travellers on curated excursions and shared experiences. The value of all-inclusive pricing, expert-led excursions and seamless logistics also offer true peace of mind and clarity for solo bookers.”
Earlier this summer, Daniels said Ponant’s newest addition to its boutique Spirit of Ponant collection will help travel agents boost their luxury sales.
The launch of the nine-passenger La Désirade last month comes following the introduction of the luxury expedition line’s first catamaran, Spirit of Ponant, in Corsica last year.
The vessel debuted with series of charter-only sailings in Southern Corsica and Sardinia last month and will reposition to the Caribbean this winter.
