Vard delivers Le Jacques Cartier, sixth and final Ponant Explorer newbuild

'These six vessels combining cutting-edge technology and respect for the environment are the symbol of a new generation of ships flying the French flag,' Ponant CEO Jean Emmanuel Sauvée said.

All were built by Fincantieri's Vard. 

Blue Eye lounge

With just 92 accommodations, all with balconies or private terraces, sleek and elegant exterior lines and a refined design, Le Jacques Cartier also features Ponant's unusual Blue Eye underwater multisensory lounge. Blue Eye has two giant windows resembling the eyes of a whale. Non-intrusive underwater spotlights reveal the views while hydrophones built into the keel capture the natural symphony of the sea and ‘body listening’ sofas vibrate in unison with the sounds.

Hidden artwork by Shuck One

New on Le Jacques Cartier is a hidden work by the acclaimed French graffiti artist Shuck One. During the ship's construction, he produced an allegorical diptych on the raw steel, showcasing the oceans and nature. Shuck One’s piece was covered up as the building was finished and is now available for viewing via a porthole.

Its creation can be seen here.

Le Jaques Cartier expands Ponant's fleet to 12 ships. Growth will continue in 2021 with the launch of Le Commandant Charcot, touted as the world’s first luxury hybrid electric polar exploration vessel.

Preceding Le Jacques Cartier in the Explorer series were Le Bellot (March 2020), Le Dumont-d’Urville (June 2019), Le Bougainville (April 2019), Le Champlain (September 2018) and Le Lapérouse (June 2018).