Ponant has once again elevated the art of small-ship cruising with the addition of La Desirade, the second ultra-boutique catamaran in its Spirit-class fleet. Following the success of the Spirit of Ponant, this stunning new 23-metre vessel is designed for only nine guests and offers a deeply personalised, all-inclusive journey across the Mediterranean and Caribbean. From Corsica to the coasts of St. Barts, La Desirade delivers an intimate yachting experience with the elegance, privacy, and cultural richness Ponant is celebrated for.
Spirit-Class Expansion Reflects a Growing Desire for Intimate Cruising
In a world where travellers increasingly seek bespoke, crowd-free holidays, Ponant's micro-ship division is thriving.
A New Chapter in Personalised Yachting
La Desirade is more than just another addition to the Ponant fleet—it's a statement. The decision to expand its Spirit-class with a second catamaran highlights a growing demand for small-scale, high-end expeditions. Measuring just 23 metres, this sleek vessel is purpose-built to access pristine, lesser-known harbours inaccessible to larger ships, making it a perfect companion for adventurous souls and seasoned cruisers alike.
A Floating Villa With World-Class Service
The onboard experience is curated with care and finesse. With just four staterooms—including an Owner’s Suite with a floating terrace—guests enjoy privacy without compromising on luxury. A dedicated four-person crew, featuring a private chef, captain, first mate, and hostess, delivers seamless service, while daily menus and activities are tailored precisely to your preferences.
Mediterranean Summers, Caribbean Winters
La Desirade will begin her life sailing along the rugged coastlines of Corsica and Sardinia through to October, offering seven- and 14-night voyages. Come the northern winter, she'll reposition to the sun-drenched Caribbean, where she'll sail through palm-fringed anchorages. Regardless of the season, each itinerary is suggested but fully customisable within weather and safety conditions—a hallmark of Ponant's guest-first approach.
Discover the Freedom of a Customisable Cruise Experience
This is not your typical cruise. On La Desirade, every element of the voyage is shaped by your interests, from the daily pace to the culinary indulgences.
A Tailored Journey, Every Day
Ponant encourages guests to take the reins in shaping their holiday. From determining your port of call to deciding whether you prefer a relaxed coastal sail or an early morning dive, the pace and pulse of the itinerary is entirely yours. It's small-ship luxury in its purest form.
Gourmet Cuisine That Follows the Flavours of the Region
The culinary offerings aboard La Desirade are as fresh as the sea breeze. Your private chef sources ingredients from local markets and fishermen, crafting dishes that mirror the culture and landscape of each destination. Think citrus-cured seabass in the Caribbean or herb-crusted lamb in the Med—plated just as you like it.
Activities as Unique as You Are
Adventure is never far from reach. Guests are invited to try their hand at a variety of water sports, including paddleboarding, snorkelling, water skiing, wing foiling, and even underwater scootering. These are launched directly from the catamaran's inflatable dinghy, providing effortless access to nature's playground.
Ultra-Intimate Onboard Spaces for Relaxation and Connection
Despite its compact size, La Desirade offers beautifully appointed communal areas perfect for relaxation, dining, and socialising.
Open-Concept Lounges and Alfresco Comforts
Two outdoor lounges offer panoramic views and shaded comfort, ideal for an afternoon glass of rosé or a sunset dinner under the stars. Inside, the communal lounge and open kitchen blur the lines between elegance and ease, where guests can gather over stories and shared gourmet moments.
Staterooms That Prioritise Privacy and Design
The four staterooms, including the exquisite Owner's Suite, are beautifully designed to offer comfort and serenity. The floating terrace provides a serene retreat to soak in the sunrise or enjoy a peaceful moment with the ocean as your soundtrack.
Service That Feels Like Family
With a crew-to-guest ratio that rivals private charters, service aboard La Desirade is warm, attentive, and anticipatory. Whether you need assistance with your water gear or a custom cocktail to match your sunset, you're in expert hands.
Explore Ponant’s New Era of Custom Yachting
The debut of La Desirade opens the door to a new kind of luxury cruising—one that removes the barriers between you and the destinations you dream of. Whether it’s a gourmet lunch on an uninhabited island or a starlit swim in the Caribbean, this catamaran is your passport to unforgettable moments.
With Ponant’s Spirit-class fleet, you’re not just travelling to beautiful places—you’re experiencing them in the most personal way possible. For those seeking a yacht-like voyage with the polish of a luxury cruise brand, La Desirade represents the ultimate fusion. Itineraries are now live and promise to fill quickly due to high demand and limited capacity.
To see where La Desirade might take you next, explore the latest itineraries via our Cruise Finder. You can easily refine your journey based on duration, region, or date—whether you're looking for a weeklong Mediterranean escape or a custom-designed island-hop across the Caribbean.
We are proud to guide you through every step, from choosing your suite to planning personalised shore experiences. Our team of cruise specialists ensures your dream voyage with Ponant is as seamless as it is spectacular.
Enquire Today and Begin Your Spirit-Class Journey
La Desirade invites you to rediscover the joy of intimate travel—where your preferences shape every nautical mile. For those ready to step aboard, our cruise experts are standing by to help you tailor your next unforgettable voyage. Reach out to a travel expert today and let your Spirit-class adventure begin.
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