Compagnie du Ponant Announces Third New Luxury Yacht, Le Soleal

Utilizing state-of-the-art technology to enhance guest comfort, top service, highly-regarded food and a private yacht feel - the embodiment of Compagnie du Ponant's 'Yacht cruises' concept. Etymologically, Le Soléal is a combination of two of the company's most powerful symbols - 'le soleil' (French for sun) and 'the one who leads the way'. The ship is scheduled to launch in July, 2013.

Boasting five-star accommodation in the 132 staterooms and suites with a sophisticated design, Le Soléal will be permitted access to the most outstanding sites around the globe, where larger ships can't even get close. For her inaugural season Le Soléal will be taking guests to a new, rarely visited destination: the Arctic. From the legendary North West Passage (which connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans) to the Bering Strait, from ice floe to tundra, these unusual itineraries will offer the chance to discover hidden gems way beyond the Arctic Circle. Le Soléal's 264 guests will be able to follow the paths of the great explorers, take in Inuit villages and view extraordinary wildlife, including polar bears, brown bears, wolves, puffins, walrus and beluga whales. Excursions in zodiacs, hiking and helicopter tours will also be available for the most adventurous guests.

Stable and quiet, Le Soléal is designed to navigate safely in the most extreme regions. It is expected the ship will be awarded a CLEANSHIP certificate, complying with the demanding requirements -- dynamic-positioning, advanced waste water treatment, reduced fuel consumption and emissions, and underwater detection system -- as did her sister ships, Le Boréal and L'Austral . Designed by architect Jean-Philippe Nuel, the contemporary interiors are inspired by the world of yachting. Nautical codes have been subtly revisited and applied to re-create the atmosphere of chic seaside resorts, with clean lines and combining the soothing colors of driftwood, and shades of grey and white. Restaurants, lounges, a library, theatre and spa also offer passengers a whole range of five-star facilities and amenities.

A well-thought design, excellent service and gourmet cuisine enhanced by state-of-the-art equipment and comfort reflects perfectly the philosophy of Compagnie du Ponant - a leisurely cruise combining intimacy, authenticity and elegance, as only the French know how. The company offers cruises to the six continents including Africa, America, Antarctica, Asia, Europe and Australia/Oceania.

Included in all sailings are all meals, accompanied by wine, beer and soda; Captain's welcome, cocktail parties and gala dinner; 24-hour room service; and all entertainment, events and shows as indicated within the itinerary. Port charges/taxes, gratuities, optional excursions and transfers are additional.

Established in 1988, Compagnie du Ponant is a member of both La Charte Bleue d'Armateurs de France and IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators). All of Compagnie du Ponant's ships and cruise itineraries are designed to protect marine wildlife, coastal environments and local flora and fauna.

Compagnie du Ponant's North American sales office is located at: 2 Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 2000, Miami, Florida 33131. For reservations and further information, call toll free: 1-888-912-2575; email: USreservations@ponant.com or go to agent.ponant.us.