Ponant Policies: Everything in One Place
This page pulls together the Ponant policies our advisors get asked about most - cancellation rules, baggage limits, booking and deposit terms, dining, gratuities, and more. Each topic has its own dedicated page linked below with the full details.
Ponant's cancellation terms scale with proximity to departure, with your deposit becoming non-refundable ahead of a set cutoff and penalties increasing in stages as the voyage approaches, reaching 100% in the final weeks before departure. As a French luxury expedition line, confirming the exact current schedule for your specific itinerary is worthwhile since polar and long-haul voyages often use stricter terms.
Ponant's policies get refreshed periodically, so rather than relying on a general summary, it's worth confirming the current terms for your specific departure date directly with an advisor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find Ponant's cancellation policy?
Ponant's cancellation terms scale with proximity to departure, with your deposit becoming non-refundable ahead of a set cutoff and penalties increasing in stages as the voyage approaches, reaching 100% in the final weeks before departure. As a French luxury expedition line, confirming the exact current schedule for your specific itinerary is worthwhile since polar and long-haul voyages often use stricter terms.
Does Ponant charge for checked baggage?
As a luxury expedition line, Ponant doesn't enforce a strict baggage limit, though expedition parkas and boots are often provided or available for rent, reducing how much specialized gear you need to pack yourself.
How much is the deposit to book Ponant?
Deposits for Ponant's luxury expedition ships are substantial given the all-inclusive fare structure and remote itinerary logistics.
Are gratuities included in the Ponant fare?
Gratuities are generally included in Ponant's fare, consistent with French hospitality norms and the line's more all-inclusive luxury positioning.
What's Ponant's Wi-Fi policy?
Wi-Fi is available but can be limited on Ponant's polar and remote expedition itineraries given the more challenging satellite connectivity in places like Antarctica and the Arctic.
Who can walk me through all of Ponant's policies at once?
Call +1-800-406-8495 and one of our advisors can go through cancellation, baggage, dining, and any other policy questions specific to your upcoming Ponant sailing.
How does Ponant's check-in process work?
Check-in and travel documentation are managed through Ponant's guest portal ahead of your voyage, with fewer formalities given the smaller ship sizes.
What documents does Ponant require for boarding?
A passport valid 6+ months beyond your return date is required for Ponant's predominantly international, often remote and polar itineraries, and travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage (minimum $250,000) is required.
Does Ponant have a loyalty program worth joining?
Ponant Yacht Club recognizes guests based on nights sailed, with perks and recognition growing as your history with the line builds.
What's Ponant's policy on sailing with kids?
Ponant generally accepts children aged 6 and older on its expedition voyages as part of a broader industry shift toward family-friendly expedition programming, though minimum ages can vary by specific itinerary.