Marine tourism in France is growing. Following last week’s announcement of the launch of Compagnie Française de Croisières, expedition cruise lines are holding their breath this time arriving in the market.Explore, a new 100% French company headed by Philippe Video. And it’s a return to his roots with which he deals with the sea. In 1988, he founded Ponant, the world’s first expedition cruise company, with a dozen young Merchant Marine officers. Almost 35 years later, here he repeats the adventure of creating Exploris. Next to him, a team of recognized experts in the world of sailing and above all in the expedition.
The idea. It was necessary to offer passengers a unique experience on small ships with high-quality services, but above all to best meet the expectations of nature lovers. Thus, cruises and expeditions were carefully prepared in Antarctica, the Atlantic Islands, the fjords of Norway and Chile, the Arctic, Iceland, the Canadian St. Lawrence or even the Amazon. “Even in less remote areas, we prepare many surprises for our passengersassures production manager Isabel Varey. And all descents are made according to the zodiac.»
Therefore, priority was given to the exploration and protection of the environment and its riches. With passengers and crew all in common, French. From the befriender to the expedition leader, from guides to lecturers, from logistics and safety sailors to expert naturalists on board and ashore, having Molière-speaking staff transforms a trip. ” Francophonie is one of our strongest promisesdeclares Eric Lustman, director of sales and marketing, also a former Ponant. Even if you are comfortable with English, it is more convenient to use all this programming in French. »
ExplorisOne: to the onslaught of glacial lands
How does Exploris intend to differentiate itself in this segment? First, by buying a luxury yacht, Silver Explorer:, currently operated by the American company Silversea (Royal Caribbean group). The vessel is known to be one of the best in expedition cruising today and has the distinction of being able to navigate the most demanding waters on the planet, both open water and polar. Equipped with a reinforced hull (Ice Class 1A), it is ideal for exploring glacial terrain. Built in 1989, it has already undergone several facelifts. The company will post french touch “When he takes over the ship, October 2023.” It is a ship that will accommodate a maximum of 140 passengers, and 120 for the polar cruise. says David Blouin, Exploris Director of Naval Operations. It has been renamed ExplorisOne:The ship will then accommodate 60 cabins and 12 suites ranging from 15 m² to 67 m² spread over 4 decks, 30% of which have terraces or balconies. Nine categories will be offered, from “premium cabin” to “owner’s suite”. Explorers will have access to two restaurants, a conference room, a medical center, a fitness and wellness area, a panoramic deck and lounge, and outdoor Jacuzzis. Great luxury.
Services and prices
In terms of services, the company promises “ excellent service on board “, is sold on an all-inclusive basis. Excursions (Zodiac Walk, Kayaking, Hiking, Paddleboarding, etc.) will also be included, as well as all activities offered on board, including a photography workshop, and refreshments. In terms of price, Exploris is in the middle of its investment segment, with a cruise costing €800/€900 per day and per person in the polar zone, and €600 per day for minimum distance cruises. So, the inaugural cruise ExplorisOne: Announced in December 2023 from Valparaiso, Chile to Ushuaia, Argentina from €6,750 (1). Over 3,000 km of waves and majestic nature, from the fine sandy beaches of Isla Mocha to the deep fjords of Patagonia. A first trip to the heart of wonder and excess, between tropical forests and sub-polar wildlife.
Information, brochures and bookings at exploris.co. Such. 01 87 12 32 32.
(1) Price is based on a double cabin, including Discovery Offer -25%, valid for all bookings made until December 31, 2022.
Source: Le Figaro
