PONANT announces new boutique expedition yacht for the Kimberley

Hunter River and Porosus Creek
Edited by Travel Weekly


PONANT and PASPALEY, a luxury pearling company, have announced the launch of the 30 guest, boutique expedition motor yacht – PASPALEY PEARL by PONANT.

The newly announced M/Y PASPALEY PEARL is set to commence her inaugural Kimberley season in June 2024, signalling a new era of luxury explorations in the Kimberley.

“The launch of PASPALEY PEARL by PONANT marks a milestone in the development of boutique expedition travel and we are proud to offer a new and different standard of excellence in this pristine region,” said Sarina Bratton AM, PONANT chairwoman Asia Pacific.

“With our long-term relationship and vast combined experience, this venture is a testament to our joint commitment to sharing unique and exclusive experiences to discerning travellers.

Nicholas Paspaley AC, PASPALEY executive chairman added: “Sharing the routes that my crew and I pioneered in the 1970s onboard our pearl luggers will provide wonderful opportunities for guests. An in-depth immersion into and understanding of the pearling industry will enrich many.”

Paspaley Pearl Render (Supplied)

With a combined history of more than 85 years of expertise in the Kimberley region and remote maritime operations, PONANT and PASPALEY are poised to deliver an unprecedented level of excellence to travellers seeking extraordinary experiences in one of the world’s most unique destinations.

M/Y PASPALEY PEARL will emerge as the newest and only boutique expedition motor yacht in the Kimberley with private balconies. She also has the highest level of environmental and technical systems rarely seen on boutique vessels of this size.

Offering year-round operations, the yacht will provide a diverse range of itineraries including seven, ten, twelve and fourteen-night journeys through the Kimberley, Indonesia (Raja Ampat & Spice Islands) and Papua New Guinea.

Further details will be available, and reservations will open, in November.

(Featured Image: Hunter River and Porosus Creek – Nick Rains)

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