Ponant has tapped Aussie travel industry legend Chris Hall as its new CEO for the Asia Pacific region and special advisor for the cruise line.
Prior to his new appointment, Hall worked for Australian Pacific Holdings (APH), the parent company of APT Travel Group, for more than 20 years, including a six-year stint as CEO of APT Travel Group and most recently group managing director for APH.
Ponant made the new appointment as part of its plan to grow in the region with additional ship deployments including Ponant’s iconic three-masted sailing yacht Le Ponant and the company’s newest vessel: the world’s only luxury Icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot.
These two vessels will join Le Lapérouse and Le Soléal which have been operating in the region for a number of years.
Hall’s experience as a leader in the global tour operating, river cruise, expeditions and distribution space will bring a new level of experience to Ponant’s international executive committee and global operations, according to Ponant’s APAC chairman, Sarina Bratton.
“As a regional team, we have established a strong foundation to expand and Chris’ appointment will further enhance our ability to provide our guests with even more luxury exploration and expedition experiences,” she said.
Hall will begin his new role with Ponant on 1 February 2023 and will be retained as a contractor in the interim from October 2022.
“With the benefit of a proven operational and sales team in APAC, successfully led by Deb Corbett, I feel confident that we can explore new and different opportunities to enhance our guests’ experiences and bring trade partners even stronger results,” Hall said.
“From a wider company perspective, The Ponant Group is positioned for successful growth, and I look forward to making a significant contribution.”
