PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP takes a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions.
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21/01/2025
PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP, a world leader in luxury expedition cruises in the small ships segment under 500 guests, proudly announces the acquisition of a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions, the award-winning small ship expedition company renowned for its exceptional river and ocean cruises in South America, Southeast Asia and beyond.
This strategic acquisition by PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP is backed by Artémis Group, the Pinault family’s investment company. This transaction comes at a pivotal time as Aqua Expeditions ramps up the launch of its East Africa itineraries, exploring the Seychelles and Tanzania, with a particular focus on the Aldabra group of islands.
Hervé Gastinel
"We are very happy to welcome Aqua Expeditions to the PONANT family. This partnership reflects our ambitions for excellence and sustainability in the luxury sector.
"It responds to our desire to offer unparalleled travel experiences to iconic destinations – such as the Galápagos and now also the great rivers – while respecting the natural environments we explore. We pay tribute to Francesco Galli Zugaro's remarkable vision, who has built over the past 18 years a unique brand in the field of experiential travel."
Aqua Expeditions
Aqua Expeditions offers river explorations in the Peruvian Amazon and in the Mekong Delta (Cambodia and Vietnam), as well as trips along the coasts of eastern Indonesia and in the Galápagos Islands.
Tailor-made itineraries, a crew-to-guests ratio, personalised service, gourmet dining, activities and excursions in small groups guided by experts are among the company's strengths. Its five ships, with a contemporary and elegant design, are among the best in their category, accommodating only between 16 and 40 guests.
Francesco Galli Zugaro
"Partnering with the PONANT EXPLORATIONS Group, with the support of Artemis, represents a fantastic opportunity for Aqua Expeditions.
"Partnering with another family group, which is also a major player in the luxury and lifestyle sector, allows us to firmly anchor the values of excellence and sustainability at the heart of our brand. With the financial support and expertise of our partners, we have the best conditions to continue our growth and offer our guests unforgettable journeys in the most beautiful regions of the world."
Crédits photos : ©Courtesy of Aqua Expedition