French cruise line and world leader in luxury polar cruises, Ponant, is building a series of expedition yachts equipped with “multi-sensorial” underwater lounges. This exclusive concept is a world first in the cruise industry.

The yachts are 131 meters long with 92 cabins and suites, and are built to explore polar regions. For the first time, passengers will be able to explore the underwater biosphere from the comfort of their vessel, in a totally immersive visual and auditory experience.

Underwater spotlights will allow passengers to observe life in the depths and bioluminescent organisms from the ship’s “Blue Eye” lounge. The lounge’s biomimetic architecture is inspired by nature and offers an exclusive audio experience that gives passengers the impression of being submerged in the deep.

Currently being built in Norway, the four new yachts will pay homage to major French explorers. The “Lapérouse” and the “Champlain” will join the fleet in 2018, followed by the “Bougainville” and the “Dumont-d’Urville” in 2019. JB

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