Compagnie du Ponant orders third mega-yacht from Fincantieri

French-flag boutique cruise line Compagnie du Ponant has ordered another “latest generation” mega-yacht size cruise ship with 132 staterooms and suites from Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. The yet-to-be-named new ship will be joining sister ships Le Boreal and L’Austral, launched in May 2010 and April 2011 respectively. The new vessel is expected to join the fleet by June 2013.

The order represents an investment of EUROS 100 million ( almost $137 million).

Main particulars are:

142.0 m length
18.0 m beam
4.7 meter draft
6 decks (including 1 sun deck)
132 staterooms and suites (95% with balcony)
264 passengers
140 members of crew
16 knots (cruising speed)
Ice certification: 1C

Like its sister ships, the new vessel carries the “clean ship” label, awarded based on the numerous eco-friendly features: dynamic-positioning, advanced waste water treatment, reduced fuel consumption and emissions, and underwater detection system

The order continues the growth of Compagnie du Ponant as a leader in luxury cruising, confirming its investment strategy, exclusive positioning, development on the international scene and the strength of its presence on the world cruise market. By the end of 2011, Compagnie du Ponant expects its growth to exceed the 20,000 passenger per year threshold, with turnover estimated at euro 80 M.

“For Compagnie du Ponant this order is another step towards the future that validates an effective business model, a good and successful bet,” says Chief Executive Officer, Jean-Emmanuel Sauvee.

“In keeping with our concept of cruising, we are again favoring the intimate, friendly environment of a well-designed mega-yacht sized ship, ensuring our passengers receive individual attention and personalized “tailor-made” service in an outstanding environment,” says Veronique Saade, Deputy Executive Vice-President.

September 22, 2000