Le Boréal
Le Boréal / Ponant / Philip Plisson
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Reception
Reception / Ponant / François Lefebvre
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Main Lounge
Main Lounge / Kristen Boatright
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Main Lounge
Main Lounge / Kristen Boatright
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Sun Deck and Pool
Sun Deck and Pool / Kristen Boatright
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Sun Deck
Sun Deck / Kristen Boatright
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Library
Library / Ponant / Philip Plisson
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Spa
Spa / Ponant / François Lefebvre
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Prestige Stateroom
Prestige Stateroom / Ponant / François Lefebvre
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The Gastronomic Restaurant
The Gastronomic Restaurant / Kristen Boatright
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Foie Gras
Foie Gras / Kristen Boatright
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Restaurant Grill
Restaurant Grill / Kristen Boatright
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Panoramic Lounge
Panoramic Lounge / Kristen Boatright
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Fitness Room
Fitness Room / Kristen Boatright
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Back Deck
Back Deck / Kristen Boatright
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Le Boréal

Our Ship Review
Deal Expert / Travel Blogger

Le Boréal is a sexy expedition-ready mega-yacht with 132 outside cabins, 124 of which have balconies. The ship, one of four “Sisterships” in French cruise line Ponant's luxury fleet (which also features a sailing yacht, new-generation Explorer ships, and an ice-breaker with five-star amenities), features chic modern décor, French cuisine, and a very international vibe. Two restaurants, one more formal and one casual, each serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The main lounge, ideal for pre- and post-dinner cocktails, also has a dance floor that can pulse into the wee hours — but after days spent in fascinating ports, nights tend to end early sometimes. 

What We Love

Sleek Décor: You'll feel more like you're on a luxury yacht than a traditional cruise ship. Colors are neutral, there’s no excessive bling, and the layout offers plenty of quiet spaces to relax.

All-Weather Comfort: In colder locales, guests flock to the Panoramic Lounge, which has a library, bar, and board games; while in warmer climates, the pool and its bar draw people onto the top decks.

Best Known For

Interesting Itineraries: With its reinforced hull to handle ice, Le Boréal can visit destinations such as Antarctica and the Arctic, but the ship also cruises to the South Pacific, South America, and Europe. 

Well-Appointed Staterooms: Contemporary interior design is a hallmark of Ponant ships, and Le Boréal's accommodations are sophisticated and spacious — from the 226-square-foot Superior Staterooms (which lack balconies) to the 484-square-foot Owner's Suite with its 97-square-foot balcony.

Who It's Best For

Worldly Travelers: It's a wealthy, well-traveled international set who flock to these luxury vessels.

Don't Say We Didn't Warn You

Parlez-Vous Français? While Ponant has been attracting a more international mix of passengers in recent years — both French and English are spoken on board — guests on many cruises are largely from France. So, you may find yourself seated for cocktails or on an excursion with guests whose first language isn’t English.