PONANT has partnered with the world’s leading South Sea pearling company, PASPALEY.
The companies have introduced a 30-guest boutique expedition motor yacht, PASPALEY PEARL that will sail year-round to regions spanning the Kimberley, Australia’s Far North, East Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea.
With a dedicated crew of 21, including four passionate naturalist guides, PASPALEY PEARL will offer guests personalised and expert-led voyages that promise transformative experiences.
PONANT and PASPALEY will offer guests the rare chance to experience the hidden corners of the Asia Pacific region.
This includes the untrammeled routes pioneered by Nicholas Paspaley AC and his crew in the 1970s.
Setting sail from East Timor to Bali in January 2025 after a multi-million-dollar refit, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as “the only boutique expedition yacht in the Kimberley with private balconies”, said the company in a statement.
Embarking on an expedition with PASPALEY PEARL by PONANT guarantees a “deep immersion” of the Asia Pacific region, including Indonesia’s Raja Ampat and Spice Islands, the Kimberly Coast and the Sepik River and New Britain Island in Papua New Guinea.
Along the way, guests will discover the region’s abundant biodiversity through thrilling activities like remote fishing, and pearl cultivation along the Kimberley coast.
There will also be a strong emphasis on local cultural traditions, whether it’s witnessing the traditional buffalo races of Sumbawa Besar, experiencing the secret Duk-Duk society of the Tolai people, or discovering Sepik River culture in the village of Kopar.
Departing January 10, 2025, the inaugural 10-night expedition will take guests from Dili in Timor Leste to Bali and promise unique encounters with rare wildlife including whale sharks and Komodo dragons.
Other highlights include swimming and snorkeling in the clear tropical waters of the Seventeen Islands Marine Park, visiting the remote Lembata Island and discovering their ancient traditions, and experiencing traditional Alorese culture.
On board, guests can relax on their private balconies; socialize on the Sunset Lounge or Sun Deck Lounge, which features an eight-person Jacuzzi; and enjoy regionally-inspired cuisine including local delicacies like pearl meat and barramundi from the Kimberley region.
For more information, visit paspaleypearlbyponant.com.au
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