PONANT takes majority stake in Aqua Expeditions

Luxury expedition cruise agency PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP introduced its acquisition of a majority stake in the award-winning small-ship expedition firm Aqua Expeditions.

Aqua Expeditions is finest identified for its distinctive river and ocean cruises in South America, Southeast Asia and past.

At current, Aqua Expeditions operates small ships in biodiversity hotspots such because the Galápagos, Raja Ampat, Komodo, Spice Islands, the Mekong River, and the Peruvian Amazon River. 

A key to enlargement

This strategic acquisition by PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP, backed by Artémis Group, the Pinault household’s funding firm, will empower Aqua Expeditions to proceed increasing its footprint globally and enabling the corporate’s development as a vacation spot specialist. 

PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP chief govt Hervé Gastinel remarked: “We are thrilled to welcome Aqua Expeditions into the Ponant family. This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision of excellence and sustainability in the luxury sector. It reflects our commitment to offering unparalleled travel experiences in iconic destinations such as the Galápagos and now also river journeys, while preserving the natural beauty of the places we explore. We are deeply impressed with the exceptional company that Francesco has built over the past 18 years and the unique brand he has developed in the experiential travel space.”

Aqua Expeditions’ founder and CEO Francesco Galli Zugaro responded with: “Joining forces with PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP and having the support of the Artémis Group is a remarkable opportunity for Aqua Expeditions. Partnering with another family-owned business ensures we maintain a heritage of luxury in our brand. With the financial support and expertise from our partners, we are well-positioned to continue our growth and offer our guests unforgettable journeys to the world’s most biodiverse and culturally rich regions while maintaining our core brand values.”

What occurs now?

Zugaro will stay a shareholder and, alongside along with his senior administration crew, will proceed to steer the corporate as a stand-alone enterprise unit, persevering with to function below the Aqua Expeditions model.

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 specific concentrate on the Aldabra group of islands.