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Reserve Your Seat: PONANT October Discovery Sessions

You’re invited to a travel session made for curious, quality‑minded travellers. Come as my guest to PONANT’s October Discovery Sessions — a warm, in‑person showcase of what’s new for 2026 and 2027, with stories that will move you and ideas that will shape your next great journey.

Short answer: If you love small ships, rich culture, and rare polar moments, this is the time to mark in your calendar.

Here’s the quick summary:

• First look at 2026–2027 journeys across multiple destinations.
• Special guest: Captain Etienne Garcia in Australia for the first time.
• Hands‑on inspiration with interactive screens.
• Attendee‑only prize: an overnight stay aboard Le Commandant Charcot with flights for two.
• New brochure launch — printed copies available only at the roadshow.
• For PONANT Yacht Club members and first‑timers: share your photos/videos to win AU$1,000 travel vouchers.

What’s new this October

This year’s sessions are designed to help you feel your next voyage before you book it. You’ll get:

• A first look at 2026–2027 itineraries across the globe, so you can plan ahead with confidence.
• An in‑room inspiration zone: interactive screens where you can browse routes, cabins, and moments at sea — at your own pace, with expert guidance when you want it.
• Printed brochures to take home. These are exclusive to attendees until the general release in November, so you’ll be among the first to circle your favourites.

Meet Captain Etienne Garcia

For the first time in Australia, Captain Etienne Garcia is joining the sessions. He is renowned for reaching the North Pole and for captaining PONANT’s luxury icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot. Expect candid stories from the bridge — the hush before an ice crossing, the thrill of wildlife sightings, what true seamanship feels like in polar waters — plus thoughtful answers to your questions about safety, comfort, and the day‑to‑day rhythm onboard.

An attendee‑only prize you’ll talk about for years

One lucky guest will win a rare “discovery” stay on Le Commandant Charcot. The prize includes:

• Return flights for two
• An overnight stay aboard Le Commandant Charcot
• A guided tour of the ship
• An elegant cocktail reception
• Dinner and breakfast onboard

If you’ve ever wanted to understand what sets this remarkable vessel apart, this is the most personal way to do it. Please note: eligibility and terms apply; full details will be available at the session.

Printed brochure launch — be first to thumb through it

There’s something grounding about paper when you’re choosing a trip this meaningful. You’ll be able to mark pages, compare routes side by side, and bring it home to share with your travel partner. These printed copies are available only at the roadshow until November.

For PONANT Yacht Club members and One timers already sailed with PONANT? Or joined us once and caught the bug? You’re invited to share your favourite PONANT photos or short videos for a chance to:

• Be featured on the big screen at our Discovery Sessions
• Win one of three AU$1,000 travel vouchers

Bring a USB or be ready to airdrop — we’ll guide you on the night. Simple, fun, and very appreciated by fellow travellers who are planning their first voyage.

Who this travel info session is perfect for

• Travellers who value small ships, meaningful shore time, and attentive service
• Polar‑curious guests comparing Arctic or Antarctic options for 2026–2027
• Culture‑lovers eyeing Europe, Japan, or remote islands with expert‑led enrichment
• Returning guests who want early access to next‑release voyages
• Solo travellers and couples who prefer calm planning with a trusted advisor

Reserve your seat — come as my guest

• Reply to this post or contact me directly with your name, guest names, and your preferred city/date.
• I’ll confirm your reservation, session time, and what to expect on arrival.
• Seats are limited and these events fill quickly. If you’re unsure, hold a spot — you can always adjust closer to the date.
• Or Register Here

Why attend in person

• Real stories from the bridge with Captain Garcia
• Early access to 2026–2027 journeys and printed brochures
• A relaxed setting where you can ask anything
• The chance to win a night aboard Le Commandant Charcot
• Personal guidance from me, your Travel Manager, to match you with the right ship, cabin, and season

FAQs

Is there a cost to attend?

No — attendance is complimentary as my guest. Registration is essential due to limited seating.

Can I bring a friend or partner?

Absolutely. Please include their name when you reserve your seats.

What if I can’t make the date?

Ask me for a private follow‑up or a virtual walk‑through. I can also secure a printed brochure for you after the general release in November.

Will there be accessibility support?

Venues are selected with comfort in mind. Let me know any accessibility needs when you RSVP so I can confirm details with the venue.

How do the prizes work?

Entry details and terms will be provided at the session. The Le Commandant Charcot discovery prize is exclusive to attendees. The AU$1,000 travel voucher competition is for PONANT Yacht Club members and one‑time past guests who submit imagery for the showcase.

Next Trip Inspo

While you’re in planning mode, ask me about pairing a polar voyage with a culture‑rich stopover, or choosing the right season for quieter ports. You’ve made a brilliant choice to look ahead — and I’m here to help shape a trip that feels like it was designed just for you.

Kind regards,

Bernadette Andrews

Your Personal Travel Manager

TravelManagers Australia

0491 689 870

[email protected]