Ponant is to run 10 small ship Alaska departures in 2024.

The French line has scheduled four itineraries with departures from Vancouver, Seward. and Sitka.

The the sailings will range from seven to 11 nights. All itineraries will include a crew of naturalists specialising in geology, ornithology, glaciology, marine mammals, botany and ethnology. 

Two co-branded expeditions are planning with Smithsonian Journeys to provide detail on Alaska’s history, landscapes and wildlife.

The seven and eight-night sailings will explore the Inside Passage, with local boat landings and outings, humpback whale sightings and tours of natural forests.

A 10-night sailing departing from Sitka south to Vancouver will offer all the highlights of the shorter voyages, with more of an emphasis on community experiences.

The 11-night voyages from Seward to Vancouver and in reverse include cruising the Prince William Sound to spot orcas, bears and humpback whales.