Luxury expeditions cruise leader, Ponant Explorations Group , has acquired a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions, a boutique small-ship expedition company celebrated for its exceptional river and ocean cruises in destinations such as South America and Southeast Asia. This strategic partnership, backed by Artémis Group, the investment arm of the Pinault family, positions Aqua Expeditions for global expansion while maintaining its focus on biodiverse and culturally rich regions.
Aqua Expeditions currently operates in iconic destinations including the Galápagos, Raja Ampat, Komodo, the Mekong River, and the Peruvian Amazon. The company is also gearing up for its East Africa itineraries, featuring voyages to the Seychelles and Tanzania, with a spotlight on the pristine Aldabra Islands.
Under the agreement, Aqua Expeditions will continue as a stand-alone business unit, led by CEO and Founder Francesco Galli Zugaro and his senior management team. “Partnering with Ponant and having the support of Artémis Group is a remarkable opportunity,” said Zugaro. “This ensures we can continue to grow while maintaining the core values of our luxury brand.”
Hervé Gastinel, CEO of Ponant Explorations Group, emphasized the synergy between the two brands: “This partnership enhances our shared commitment to excellence and sustainability in the luxury sector. We are excited to bring Aqua Expeditions into the Ponant family, offering unique journeys in biodiversity hotspots while preserving the natural beauty of these destinations.” This acquisition signals a new chapter for both brands, reinforcing their leadership in luxury expedition cruising and offering travel advisors and their clients unparalleled experiences in some of the world’s most remarkable destinations.
