Le Ponant

Le Ponant is the three-masted sailing yacht that started the Ponant company, launched in 1991 and carrying only a few dozen guests. She feels like a private charter, with a small crew who quickly learn names, a handful of elegant cabins and meals served on an open-air deck when the weather allows. Her sails go up when conditions are right, and the stern platform lets you swim, snorkel or kayak directly from the ship. Itineraries tend to focus on small harbors and island-hopping, such as in the Caribbean or the Mediterranean. Expect a relaxed, French atmosphere, minimal onboard amenities and plenty of time on deck.

Best for: Couples and small groups who want a romantic, intimate sailing yacht with French flair and don’t need big-ship amenities.

Ponant is a French luxury expedition line sailing small, yacht-like ships of 180 to 265 guests everywhere from Antarctica and the Arctic to the Mediterranean, the Kimberley and Japan, including the polar icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot, which can reach the North Pole. Fares include an open bar, gratuities and Wi-Fi, with French cuisine and a bilingual French-English atmosphere. It suits curious, well-traveled adults who enjoy a European style.