Ponant is to buy US cruise line Paul Gauguin, which will continue operating under its own brand.
Paul Gauguin, which is based in Seattle, will remain an independent company under the leadership of its president Diane Moore.
It offers high-end expedition cruises in French Polynesia and the South Pacific.
The acquisition will give Ponant guests a wider range of destinations and will give the combined the combined company a larger fleet with Ponant combining its nine ships with Paul Gauguin’s one vessel, The Paul Gauguin, above.
"Ponant is proud to be at the forefront of small ship exploration. We are expanding our Ponant fleet to 14 ships by 2021," said the cruise line’s CEO Navin Sawhney.
"Now, through Paul Gauguin and its expertise, we will be able to offer our clients and partners yet another bucket list destination visiting the exotic islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia and the South Pacific."
Moore added: "As we join the Ponant family, we remain dedicated to our shared passion for authentic experiences, high quality service and sustainable practices.
"We are excited about introducing our guests to the wider world of Ponant and to welcoming Ponant guests on board Paul Gauguin."
