PONANT EXPLORATIONS is bringing marine research aboard Le Soléal in the Kimberley this August, giving expedition guests a front-row view of scientific work focused on sea turtles, blue carbon and marine plastic pollution.
Researchers from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), University of Western Australia, Echos d’Océans and the Sydney Institute of Marine Science/Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) will join two voyages to conduct research in one of Australia’s most significant marine regions.
The projects will generate data designed to improve long-term understanding and conservation of the Kimberley’s marine environment, while taking advantage of Le Soléal’s ability to reach areas that can be difficult to access through conventional research expeditions.
Science heads into the Kimberley
Across the two voyages, scientists will map blue-carbon habitats, analyse marine plastics in remote locations and survey sea-turtle nesting sites.
PONANT Science has expanded its research activity beyond the polar regions since 2024, supporting scientific missions in destinations including the Kimberley, Macquarie Island and French Polynesia. The cruise line said its ship-based research partnerships can provide scientists with access to remote environments while contributing to climate and conservation research.
Deb Corbett, chief executive officer Asia Pacific for PONANT EXPLORATIONS, said the return of researchers to the region reflected the company’s connection with the Kimberley.
“I am thrilled that we can welcome researchers in the Kimberley region for the second year, a region that we care very much about as part of our Australian small-ship deployment,” Corbett said.
“Enabling new discoveries and giving back to the Australian communities continues to be one of our core objectives and commitments.”
Guests get a window into real-time research
The program also adds a scientific dimension to the guest experience aboard Le Soléal. Travellers will be able to follow research as it happens through onboard presentations, informal science sessions and interactions with the researchers.
The initiative is designed to complement the ship’s expedition program, with guests continuing to explore the Kimberley alongside naturalists and cultural guides while gaining greater insight into the region’s ecosystems, wildlife and environmental challenges.
PONANT said integrating active research into its voyages creates benefits on both sides: scientists gain access to hard-to-reach environments, while guests have an opportunity to understand the research taking place in the destinations they are visiting.
