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DestinationsAntarcticaL’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial, Le Soléal

L’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial, Le Soléal

Overview of the L’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial, Le Soléal

The L’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial & Le Soléal are four nearly identical state-of-the-art, superb mega-yachts, specifically designed with the polar destinations in mind. They have a passenger capacity of 264, which is limited to 200 for Antarctic expeditions, and offer the chance to experience the intensity of an Antarctic expedition in five-star luxury, comfort and service.

Trip Features
  • 10-22 Days
  • Starting at $10,110 per person
  • PHYSICAL RATING
    Moderate
  • ACTIVITIES
    Hiking, Wildlife Spotting, Zodiac Excursions, Kayaking
  • HIGHLIGHTS
    Glaciers, Icebergs, Penguins, Whales

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A Ponant Antarctica expedition cruise ship sails through icy waters surrounded by snow-covered mountains under a clear blue sky. Smaller icebergs float around the ship as a small boat approaches it from the right side of the image, creating ripples in the water.
A humpback whale breaches the icy blue water against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains and glaciers, creating a dramatic scene in this breathtaking Arctic environment.
A large cruise ship navigates through icy waters surrounded by floating icebergs. Snow-capped mountains rise in the background under a clear, blue sky. The scene reflects the serene and chilly ambiance of a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
Four penguins are standing on rocky terrain near the shoreline, with a large cruise ship, part of a Ponant Antarctica expedition, on the water in the background. Behind the ship, snow-capped mountains and a glacier are visible under a bright, clear sky.
A group of five penguins stands on snow in the foreground with a large cruise ship named "L'Austral" in the background. The scene is set in an icy, mountainous environment, indicating a cold climate, likely part of a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A large group of penguins walks along a sandy beach bordered by the ocean on the left and rugged, snow-capped mountains in the background. The clear blue sky adds to the serene landscape, while seals can be seen resting on the shore amid the penguins. It's a scene fit for a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
Four seals lie on a snowy surface in the foreground, facing different directions. In the background, a body of water with icebergs floating holds a large cruise ship sailing through the icy waters. The scene, part of a Ponant Antarctica expedition, is set in a cold, polar environment.
A large white cruise ship navigates through icy waters, surrounded by towering snow-covered mountains and glaciers under a clear blue sky. Icebergs and chunks of ice float on the calm reflective water, part of the captivating Ponant Antarctica expedition.
Tourists in red and yellow jackets observe a seal on an ice floe from inflatable boats amidst icy waters. A large iceberg looms in the background under a partly cloudy sky. The scene is part of a Ponant Antarctica expedition, set in a cold, polar region.

L’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial, Le Soléal Itineraries

Human-sized ships, L’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial & Le Soléal link tradition with innovation to create a special ambiance and a feeling of being on your own private yacht. The knowledgeable and experienced expedition team create a spirit of adventure through informative lectures and shore excursions led by expert Naturalist Guides.

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Day 1 ARRIVE Buenos Aires, Argentina
Day 2 FLIGHT Buenos Aires / Ushuaia – Embark
Days 3-4 Drake Passage
Days 5-9 Antarctic Peninsula
Days 10-11 Drake Passage
Day 12 Disembark Ushuaia – Buenos Aires
Day 1 ARRIVE Buenos Aires, Argentina
Day 2 FLIGHT Buenos Aires / Ushuaia – Embark
Day 3 At Sea
Day 4 Falkland Islands
Days 5-7 At Sea
Days 8-10 South Georgia
Days 11-12 At Sea
Days 13-17 Antarctic Peninsula
Days 18-19 Drake Passage
Day 20 Disembark Ushuaia – Buenos Aires
Day 1 ARRIVE BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA
Day 2 FLIGHT BUENOS AIRES / USHUAIA – Embark
Days 3-5 At Sea
Days 6-8 South Georgia Island
Days 9-10 At Sea
Days 11-16 Antarctic Peninsula
Days 17-18 Drake Passage
Day 19 Disembark Ushuaia – Buenos Aires
Day 1 DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND – Embark
Day 2 At Sea
Day 3 CAMPBELL Island
Days 4-6 At Sea
Days 7-14 ROSS SEA REGION
Days 15-18 At Sea
Day 19 MACQUARIE Island
Days 20 At Sea
Day 21 THE SNARES
Day 22 DUNEDIN – Disembark
Day 1 DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND – Embark
Day 2 ULVA ISLAND
Day 3 DUSKY & DOUBTFUL SOUND
Day 4 MILFORD SOUND
Day 5 THE SNARES
Day 6 AUCKLAND ISLANDS
Day 7 AT SEA
Days 8-9 MACQUARIE ISLAND
Day 10 AT SEA
Day 11 CAMPBELL ISLAND
Day 12 AT SEA
Day 13 ANTIPODES ISLANDS
Day 14 AT SEA
Day 15 DUNEDIN – Disembark
Day 1 ARRIVE TO BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA
Day 2 FLIGHT BUENOS AIRES / USHUAIA – EMBARK
Day 3 CAMPBELL Island
Day 2 SAILING AROUND CAPE HORN
Day 3 SAILING ALONG ISLA DE LOS ESTADOS
DayS 4-9 FALKLAND ISLANDS
Day 10 AT SEA
Day 11 CAMARONES
DayS 12-13 PUERTO MADRYN
DayS 14-15 AT SEA
Day 16 BUENOS AIRES – Disembark
Day 1 ARRIVE TO BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA
Day 2 FLIGHT BUENOS AIRES / USHUAIA – EMBARK
Days 3-4 drake passage
DayS 5-8 ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
DayS 9-10 AT SEA
DayS 11-13 SOUTH GEORGIA
DayS 14-18 AT SEA
Day 19 BUENOS AIRES – Disembark
Day 1 ARRIVE TO BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA
Day 2 FLIGHT BUENOS AIRES / USHUAIA – EMBARK
Days 3-5 AT SEA
DayS 6-8 SOUTH GEORGIA
DayS 9-10 AT SEA
DayS 11-13 FALKLAND ISLANDS
Day 14 AT SEA
Day 15 CAMARONES
DayS 16-17 PUERTO MADRYN
DayS 18-19 AT SEA
Day 20 BUENOS AIRES – Disembark

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More About the L’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial, Le Soléal

Exceptional yachts with unique style, L’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial & Le Soléal fly under the French flag, with ice-class rating 1C and travel at an average speed of 16 knots. These extraordinary ships meets strictly defined international ice standards, are at the forefront of technology in terms of safety equipment, and have achieved the Comfort 1 Class, which allows navigation in the most extreme regions in total safety. L’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial & Le Soléal have also earned the international “CLEANSHIP” label for their numerous eco-friendly features – from the carefully selected itineraries to the eco-friendly hull coatings, to raising awareness among the passengers and crew, everything is done at sea as well as ashore to reduce the impact of the ship on the environment.

A large Ponant Antarctica expedition cruise ship illuminated by warm sunlight sails through calm waters, with majestic snow-covered mountains and glaciers in the background under a clear blue sky. The ship's white exterior contrasts with the rugged, icy landscape.
A luxurious cruise ship deck features a rectangular swimming pool surrounded by wooden trim, sun loungers with blue cushions, and dining tables. The clear blue sky enhances the serene ambiance, perfect for a Ponant Antarctica expedition. Two large black exhaust stacks rise in the background.
A luxurious cruise ship deck features a rectangular swimming pool surrounded by red lounge chairs. Two curved staircases lead to an upper deck, where additional seating and a shaded area are visible. Under partly cloudy skies, the scene evokes the calm and inviting adventure of a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
Modern lounge area with large windows, featuring red and white sofas, round white ottomans, and a gray oval coffee table. The space includes a bar with white stools on the right, glossy dark floor, and a grand piano in the back. The contemporary decor is perfect for discussing your next Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern, elegant dining area features white tables and chairs, settings prepared with wine glasses and plates. Sunlight filters in through horizontal blinds on large windows. A partition with vertical slats separates the space, adorned with sheer curtains. The ambiance evokes the serenity of a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A luxurious lounge area with modern white and gray armchairs, round wooden tables, and soft lighting. The room features plush cushions, striped carpeting, and contemporary décor, creating a comfortable and elegant atmosphere—ideal for guests preparing for their Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern library lounge with vibrant red and gray furniture includes a square table surrounded by red chairs. Shelves filled with decor items and books line the walls, softly illuminated by a floor lamp and built-in lighting, making it a perfect spot to relax after your Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern cinema hall with plush beige seats arranged in rows facing a large screen. The ceiling features circular, recessed lighting, and the walls have geometric patterns illuminated by soft lights, creating an ambiance as inviting as a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern cinema hall with red cushioned seats arranged in rows. The ceiling features circular lighting fixtures in various sizes, brightly illuminating the dark space. Red curtains are visible at the back wall, complementing the overall sleek and contemporary design, much like the elegance of a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern lounge area with large windows covered with horizontal blinds. The space features light blue and beige sofas with colorful throw pillows, a round coffee table with a flower vase, and a bar with high stools in the background. The ceiling has circular lighting, creating an ambiance perfect for discussing adventures like a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern, cozy library room featuring sleek dark wood shelves filled with books and decorative items. Soft lighting highlights the shelves. The room has chairs and tables with flower vases, a floor lamp in the middle, and striped pattern carpet on the floor. It’s perfect for planning your next Ponant Antarctica expedition.
An elegant dining area with neatly set tables covered in white tablecloths and adorned with folded napkins and glassware. Walls feature modern decorative lighting shaped like birds. The ambiance is sophisticated, with soft lighting, minimalist decor, and a touch of adventure akin to a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern, elegantly decorated restaurant with neatly arranged tables featuring white tablecloths, napkin art, and polished glassware. Soft lighting and minimalist vases enhance the sophisticated ambiance. Wall art adds a subtle decorative touch, evoking the refined experience of a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern bar interior with a sleek wooden counter, five white cushioned bar stools, and a variety of bottles and glasses on a backlit shelf. The floor has striped carpeting, and large windows with blinds allow natural light to illuminate the space. The design offers an ambiance as exclusive as a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A formal restaurant dining area with round tables set for a meal. Tables are elegantly arranged with white tablecloths, multiple glasses, and folded napkins. A waiter in a black suit attends to one of the tables. Warm lighting adds a sophisticated ambiance, perfect after discussing your Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A group of four well-dressed individuals is seated around a white tablecloth-covered dining table in an upscale restaurant. They are smiling and engaged in conversation while enjoying their meals. The table displays dishes, wine glasses, candles, and flower decorations, discussing their recent Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A well-dressed couple sits at a restaurant table set with plates of food, glasses, and a wine bottle being presented by a waiter. The man examines the wine label, while the woman smiles at him. Other diners are visible in the background, perhaps discussing their recent Ponant Antarctica expedition.
Four people are sitting together on a couch, dressed in semi-formal attire, and enjoying drinks. They are smiling and engaged in conversation, with a modern, abstract painting in the background and soft ambient lighting enhancing the cozy atmosphere. Their lively chat includes plans for a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
Modern lounge area with large windows covered by blinds. The space features contemporary furniture, including beige and brown sofas, armchairs, and minimalist wooden coffee tables. Subdued lighting and decorative flowers create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere perfect for discussing your Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A gloved server pours champagne into four flutes on a white table, surrounded by a plate with assorted fresh fruits and another with canapés. An ice bucket is also present on the table, evoking the elegance of a Ponant Antarctica expedition and suggesting a formal or celebratory occasion.
A modern library room with wooden shelves filled with books and various decor items. Four tables surrounded by white cushioned armchairs are set up for reading or working. The room has soft, warm lighting and a blue carpeted floor, creating an inspiring space perfect for planning your next Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern gym interior with wooden floors, large windows, and exercise equipment. A person is seated on a stationary bike. There are multiple treadmills and other exercise machines lined up neatly. Natural light fills the space through the window blinds, creating an ambiance perfect for daydreaming about a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
Ship Highlights
  • Size/Type
    466 ft.
  • Guest Capacity
    200
  • Features
    24-Hour Open Bridge
    Panoramic Lounge & Terrace
    3 Bars
    2 Restaurants
    Library
    Lecture Theatre
    Full-Service Salon
    Fitness Center
    Steam Room & Spa
    Pool
    Games Area
    Medical Center
View Deckplans

Cabin Details

L’Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial & Le Soléal offer 122 (Le Lyrial) or 132 (L’Austral, Le Boréal, and Le Soléal) masterfully designed and well-appointed sea view cabins and suites – nearly all with balconies. Some cabins are available for families either as triples, quads or as connecting cabins, with bedding configurations ranging from king-sized beds to two single beds.

A modern, well-lit hotel room with a large bed adorned with blue and white geometric patterned bedding and blue cushions. The room features a small lounge area with a sofa, armchair, coffee table, and a large window offering an ocean view similar to that of a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern hotel room features a large bed with a padded white headboard. The bed is adorned with white linens, teal accent pillows, and a matching teal bed runner with a geometric pattern. In the background, there's a glass-enclosed bathroom, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect after an adventurous Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern, well-lit room with light wood decor features a neatly made bed with white sheets and teal pillows. There's a wall-mounted TV, a vanity with a mirror, and a glass sliding door offering views of the ocean. Ideal for relaxation after an adventurous Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern room with a window showing an ocean view. The sleek design features white and pastel tones, a gray chaise lounge with blue and white cushions, a round table, and a gray chair with a blue cushion. Light curtains frame the window, perfect for dreaming of your next Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A neatly made bed with white linens and a teal accent pillow centers a modern bedroom. The headboard is padded with white upholstery, and two wall-mounted light fixtures are on either side of the bed. A small bedside shelf is visible on both sides, perfect for storing a brochure from your Ponant Antarctica expedition.

L’Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial, Le Soleal

Superior Window Staterooms

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Modern hotel room featuring a bed with white and brown bedding, a desk with a lamp and chair beside it, an orchid plant on a shelf above, a small seating area, and a glass-enclosed shower in the background. Warm lighting enhances the cozy ambiance—perfect for planning your Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A neatly made bed features three pillows: two larger white pillows and one smaller teal pillow in front. The headboard is padded with white upholstery, and two modern wall-mounted lamps are on either side of the bed, set against a wooden backdrop, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for dreaming about a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern cruise ship cabin with a large bed adorned with white and patterned blue linens. The room features a window, a small table with a chair next to it, and curtains drawn to one side. The sleek décor in neutral tones complements the view of your Ponant Antarctica expedition from the balcony door.
A modern hotel room featuring a neatly made bed with white linens, a blue throw blanket, and matching pillows. The headboard is upholstered in white fabric. The room has light wood furniture, including a small table and chair. Visible is a bathroom with a glass door, perfect after your Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern hotel room featuring a neatly made bed with white linens and blue accents. There is a flat-screen TV on the wall, a desk with a mirror, and a coffee maker. Beyond the bed, there's a closet with white doors and a glass door leading to the bathroom. Ideal for relaxing after your Ponant Antarctica expedition.

L’Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial, Le Soleal

Deluxe Balcony Staterooms

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L’Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial, Le Soleal

Prestige Balcony Staterooms

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A modern bedroom with a large bed adorned with white and grey linens and a blue accent pillow. In the background, a glass door reveals a bathroom with a sink and mirror. Soft lighting and neutral tones create a serene atmosphere, reminiscent of the tranquil views from a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern hotel room with a glass sliding door leading to a balcony. The room features a neatly made bed with a teal accent pillow and a wall-mounted lamp. The balcony has a chair and offers a partial view of the ocean and horizon, perfect for relaxing after dreaming about your Ponant Antarctica expedition.
Modern hotel room with a large bed centered against a padded headboard. The bed has white linens, a gray throw blanket, and three pillows, including one dark blue accent pillow. The room features an abstract painting, an armchair, a small table, and a window with a view ideal for planning your Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern hotel room with a small seating area featuring a light-colored sofa with large cushions, a round white table, and a gray upholstered chair with a white cushion. A large abstract painting hangs on the wall, and a glass door opens to a balcony with a metal chair—the perfect spot to reflect on your Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern hotel room featuring a flat-screen TV mounted on a wooden wall with the word "Ponant" on the screen. Beneath the TV is a counter with a tray of coffee-making supplies and several cups. An ottoman sits below the counter, and a lamp is on the left, perfect for planning your Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern room featuring a bed with a geometric-patterned cover on the left, a balcony with a glass door, and a desk with a mirror and stool. A fire extinguisher is visible under the vanity. The decor includes neutral colors and minimalist furniture, perfect for planning your next Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A balcony scene with a view of the sea. The balcony has a wooden floor, two modern chairs with light-colored cushions, and a small marble-topped table. A glass railing offers a clear view of the water and distant shoreline, reminiscent of vistas on a Ponant Antarctica expedition.

L’Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial, Le Soleal

Deluxe Balcony Suites

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L’Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial, Le Soleal

Prestige Suites

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A balcony overlooking the ocean, with two modern gray chairs and a small white table. The balcony has metal railings and a wooden floor. The sky is clear and blue, creating a calm and tranquil scene, perfect for dreaming about your next Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern bathroom with a large, illuminated mirror above a double sink vanity. The countertop is black with a wooden base underneath. A bathtub occupies the corner, and a framed black and white photograph adorns the wall. Amenities are neatly arranged near the sink, creating an inviting space much like preparing for a Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern hotel room with a king-sized bed, white and grey bedding, and floor-to-ceiling windows showing an outdoor balcony and scenic view. A television is mounted on the wall, and a sitting area with a table and chairs is visible in the background, perfect for planning your Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern hotel room features a stylish interior with a large abstract painting on the wall, a round table with chairs, and a bedroom visible in the background. The space is well-lit with contemporary furnishings and neutral tones, perfect for relaxing after an exciting Ponant Antarctica expedition.
A modern hotel suite featuring a living area with a round dining table set for four, a flat-screen TV on the wall, and a sliding glass door leading to a balcony. The suite also includes a visible bedroom with a neatly made bed and neutral décor inspired by Ponant Antarctica expeditions.
A modern, stylish hotel room features a comfortable seating area with a sofa facing a wall-mounted TV, a neatly set dining table with breakfast items from your Ponant Antarctica expedition, and a cozy bedroom with a large bed visible through an open door. A round mirror hangs on the wall, reflecting light.

L’Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial, Le Soleal

Owner’s Suite

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TRIP FAQs

We have so much to share with you! How does this all work? Start with the frequently asked questions below, and if you want to talk to us directly, simply reach out by phone or form.

Talk to a Travel Expert
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You have the flexibility to choose your own travel dates on most of our trips. Certain trips, such as cruises, have fixed schedules. Availability on these trips is always changing so please contact us with your preferred travel time and we can find the perfect itinerary for you.

The first step is to get in touch with a Southern Explorations travel planner for date availability and information on activities, accommodations and other travel aspirations you may have. Give us a call at 1.877.784.5400, fill out this form or email info@southernexplorations.com.

Yes! All of our posted itineraries can be considered a starting point and were happy to tailor a trip to your exact desires. There may be some elements of a trip, such as a cruise or all-inclusive lodge stay, that cannot be modified but we can always adjust the tours around those components.

We provide full service tours so in general our trips include all guided activities with professional English-speaking guides, accommodations, transportation, airport transfers, entrance fees and permits, select meals, and pre-departure services. You will be responsible for international airfare while we will book all in-country airfare. Contact one of our expert travel planners for even more details on this specific tour.

We have more detailed information about each destination in the Plan Your Trip section of this website. Our team of friendly travel planners is also available to walk you through various options and to work with you on the perfect trip!

Plan Your Trip to Antarctica

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Testimonials

This trip to Antarctica with the assistance of Southern Exploration was one of the best travel experience I have had so far, very professional friendly, knowledgeable and experienced staff who takes great care of each other, I really praise and appreciate Southern Exploration for choosing Quark for our journey to Antarctica.

Cordel J.

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