Ponant announced that it has partnered with the world’s leading South Sea pearling company, Paspaley, to operate a 30-guest expedition yacht in regions including the Kimberley, Australia’s Far North, East Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.

With a crew of 21, including four naturalist guides, the companies said the Paspaley Pearl will offer guests personalized and expert-led voyages that promise transformative experiences.

The product will offer guests the rare chance to experience the hidden corners of the Asia Pacific region, according to a statement.

This includes the untrammeled routes pioneered by Nicholas Paspaley AC and his crew in the 1970s. Setting sail from East Timor to Bali in January 2025 after a multi-million-dollar refit, the companies said the ship will be the only boutique expedition yacht in the Kimberley with private balconies.

Departing January 10, 2025, the inaugural 10-night expedition will take guests from Dili in Timor Leste to Bali and promise unique encounters with rare wildlife including whale sharks and Komodo dragons. Other highlights include swimming and snorkeling in the clear tropical waters of the Seventeen Islands Marine Park, visiting the remote Lembata Island and discovering their ancient traditions, and experiencing traditional Alorese culture.