French-owned cruise line Ponant is now accepting payments in pounds sterling for all new bookings from the UK trade.

However, for all 2020 or 2021 bookings already confirmed with a deposit in euros, the balance must be paid in euros, the line confirmed.

Ponant international sales director Stephen Winter said: “We are delighted to be able to charge and accept payments in sterling. It is an important strategic move for us to increase sales in this market.

“We believe our trade partners have been waiting for this. It is a new step in Ponant’s long-term commitment and investment in the UK market.”

Ponant recently announced the acquisition of Paul Gauguin Cruises, to enable guests to “select from a wider range of iconic destinations and become enriched by cultural and expedition cruises of their choice”, according to Ponant founder and president Jean-Emmanuel Sauvée, who added: “The synergy between our operations makes this the perfect collaboration while preserving the unique DNA of both brand experience.”

Both lines will keep their current management structures, with Diane Moore acting as CEO of Paul Gauguin Cruises with her team still based in Bellevue, Washington, and Navin Sawhney acting as CEO Americas of Ponant, based in New York.