Ponant has unveiled plans to launch a ship that will have “no impact on the environment when sailing”.

The vessel – which will be the 14th in the line’s fleet – could be up and running by 2025, the line said.

According to Ponant, the new ship’s technical and commercial criteria have been established, and the aim is to deliver a ship that can combine several non-fossil fuel energy sources, including wind propulsion, by integrating “technological bricks”.

Preliminary plans are to be produced and technical specifications drawn up for a call for tenders.

New generation biofuels, such as green hydrogen, are being assessed, the line said in a statement, as are possibilities for wind and water propulsion.

The project is in line with Ponant’s environmental commitments, one of which is an aim to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 30 per cent by 2030.

It also follows the 2021 launch of Le Commandant Charcot.

A ‘new generation’ of Ponant ships

Ponant new building R&D director Mathieu Petiteau said: “For several months now we’ve been working on a new whole lifecycle concept ship to reduce her ecological footprint.

“We’re assessing all the potential impacts: discharges into the atmosphere and water, microplastics, noise levels, and social and human impacts. As with Le Commandant Charcot, she will also be available to scientists.

“A total new generation ship needs to be designed and we intend to deliver it.”