Ponant Exploration Launches Exclusive Cruise Celebrating Italian Art, Crafts and Luxury Brands with Exclusive Experiences from Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Brioni

Published on November 26, 2025

Ponant Exploration has announced the launch of a truly exclusive cruise experience dedicated to the world of arts, crafts, and the luxury heritage of Italy. It will take place in partnership with some of Italy’s most prestigious fashion and luxury houses: Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Brioni, Pomellato, and Ginori 1735-a carefully curated 11-day voyage that will offer guests the chance to live a once-in-a lifetime experience in Italy’s artistic and craftsmanship traditions.

The “Livorno-Venice” voyage aboard the Le Boréal – from September 8 to 18, 2027 – offers guests the epitome in luxury cruises from Florence to Venice, at prices starting from €11,930 per person. The cruise promises a delectable mix of exclusive itineraries, private tours, and artisan experiences showcasing the rich heritage of fashion, craftsmanship, and artistry that Italy is known for.

Exclusive Gucci Experience: Access to the Gucci Archive and Palazzo

The collaboration with Gucci is one of the highlights of this cruise. Guests will have access to the Gucci Archive, housed in a 15th-century Renaissance palazzo, a venue that is traditionally closed to the public. This private tour offers a deep dive into the iconic history of the Gucci brand and its unparalleled impact on luxury fashion. Guests will also visit the Palazzo Gucci in Florence, where they can explore the heritage and craftsmanship behind Gucci’s timeless designs.

Onboard, guests will discover an exclusive exhibition dedicated to “The Art of Travel”, showcasing Gucci’s vision of luxury travel, inspired by the brand’s long association with the art of exploration and travel in style. This experience reflects Ponant’s commitment to offering travelers a culturally rich and visually stunning cruise.

Bottega Veneta: Exploring Artisanship and Hidden Treasures in Venice

Bottega Veneta also plays a central role in this exceptional itinerary. Passengers will gain an insider’s glimpse into Bottega Veneta’s artisanship, witnessing the making of some of the brand’s most iconic designs. This experience will be coupled with a private tour through some of Venice’s most hidden treasures, revealing the city’s lesser-known cultural landmarks and gems. The experience culminates in a luxurious cocktail evening at the Bottega Veneta Residence in Palazzo Soranzo Van Axel, where guests can indulge in an exclusive setting surrounded by Venetian artistry and craftsmanship.

This private tour of Venice serves to elevate the cruise, showcasing the city’s blend of luxury, history, and artistic wonder, ensuring guests enjoy an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most romantic and historically rich destinations.

Brioni’s Master Tailor and Pomellato’s Jewelry Masterclass

The journey continues with a presentation by Brioni’s master tailor, offering guests a unique opportunity to discover the intricate process behind the creation of Brioni’s luxurious garments. The tailoring workshop will delve into the finer details of high-end menswear craftsmanship, shedding light on the artistry and expertise required to craft Brioni’s signature suits.

In addition, Stefano Cortecci, gem master and director of Precious Stone Purchasing at Pomellato, will guide passengers through the world of jewelry. Guests will gain insight into the art of gemstone selection, design, and the craftsmanship that makes Pomellato’s pieces stand out in the luxury market. This bespoke experience highlights the intersection of fashion, design, and artistry within the world of luxury jewels.

Ginori 1735: A Historic Florentine Experience and Porcelain Demonstration

Ginori 1735, a renowned name in Italian porcelain, offers an unforgettable experience for guests aboard the cruise. Ginori 1735 will welcome passengers for a tour of its historic Florentine Manifattura, where they can explore the artistic process behind its famed porcelain creations. A craftsman demonstration of porcelain painting will be held onboard, offering guests a closer look at the traditional methods used to produce the delicate porcelain for which Ginori is famous. Additionally, a Café Ginori experience will be featured in the ship’s observatory lounge, providing an opportunity for guests to enjoy Italian coffee in an atmosphere of elegance and refinement.

This collaboration with Ginori 1735 provides a deeper cultural connection to Florence’s artisan traditions, enhancing the cruise experience for those who appreciate the craftsmanship and heritage behind one of Italy’s most iconic porcelain makers.

Signature Moments: Pre-Cruise and Post-Cruise Exclusive Experiences

The experience begins before the cruise even sets sail. Before the cruise from Florence, guests will enjoy two nights exploring Gucci’s Palazzo and its hidden Archives, accompanied by a signature dinner in Chianti. They will return to a 5-star hotel for a luxurious stay, setting the tone for the journey ahead.

Additionally, a private tour of Ginori 1735’s manufactory will take guests through the historic process of porcelain creation, followed by a luxurious dinner and a trip to the Chianti wine estate for exclusive wine tastings.

After the cruise, guests will continue their exclusive journey with a three-day exploration of Verona, where they will visit the city’s hidden treasures, guided by local experts. This post-cruise experience offers further cultural immersion, allowing guests to explore the beauty of Verona while uncovering its rich history.

Creating a Unique Travel Experience: The Role of Arts, Crafts, and Luxury Brands

Ponant’s collaboration with top Italian luxury brands brings a unique and immersive travel experience to the world of luxury cruising. This partnership underscores the role that arts and craftsmanship play in enriching the tourism experience, offering a blend of artistic exploration and exclusive access to the world’s leading luxury houses. For guests, this means an opportunity to engage with Italian culture, fashion, and craftsmanship in a deeply personal and meaningful way, while navigating through the stunning Mediterranean landscapes.

The Tourism Impact: Cultural and Economic Contributions

The arts and crafts cruise has the potential to significantly impact the tourism economy in both Italy and the Mediterranean region. By promoting cultural tourism, Ponant is helping elevate the region’s artistic heritage, while attracting high-spending tourists who are keen to experience luxury and cultural immersion in a single trip. The partnership between Ponant and Italian luxury houses strengthens the visibility of Italy’s artistic heritage, opening new avenues for tourism growth.

Through this initiative, Ponant is not only promoting luxury travel but also supporting local craftsmanship, heritage, and economies in the destinations visited, fostering sustainable tourism that contributes to both cultural preservation and economic development. With increasing interest in experiential travel, this type of offering caters to travelers seeking authentic, high-value experiences while benefiting the local communities involved.

A New Era in Luxury Cruise Tourism

Ponant’s arts and crafts cruise is an unprecedented undertaking, setting a new benchmark in the luxury cruise tourism marketplace. Thanks to a collaboration between Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Brioni, Pomellato, and Ginori 1735, the “Livorno-Venice” voyage offers travelers a unique cultural experience that brings together the best of Italy’s craftsmanship with the luxury cruise industry. Providing this elevated tourism experience supports a deeper connection between travelers and the cultural heritage of the Mediterranean while ensuring that luxury tourism remains impactful and enriching for many years to come.