TORONTO — PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP has acquired a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions.
Backed by Artémis Group, the Pinault family’s investment company that owns such prestigious labels as Gucci and Balenciaga, the acquisition will empower Aqua to further expand its global footprint. It currently operates small ships in the Galápagos, Raja Ampat, Komodo, Spice Islands, the Mekong River and the Peruvian Amazon River, and will soon launch East Africa itineraries that explore the Seychelles, Tanzania and the Aldabra group of islands.
Francesco Galli Zugaro, CEO and Founder, will remain as a shareholder, leading the company as a standalone business unit that will continue to operate under the brand name ‘Aqua Expeditions.’
On the acquisition, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP’s CEO, Hervé Gastinel, said: “This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision of excellence and sustainability in the luxury sector. It reflects our commitment to offering unparalleled travel experiences in iconic destinations such as the Galápagos and now also river journeys, while preserving the natural beauty of the places we explore. We are deeply impressed with the exceptional company that Francesco has built over the past 18 years and the unique brand he has developed in the experiential travel space.”
Zugaro added: “Joining forces with PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP and having the support of the Artémis Group is a remarkable opportunity for Aqua Expeditions. Partnering with another family-owned business ensures we maintain a heritage of luxury in our brand. With the financial support and expertise from our partners, we are well-positioned to continue our growth and offer our guests unforgettable journeys to the world’s most biodiverse and culturally rich regions while maintaining our core brand values.”
