The chance to explore American history through a diverse and inspiring lens awaits travellers with PONANT EXPLORATIONS in 2026, which commemorates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King, renowned civil rights leaders and global humanitarians, will be guests of honour on the seven-night voyage “Celebrating America’s 250th: An Exploration of History and Culture,” where they will give onboard talks and share insights throughout the week.
As the oldest son of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Mrs. Coretta Scott King, Martin Luther King III is a thought leader on the world stage, a peace maker and a negotiator on some of today’s most critical national and international platforms for social change. Together with Arndrea Waters King, his wife, he champions programs to advance understanding and strengthen communities.
Departing from Halifax, Nova Scotia, on October 6, 2026, the sailing on L’Austral will take a diverse approach to exploring U.S. history from the Colonial and Revolutionary periods into the present day, while honouring the cultural tapestry and contributions of all those who have shaped it. The ship will continue along the Eastern Seaboard to Boston, Newport, New York City and Philadelphia, before concluding in Baltimore.
“It’s one thing to educate yourself on American history by reading books, but nothing compares to visiting landmarks that once set the stage for social movements and other pivotal moments that set the course of our independence,” said Martin Luther King III. “As our nation reflects on this historic anniversary, we look forward to joining Ponant Explorations and curious travelers on a journey that explores 250 years of the American experience and the different peoples who have shaped it.”
Guests will enjoy curated shore excursions including:
- Exploring historic sites along Boston’s Freedom Trail to understand the city’s central role in Colonial and Revolutionary times
- Visiting the Philadelphia Black Metropolis to learn about this section of the city and its role in the struggle for civil rights
- Paying tribute to the fallen at the National September 11 Memorial and Museum in New York City or tracing heritage at Ellis Island in New York
- Celebrating Newport’s storied history as the ‘world capital of sailing’ and home of the America’s Cup on a cruise around Narragansett Bay aboard an 80-foot sailing schooner
- Culinary tours in Boston and Philadelphia
In addition to perspectives shared by Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King, an additional topical expert on American history and culture joining the sailing will be announced soon.
