Le-Laperouse

The "Le Lapérouse" conducted a rescue operation on April 21, 2025, for a migrant boat off the coast of Gavdos Island, Crete. Alerted by maritime authorities, the expedition ship rescued 75 migrants, including three children, who were aboard a boat in distress 20 miles south of the island. The crew provided life jackets, water, food, and essential medical assistance. Report with photo: https://lemarin.ouest-france.fr/shipping/un-navire-de-ponant-porte-secours-a-75-migrants-au-large-de-la-grece-6a3654be-203a-11f0-87cd-08a4dcb5c93e

The 'Le Lapérouse' has cancelled its summer season in New Zealand after 61 crew were refused work visas on route to Auckland. On Feb 1 the ship was forced to sail 1800 km to New Caledonia to refuel. Now operator Ponant has decided to pull out from the planned New Zealand season, which it was given special Economic Exemption to operate last year. "Ponant regretfully advises that our small expedition ship Le Lapérouse has been forced to cancel her season of seven fully booked expedition voyages in New Zealand for New Zealanders," the cruise line said. On Jan 29 the 'Le Lapérouse' was stopped outside of New Zealand's exclusive economic zone, with visa applications being refused for 61 of their 90 crew on board.

The 'Le Laperouse' which was low on fuel with a significant storm approaching after being turned away from New Zealand has docked in Noumea after getting approval late on Feb 1. The ship left Jakarta before its paperwork was processed, but the owner believes it and the crew were given the all clear to come. Communications from the Immigration Department will determine what next steps, if any, are available to salvage our planned and approved operation in NZ this season. The ship docked alongside a container terminal near Anse du Tir in Noumea. Anse du Tir is separated from the main port of Noumea in Moselle Bay by a small quay.