| Ponant repatriation

ALTHOUGH Ponant is not yet able to resume cruise operations, it recently assisted with the repatriation of residents of the French islands of Wallis & Futuna.

Le Laperouse (pictured) was commandeered for the mission, which saw her return several of the territory’s residents home from fellow French collectivity New Caledonia.

The first repatriation trip was completed on 24 May, bringing more than 100 of the archipelago’s residents home.

After five days of sailing from Noumea to the Wallisian capital of Mata Utu, the ship remained at anchor for nine days to complete quarantine.

Wallis & Futuna closed its borders on 16 Mar, and has not been subject to COVID-19 contamination.