Didn't go for Ponant in the end but am in the process of booking a cheap cruise on Explora I. To show how much fat is there, the cruise is going for 50% off but, the TA is still providing €150 p.p. OBC and close to 12% cash back (so close to 20%) which was offered upfront and w/o asking in the initial quote. Food quality is said to be phenomenal. I'm seriously afraid of massive weight gain so good thing the cruise is only 6 nights.
Also got a much-better agent at oft-recommended TA this time. Hopefully the referral credit will go to Randyk47.