Le Commandant Charcot

There are many ways to see the world. But to truly discover it? Unexplored shores, authentic encounters, iconic wildlife... Our experts imagine the most beautiful travel stories for you.

Unforgettable moments

Holding your breath to better perceive that of a distant whale, stepping foot on Antarctica for the first time, watching through binoculars the passage of a polar bear in the Arctic, marvelling at the splendour of the Mediterranean architectural heritage... Moments of pure emotion as time seems to suspended.

Unique exchanges

Share the art of living, wisdom and hospitality of communities with strong ancestral traditions. Exchanges about their philosophy in connection with the environment are an endless source of teachings.

Explore further

Navigating close to the almost inaccessible coasts of Greenland, exploring the confidential shores of Oceania, reaching the most remote seas of Antarctica, taking new paths in the Mediterranean or Northern Europe: our experts are constantly seeking new travel experiences to offer you.

Kangerlussuaq, Grundarfjördur, Longyearbyen, Kivitoo... If there are city and village names that evoke the Far North, they are indeed those of Greenland, Iceland, Norway, and Canada. Icebergs, ice seas, volcanoes, polar bears: going on a cruise in the Arctic is letting oneself be carried away into a world where man is a spectator of a sovereign nature.

3 reasons to explore the Arctic

It is said to be mythical, at least as much as its opposite, Antarctica. The most isolated regions are rarely known and that is what makes it irresistible. However, the Arctic includes eight countries (Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, the United States, Canada, Denmark and Iceland) and even more wonders to discover. Here are three reasons to go to the Arctic.

Meet local communities

Spread across Greenland, Alaska and Canada, the Inuit communities have perpetuated their traditions for over 4,000 years. In the vast icy expanse of the Far North, their ancestral way of life commands respect. Their daily lives are dictated by the tides and the state of the ice, with their activities revolving around hunting and fishing. Skilled artisans, they create true works of art by sculpting ivory from walruses or narwhals and working with the furs and skins of marine mammals. Eager to pass on their heritage, the Inuit people welcome travellers warmly to share their customs, dances and traditional music.

Witness magnificent nature

In the heart of the ice of the Far North or the primeval forests of Alaska, the Arctic reveals its majestic landscapes. Colossal icebergs drift in deafening silence, glaciers alternate with the ice floe, impressive geysers and volcanoes rise towards the sky, lakes, rivers, and coniferous forests stretch as far as the eye can see... These places are home to exceptional wildlife. In the waters of Spitsbergen or the Baffin Sea, humpback whales, rorquals, narwhals, orcas and seals offer a breathtaking spectacle. On land, it is the polar bears, walruses, musk oxen, Arctic foxes, or Svalbard reindeer that are observed with emotion. In the air, countless species of birds, including Arctic terns, puffins, sea eagles, northern gannets, and bald eagles share the horizon as far as the eye can see.

Follow in the footsteps of the great explorers

Throughout history, the Arctic has attracted the intrepid in search of adventure. From the territory of Ultima Thulé, the mythical kingdom of the Vikings, to the North Pole, men have pushed themselves to the limit. They have defied the elements and pushed all boundaries. We still recall the exploits of James Cook, who explored the coasts of Alaska in 1778, Roald Amundsen, the first man to cross the Northwest Passage at the beginning of the 20th century, and Paul-Émile Victor. The latter set sail for the first time in 1934 with the famous Jean-Baptiste Charcot, heading towards Greenland. In 1936, he crossed it from west to east by dog sled: a remarkable feat! He then spent 14 months alone with an Inuit family in Kangerlussuaq. His stories shed light on these populations and their traditions, previously unknown in Europe.

The must-sees of the Arctic

An Arctic cruise is the perfect opportunity to combine the dream of adventure and unique encounters in magnificent settings. From Greenland to Svalbard, passing through the Canadian Arctic or Iceland, here are the must-see destinations of the Far North. 

• Watch whales in Greenland
• Seek out polar bears in Spitsbergen
• Admire the Kirkjufell volcano in Iceland
• Explore the Aleutian Islands
• Cross the Northwest Passage like a true explorer
• Discover the Sea of Okhotsk
• Navigate in the Baffin Sea

Captains, expedition leaders, experienced naturalist guides, lecturers, wildlife photographers, personalities from the world of art, science, culture and gastronomy... Experts share their passions with you on board or on land.

Captains

Your captain is responsible for ensuring the smooth running of your journey on board. An expert in navigating polar or tropical waters, their announcements punctuate your day. And when wildlife appears on the horizon, do not hesitate to accept their invitation to join the outer decks for magnificent observations. Gala dinners are also unmissable opportunities to meet your captain and share with them your passion for travel.

Expedition leaders

Alongside the captain, the expedition leader conducts your exploration. They supervise the team of naturalist guides, ensure the safety of the proposed experiences, and adjust the highlights of your journey according to the navigation conditions, to reveal all the riches of these fascinating ecosystems.

Photo ambassadors

During some trips, having renowned photographers on board offers you the unique opportunity to participate in workshops, and conferences, and receive personalised advice to enhance your images.

Activity guides

Scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, polar hiking on foot or snowshoes, cross-country skiing, dog sledding... Whether it's for an introduction or to deepen your practice, experience immersive activities led by certified guides, ambassadors of local cultures and communities.

Guests and partners

Dancers, musicians, writers, journalists, researchers, adventurers... Experts and prestigious partners share their passion, whether it is artistic or scientific.

Speakers

Art historians, journalists, ethnologists, naturalists... Every journey is a unique opportunity to learn more about the regions visited.

Enjoy a relaxing time in the grand lounge with a warm musical atmosphere or access the Cigar Lounge, one of the most exclusive spaces on the ship.

Browse through some of the books dedicated to travel available in the observatory lounge's luminous library.

An extension of the journey and the ship, la Boutique ILLU offers an exclusive shopping experience with ready-to-wear and technical gear for polar adventures (Swarovski Optik, Garmin, Vuarnet, Feelfree, Columbia, Arctic Edge), classic products to treat yourself (Eric Bompard, 727Sailbags, Le Minor, children’s collection, jewelry, luxury BRIONI), unique souvenirs and adventure novels. Hours follow the voyage schedule, including days at sea, and all purchases on board are tax-free.

Bathed in natural light thanks to large windows, the pool offers a breathtaking view of the polar landscapes. An unforgettable swimming experience.

Fitness session, meditation, Nordic walking along the uninterrupted promenade bridge, face to face with the immensity from the bow of the ship... The awakening of the senses is heightened in the heart of the polar world.

Comfortably seated, you can attend conferences given by the guests and teams of naturalists, as well as the various shows, concerts and performances organised by professional dancers and musicians on board.

Music and dance

Opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts or ballets at sea or on land: musical cruises and dance cruises offer privileged experiences, in small groups, alongside prestigious partners, such as Radio Classique or the Paris National Opera and talented artists of international renown.

Art and literature

Share high-quality moments and attend conferences by curators from national and international museums, women and men from the world of culture, renowned writers, actors and philosophers. They discuss their passion during conferences or private visits. Experience the opportunity to open up to new perspectives.

A photography and videography team escort you throughout your trip. These professionals capture the most beautiful moments of your cruise, which you can share with family and friends upon your return. Meet them on DECK 5 (DECK 6 on the PONANT Explorers ships) at the photo/video area, where you can also order souvenir pictures and videos.

If you have not made a pre-booking before your cruise, you can book your excursions on board during one of the daily opening times of the excursion desk (timetables available in your daily program). It is only possible to pre-book one excursion per port day. If you would like to book a second excursion on the same day, please contact the excursion desk to check availability.

The Cigar Lounge is located on Deck 5.

Enjoy exclusive treatments inspired by the natural treasures of the poles. The professional skincare products from Biologique Recherche for the skin and body, and Davines for the hair, combine innovation, customization, and commitment to the planet: formulas tailored to each individual and the extreme polar environment, natural and fair trade ingredients, fight against plastic pollution.

At the heart of Nordic traditions, the gentle heat of the sauna provides a moment of serenity after a day of exploration, while enjoying the spectacular landscapes.

Experience an authentic polar ritual by going from the sauna to the snow cabin. A moment that revitalizes the body and mind, reserved for adventurers.

The fitness room offers a wide range of exercises suitable for all levels to train facing magnificent views.

Each product has been crafted using the most advanced cosmetic technologies and natural ingredients. Developed and packaged while minimising the environmental impact, Davines® products are inspired by the Sustainable Beauty ideal, an inseparable unit between Beauty and Being. During your cruise, treat your hair to a unique beauty experience. Our expert stylist will do an in-depth analysis of your hair and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Relax in front of polar landscapes in the waters of the Blue Lagoon, heated between 27 and 37°C thanks to the energy recovery generated by the ship's propulsion.