Become a True Explorer and Stand Where Few Have

At the opposite ends of the Earth, the polar regions have either the North or South at their core. These are the last great places on the planet to be explored or mapped. Today’s visitors delight in following the paths of such storied 19th and early 20th century explorers as Sir Ernest Shackleton, James Clark Ross, or Jean-Baptiste Charcot (1867-1936), an outstanding figure among the famous in the pantheon of the maritime and polar world nicknamed the “Gentleman of the Poles”, an explorer in the most authentic sense of the term. Charcot established a set of scientific protocols and completed a series of measurements over long periods that made it possible to create a meteorological and magnetic picture of the region. A century later, this data remains a valuable source of reference for today’s researchers. Honouring the legacy of Jean-Baptiste Charcot – doctor, scientist, adventurer and humanist like no other, PONANT took on a massive challenge in building Le Commandant Charcot, the first polar exploration passenger vessel, an icebreaker that is not only innovative, sustainable and eco-friendly, but also one that generates an incredible synergy between people who all have a passion for the sea and a taste for challenge. 

There is no ship like her – a hybrid vessel using electric power and liquefied natural gas (LNG), making it the first of its kind, capable of six weeks of autonomous operation. She has many unique features and technological advances, including 2 bridges and a propulsion system, with 2 Azipods, which allows for navigation through the ice in both directions. She is the first cruise ship in the world rated PC2 (Polar Class 2 icebreaker, while similar vessels sailing in polar regions are in the PC6 category), giving her the ability to sail between the sheets of drifting sea ice and bring her guests (maximum of 200) to the most remote and isolated regions others can't. 

Add a seasoned captain at the helm, and an expedition team of polar experts and scientists and you have a true, out-of-this-world polar odyssey experience unlike any other. Guests can enjoy a range of unique, intense and authentically immersive experiences amidst the quasi-hypnotic power of the polar environment, such as dog sledding, sightseeing excursions in Zodiac® inflatable boats, snowshoeing, polar diving, wet-suit swimming, kayaking, ice fishing and participating in the citizens of science sessions on board. 

PONANT works closely with the Polar Citizen Science Collective, an international association that enables practical contribution for a better understanding of the polar regions, which are often too difficult for scientists to access due to financial and logistical means. Aboard the Le Commandant Charcot, they are able to reach the poles and work onboard while the ship offers its guests a chance to take part as well. Collect data from the deck of the ship or during your outings. Take photos of whales and help supply the Happy Whale tracking app with data, identify and count seabirds so that their distributions and life cycles can be better understood, describe atmospheric phenomena, observe and listen to underwater wildlife using cameras and hydrophones, or collect samples of plankton and analyze them through microscopes. Collected information is essential for the study and preservation of these ecosystems and is shared with scientists worldwide.

The design of Le Commandant Charcot reflects one guiding principle: to invite the polar environment on board; with spaces that are cozy yet open to the outside world, a cocoon flooded with light, and well-being enhanced by meticulous details that arouse all the senses, reflecting a modern sophistication that enhances the extraordinary landscapes in which the ship travels. Aboard, discover the secrets of French savoir-vivre and allow yourself to be carried away between moments of relaxation, adventure, and discovery, thanks to all the services available. Enjoy the benefits of the cold on your body in the Snow Room (Siku, which means snow in the Inuit language) after a spa treatment or the Sauna (Ikuma, burning heat). Relax in the Winter Garden by the indoor pool while enjoying a green or fruit cocktail from the Detox Bar or laze in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon, an outdoor pool heated with energy recovery technology ( from 27 to 37°C), while soaking in the breathtaking views surrounding you. There is even a giant firepit so you can enjoy the polar landscapes in complete comfort. Stroll the promenade deck and take a break on one of the heated benches while observing the wildlife through Swarovski Optic scopes.

Furnished with 123 staterooms and suites, all featuring a private balcony or terrace, Le Commandant Charcot completely aligns with Ponant's philosophy to provide a rare and exceptional ambiance for every guest on board and to reinforce the feeling and sense of sailing on a private yacht. An integral component of the brand's hallmark approach, fine dining takes on an impressive new look with Ducasse Conseil collaboration, featuring menus created by the 21-Michelin starred chef himself and signature dishes served at Nuna (Inuit for Earth), his  gastronomic restaurant on board. Here you can enjoy à la carte breakfasts, lunches and dinners, in the same spirit of service as found in luxury hotels on land and accompanied by pourings of the finest wines and Champagne. For a more relaxed atmosphere, you can also enjoy your meals at Sila (the Sky) restaurant or at the open-air-bar called Inneq (the Fire) featuring a wide range of international sweet and savoury dishes throughout the day. No matter which dining option you choose, you will not be disappointed with your selection. 

Experience the magic of Le Commandant Charcot on an expedition close to home, when the ship explores its first-ever crossing of the St. Lawrence River in the heart of the Canadian Boreal Winter. Select one of only four unique departures (January 17, 29, February 10 & 25, 2025) and sail between Saint Pierre and Miquelon and Québec City while exploring the enchanting ports of Gaspé, the Magdalen Islands, Saguenay, Sept-Îles, and Sydney as well as the rich cultures of the First Nations and their vibrant communities. 

Your Le Commandant Charcot Expeditions Include:
•    All meals aboard 
•    Complimentary drinks in restaurants, bars and mini bars
•    Welcome and farewell cocktail receptions
•    24-hour room service 
•    Butler service in suites
•    Parkas for you to keep 
•    Lectures by naturalist and guides 
•    Zodiac outings and landings
•    Complimentary StarLink Wi-Fi 
•    Gratuities to shipboard personnel and guides
•    Port taxes and charges
 

So write your own expedition story with Le Commandant Charcot. Each departure is unique and no two itineraries are the same as the ship’s navigation will be determined by the type of ice it comes across. As the ice is constantly changing, so are the experiences you will enjoy. 

Contact your Travel Professional for details or visit here.