Reaching the Geographic North Pole
What does it take to reach the very top of the world?
The Incomparable Le Commandant Charcot
Go where no one you know has gone before
NorthStar Luxury Cruise & Travel Planners
1.800.249.9360
The World’s First–and Only–Luxury Icebreaker
Exclusive Explorations
Le Commandant Charcot is the definition of an all-inclusive, luxury expedition vessel. Five-star service on board is a given, whether you are in a suite that offers butler service, or a stateroom with your own private balcony. All meals and drinks on board, complimentary 24-hour room service, and activities such as kayaking, snowshoeing, and the legendary polar plunge are all included. Plus, there are endless ways to relax—sauna, snow room, observation lounge, spa, library, cigar room.
Embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure with Le Commandant Charcot and her unique capability to travel further into the ice so that you can disembark safely and continue your quest into the untouched polar wilderness. Journeying by foot means even more wildlife encounters in regions that are unreachable to most.
After your day of venturing through the polar wilderness, you can retreat to the unparalleled luxury aboard Le Commandant Charcot. Indulge in world-class amenities, including the exclusive Alain Ducasse restaurant at sea, and rejuvenate in Scandinavian-inspired spa and wellness sanctuaries.
Embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure with Le Commandant Charcot and her unique capability to travel further into the ice so that you can disembark safely and continue your quest into the untouched polar wilderness. Journeying by foot means even more wildlife encounters in regions that are unreachable to most.
After your day of venturing through the polar wilderness, you can retreat to the unparalleled luxury aboard Le Commandant Charcot. Indulge in world-class amenities, including the exclusive Alain Ducasse restaurant at sea, and rejuvenate in Scandinavian-inspired spa and wellness sanctuaries.
Voyages to Inspire
THE GEOGRAPHIC NORTH POLE
Flight Paris/Longyearbyen + Transfers + Flight Longyearbyen/Paris
While reaching 90º N is the ultimate destination, this transformative journey is filled with unforgettable moments. Sail through the shifting ice of an ever-evolving Arctic landscape, where you may even encounter the majestic polar bear in its natural habitat.
Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen - Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen
Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen - Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen
IN THE ICE OF THE ARCTIC, FROM SVALBARD TO GREENLAND
Flight Paris/Longyearbyen + Transfers
Explore northeast Greenland, inaccessible to traditional ships in late spring, and Svalbard during a journey through breathtaking landscapes of majestic mountains, fjords, glaciers, icebergs, pack ice, towering cliffs, and blooming tundra, while keeping watch for remarkable wildlife, from polar bears and Arctic foxes to cetaceans, Svalbard reindeer, and countless seabirds.
Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen - Reykjavík, Iceland
Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen - Reykjavík, Iceland
ARCTIC SPRING: A JOURNEY THROUGH ICE AND INUT CULTURE
Flight Paris/Nuuk + Transfers + Flight Nuuk/Paris
Set off on an unforgettable adventure along the northwest coast of Greenland, in the heart of Baffin Bay to the majestic Disko Bay, a place of truly rare beauty. Explore an icy and preserved world, where nature reigns supreme and shelters seals, whales and seabirds. Disko Bay will unveil its gigantic icebergs, the largest in the northern hemisphere, while Disko Island reveals an almost surreal landscape: ice stretching as far as the eye can see, frozen fjords and crystal-clear polar light. In this silent kingdom, you will set .off to encounter Inuit communities and share rare moments imbued with humanity and warmth. A unique and timeless experience involving both exploration and cultural immersion.
Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen - Reykjavík, Iceland
Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen - Reykjavík, Iceland
Building long-term relationships with local communities
In 2023, a partnership with the Royal Arctic supply ship was set up so Le Commandant Charcot could deliver supplies to Inuit communities during the season when the Royal Arctic is unable to do so. As a result, Tasiilaq village in Greenland got supplies on 5 May 2023. It emerged from its winter isolation a month earlier, thanks to our high polar exploration ship and the excellent relationships developed with the locals.
Complimentary Pre- or Post-Cruise Hotel Night on Select Baltic Voyages
Extend your journey with a complimentary hotel night stay in Helsinki before or after your voyage when you book by June 30, 2026 and mention codes PREHELSI or POSTHELSI.*
Immerse yourself in Finnish nature, on the capital's doorstep. In the Nuuksio National Park, set off on a walk through the forest and listen to stories about the country in the very heart of preserved landscapes. This complimentary excursion will continue at the Nuuksio Reindeer Park, where you will encounter these iconic animals and learn more about their way of life, before enjoying a coffee around the fire in the warm atmosphere of a kota teepee.
FROM THE NORTH SEA TO THE BALTIC
Let Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Estonia and Finland reveal themselves among a breathtaking succession of ancient fjords, golden dunes, picturesque villages and historic cities. From the small, colorful houses huddled together to the bustling streets of the Baltic's major cities, immerse yourself in the rich history and unique geology of these places.
Bergen, Norway - Helsinki, Finland
Bergen, Norway - Helsinki, Finland
BALTIC BLISS & WINTER WONDERS
Cold winds are blowing across the roofs of these emblematic Baltic cities. As the holidays approach, immerse yourself in the warm atmosphere of Scandinavian and Baltic cities, where lights twinkle amidst the fragrances of cinnamon. Like a starry sky, the illuminations of these strongholds will plunge you into a winter wonderland, where the history and hearts of the inhabitants entice you to spend a moment frozen in time. Through these traditions, you will be captivated by the concerts, markets, and culinary discoveries.
Helsinki, Finland - Helsinki, Finland
Nov 24, 2026 itinerary:
With featured guest Lech Wałęsa, former President of the Republic of Poland and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, for the duration of a stopover. He will share his testimony during an exclusive gathering on board.
Helsinki, Finland - Helsinki, Finland
Nov 24, 2026 itinerary:
With featured guest Lech Wałęsa, former President of the Republic of Poland and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, for the duration of a stopover. He will share his testimony during an exclusive gathering on board.
GAUTIER CAPUÇON’S BALTIC SYMPHONY AT SEA
Helsinki, Finland - Helsinki, Finland
A voyage in alliance with Radio Classique with exclusive daily concerts, featuring special guests Cellist Gautier Capuçon, Violinist Elias David Moncado, Violinist Lise Berthaud, Pianist Frank Braley, Pianist Jérôme Ducros, and Artistic Director Alain Duault. Lectures will be given in French only. Among the included excursions, you may have the opportunity to enjoy a Chopin concert, art and architecture in Riga, and gothic heritage in Tallinn.
THE GULF OF BOTHNIA, AT THE GATEWAY TO THE ARCTIC
Flight Kemi/Paris + Transfers
Inspired by the Scandinavian poetry collection It’s Raining Stars in Our Bed, this journey invites you to witness the beauty of the Arctic night. Experience winter at the gateway to the Arctic and admire the Gulf of Bothnia, surrounded by striking landscapes and enduring traditions.
Helsinki, Finland - Kemi, Finland
Dec 22, 2026 itinerary:
Kids Explorer program available for kids and teens 6 to 13.
Helsinki, Finland - Kemi, Finland
Dec 22, 2026 itinerary:
Kids Explorer program available for kids and teens 6 to 13.
THE GULF OF BOTHNIA, AT THE GATEWAY TO THE ARCTIC
Flight Paris/Kemi + Transfers
Join the celebrated members of the Club des Chefs des Chefs, including Cristeta Comerford, former Executive Chef of the White House, who have created masterpieces for the world’s leaders, Guillaume Gomez, Sylvie Bermann, and Gilles Bragard.
Kemi, Finland - Helsinki, Finland
Kemi, Finland - Helsinki, Finland
JAZZ FESTIVAL, FROM THE BALTIC TO THE NORTH SEA
This is an exclusive voyage in alliance with Jazz at Lincoln Center, featuring Artistic Director Hughes Kieffer, Saxophonist Julian Lee, Vocalist Mar Vilaseca, Bassist Russell Hall, Drummer Matthew Lee, Pianist Caelan Cardello, Pianist Kadri Voorand, and Artistic Director Jason Olaine. Enjoy seven intimate concerts, improvisation sessions exploring the creativity of jazz, and two lectures delving into the history and influence of these legends. This exclusive program is organized in partnership with Jazz at Lincoln Center under the theme “Celebrating Jobim and Getz: Bossa Nova Meets Swing.”
Helsinki, Finland - Bergen, Norway
Helsinki, Finland - Bergen, Norway
Please note that while most departures aboard Le Commandant Charcot are Expedition voyages, these above sailings through the Baltic are Timeless, offering a blend of cultural curiosity, immersive experiences, and serene relaxation.
A Ship Like No Other
Discover what makes Le Commandant Charcot so special.
Ship Tour
In the heart of Le Commandant Charcot.
PONANT SCIENCE
PONANT SCIENCE is a pioneering program to support scientific research and bring researchers aboard the PONANT ships to learn more about the ocean, the least known ecosystem on our planet.
Le Commandant Charcot has two research laboratories and autonomous measurement instruments. Several long-term scientific partners enable teams of biologists, geographers, oceanographers, climatologists and ethnologists to work in polar regions on a repeat basis in places that are either still unexplored or rarely visited, allowing them to extend their polar campaigns.
Le Commandant Charcot Brochure
Close your eyes and you can almost hear it… the crunch of snowshoes on ice that has been around for millennia, the creaking and calving of glaciers as they retreat and advance into the sea. The roar of a polar bear trekking ice floes in... Check out Le Commandant Charcot Brochure for more travel inspirations.
Select sailings include transfers from the airport to the ship and/or from the ship to the airport on embarkation and/or disembarkation day. On select sailing, flight(s) may be included, based on availability at the time of booking. Fight schedule is indicated on the electronic ticket included in the travel documents. All rights reserved.
*Offer valid for new bookings made between 3/10/2026 to 6/30/2026 for select LCC sailings. Savings applies only to new bookings made either online using the OFFER CODES: PREHELSI and POSTHELSI. Offer is combinable only with PONANT Bonus (PB), PONANT Yacht Club (PYC), Join the Club (JTC), Onboard Sales incentives, and contracted partner amenities. Not combinable with Interline, reduced rate, or free of charge bookings. Offer has no cash value and is subject to availability, capacity controlled. PONANT EXPLORATIONS may modify or withdraw Offer or any of its elements at any time. PONANT EXPLORATIONS is neither responsible nor liable for any errors relating to Offer, including technical errors. Offer is neither transferable, substitutable nor redeemable for cash. Any changes made after booking may incur amendment or cancellation fees. Additional terms and conditions may apply. All information is accurate at the time of deployment but is subject to change. All rights reserved. Other restrictions may apply.
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