The Arctic explored as it has never been before.

Sydney 26 May 2022 - Some adventures epitomise the very essence of the word 'expedition', the once-in-a-lifetime dream fulfilled after meticulous planning and preparation. Enter exploration of the Arctic, from on board the world-first high polar luxury exploration ship, Le Commandant Charcot. 

Announcing the opening of sales for the northern summer 2022 season, Deb Corbett, PONANT General Manager Sales & Marketing Asia Pacific “invites adventurous travellers who are in search of purpose, perspective and knowledge, to explore the Arctic's extreme latitudes, including expedition voyages to the geographic North Pole, Northeast Greenland, Nordaustlandet, Svalbard and the Northwest Passage. Once in a lifetime out of this world travel experiences await.”

Discussing the inaugural season of Le Commandant Charcot's Arctic voyages, Deb continues “Knowing the thrill of embarking on totally new routes, at a pace governed by nature, the 10 sailings from April to September 2022 are odysseys in every sense of the word, exposés discovering our planet's northernmost pristine wildernesses. Imagine the excitement of stepping foot on lands previously only accessible to the occasional explorer, the shiver-down-the-spine thrill of sailing through the most spectacular landscapes, as well as the chance to meet local Inuit people to share in their spring cultural traditions.  The privilege of not just observing but learning from nature, seen in all her remarkable splendour.”

Experiences and awakening

Opening the eyes of guests to the rich culture, wildlife and geographic wonders of these territories embodies the PONANT philosophy. With Le Commandant Charcot, the company has conceived a new form of exploration, one of initiation, emotions and a sharing of knowledge. With 23 experts on board all passionate about their subjects - glaciologists, ornithologists, biologists, archaeologists - guests will discover this fascinating region through original and engaging experiences in harmony with the natural environment. 

Voyaging onboard Le Commandant Charcot is truly unique. Previously the realm of rudimentary ice-breakers, she is the world's first luxury expedition ship capable of reaching the North Pole - all the while in luxury. No hardships on these expeditions. 

Avail yourself of the heated swimming pools, choice of dining venues, spa and sauna, gym, boutique and winter garden, lounge, bar and theatre, of course, plus dedicated expedition boarding and disembarking rooms for seamless shore excursions in Zodiacs®, or perhaps the electric hovercraft, either way, perfect for exploring.

Le Commandant Charcot - Pioneering and responsible. A step ahead.

Currently completing sea trials, Le Commandant Charcot is the world's first luxury high polar exploration vessel, with hybrid propulsion powered by LNG (liquefied natural gas), the most eco-friendly energy source currently available. The innovation driving this ship underlines PONANT's unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism. In addition to its Polar Class 2 (PC2) certification, the vessel's design incorporates the very latest in green technologies, including wastewater treatment, 100% of waste recycled onboard and a ban on all single-use plastics. 

Le Commandant Charcot symbolises the culmination of PONANT's corporate commitment to reduce its environmental impact - a reflection of the company's wealth of experience and expertise gained since inception in 1988. 

Discover a selection of the Arctic 2022 luxury expeditions on board Le Commandant Charcot 

The Geographic North Pole