PONANT’s luxury icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot, takes you places other ships simply cannot reach. We go for adventure, to be sure, but also because we believe the most powerful way to promote conservation of the world’s most fragile ecosystems is to immerse guests so deeply into these incredible destinations that they feel inspired to become wilderness and cultural ambassadors back home. Here, we share highlights of one of our expeditions, The Emperor Penguins of the Weddell Sea, to show you what we mean.
In the early winter, ice floes wander as far as the eye can see, and gigantic tabular icebergs form your horizon. The captivating Weddell Sea is often inaccessible to traditional ships, but thanks to our luxury icebreaker and its Polar Class 2 hull—the only ship in the world of its kind—we can bring you here on one seamless and utterly comfortable voyage. The tranquil waters and coastline are ideal for exploring in their truest and purest form. What does adventure look like on board the world’s only luxury icebreaker?
Waking to the Promise of Incredible Discovery
As you awaken in your luxuriously appointed suite, step out onto your private balcony to breathe in the crisp air. Or better yet, get in a brisk stroll on the promenade deck, which encircles the entire ship, taking a moment on one of the heated benches to absorb the vastness of the icy wilderness. Excitement hangs in the air, enhanced when you step up to one of the Swarovski Optik spotting scopes and zoom in on a pair of leopard seals lounging on the glittering pack ice.
Then, there’s the pleasure of breakfast. In Sila—our elegant, sun-bathed dining room—panoramic views cascade through floor-to-ceiling windows, sharing the untouched beauty of the metallic blue seas and the white wilderness beyond. As you dine on eggs, waffles, fresh juice, and freshly baked bread prepared by an onboard French baker, it occurs to you that your dining experience is as superb as the vistas outside.
The Height of Polar Exploration
You’ll experience those vistas up close during an array of excursions throughout your expedition. Simply choose from those that interest you most. Depending on local conditions, they’ll be offered in the morning or afternoon.
Exploration by Zodiac. Climb into our Zodiac craft, purpose-built to navigate this icy expanse. Suit up in your water-resistant parka and boots (the parka is your gift to take home after the voyage), and step in as the Antarctic waters lap at the hull. It’s thrilling to sit so close to the sea’s surface, surrounded by ice patches bobbing on the waves and giant beryl-blue icebergs drifting in the distance. As your skilled pilot motors away from the ship into open water, you are surrounded by a mesmerizing and infinite polar whiteness. You raise your binoculars to look for a variety of penguins—Adélie, chinstrap, gentoo, or the almighty emperor all reside here—or the telltale spouts from a whale about to breach.
Kayaking. Dip your oar into the sea, propelling yourself at a rhythmic pace. Water sloshes and swirls with each stroke and it feels invigorating to interact with the Antarctic so intimately. You navigate toward the coast, absorbing all the nooks and crannies of the Great White Continent. Pausing a few minutes from paddling, you cannot remember experiencing such stillness, silence, and awe. You listen: to your breathing, to the lilting water, to the peace and tranquility of Antarctica.
Polar plunge. No encounter with Antarctic waters compares to a polar plunge. You confess you’ve been nervous about this, but those who dove in before you have assured you it’s one of life’s most revitalizing experiences. Your expedition leaders have been watching for ideal conditions and, at last, they attach a tether to your harness and escort you down the gangway. Then, it’s 3-2-1-dive! And you perform your best cannonball. The verdict? Bracing and exhilarating!
Snowshoeing or hiking. Exploring on land or pack ice, you see the textured contours of Antarctica up close. Pearly-white snow blankets the shore, though some dark rock may peek through. During your walk, you take it all in, watching the snow glitter like diamonds in the low sunshine, crunching under the weight of your snowshoes. Imposing massifs reach to the heavens, draped in ice. And you scan all around for sightings of emperor penguins and Weddell seals.
On Board, Comfort and Extravagance
When you’re not out exploring the great white wilderness, you’ll be sampling the many luxuries on board Le Commandant Charcot. At our Nuan Wellness Lounge, indulge in a massage and linger in the sauna or snow cabin, where gently falling flakes rejuvenate you. Savor lunch in our gastronomic restaurant, Nuna. Like in all onboard dining venues, our chefs are Alain Ducasse-trained and eager to showcase their culinary talents.
In your free time, soak in the heated outdoor pool, the Blue Lagoon, warmed by the ship’s energy recuperation system, and be sure to keep an eye open for more wildlife. Afterwards, enjoy an inside stroll, admiring our 300 beautiful ornaments and works of art and the digital work of artist Miguel Chevalier.
Regardless of how you spent your day, gather in our ship’s lounge with your fellow travelers to recap as lilting piano sonatas, played live by a member of our incredible onboard crew, lend a relaxed ambience. The expedition team shares their latest insights and experiences, and you feel united by your shared explorations and cultural connections. Captivated, you sip a carefully crafted cocktail or a fine glass of wine from the ship’s world-class collection.
And then, dinner. An exquisite way to end every exquisite day. More Alain Ducasse masterpieces and more stellar wine. And once more, your gaze is drawn out of the expansive windows. The Midnight Sun hangs low over the horizon, casting shadows across the distant water and bathing Le Commandant Charcot in a warm glow. Soon, you will retire for the night to your elegantly appointed suite and begin new adventures tomorrow. But first, dessert.
Experience the natural and cultural wonders of the poles on board Le Commandant Charcot for yourself. We look forward to welcoming you!
