THE EDGE LISTAdventure meets luxury aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first vessel designed exclusively for polar exploration. Introduced in 2021, PONANT's Polar Class 2 icebreaker seamlessly navigates tough terrain, offering a once-in-a-lifetime look at the stunning landscapes of the Arctic and Antarctic regions. What’s more, the 245-passenger cruiser is an eco-friendly wonder — a unique hybrid propulsion system allows for smooth sailing in icy waters while minimalizing environmental impact.
Onboard, the experience is as luxurious as it gets. Designed by Studio Jean-Philippe Nuel and Wilmotte & Associés, the interiors are both sophisticated and inviting, with spacious suites and cozy common spaces that embrace the Danish concept of hygge.
Soak up those snowy views from the observation lounge or take to the otherworldly terrain with expert-led excursions like kayaking through icebergs, polar plunges or snowshoeing. With just 123 staterooms and suites, gourmet dining and Nordic wellness experiences, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience
- While a handful of expedition cruise ships ferry guests to Antarctica, Le Commandant Charcot is the world’s first — and only — passenger vessel specifically designed to visit the North Pole.
- A standout feature of Le Commandant Charcot is its innovative hybrid propulsion system, powered in part by liquefied natural gas. This cutting-edge engine effortlessly cuts through 8-foot-thick polar ice sheets with minimal emissions or environmental impact.
- A nearly 1-to-1 staff-to-guest ratio ensures top-tier service even at the farthest reaches of the world.
- Onboard dining was no afterthought. Acclaimed chef Alain Ducasse and his team are behind the exquisite culinary experiences. And since meals are included, you can savor fine French fare at Nuna or more casual meals at Sila as often as you like.
- A Nordic-chic wellness area offers a heated indoor pool and relaxation lounge for soaking up sea (or ice) views through panoramic windows. A curated menu of spa treatments, a sauna, a snow room, a fitness center and a salon round out the indoor amenities, while the Blue Lagoon, a heated outdoor pool, awaits on the top deck.
- Wood-paneled staterooms feature an ultra-modern look that would feel right at home at a land-locked luxury hotel. Neutral-toned interiors paired with soft blue accents provide soothing surrounds that don’t overpower the views.
- Unusual for an expedition ship, each of Le Commandant Charcot’s 123 accommodations boasts a furnished balcony or terrace, so you can soak up those wintery views without setting foot on the ice.
- Sleek bathrooms are outfitted in dark granite countertops, slate gray showers and indulgent Diptyque toiletries.
- For a little extra luxury, check into one of Le Commandant Charcot’s four split-level suites. At a palatial 1,011 square feet, each accommodation comes equipped with a furnished terrace and hot tub.
- The pinnacle of luxury aboard Le Commandant Charcot is the Suite de l’Armateur, or Owner’s Suite. Designed to accommodate up to six guests, this lavish retreat boasts a dining room, living area, steam fireplace and deep-soaking tub. The pièce de résistance? A sprawling 2,000-square-foot furnished terrace complete with a hot tub and an outdoor dining space.
