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Ponant offers an extraordinary 16-night expedition aboard the avant-garde Le Commandant Charcot, navigating from Reykjavík through the Ice of the Arctic, to the remote and enchanting archipelago of Svalbard. Setting sail from Reykjavík, this journey explores mythical Arctic territories often woven with tales of legendary explorers like Charcot himself. Sailing through Greenland’s east coast reveals awe-inspiring alpine landscapes entwined with ancient Inuit culture, while the fjords of Scoresbysund offer a tableau of drifting icebergs and rare Arctic wildlife, such as musk oxen and agile Arctic foxes.
As the expedition progresses northeast of Greenland, guests can indulge in endless polar panoramas and wildlife sightings against a backdrop of floating sea ice, before journeying eastwards to Svalbard’s formidable landscapes. Nordaustlandet Island showcases one of Europe’s largest ice caps and splendid fjords, while the Hinlopen Strait and Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve exhibit nature’s grand design, home to a myriad of birds, majestic whales, and the elusive Svalbard reindeer. Each step of this awe-inspiring journey brings valuable insight into the Arctic’s pristine wilderness, all whilst emphasizing the delicate balance between exploration and preservation in these unpredictable icy realms.
Reykjavík, Iceland: Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve centre and government seat, is home to half the island's population. Overlooked by proud Mt. Esja, with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colourful sight with concrete houses painted in light colours and vibrant rooftops in red, blue, and green. Unlike the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík has tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, in addition to imported aspens, pines, and spruces. The city's name combines the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík. Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson discovered Iceland in AD 874, coming ashore at a bay shrouded with steam from nearby hot springs. Today, most homes are heated by near-boiling water from these springs, eliminating air pollution, though the hot water may carry a slight sulphur aroma. Prices here match those in major European cities, but the Reykjavík City Card offers unlimited bus rides and admission to several attractions. The card is valid for one, two, or three days and pays off after a few uses a day. Admission to one city museum grants free same-day access to two others.
Blosseville Coast, Greenland: Encounter one of the most remote and rugged coastlines, where dramatic cliffs and the icy expanse merge seamlessly. This untouched area offers a pristine environment to explore the majestic beauty of the Arctic landscape, navigating between towering icebergs and observing local wildlife.
Tasiilaq, Greenland: Discover the east coast of Greenland, where alpine mountains meet the sea, and fjords boast high snow-capped peaks and drifting icebergs. Follow Captain Jean-Baptiste Charcot’s route to Ammassalik, named after the capelin fish, signalling spring's return. This wild environment is home to Inuit traditions and culture, which you can explore by meeting local inhabitants.
Blosseville Coast, Greenland: Continue your exploration of these stunning landscapes, characterised by sheer cliffs and a dynamic ice field. Each corner reveals new vistas of the Arctic wilderness, and the possibility to witness a captivating natural display.
Ittoqqortoormiit (ex Scoresbysund), Greenland: Scoresbysund is an exceptional fjord system, possibly the longest, largest, and deepest globally. Situated on Greenland's eastern coast, it requires several days to fully appreciate. Giants of ice float through the waters, and remote bays conceal former Inuit settlements amidst Arctic flora. The area supports a wealth of wildlife, including muskoxen, foxes, and several bird species. Keep watch for whales and seals in the fjord's waters.
Northeast Greenland, Greenland: This area epitomises the Arctic's untouched purity, showcasing stark landscapes and a rich tapestry of wildlife. Expect to encounter a wilderness that defies the conventions of classic travel narratives.
Northeast Greenland, Greenland: The desolate beauty and remoteness mark this day of exploration, a day to seek out unique Arctic animals and appreciate the vastness of Greenland's northeastern coastline.
Northeast Greenland, Greenland: Continue the journey through this untamed region, where the raw, stunning environment encourages adventure and discovery at the earth's northern frontiers.
Northeast Greenland, Greenland: Deepen your exploration of Northeast Greenland’s isolated grandeur, where the indomitable spirit of Arctic nature and its creatures persist, barely touched by the modern world.
Nordaustlandet Island, Svalbard and Jan Mayen: Journey to the northern stretches of the Svalbard archipelago, where polar wildlife and glacial landscapes dominate. This remote island invites the spirit of exploration and the discovery of profound natural wonders.
Nordaustlandet Island, Svalbard and Jan Mayen: Revel in a location of surreal beauty, with sweeping glaciers and ice-covered terrain. Observe the area’s unique fauna and flora as you continue your Arctic expedition.
Hinlopen Strait, Svalbard and Jan Mayen: Navigate this strategic channel between Svalbard's islands, renowned for rich wildlife sightings and dramatic scenery. As the waters narrow, the strait offers views of ice formations and potential encounters with Arctic species.
Hinlopen Strait, Svalbard and Jan Mayen: A second day along the Hinlopen Strait promises further exploration of its invigorating natural beauty; keep watch for polar bears, seals, and other native wildlife around the intricate ice-laden passage.
Soraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve, Svalbard and Jan Mayen: Experience an area dedicated to preserving the Arctic's pristine ecosystems. The reserves present an opportunity to appreciate untouched landscapes and the remarkable biodiversity that define Svalbard.
Soraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve, Svalbard and Jan Mayen: Continue exploring this dynamic preserve, marked by the interplay of sea, land, and wildlife. Each vista reveals more about the Arctic's delicate, yet resilient environments.
Spitsbergen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen: Delve into Spitsbergen, offering a final chance to appreciate the Arctic's vast landscapes and diverse wildlife. This island offers a sweeping end to an awe-inspiring itinerary, showcasing the majestic splendour of polar environments.
Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen: Longyearbyen is the largest settlement in Svalbard and serves as the administrative centre of Norway's presence here. Located in Adventfjord, the town boasts robust infrastructure with convenient access to shops, hotels, and restaurants. Its airport operates year-round, although the harbour freezes in winter. Prominent buildings like the UNIS centre provide higher education to local and international students. The adjacent Svalbard Museum offers insight into the natural history and past mining endeavours in the region, amongst remnants visible throughout the area.
We endeavour to ensure that the information provided on our website regarding itineraries and schedules is accurate and up-to-date. Please be aware, however, that this information is offered in good faith and may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances or events beyond our control. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in this regard.
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