PONANT EXPLORATIONS is set to embark on a 62-day voyage circumnavigating Antarctica aboard the luxury icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot, in January 2028. The journey spans nearly 14,300 miles, taking travelers through some of the most remote and pristine regions of the planet.
Two Unique Itineraries or a Full Circumnavigation
The voyage departs from Ushuaia, Argentina, and unfolds in two distinct legs. The western Antarctica itinerary spans 30 days from Ushuaia to Hobart, Tasmania, while the eastern Antarctica journey returns travelers to Ushuaia over 31 days, with a 3-day stopover in Hobart.
Highlights of the Antarctic Expedition
Clients will experience the pinnacle of polar exploration, with highlights including:
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The Ross Sea – sail alongside the world’s largest ice shelf and marine sanctuary, often called the “last ocean.”
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Inaccessible Antarctic lands – explore Charcot Island, Marie Byrd Land, Wilkes Land, Adélie Land and the Balleny Islands.
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Wildlife encounters – observe penguins, humpback whales, Antarctic minke whales, orcas, seals, elephant seals, sea lions and petrels in their natural habitat.
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Iconic landmarks – witness Mount Erebus, the southernmost active volcano, and historic polar expedition sites, including the remains of Shackleton’s Endurance camp.
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Adventure activities – Zodiac excursions, snowshoe hikes, kayaking and even a polar plunge for the brave.
Le Commandant Charcot: Luxury Meets Polar Performance
Le Commandant Charcot is a hybrid-electric vessel that minimizes environmental impact, supports Antarctic research with an onboard laboratory and features a crew trained in ice navigation. Guests benefit from expert guidance by naturalists and polar scientists through onboard lectures and presentations.
All staterooms and suites feature private balconies or terraces with Nordic-inspired interiors. Culinary experiences include Nuna, the only Alain Ducasse restaurant at sea, complemented by public spaces like the glass-enclosed Observatory Lounge, the Blue Lagoon deck with heated seating, a spa with Biologique Recherche treatments, a snow room, sauna and an indoor pool.
For more information, visit us.ponant.com.
