Le Commandant Charcot, the very first hybrid-electric polar exploration ship powered by liquefied natural gas, is the latest addition to the Ponant fleet. This deep polar navigation cruise ship is opening the gateway to the highest latitude of the Arctic and Antarctic, offering travelers an adventure of a lifetime. Le Commandant Charcot pays tribute to Jean-Baptiste Charcot—a doctor, scientist, adventurer, and “gentleman of the poles.” Charcot desired to share science, his sense of adventure, and the beauty of polar landscapes throughout his life. As a result, passing on this knowledge was one of his core principles, celebrated on each of Ponant’s polar expeditions.
This industry-first, luxury hybrid electric ship epitomizes sustainable sailing via safe and low-impact polar navigation. Remarkable innovations allow for electronic positioning without the need for anchoring in protected areas, bottom and sea creature detection, and reduced noise and vibrations. Notably, Le Commandant Charcot has the Clean Ship label, the highest certification awarded by the Bureau Veritas, which guarantees the ship has reduced atmospheric emissions and water and waste processing.
Equipped with 123 suites and staterooms (all with a private balcony or terrace), Le Commandant Charcot exudes the Ponant philosophy: to provide a rare and exceptional ambiance for every passenger welcomed onboard, and reinforce the feeling and sense of sailing on a private yacht. Rear decks six and seven house four stunning, split-level suites equipped with private terraces and jacuzzis. And the breathtaking Suite de l’Armateur (Shipowner’s Suite) on deck eight features wide, sliding-glass doors opening out onto a spacious private terrace and panoramic vistas.
Ponant takes guests on a faraway odyssey, combining exploration with science throughout the polar regions. The Le Commandant Charcot expedition team is composed of 19-23 experts—biologists, naturalist, glaciologist, and more—who provide insights and ensure travelers fully experience the fauna, flora, and local populations.
Whether onboard, on land, on the sea, or on the ice, enjoy a range of unique, intense, and authentically immersive experiences amidst the polar environment, like dog sledding, sightseeing excursions in Zodiac inflatable boats, snowshoeing, polar diving, kayaking, ice fishing, and citizen science sessions.
A voyage aboard Le Commandant Charcot provides some very rare experiences, on and around remote areas where everything seems designed to repel human beings. While Ponant’s guests share none of the discomfort faced by the daring, intrepid travelers of the past, they still get the same intense emotions as their predecessors as they explore the harsh, yet mesmerizing landscapes of the poles.