From the St Lawrence to Greenland | Le Commandant Charcot | IExpedition

From the St Lawrence to Greenland, the Last Moments of Winter

  • Overview

    The winter will soon draw to a close. Although the ice break-up has begun in the waters of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, the tops of the conifers making up this northern forest are still covered in a white veil. Nature seems frozen, yet its whisper may be heard by those who know how to listen. You will discover the Magdalen Islands during a port of call in Cap-aux-Meules and through various activities such as a walk on its frozen beaches. From the sea, the cliffs of the Gaspé Peninsula hide the mysteries of the hinterland, which is full of promise. Among the winter activities on offer are: discovering the Forillon National Park, snow-shoeing in L’Anse-au-Griffon Valley and meeting the Micmac, one of the First Nations of the Canadian provinces. On the coast of the legendary island of Newfoundland, you will explore Corner Brook and its ski resorts, with their magnificent panoramas.

    Expedition Highlights

    • You will visit traditional villages and get to meet the indigenous Micmac and Inuit communities to share their culture and their way of life during unforgettable moments.

    • Varied activities in a winter setting: polar hiking on foot or with snowshoes, fat biking, Nordic skiing, shore visit on the ice floe.

    • An all-new port of call in Corner Brook, on the island of Newfoundland and the possibility of skiing in one of the nearby resorts or discovering the town and its history.

    • The possibility of spotting, perhaps, regional wildlife, which includes moose, reindeer, caribou, wolves, polar bears, Arctic foxes, Ivory gulls and Greenland seals.

    • Ice floe conditions permitting, the possibility of seeing seal pups, commonly referred to as whitecoats, in the Magdalen Islands – the only place in the world where Greenland seals breed.

    • Landscapes: great open spaces, fjords, immaculate boreal forests, ice floe, snow-covered valleys.

    Duration: 16 days
    Passengers: 245 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Saint Pierre Island, Saint Pierre and Miquelon
    Disembarkation Point: Reykjavík
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Mandatory extra flight
    Single Supplement: 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Saint Pierre Island, Saint Pierre And Miquelon

      Off the Canadian coast, discover Saint Pierre Island, one of the two main islands of the Saint Pierre and Miquelon archipelago, the only French territory in North America. Endowed with a natural harbour, the island, whose name is a reference to the patron saint of fishermen, developed around the fishing industry and still has many traces of its past today. Whale hunting, cod fishing, alcohol smuggling during the Prohibition: all of these memories are still very much alive in the capital, Saint-Pierre. The island is also renowned for the observation of exceptional fauna including, among others, whales, fin whales, dolphins, seals, puffins and petrels.

    • Day 2 - At Sea Aboard Le Commandant Charcot

      Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts. Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us.

    • Day 3 - Cap-aux-meules, Magdalen Islands

      Scattered through the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, the Magdalen Islands offer a variety of extraordinary landscapes, between captivating drifting ice floe, tall red sandstone cliffs, sandy beaches covered with an immaculate coat and snow-covered valleys. Here, winter really is a special season, a time of contrasts and mysteries. The icy winds intertwine with the softness of the salty air, and the colourful houses, dressed in their finest attire, stand bravely in this enchanting scenery. In these distant lands, you will be plunged into Acadian culture, you will discover ancestral traditions here and will have the chance to explore the unique landscapes on hikes or snowshoe walks along the icy shores.

    • Day 4 - Gaspé

      In the glacial darkness of the Canadian winter, Gaspé stands proud like a preserved and authentic jewel at the edge of the dark waters of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Nature seems to be holding its breath. The captivating Mount Jacques-Cartier, the highest point of the Chic-Choc Mountains range and the South, is dressed with an immaculate coat of snow, while the frozen rivers slowly wind their way, fixing time in their icy embrace. During a snowshoe walk, fall in love with the captivating landscapes of the L’Anse-au-Griffon Valley, right in the heart of the Forillon National Park. Then, in Percé, opposite the famous eponymous Rock, dive into the natural beauty of the “magic forest”, where thousands of conifers decked out in an immaculate white cloak are like silent guardians watching over this isolated piece of land. You may also fall in love with this charming town, where the exciting history and the conviviality of the locals come together in a delightful blend.

    • Day 5 - Sailing Saint Lawrence Gulf

      In the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, the waters are still partially frozen but the ice break-up has begun. The broken-up ice makes for a fascinating spectacle, forming shapes that seem to be dancing across the waves. You will sail in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, following in the footsteps of Jacques Cartier, who reached it during his first voyage in 1534. From the bridge, if luck is on your side, you will contemplate the seals and belugas that populate the region during this season. In the distance, the boreal forests, their peaks whitened by the last snow, offer you the idealised image of this piece of Canada. A moment of indescribable magic.

    • Day 6 - Corner Brook

      At the mouth of the Humber River, on the Bay of Islands, you will discover the port of Corner Brook, surrounded by mountains. A thick layer of snow covers the hillsides that will welcome you, in their ski resort, for winter activities in a splendid setting. On the legendary island of Newfoundland, visit the territory by going snowshoeing or on a ski or snowboard trip at the renowned Marble Mountain Ski Resort. Or you could just decide to wander the streets of this authentic Newfoundlander town and discover its history.

    • Day 7 - Crossing Belle Isle Strait

      Sailing the Strait of Belle Isle will guarantee a moment of intense emotion. Your ship will enter this waterway, which separates Newfoundland from the North American continent, while the ice break-up is only just beginning its cycle. From the bridge, if the ice is still present, you will perhaps observe the Greenland seals which populate these waters dotted with fragments of ice floe, aiming to breed there. Time stands still, a magical spell is cast.

    • Day 8 - At Sea Aboard Le Commandant Charcot

      Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts. Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us

    • Day 9 - Qaqortoq

      Follow the Davis Strait currents and Qaqortoq, the largest town in southern Greenland, reveals itself in a rocky setting covered in immaculate white. The winter is slowly slipping away but the ice is still very present, providing a marvellous decor for the rare travellers exploring this place at this time of year. This charming fishing port, nestling within the fjord, can be seen from afar, with its delightful, brightly-coloured houses built upon the hillsides. During a hike, you will wander around the streets of the town centre, where you will recognise the Danish influences; it is home to numerous historical monuments, such as the country’s famous and oldest fountain, topped with whales. One of the uncontested highlights of this port of call will involve meeting the local community and discovering their spring traditions during a day of sharing.

    • Day 10 - Narsalik

      Somewhere in the Greenlandic south-west, in the heart of the maze made up by the fjords and bays, the small village of Narsalik brightens up the Arctic white with its colourful houses. In this territory at the end of the world, you will set off to encounter the Inuit community for an unforgettable moment of sharing. Memories for life will be made during these winter activities, designed in partnership between PONANT and the inhabitants of Narsalik. The watchwords of this time spent together will be curiosity and discovery.

    • Day 11 - Narsaq Fjord

      At winter’s end, venture to the ice-covered shores of the Inuit village of Narsaq. The pioneering spirit and a taste for exploration will posses you as you progress towards this small, typically Greenlander commune. Nestling in the heart of majestic scenery, it will welcome you in a setting dominated by snowy mountains. The multicoloured façades of the houses offer a magical decor and will fill you with wonderment. You will visit the village, partake in polar treks and enjoy local performances, all of which will enable you to discover how these inhabitants live at the end of winter and help you absorb the Greenlandic philosophy.

    • Day 12/13 - Nanortalik & Cape Farvel Passage

      In the Greenlandic municipality of Kujalleq, you will explore the Inuit village of Nanortalik. A few hundred kilometres from the southern tip of Greenland, it is one of the island’s southernmost locations. Fishing is the main economic resource for its inhabitants, with whom you will be able to share an unforgettable moment. While a coat of snow still covers the landscapes, enjoy winter activities and discover Inuit traditions.

    • Day 14/15 - At Sea Aboard Le Commandant Charcot

      Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts. Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us..

    • Day 16 - Reykjavík

      Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.

    Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your captain and expedition leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

  • Adventure Activities

    Hiking

    During shore landings, depending on the ecological resilience of the biome, we will propose hikes at different levels, in the company of your experienced naturalist guides. From a simple stroll along the coast to walks lasting several hours to reach particular viewpoints or historical sites, you will make the most of the opportunities provided by the weather and ice conditions. When the itineraries allow, you’ll put on snowshoes* to set off like the explorers of old and discover areas that have barely known Man.
    *with limited places available

    Included
  • Inclusions
    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - Accommodation in stateroom
    - The full meal plan
    - The Open Bar: beginning with boarding, and during the duration of the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, Charles Heidsieck champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served on request and at any time of the day. Certain premium alcoholic beverages on the menu are not included in the Open Bar
    - Free Wi-Fi internet access 24 hours a day
    - Access to all the common areas: on board our sister ships and Ponant Explorers (fitness room, steam room, hair salon, swimming pool (sea water, heated), solarium, lounges, theater, boutique & leisure area.), on board of our three-masted Le Ponant (Solarium of 400 m², marina, lounge, Boutique & leisure area.)
    - Activities offered during expedition cruises
    - English-speaking assistance
    - Flight Montreal/Saint-Pierre and Miquelon selected by PONANT in economy class.

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Other meals and services not mentioned in the programme.
    - Personal expenses.
    - Tips for the local guide.
  • Map
    6165154
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    With Le Commandant Charcot, PONANT has imagined and envisaged the cruise voyage of tomorrow. The latest addition to the fleet will take you following in the footsteps of the great polar explorers in refined surroundings complete with the kind of luxury services never before offered in the farthest reaches of the southern and northern hemispheres. 

    Features & Facilities
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating:
    Guests #: 245
    Crew #: 215
    Ice Class: PC2
    Speed: 15
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built: 2022
    Length: 492m
    Width: 92
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 31757
    Registry:
    Elec Outlets:
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Ready to book your expedition?

We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.

  • Confirm your booking today with just USD$ 1,000 per passenger.
  • Pay your 25% deposit 5 day later.
  • Final payment due 120 days prior to departure.
Le Commandant Charcot | Prestige Stateroom Deck 6

Prestige Stateroom Deck 6

06 Mar 2025 - 21 Mar 2025
• A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower • A panoramic sliding bay window • A 5 m² glazed private balcony
USD$ 25,245pp
USD$ 25,245pp
Le Commandant Charcot | PRESTIGE STATEROOM DECK 7

Prestige Stateroom Deck 7

06 Mar 2025 - 21 Mar 2025
• A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower • A panoramic sliding bay window • A 5 m² glazed private balcony
USD$ 25,695pp
USD$ 25,695pp
Le Commandant Charcot | Prestige Stateroom Deck 8

Prestige Stateroom Deck 8

06 Mar 2025 - 21 Mar 2025
• A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower • A panoramic sliding bay window • A 5 m² glazed private balcony
USD$ 26,160pp
USD$ 26,160pp
Le Commandant Charcot | Deluxe Suite Deck 6

Deluxe Suite Deck 6

06 Mar 2025 - 21 Mar 2025
• A lounge area with chaise longue and two armchairs • A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower • A panoramic sliding bay window • A 5 m² glazed private balcony
USD$ 26,850pp
USD$ 26,850pp
Le Commandant Charcot | Deluxe Suite Deck 7

Deluxe Suite Deck 7

06 Mar 2025 - 21 Mar 2025
• A lounge area with chaise longue and two armchairs • A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower • A panoramic sliding bay window • A 5 m² glazed private balcony
USD$ 28,005pp
USD$ 28,005pp
Le Commandant Charcot | Deluxe Suite Deck 8

Deluxe Suite Deck 8

06 Mar 2025 - 21 Mar 2025
• A lounge area with chaise longue and two armchairs • A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower • A panoramic sliding bay window • A 5 m² glazed private balcony
USD$ 28,927pp
USD$ 28,927pp
Le Commandant Charcot | Prestige Suite Deck 7

Prestige Suite Deck 7

06 Mar 2025 - 21 Mar 2025
• A lounge with sofa, armchair, TV and sliding courtesy door • A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • Two bathrooms with shower • Two panoramic sliding bay windows • A 10 m² glazed private balcony
USD$ 36,742pp
USD$ 36,742pp
Le Commandant Charcot | Prestige Suite Deck 8

Prestige Suite Deck 8

06 Mar 2025 - 21 Mar 2025
• A lounge with sofa, armchair, TV and sliding courtesy door • A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • Two bathrooms with shower • Two panoramic sliding bay windows • A 10 m² glazed private balcony
USD$ 37,890pp
USD$ 37,890pp
Le Commandant Charcot | Grand Prestige Suite Deck 6

Grand Prestige Suite

06 Mar 2025 - 21 Mar 2025
• Priority boarding • Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival • Butler service • An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day • A lounge area with chaise longue and second TV • A Samsung tablet connected to Wifi • A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub • A panoramic sliding bay window • A 5 m² glazed private balcony • Two pairs of Swarvoski CL Companion 10 x 30 binoculars
USD$ 39,037pp
USD$ 39,037pp
Le Commandant Charcot | Privilege Suite Deck 8

Privilege Suite Deck 8

06 Mar 2025 - 21 Mar 2025
• Priority boarding • Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival • Butler service • An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day • A lounge with sofa bed, armchair, and sliding courtesy door • A Samsung tablet connected to Wifi • A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) • A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub • Two panoramic sliding doors and rectangular porthole • A 12.5 m² glazed private balcony • Two pairs of Swarvoski CL Companion 10 x 30 binoculars
USD$ 41,340pp
USD$ 41,340pp
Le Commandant Charcot | Duplex Suite Deck 6

Duplex Suite

06 Mar 2025 - 21 Mar 2025
• Private return transfer • Priority boarding • Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival • Butler service • An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and a basket of fruit every day • A lounge with armchairs, sofa bed, steam fireplace and TV • A dining room with a 6-seater table • A minibar with RIEDEL crystal glasses • A Samsung tablet connected to Wi-Fi • A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV • A bathroom with shower and balneo bathtub • Five panoramic windows and a glazed panoramic swing door • A private 26 m² terrace: outdoor lounge with sofa and armchairs, jacuzzi • Two pairs of Swarvoski CL Companion 10 x 30 binoculars
USD$ 56,287pp
USD$ 56,287pp