Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
15% Ponant Bonus
215 ft²
2
Polar Nights: From the North Cape to Spitsbergen
Tromso - Tromso
Dates:
14/10/2026
to
24/10/2026
days
nights on board
FLIGHT PARIS/TROMSO + TRANSFERS + FLIGHT TROMSO/PARIS
The writer Jørn Riel described the polar night as a “a world apart, […] unique and fascinating, where nature reigns supreme and men keep a low profile.” When the northern winter approaches, the sun hardly rises over the horizon any more: let yourself be guided towards a new temporality, the moment when a long dusk stretches out after the day, until the polar night which will extend until mid-February 2027 in Svalbard. From the delicious comfort of Le Commandant Charcot sailing from the jagged coastlines of Norway to the ice-covered reliefs of Spitsbergen, dive into the heart of landscapes lit by powdered hues and set off in search of the exhilarating spectacle of the Northern Lights and share unique moments, just a stone's throw away from the emblematic North Cape in Lapland, with the Sami, one of Europe’s last indigenous communities.
The itinerary is subject to change based on port approvals and to comply with applicable government regulations.Please also note that the sailing programme, shore visits and activities cannot be guaranteed, as they are subject to weather and ice conditions.
Ref : TT1745 - CC141026
Your itinerary
A PONANT Explorations journey above the Arctic Circle, featuring mineral splendours and encounters with Nordic communities. Aboard Le Commandant Charcot, a warm and refined cocoon opening to the exteriorenjoy...
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Your trip in detail
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Complete your trip
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Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
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L'AUSTRAL
LE LAPÉROUSE
02/04/2026 to the 12/04/2026
LE CHAMPLAIN
03/12/2025 to the 13/12/2025
LE BORÉAL
14/05/2026 to the 24/05/2026
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
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Services provided
- Glazed private balcony for all our staterooms and suites
- Terrace for the Duplex suites and the Owner's suite
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- 3 ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Clothing tips:
INSULATING BASE LAYER AND WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER :
- Water-resistant parka - offered on board (not children sizes ; in case of consecutive cruises, only one complimentary parka) on the dates of these cruises.
- Half calf waterproof rubber boots with non-slip soles or waterproof hiking shoes (for hikes and visits on unequipped and sometimes unstable terrain).
- Comfortable trousers : classic winter trouser, warm cotton tracksuit or wool legging.
- Waterproof and wind proof over-trousers – MANDATORY.
- Windbreaker
- Winter trousers with waterproof over-trousers are the ideal combination : water-resistance and flexibility of trousers are essential and imperative.
- Pullover, sweat-shirt or fleece jacket.
- Woolen or thermolactyl underwear.
- Woolen or fleece neck-warmer, woolen or fleece ear muffs or warm hat (avoid scarves as they do not stay in place) - MANDATORY
- Wool or silk under gloves, flexible technical and waterproof gloves.
- Thick warm socks (ideally woolen).
- Winter shoes (with a wool lining).
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
INSULATED BASE LAYER:
- Wool or thermolactyl technical underwear
- Polar sweater or sweatshirt
- Winter suit
- Warm hiking socks
- Winter shoes (with a wool lining)
WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER:
- Waterproof over-trousers - Mandatory
- Ski Jacket - Mandatory
- A warm woollen hat covering your ears
- Polar or woollen neck warmer
- Gloves
- Windbreaker
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen
- Lip protection balm
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
ACCESSORIES:
- Highly protective sunglasses
- Binoculars
- Small waterproof backpack
- Swimsuit (for the spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A PONANT Explorations journey above the Arctic Circle, featuring mineral splendours and encounters with Nordic communities.
- Aboard Le Commandant Charcot, a warm and refined cocoon opening to the exteriorenjoy a unique experience in complete communion with the surrounding scenery.
- Bid farewell to the sun in the fjords of Spitsbergen, at the beginning of the long polar night.
- Reach the North Cape, an emblematic site and the northernmost point of continental Europe.
- The possibility of observing the enchanting show of the Northern Lights.
- Make the most of winter activities* (hikes, visiting the North Cape from Honningsvag, etc.) led by your naturalist guides and local guides.
- Varied landscapes, coastal panoramas, tundra, dolomite cliffs, majestic fjords, ancient glaciers.
- Wildlife: bears, reindeer, blue whales, minke whales, orca.
*Activities are subject to weather conditions and must be booked in advance of the cruise. More information available soon.
The activities mentioned are given as examples, the programme of activities will be fine-tuned as the departure of your cruise approaches and will be available on the website.
Ports of Call & Excursions
14 October 2026 - Tromso
Embarkation 14/10/2026 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 14/10/2026 at 18:00
In the north of the Arctic circle you’ll discover Tromsø, a secluded town located in the county of Troms. Norwegians call it the “Paris of the north”. You’ll soon see why when you discover its extensive neoclassical architectural heritage. A stunning example is the Arctic cathedral, a major monument whose stylistic purity echoes the outline of the mountains surrounding the town.
15 October 2026 - At sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot
Arrival 15/10/2026
Departure 15/10/2026
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.
16 October 2026 - South-West Region of Spitsbergen
Arrival 16/10/2026
Departure 16/10/2026
Set sail for southwest Spitsbergen, immerse yourself in this environment unlike any other and explore its unexpected riches. In this natural sanctuary, the polar light combines with the changing weather of the Arctic, a big blue sky, the horizon scattered with clouds, the enveloping mist erasing the border between the land and the sea. Follow in the footsteps of the first explorers and admire the majestic fjords and glaciers sculpting the breathtaking landscapes, their icy waters shimmering beneath the midnight sun. The fjords, veritable cathedrals of ice, reveal their millennial secrets, while the glaciers, like sleeping giants, move slowly towards the sea, setting free sparkling icebergs. On the water, you might spot belugas and rorquals, while on the shores, seals and Arctic foxes add a touch of mystery to this living tableau, where the steep cliffs become breeding grounds for thousands of seabirds, like guillemots. Southwest Spitsbergen is an ode to nature in its rawest and purest form.
17 October 2026 - Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen
Arrival 17/10/2026
Departure 17/10/2026
Longyearbyen is the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, located on Svalbard’s main island, and is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet. With winter temperatures dropping to below 40°C, the landscapes of this mining town are simply breathtaking. The glaciers, the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the untouched nature, make you feel like you’re in completely unexplored territory.
18 October 2026 - Ny-Alesund, Spitsbergen
Arrival 18/10/2026
Departure 18/10/2026
During your cruise, discover Ny-Ålesund, a former mining town that has been transformed into a scientific base. Founded in 1916, this small town was the departure point for many Arctic expeditions, including those of the famous explorer Roald Amundsen. Don't miss a visit to the museum and its famous post office, considered to be the most northerly in the world!
19 October 2026 - Navigating through the sea ice
Arrival 19/10/2026
Departure 19/10/2026
Enjoy the absolutely unique experience of sailing to the heart of the ice floe, this vast expanse of virgin, immaculate ice. The landscapes are constantly changing, shifting from a smooth, flat wilderness to a chaos of ice, then to channels of open water. Your ship will sail along these naturally open channels and through the areas where the frozen layer is thinnest, offering you the chance to experience magic maritime moments in the midst of drifting sea ice. It will also often be an opportunity to see a particular kind of fauna, totally dependent on the ice floe.
20 October 2026 - North-West region of Spitsbergen
Arrival 20/10/2026
Departure 20/10/2026
A kingdom of contrasts and natural marvels dotted with islands and peninsulas, northwest Spitsbergen fascinates with its preserved beauty. On these pristine lands, infinity unveils itself, treating the eyes to beauty sculpted by nature and enhanced by the changing light. The fjords bathed by icy waters, the jagged mountains and the imposing glaciers stand majestically before you, like monumental sculptures. In these lands, where souls are filled with deep serenity, only the murmur of broken ice, bearing mysteries and legends, disturbs the calmness. Aboard our Zodiacs and in the company of naturalist-guides, get as close as possible to this unique fauna and discover this centre for scientific expedition departures. In the distance, majestic whales glide silently through the glacial waters, whereas seals, walrus and Arctic foxes add a playful touch of life. As Svalbard reindeer wander the vast expanses, Arctic terns liven up the polar sky with their gracious flight and polar bears, which you may be lucky enough to see, patrol magnificently along the icy shores.
21 October 2026 - South-West Region of Spitsbergen
Arrival 21/10/2026
Departure 21/10/2026
Set sail for southwest Spitsbergen, immerse yourself in this environment unlike any other and explore its unexpected riches. In this natural sanctuary, the polar light combines with the changing weather of the Arctic, a big blue sky, the horizon scattered with clouds, the enveloping mist erasing the border between the land and the sea. Follow in the footsteps of the first explorers and admire the majestic fjords and glaciers sculpting the breathtaking landscapes, their icy waters shimmering beneath the midnight sun. The fjords, veritable cathedrals of ice, reveal their millennial secrets, while the glaciers, like sleeping giants, move slowly towards the sea, setting free sparkling icebergs. On the water, you might spot belugas and rorquals, while on the shores, seals and Arctic foxes add a touch of mystery to this living tableau, where the steep cliffs become breeding grounds for thousands of seabirds, like guillemots. Southwest Spitsbergen is an ode to nature in its rawest and purest form.
22 October 2026 - Sailing along Bjornoya (Bear Island)
Arrival 22/10/2026
Departure 22/10/2026
Halfway between Norway and Spitsbergen, you will sail not far from the coastlines of Bjørnøya, the southernmost island of Svalbard. From your ship, observe this isolated piece of land discovered in 1596 by the Dutch navigator Willem Barents, then looking for the Northwest Passage. Following a tough fight between a polar bear and the members of the expedition, he dubbed the place Bear Island. Regularly covered by a thick layer of fog, Bjørnøya shelters a meteorological station built in 1923, which is still in operation. Declared a nature reserve in 2002, the island is above all home to an enormous colony of sea birds: skuas, guillemots, puffins, Tridactyl gulls, petrels, gulls and little auks all coexist here.
23 October 2026 - Honningsvag
Arrival 23/10/2026
Departure 23/10/2026
If you feel like you have arrived at the end of the world in Honningsvåg, it is because this is the case. Halfway between Oslo and the North Pole, it competes with Hammerfest for the status of “the northernmost town in Continental Europe”. Colourful houses light up this charming and typically Norwegian fishing port nestled in the hollows of the region’s mountainous terrain. Travellers come to stay in the village to go to the North Cape. At the end of the road, you will see the globe that indicates that you are at the very end of Europe. At this point, only the Svalbard archipelago separates you from the North Pole. There is sea as far as the eye can see. The Northern Lights, the view of the immense cliff plunging into the sea, the thousands of puffins, gannets and cormorants that spin around you: everything here is grandiose.
24 October 2026 - Tromso
Arrival 24/10/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 24/10/2026 at 08:00
In the north of the Arctic circle you’ll discover Tromsø, a secluded town located in the county of Troms. Norwegians call it the “Paris of the north”. You’ll soon see why when you discover its extensive neoclassical architectural heritage. A stunning example is the Arctic cathedral, a major monument whose stylistic purity echoes the outline of the mountains surrounding the town.
Le Commandant Charcot
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.
The indoor swimming pool, the conservatory, the panoramic restaurant, the Blue Lagoon outdoor restaurant, the Main Lounge, the Observation Lounge, the lobby… Each of the common areas has been designed to both convey French-style discreet luxury and arouse wonder and amazement. The common thread running through all their designs is the desire to allow the light to penetrate and open everything up the extraordinary polar landscapes and scenery.
This very first hybrid-electric polar exploration ship powered by LNG has been designed with the greatest attention to detail in terms of safety and respect for the environment.
Decks
FLIGHT PARIS/TROMSO + TRANSFERS + FLIGHT TROMSO/PARIS
For your serenity, PONANT selects flights and organises transfers from and to the airport. This package is included in your cruise fare.
Embarkation day - Paris/Tromso
Flight Paris/Tromso selected by PONANT.
Approximate flight duration: 4 h 30
We suggest you to be at the check-in counter 2 hours before departure.
We highly recommend you arrive in Paris the day before this flight.
Meet & greet at the airport by our local English-speaking representative.
Transfer to the pier for embarkation.
- Cruise aboard your ship –
Disembarkation Day - Tromso/Paris
Disembarkation
Meet and greet at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
Transfer to the airport in time for check-in of flight Tromso/Paris selected by PONANT.
Flight Tromso/Paris selected by PONANT.
Approximate flight duration: 4 h 30
We highly recommend you stay one night in Paris after this flight.
This programme includes :
- Flight Paris/Tromso and Tromso/Paris selected by PONANT in economy class.
- Transfers mentioned in the programme.
- English-speaking assistance.
This programme does not include :
- Personal expenses.
- Any other service not mentioned in the programme.
Please note :
- Flights included in the programme are as of today, operated in economy class, on a European airline.
- Due to limited local transportation resources, waiting might be generated.
- For passengers in transit in Paris, we recommend staying one night in Paris before and after these flights.
- Programme and flight schedule are subject to change without prior notice.
EXPEDITIONS
Embark on explorations to the farthest reaches of the world — from polar realms to tropical latitudes — where each day is marked by Zodiac landings led by your dedicated expedition team. Glaciologists, ornithologists, ethnologists, and marine mammal specialists — true experts of these remote regions — your naturalist guides invite you to a fully immersive and enlightening experience.
- Activities: All activities are supervised by the expedition team, made up of experienced naturalist guides — including Zodiac outings, for example. All activities are included and organized directly on board by the expedition team. Optional paid excursions may be offered depending on the cruise.
- Landings: Primarily carried out by Zodiac.
- Your experts on board: The expedition team composed of naturalist guides.
- Additional services: A complimentary parka and complimentary loan of boots (depending on the cruise).
- Children: Children from 6 years of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on Le Commandant Charcot).