Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
30% Ponant Bonus
215 ft²
2
The St. Lawrence River in the Heart of the Boreal Winter
Montreal - Montreal
Dates:
2/27/2027
to
3/13/2027
Other available dates
days
nights on board
In the heart of the northern winter, set sail aboard Le Commandant Charcot, a welcoming cocoon, to discover the St. Lawrence River and its unique and enchanting wide open spaces. From Montreal to Gaspé, via Saguenay, Belle Isle Strait and Corner Brook, cruise on the mighty waters of this body of water and admire the changing landscapes where nature reigns supreme. The boreal forests and pristine valleys invite contemplation and exploration. You may even be lucky enough to spot an iconic caribou or moose in this magnificent setting, where the colourful dwellings of the temporary fishing villages built on the ice of the Saguenay Fjord defy the harshness of the winter landscape. Experience warm, unforgettable moments as you meet local communities renowned for their hospitality.
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.
This itinerary is given for information purposes only. We are privileged guests in these extreme lands where we are at the mercy of weather and ice conditions. Our navigation, mainly in the fjords, will be determined by the type of ice we come across; as the fast ice must be preserved, we will take this into account from day to day in our itineraries. The sailing programme, itinerary, outings, activities and observation of fauna cannot be guaranteed and are subject to weather and ice conditions. The experiences are unique and vary from day to day and for each departure. The Captain and the Expedition Leader will make every effort to ensure that your experience is as rich as possible, while respecting safety instructions and regulations imposed by the AECO.
Ref : CC270227
Your itinerary
The St. Lawrence in winter aboard the polar exploration vessel Le Commandant Charcot, exclusively with PONANT Explorations, to discover Canada’s breathtaking snow-covered landscapes and Quebec...
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Your trip in detail
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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L'AUSTRAL
LE LAPÉROUSE
4/2/2026 to the 4/12/2026
LE CHAMPLAIN
12/3/2025 to the 12/13/2025
LE BORÉAL
5/14/2026 to the 5/24/2026
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.
Discover all destinations
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
Landings can be operated in tenders, in zodiac or on the quayside. Programmes include moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, and landings will depend on weather conditions, position of ice, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to polar/isolated regions is an exhilarating experience in remote areas: please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Waterproof hiking shoes with non-slip soles, which will keeping your feet dry for walks and visits on steep paths.
- Comfortable trousers: classic Winter trousers, warm cotton tracksuit, wool leggings
- Waterproof and windproof over-trousers – MANDATORY
- A warm hat, woollen ear muffs or fleece ear muffs, fleece or woollen neck warmer (avoid scarves that do not stay in place)- MANDATORY
- Wool or silk glove liners, water-resistant and supple gloves
- Thick warm socks (ideally woollen)
Accessories:
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Walking poles (At your convenience).
- Head mosquito net and mosquito repellent – required for Greenland only.
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:
- Polar or technical jacket
- Silk or wool glove liners
- Wool leggings
- Warm hiking socks
WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER:
- Waterproof over-trousers - Mandatory
- Windbreaker – Mandatory
- A warm woollen hat covering your ears
- Polar or woollen neck warmer
- Waterproof technical gloves
- Hiking shoes
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen
- Lip protection balm
- Mosquito repellent, anti-itch balm and mosquito head net (Greenland)
- 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
- Walking poles
- 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
- The St. Lawrence in winter aboard the polar exploration vessel Le Commandant Charcot, exclusively with PONANT Explorations, to discover Canada’s breathtaking snow-covered landscapes and Quebec hospitality.
- Discover the landscapes (sailing and an exceptional stop on the frozen Saguenay River, fjords, boreal forests, pack ice, etc.) and meet the local communities.
- Planned activities: among these are included excursions led by expert local guides and activities conducted with your naturalist guides.
Ports of Call & Excursions
February 27, 2027 - Montreal
Embarkation 2/27/2027 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 2/27/2027 at 6:00 PM
Famous for its gentle way of life, Montreal, Canada’s second-largest city, is a warm and cosmopolitan metropolis. Situated on the eponymous river island, it is home to a multitude of districts, each as unique as the other. Set off to discover Old Montreal, most of which is declared a historic area, Little Italy, where you’ll be able to stroll around the largest open-air market in North America, or the Golden Square Mile, the luxurious district located on one of the hills of Mount Royal and which has sumptuous Victorian-style residences. Simultaneously marked by the influences of the Old Continent and North-American gigantism, Montreal will never cease to amaze you.
February 28, 2027 - Québec
Arrival 2/28/2027
Departure 2/28/2027
At the confluence of the Saint Charles River and the Saint Lawrence estuary, in the South-East of Canada, the capital of the Beautiful Province puts on its best finery in the winter season. During its long winter months, the historic streets of the city - whose name means “where the river narrows” in the Mi'kmaq language - are decked out in a cloak of snow. Let yourself be swept away by the unique atmosphere of the old town, including in the Petit Champlain district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the aromas of spices and hot chocolate emanating from the surrounding cafés will warm up hearts and souls alike. An oasis in the heart of urban life, the Plains of Abraham will provide you with the opportunity to try out the most popular winter activities, like cross-country skiing or ice skating, while making the most of sumptuous panoramas over the city that hosts the world’s largest winter carnival every year.
March 1, 2027 March 2, 2027 - La Baie (Saguenay)
Arrival 3/1/2027
Departure 3/2/2027
During the long winter months, in the majestic Saguenay Valley, the borough of La Baie is cloaked in an aura of mystery. Here, the striking contrasts of its pristine lands, where nature displays its full splendour, invite you to experience a unique moment alongside the Saguenayens, a people amongst the most welcoming and hospitable in the world. During a snowshoe walk or a dog sled outing, as a passenger or a musher, take the time to observe immaculate nature bordered by a thick ice floe, where Le Commandant Charcot will remain for several days, and you will be able to disembark. Each winter, hundreds of colourful huts set up on these frozen waters to practice traditional ice fishing. You will be initiated into these ancestral techniques and have the pleasure of tasting freshly caught rockfish.
March 3, 2027 March 4, 2027 - Gaspé
Arrival 3/3/2027
Departure 3/4/2027
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.
March 5, 2027 - Sailing Saint Lawrence Gulf
Arrival 3/5/2027
Departure 3/5/2027
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.
March 6, 2027 - Saint Pierre Island, Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Arrival 3/6/2027
Departure 3/6/2027
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.
March 7, 2027 - Sailing Saint Lawrence Gulf
Arrival 3/7/2027
Departure 3/7/2027
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.
March 7, 2027 - Corner Brook
Arrival 3/7/2027
Departure 3/7/2027
At the mouth of the Humber River, on the Bay of Islands, you will discover the port of Corner Brook, surrounded by mountains. 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.
March 8, 2027 - Crossing Belle Isle Strait
Arrival 3/8/2027
Departure 3/8/2027
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.
March 9, 2027 March 10, 2027 - Sailing Saint Lawrence Gulf
Arrival 3/9/2027
Departure 3/10/2027
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.
March 11, 2027 - Sept-Îles
Arrival 3/11/2027
Departure 3/11/2027
On the edge of the Canadian landscape, between the icy waters of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, Sept-Îles invites you on a unique journey. Surrounded by a captivating sea of ice and an immaculate boreal forest, the seven islands, eternal guardians of the coastline, seem to murmur timeless stories. In particular, you will have the privilege of meeting the Innu people, the indigenous civilisation of the Côte-Nord, during a unique moment when you will learn more about their ancestral customs and traditions. The area is famous for its winter festivities; like its emblematic Hivernants (hunters and trappers who would spend the winter), fall under the charm of its unique environment. During Nordic hikes on skis or snowshoes, you will be enchanted by its captivated landscapes.
March 12, 2027 - Exploring River Saint Lawrence
Arrival 3/12/2027
Departure 3/12/2027
Linking the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes region inland, the Saint Lawrence Seaway was inaugurated in 1959, more than 250 years after the initial construction aiming to avoid the rapids obstructing navigation in these parts. This large engineering project, which required four years of huge work, offers a unique sailing experience.
March 13, 2027 - Montreal
Arrival 3/13/2027
Disembarkation 3/13/2027 at 8:00 AM
Famous for its gentle way of life, Montreal, Canada’s second-largest city, is a warm and cosmopolitan metropolis. Situated on the eponymous river island, it is home to a multitude of districts, each as unique as the other. Set off to discover Old Montreal, most of which is declared a historic area, Little Italy, where you’ll be able to stroll around the largest open-air market in North America, or the Golden Square Mile, the luxurious district located on one of the hills of Mount Royal and which has sumptuous Victorian-style residences. Simultaneously marked by the influences of the Old Continent and North-American gigantism, Montreal will never cease to amaze you.
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
No single supplement
FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Photo ambassadors
Sharpen your eye and capture the ephemeral! Head out to sea and develop your visual senses alongside our photo ambassadors. The on-board photo ambassadors are committed and renowned professionals who will share their passion and expertise during workshops offered on board or on shore, photography-based discussions and conferences. A recurring theme of PONANT cruises is the sharing of knowledge and culture: this serves to support and highlight our openness to the world. With the help of the photo ambassadors, you will truly participate in your exploration. Take the time to feel and to observe the world around you and keep a lasting imprint of the fleeting moments and intense emotions experienced during this cruise.
Discoveries
Embark on a journey where every destination is approached with fresh wonder and refined curiosity. Included excursions (one per day, per guest) and carefully curated optional experiences alternate with outings led by your team of expert naturalist guides. A bespoke approach to exploration, ensuring every stopover is as enriching as it is unforgettable.
- Activities: One included excursion per day and per guest. Optional paid excursions are also available depending on the port of call. Activities guided by our team of naturalists (depending on the destination) are included and organised directly on board.
- Landings (depending on the destination): By dock, tender boat, local boats, or Zodiac.
- Your experts on board: The team of naturalist guides.
- Children: Children from 6 years of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on Le Commandant Charcot).
The full program of all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months prior to departure. Reservations open approximately two months before departure.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Montreal discovery (1 night)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Montreal
Meet and greet at the airport arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Transfer to your hotel Fairmont Queen Elizabeth 5* and check-in your room.
Dinner is on your own.
Day 2 - Montreal
Breakfast and check-out.
Start the day with a drive through the Golden Square Mile, a downtown neighborhood in constant effervescence where luxury, art and gastronomy are a daily part of its inhabitants’ thrilling lifestyle. Upon arrival on the Mont-Royal, depart for a 15-minutes walk until we reach the Kondiaronk belvedere where you will pause and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.
Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant..
After lunch, return to Montréal for a visit of the majestic Notre-Dame Basilica, the first Gothic Revival church in Canada. From there, continue your exploration of Old Montreal’s rich architectural and historical legacy with a short walking tour before transferring to the ship for boarding.
Your hotel:
Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Montreal 5*
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
· 1-night accommodation in Deluxe Golden Square room at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Montreal 5* (or similar), including breakfast.
· Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
· Meals as mentioned in the programme.
· Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
· The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Dinner on Day 1.
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Personal expenses.
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
· It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
· The local currency is the Canadian dollar. International credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, and you can withdraw money from banks and currency exchange offices.
· Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement
Contact of your hotel:
Fairmont Queen Elizabeth 5*
900 Boul. René-Lévesque O, Montréal, QC H3B 4A5, Canada
Téléphone : +1 514-861-3511
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. For the times of your PONANT flight, please contact your travel agent; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $750
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Montreal escape
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Montreal
You will be greeted at the port by our local representative and you will be transferred to the city centre.
You will enjoy a Montreal visit with your local guide.
Lunch in a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will visit de McCord Stewart Museum.
The McCord Stewart Museum, located in downtown Montreal, is dedicated to the social history of the city and Canada. It houses a vast collection of over 3 million items, including photographs, artifacts, artworks, historical clothing, and archival documents. The museum emphasizes the diversity of Montreal’s communities and adopts an inclusive, engaged approach, with exhibitions that encourage reflection on social and historical issues. It’s a must-visit place to understand Montreal from a different perspective.
You will then be transferred to Montreal Airport to take your flight selected by PONANT.
Your programme includes:
· Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
· Meals as mentioned in the programme.
· Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
· The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Personal expenses.
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
· The local currency is the Canadian dollar. International credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, and you can withdraw money from banks and currency exchange offices.
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. For the times of your PONANT flight, please contact your travel agent; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $450
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.