Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
25% Ponant Bonus
215 ft²
2
With featured guest Ian Dawson, British Photo Ambassador.
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: experience an all-new PONANT journey and let yourself be guided towards a new temporality, the moment when a long dusk stretches out after the day. 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.
Aboard Le Commandant Charcot, a warm cocoon, savour the discreet and refined comfort of its spaces opening out onto the world. From the Blue Lagoon pool, the Observatory Lounge or the uninterrupted outside promenade deck, you will appreciate the splendour of the winter panoramas over the Arctic Circle.
You will set sail towards the shores of continental Norway at the edge of the Arctic Ocean: welcome to Lapland! Very close to the emblematic North Cape, the northernmost point of Europe, sovereign nature delivers geological marvels in the heart of a fjord – a preserved island, dolomites and rocky rises formed during the last glaciation. The Sami, reindeer farmers and one of the last European indigenous people, live between rugged shores and snow-capped peaks, remarkable coastal cities and large wild expanses, in the Lapland territory. During warm encounters, you will discover their cultural traditions and their way of life, in harmony with the elements. Immerse yourself in nature and, while the night overtakes the day, set off to chase the Northern Lights.
On this exclusive PONANT itinerary, your ship will continue on its path north, towards the coastlines of Spitsbergen. From this territory at the end of the world, you will explore majestic fjords and admire ancient glaciers and alpine peaks, at dusk. Here, the sun takes its leave, giving way to the long polar night, steeped in mystery and source of many Nordic myths.
Make the most of the rarity of daylight, experience close up the fleeting dusk and delight in the majestic landscapes before the long winter night.
The itinerary is subject to modifications. On board, the sailing programme, outings and activities cannot be guaranteed and are subject to weather conditions.
Ref : TL1145 - CC181024
With featured guest Ian Dawson, British Photo Ambassador. The eye and the advice of our photo ambassador, a privileged opportunity to immortalise your trip with, in the programme: workshops, conferences and...
"Embark with me on this new and unique winter photographic exploration of Spitzbergen and Northern Norway. Capture dramatic, towns, fjords, glaciers, encounters with Lapland's Sami people and hopefully chase the mesmerizsing Northern Lights with advice and tuition during our challenging journey into the polar night."
Ian Dawson
Find out moreChoose your stateroom
Complete your trip
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.
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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*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.
Services provided
Select your stateroom category
Ian Dawson
Ponant Photo Ambassador, Ian, is an award-winning photographer, film maker and guide with a passion for the remote regions of our planet.
A fine art graduate, he has spent his career in the national media, both as a photojournalist and picture editor. He has covered everything from conflict, travel, the Royal Family and celebrities of stage and screen and many other commissions.
When not guiding for Ponant in the Arctic and Antarctic, his love of high and cold places regularly takes him mountaineering around the world. He is a member of The Alpine Club (the world’s first mountaineering club founded in 1857).
He has been active within Scottish Mountain Rescue for over 20 years as a medic with responsibility for training. He was recognised for his work in this field having been awarded both The Queen’s Diamond & Platinum Jubilee Medals.
Ian is a member of the Guild of Picture Editors, the British Association of Ski Patrollers, the Royal Photographic Society and the UK Mountain Leader Board. His photographic work is represented by Getty Images.
When not sharing his love of wild places, Ian lives with his family in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Scotland.
Language spoken: English.
Photo credit: Sue Flood.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Ian Dawson
Ponant Photo Ambassador, Ian, is an award-winning photographer, film maker and guide with a passion for the remote regions of our planet.
A fine art graduate, he has spent his career in the national media, both as a photojournalist and picture editor. He has covered everything from conflict, travel, the Royal Family and celebrities of stage and screen and many other commissions.
When not guiding for Ponant in the Arctic and Antarctic, his love of high and cold places regularly takes him mountaineering around the world. He is a member of The Alpine Club (the world’s first mountaineering club founded in 1857).
He has been active within Scottish Mountain Rescue for over 20 years as a medic with responsibility for training. He was recognised for his work in this field having been awarded both The Queen’s Diamond & Platinum Jubilee Medals.
Ian is a member of the Guild of Picture Editors, the British Association of Ski Patrollers, the Royal Photographic Society and the UK Mountain Leader Board. His photographic work is represented by Getty Images.
When not sharing his love of wild places, Ian lives with his family in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Scotland.
Language spoken: English.
Photo credit: Sue Flood.
Clothing tips:
INSULATING BASE LAYER AND WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER :
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:
For men :
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:
For men:
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:
WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER:
HEALTH CARE:
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
ACCESSORIES:
PONANT activities
Kayaking - Le Commandant Charcot
You will make the most of the sailing opportunities and weather and ice conditions to glide along on the clear waters or between the ice floes and get as close as possible to the immaculate nature of the poles. Supervised by licenced expert guides, you will try your hand in a kayak- a craft favoured by the Inuits for at least 4,000 years. The kayak was initially used for hunting and fishing; for you, it will be a means of making the most of your adventure on the White Continent or in the Far North.*
*with limited places available
*Activities subject to weather conditions, to be pre-booked before the cruise. More information available soon.
Embarkation 10/18/2024 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 10/18/2024 at 7:00 PM
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.
Arrival 10/19/2024
Departure 10/19/2024
Beyond the Arctic Circle, Alta, in the far north of Norway, is the biggest city in Finnmark county. Alta will reveal itself to you at the end of the eponymous fjord, Altafjorden. The region offers a mix of forest, mountainous and coastal landscapes. It is on the verge of obtaining the “sustainable destination” label, a national label awarded to destinations that are committed to a sustainable approach to tourism for the long term. Alta invites you to experience unique moments, whether meeting the Sami people ─ reindeer herders who have ancestral traditions and yet embrace modernity ─ or during walks, snowshoe hikes or dog sledding, depending on the season.
Arrival 10/20/2024
Departure 10/20/2024
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.
Arrival 10/21/2024
Departure 10/21/2024
Hammerfest, located on the north-western coast of the island of Kvaloya, beyond the 70th parallel north, is often considered the northernmost town in the world. Conserved in an immaculate natural setting, this charming fishing port enjoys a rich history, as is evidenced by various vestiges dating back to the Stone Age, Napoleonic wars or the Second World War. During your port of call, you will have the opportunity to discover the Struve Geodetic Arc, a chain of triangulations stretching across Europe from Hammerfest to the Black Sea, and the first technical and scientific object to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Arrival 10/22/2024
Departure 10/22/2024
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.
Arrival 10/23/2024
Departure 10/23/2024
Nestling between millennial glaciers and carved mountains, and considered to be “the crown of Arctic Norway”, Spitsbergen is a place that never sees the night. Your ship will take you closer to this fascinating archipelago and, more particularly, the Hornsund fjord. Considered to be Svalbard’s southernmost fjord, it is especially reputed to be its most stunning: at the end of its vast bay, 8 great glaciers slowly make their way down to the sea before giving way to the many icebergs elegantly drifting along its cold and mysterious waters.
Arrival 10/24/2024
Departure 10/24/2024
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.
Arrival 10/25/2024
Departure 10/25/2024
You will head to the Bellsund fjord to follow in the footsteps of the first explorers who came from the Norwegian coast, or those of the many fur traders seeking game and trophies. Boasting an astonishingly rich wildlife, the arms of the fjord separate to form two lush valleys. Give free rein to your imagination in the heart of this majestic natural environment where time seems to stand still.
Arrival 10/26/2024
Departure 10/26/2024
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.
Arrival 10/27/2024
Departure 10/27/2024
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.
Arrival 10/28/2024
Departure 10/28/2024
The small Reinoya Island, measuring scarcely 3.35 km2 (1.3 square miles), will welcome you for an unforgettable moment in the very heart of the Porsangerfjorden. Although this nature reserve is not very big, it boasts many treasures. Here, wild nature can be discovered in the greatest tranquillity. Contemplate the island’s geology, rendered so particular by the whiteness of the dolomite, and the thousand-year-old traces of the last ice age during a hike or a Zodiac outing. The rare and scattered vegetation of the island is also a major point of interest at this singular site.
Arrival 10/28/2024
Disembarkation 10/29/2024 at 8:00 AM
Discover Lakselv, whose name means “Salmon River”, lying at the end of the immense Porsangerfjorden. As its name indicates, this small village is renowned for the salmon fishing in the waters of its river, which are brimming with this fish and others. The village is ideally located, offering privileged access to the surrounding magnificent nature. In particular, it retains traces of the last ice age in Trollholmsund, where dolomites with dreamlike silhouettes can be seen. Do not miss this extraordinary sight!
For your serenity, PONANT selects flights and organises transfers between the airport and the port (and vice-versa). 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 highly recommend you arrive in Paris the day before this flight.
We suggest you to be at the check-in counter 2 hours before departure.
Meet & greet at the airport by our local English-speaking representative.
Transfer to the pier for embarkation.
- Cruise aboard your cruise ship -
Disembarkation Day - Lakselv/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 Lakselv/Paris selected by PONANT.
Flight Lakselv/Paris selected by PONANT.
Approximate flight duration: 5 h 30.
We highly recommend you stay one night in Paris after this flight
This programme includes:
This programme does not include:
Please note:
Polar Expedition
Realise your dream of adventure in the polar regions ! Discover the icy vastness and the fauna of Antarctica (humpback whales, seals, penguins and more) or the Arctic's fjords, glaciers and icebergs in shifting colours, not to mention the polar bears, the variety of wildlife and the special moments shared with the locals. Our team of naturalist guides share their knowledge with you during varied lectures about the fauna, the flora, the history of great explorations, geology and climatology. Thanks to its conscientiousness and to the responsible approach that is its hallmark, PONANT has been a leader and expert in cruises to these destinations for more than 20 years.
Christmas offer
Choosing your destination, dreaming of your departure, preparing to experience exclusive moments... Because travel brings its share of magic, we design them as true enchanted interludes. And what better occasion than the end of year celebrations to treat yourself to some sweet moments? Book your next cruise between November 30, 2023 and January 2, 2024, and take advantage of our Christmas offer: a 10% discount on a large number of departures in 2023, 2024 and 2025.
To benefit from the offer and all your advantages, we invite you to contact PONANT travel advisors or your travel agency by telephone or e-mail, indicating the code XMAS10 when making your reservation.
Offer is non-retroactive and subject to availability. Offer cannot be combined with the Single Supplement offer or any other specific offer. In case of cancellation by the guest, fees will be applied according to the T&Cs at time of booking and offer would not be applicable to any new booking in case of postponement of original date.
Non-retroactive offer, subject to availability and cannot be combined with the Flight Credit, Free Single Supplement, On-board Sale, Webinar or Ponant event offers. The price displayed opposite does not take into account the -10% CHRISTMAS offer.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
10/15/2024 - PARISIAN GETAWAY AND LUXE A LA FRANCAISE (3 NIGHTS)
$3,960
Find out more10/17/2024 - COMFORT PACKAGE: NIGHT IN PARIS CDG AIRPORT + TRANSFER HOTEL/AIRPORT
$320
Find out more10/29/2024 - PARISIAN GETAWAY AND LUXE A LA FRANCAISE (3 NIGHTS)
$3,000
Find out more10/29/2024 - COMFORT PACKAGE: TRANSFER AIRPORT/HOTEL + NIGHT IN PARIS CDG AIRPORT
$320
Find out moreEnhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Enjoy an exclusive stay at Le Meurice in Paris, prior your cruise onboard Le Commandant Charcot.
Day 1 - Paris
Meet at Paris airport in the 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).
You will be transferred to the hotel Le Meurice – Dorchester Collection.
Check-in your room.
Diner is at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Days 2 and 3 – Paris
Breakfast at the hotel.
Days are at leisure.
Option: Artist walking tour
As the hotel of astrists and thinkers, you can book in addition a series of walking tours with Le Meurice following in the footsteps of legendary artist in Paris.
Ponant has selected for you three differents paths of artists to choose: Picasso, Monet and Rodin. Theses experiences are proposed with a private guide.
Option: The Chef's Table
You will also have the option to step into a world of surprise through a private entrance and delve into the secrets of the Michelin-starred kitchen at this exclusive table.
Here, Executive Chef Amaury Bouhours will personally guide you through his exquisite menu in an intimate atmosphere, while the kitchen gracefully performs its culinary ballet before your eyes.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4 – Paris
Breakfast at the hotel.
Check-out from your room.
You will be transferred from your hotel to Paris airport terminal, in time for check-in of flight selected by PONANT prior your cruise onboard Le Commandant Charcot
Your hotel:
Discover the luxury and elegance of Le Meurice hotel, an iconic establishment nestled in the heart of Paris. Immerse yourself in a refined ambiance while staying in sumptuous rooms, featuring exquisite furnishings for optimal comfort. Indulge in exceptional cuisine at the Michelin-starred restaurant, where talented chefs create delicious dishes. Located near renowned sites such as the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Gardens, Le Meurice is the perfect place to explore the vibrant city. Enjoy a moment of relaxation in its exclusive spa, where the therapists will provide you with high-quality treatments for a soothing experience. From your first steps in relaxed and luxurious atmosphere of the lobby to the cosy design of your room, you will spend an outstanding stay there.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
Please note:
Contact of your hotel:
Le Meurice – Dorchester Collection
28 Rue de Rivoli,
75001 Paris
FRANCE
Telephone number: +33 1 44 58 10 10
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $3,960
For your serenity, PONANT selects for you an ideally located hotel and organises your transfer to the airport.
Day 1 - Roissy CDG
Meet-and-greet and check-in in Pullman Roissy CDG hotel, from 4:00 pm.
The rest of the day and the evening are at leisure.
Dinner is on your own.
Day 2 - PONANT selected flight for embarkation
Breakfast is on your own.
Group transfer from the hotel to the airport terminal, in time for check-in of flight selected by PONANT.
Your hotel:
The Pullman Roissy CDG hotel is a four stars property located in Roissy. Located at 2 minutes walking from Roissypole, RER and CDGVal station, you will easily be able to join it.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
This programme includes:
This programme does not include:
Please note:
Contact of your hotel:
Hôtel Pullman Roissy CDG 4*
3 Bis Rue de la Haye
93290 Roissy-en-France
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $320
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Enjoy an exclusiv stay at Le Meurice in Paris, after your cruise onboard Le Commandant Charcot.
Day 1 - Paris
Meet at Paris airport in the arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will be transferred to the hotel Le Meurice – Dorchester Collection.
Check-in your room.
Diner is at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Days 2 and 3 – Paris
Breakfast at the hotel.
Your days are at leisure.
Option: Artist walking tour
As the hotel of astrists and thinkers, you can book in addition a series of walking tours with Le Meurice following in the footsteps of legendary artist in Paris.
Ponant has selected for you three differents paths of artists to choose: Picasso, Monet and Rodin. Theses experiences are proposed with a private guide.
Option: The Chef's Table
You will also have the option to step into a world of surprise through a private entrance and delve into the secrets of the Michelin-starred kitchen at this exclusive table.
Here, Executive Chef Amaury Bouhours will personally guide you through his exquisite menu in an intimate atmosphere, while the kitchen gracefully performs its culinary ballet before your eyes.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4 – Paris
Breakfast at the hotel.
Check-out from your room.
You will be transferred from your hotel to Paris airport terminal, in time for check-in of flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel:
Discover the luxury and elegance of Le Meurice hotel, an iconic establishment nestled in the heart of Paris. Immerse yourself in a refined ambiance while staying in sumptuous rooms, featuring exquisite furnishings for optimal comfort. Indulge in exceptional cuisine at the Michelin-starred restaurant, where talented chefs create delicious dishes. Located near renowned sites such as the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Gardens, Le Meurice is the perfect place to explore the vibrant city. Enjoy a moment of relaxation in its exclusive spa, where the therapists will provide you with high-quality treatments for a soothing experience. From your first steps in relaxed and luxurious atmosphere of the lobby to the cosy design of your room, you will spend an outstanding stay there.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
Please note:
Contact of your hotel:
Le Meurice – Dorchester Collection
28 Rue de Rivoli,
75001 Paris
FRANCE
Telephone number: +33 1 44 58 10 10
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $3,000
For your serenity, PONANT organises your transfer and select for you an ideally located hotel.
Day 1 - Disembarkation Day
After landing of your flight selected by PONANT in Paris, meet and greet at the airport and transfer to the Pullman Roissy CDG hotel.
Check-in in your room.
Evening and dinner at leisure.
Day 2 – Roissy CDG
Breakfast on your own followed by check-out.
Your hotel:
The Pullman Roissy CDG hotel is a four stars property located in Roissy. Located at 2 minutes walking from Roissypole, RER and CDGVal station, you will easily be able to join it.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
This programme includes:
This programme does not include:
Please note:
Contact of your hotel:
Pullman Roissy CDG Airport
3 Bis Rue de la Haye
93290 Roissy-en-France
Phone: +33 01 70 03 11 63
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : $320