CABINS ON LE COMMANDANT-CHARCOT
On board there are just 135 staterooms with balconies and outside views to savour a sundowner whilst keeping an eager eye out for Polar birds flying overhead. All staterooms feature private balconies, and those wishing to upgrade will find a variety of suite categories, some with their own terraces and jacuzzis.
DINING
Guests will enjoy fine dining in the vessel's two restaurants; a gastronomic restaurant serving French and international haute cuisine, as well as more informal dining experience on offer in the grill restaurant. Various lounge areas and a tearoom provide refreshments throughout the day, and the bar offers a programme of live music on certain evenings.
AMENITIES
Relax in the indoor pool surrounded by its winter garden. Enjoy the well-being area with sauna and Snow Room, watching icebergs float by. There is also a heated outdoor pool. Le Commandant-Charcot also showcases a number of unique and pioneering experiences, offering guests the opportunity to see Antarctica from a different perspective by Hovercraft, hot air balloon or snowmobile.
WHY WE LIKE IT
This luxury icebreaker is the first of its kind, her on-board facilities matching that of a world class hotel, with incredible opportunities for guests such as a tethered hot air balloon and polar diving - unprecedented in all current ships on the market. Activity-focused elements of the trip, include ski-dooing, kayaking and hovercraft rides, while hands-on research projects offer guests the opportunity to assist scientists in their research on specific polar patterns.
ENVIRONMENT
Le Commandant-Charcot has been designed with the environment in mind, with hybrid propulsion powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and electric generators, helping to minimise the environmental impact of travel to the furthest latitudes.
PONANT ACTIVITIES
Hovercraft:
The vessel's specially designed hovercraft, which operate as well on land as they do on sea, will take you to the most hard-to-reach places on earth. Their unique propulsion system will ensure that you can explore magnificent ice floes in complete safety. **please note that the hovercrafts are proposed and currently in the design stages.
Hot air balloon: limited places available
Take a once in a lifetime flight in a tethered hot air balloon above the skies of Antarctica to admire the breathtaking and infinite panoramas. This will also be an opportunity to observe the ship at work in the vastness of its environment.
Participative science:
Le Commandant-Charcot is fitted with the most modern oceanographic equipment and all the facilities necessary to accompany a scientific team in its research. Guided by the on-board naturalists and a team of scientists, you will have the opportunity to assist scientists set up a station on the ice floe and participate in hands-on research activities.
Polar diving*: Optional *This activity is reserved for experienced divers.
Diving in polar waters allows for an exceptional chance to immerse yourself in an environment like no other, and to see marine animals in their natural habitat. Whether alongside an iceberg or a drop-off in search of anemone, soft coral or giant isopods, diving will provide you with a remarkable opportunity to discover this little-known world.
Kayaking: limited places available
Glide on crystal waters, observing ice floes from an entirely different perspective and gaining even closer encounters with Polar wildlife.
Snowmobiles:
Accompanied by professional guides you will take to the snow on comfortable, ultra-modern electric snowmobiles, enjoying an exhilarating ride through some of the most dazzling landscapes in the Polar regions.
Walking & hiking:
Disembark to discover breathtaking landscapes, wildlife havens and intriguing historical sites, accompanied by experienced naturalist guides. Options are available to suit all abilities and range from gentle strolls to more challenging adventures.
