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DestinationsAntarcticaLe Commandant Charcot

Le Commandant Charcot

Overview of the Le Commandant Charcot

The Le Commandant Charcot is a luxury polar exploration ice-breaker which carries 245 passengers and welcomes you in an intimate and refined atmosphere. Beyond the luxurious setting, the Charcot offers a number of unique activities: participative Science, Hovercraft, Hot Air Balloons, Kayaking, Ice Fishing, Dog Sledding, Snowmobiles and Polar Diving.

Trip Features
  • 12-28 Days
  • Starting at $27,290 per person
  • PHYSICAL RATING
    Moderate
  • ACTIVITIES
    Hiking, Kayaking, Diving
  • HIGHLIGHTS
    Glaciers, Penguins, Icebergs

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A penguin walks on snow in front of a large, docked ship named "Le Commandant Charcot." The ship's dark blue hull and white upper structure contrast with the snowy landscape and bright sky, emphasizing the stark and cold environment.
A large white and blue ship navigates through icy waters, breaking through scattered ice floes. The surrounding landscape is covered in snow and ice, with patches of dark water visible. The ship features a helipad on its deck.
A solitary cruise ship navigates calm, reflective waters surrounded by a dramatic, snow-covered landscape. Overcast skies cast a gray hue over the tranquil scene, with icy mountains peeking through the clouds on either side of the ship.
Two people in a small inflatable boat navigate through cold waters near large icebergs and snow-covered mountains under a cloudy sky. The serene Arctic landscape is dominated by white and blue hues, highlighting the rugged and pristine environment.
A whale's tail rises above the water, dripping with seawater, against a backdrop of icy, snowy landscape. In the distance, a group of people in red parkas observe from small boats.
A ship seen from behind breaks through a vast expanse of ice, creating a narrow, jagged path in the otherwise unbroken icy surface. The sky is clear and meets the horizon, giving a sense of isolation and tranquility.
A large ship named "Le Commandant Charcot" is stationed on an ice-covered sea. Several people in bright, colorful gear are standing on the ice near the ship's bow. The scene appears cold and remote, with an overcast sky.
A person wearing orange snow gear and a backpack jumps joyfully in the air on a snowy landscape. In the background, a large cruise ship is moored amidst the ice and snow, with a group of people walking near the ship. The sky is partly cloudy.
A scenic view shows a large cruise ship anchored in a calm, icy bay surrounded by snow-dusted, mountainous terrain. Two hikers are seen ascending the rocky path in the foreground, wearing bright clothing. The sky is mostly clear with some clouds.
A group of people in red kayaks paddle in the calm blue waters of a polar region. Large icebergs float in the background under a clear blue sky. The landscape is serene and the water reflects the distant ice formations.
An emperor penguin stands on a snowy surface while a seal lies in the background. The landscape is flat and covered in snow, with light-colored sky and distant ice formations visible.
A large cruise ship sails through calm waters near a snow-covered mountainous landscape. The background features icebergs and snowy cliffs with reflections on the water, creating a serene and picturesque scene.
A large colony of penguins gathers on a rocky beach with snow-capped mountains and a glacier in the background. The ocean waves gently crash onto the shore in the foreground under a clear blue sky.
A full moon rises over a serene arctic landscape with towering snow-covered mountains reflected in the calm, icy waters below. The sky is a gradient of blue and orange hues, with scattered clouds adding texture to the scene. Floating icebergs dot the water's surface.
A massive ice shelf bathed in the warm hues of sunrise or sunset, with sunlight casting a golden glow on the icy cliffs. The calm, reflective water in the foreground enhances the serene and majestic atmosphere of this Arctic landscape.
A large group of penguins with distinctive orange beaks and black and white plumage are swimming in the turquoise sea. The penguins appear to be in motion, creating waves as they move. The water has a few gentle ripples in the background.
Eight people in orange jackets walk along a snowy slope with icebergs floating in the water and a large ship in the distance. The scene is bright and the sky is clear.
A group of people bundled in colorful jackets stands on the deck of a ship, surrounded by icy water and large icebergs. The sky is overcast, and the landscape is predominantly white and grey with the ship's deck providing a vivid contrast.

Le Commandant Charcot Itineraries

With its hybrid propulsion combining liquefied natural gas (LNG) and electric generators, Le Commandant Charcot has been designed to minimize the environmental impact of travel to the furthest latitudes.

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Day 1 arrive santiago, Chile
Day 2 flight santiago / ushuaia, argentina – Embark
Days 3-4 Drake Passage
Day 5 North Antarctic Peninsula
Days 6-11 Weddell Sea Exploration
Days 12-13 Drake Passage
Day 14 Ushuaia – Disembark – flight ushuaia /santiago
Day 1 arrive santiago, Chile
Day 2 flight santiago / ushuaia, argentina – Embark
Days 3-4 Drake Passage
Day 5 Crossing the Antarctic Circle & THE GULLET
Days 6-7 Expedition to Charcot Island
Day 8 Bellinghausen Sea
Day 9 AT SEA
Day 10 Marguerite Bay
Day 11 Pourquoi Pas Island
Days 12-13 Antarctic Peninsula
Days 14-15 Drake Passage
Day 16 Ushuaia – Disembark
Day 1 arrive santiago, Chile
Day 2 flight santiago / ushuaia, argentina – Embark
Days 3-4 Crossing the Drake Passage
Day 5 Crossing the Antarctic Circle
Day 6 Expedition to Charcot Island
Day 7-9 Bellingshausen Sea
Day 10 Amundsen Sea
Days 11-17 Marie Byrd Land Exploration
Day 18 Crossing the International Date Line
Days 19 AT SEA
Days 20-23 The Ross Sea Exploration
Day 24 BALLENY ISLANDS
DayS 25-26 At Sea
Day 27 MACQUARIE Island
DayS 28-30 AT SEA
Day 31 HOBART, TASMANIA – DISEMBARK
Day 1 hobart, tasmania – Embark
Days 2-5 At Sea
Days 6-10 Adélie Land & magnetic south pole
Days 11-12 WILKES Land
DaY 13 SAILING ALONG SHACKLETON ICE SHELF
Days 14-16 QUEEN MARY LAND
DayS 17-19 AT SEA
DayS 20-21 FRENCH SOUTHERN & ANTARCTIC LANDS
Day 22 AT SEA
Day 23 FRENCH SOUTHERN & ANTARCTIC LANDS
DayS 24-28 AT SEA
Day 29 CAPE TOWN – DISEMBARK

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More About the Le Commandant Charcot

Le Commandant Charcot sails under the French flag, has a polar ice class rating of PC2 and travels at a cruising speed of 15 knots. Her hybrid propulsion combining liquefied natural gas (LNG) and electric generators, Le Commandant Charcot has been designed to minimize the environmental impact of travel to the furthest latitudes.

A sleek cruise ship deck featuring a curved pool and adjacent lounge area with white chairs and round tables. The ship overlooks an expansive icy landscape with snow-covered mountains and an overcast sky in the distance.
Aerial view of the upper deck of a ship, featuring an outdoor seating area with numerous chairs, tables, and a small bar. The deck is surrounded by a glass barrier and overlooks an expanse of water. The setting appears orderly and prepared for guests.
A person photographs another on the deck of a yacht with modern outdoor furniture, including a small table with cups and a teapot. The scene overlooks an ocean under a clear blue sky, creating a serene and luxurious ambiance.
Outdoor seating area on a deck of a ship with white chairs and blue tables, overlooking a clear blue ocean. Glass barriers surround the seating area for protection, and the sky is clear above.
A couple, dressed in winter jackets, walks hand-in-hand along an outdoor passageway aboard a ship. The ocean is visible in the background, and their reflection is seen in the glass windows on the left.
A spacious, elegant restaurant with large windows offering panoramic ocean views. It features modern decor with light gray tones, cushioned chairs, and neatly set white-clothed tables. The ceiling has a distinctive curved design, complementing the overall aesthetic.
A modern restaurant interior featuring round tables with white tablecloths and gray chairs. The ceiling has geometric lights, and a mirrored column stands centrally. Wooden slatted dividers separate the room, and place settings are elegantly arranged on each table.
A modern lounge with plush seating, soft neutral tones, and large windows offering expansive views of a snowy landscape. The space is illuminated by natural light from skylights and features contemporary decor, including standing and table lamps.
A modern living room with light grey sofas and armchairs surrounding a glass coffee table. The back wall has built-in shelves with books and decorative items, as well as black-and-white framed photos. The room has ambient lighting and a wooden ceiling.
A modern indoor swimming pool with clear blue water is seen under a large glass ceiling. Sunlight streams in, illuminating the area. Poolside lounge chairs are arranged neatly along one side, creating a perfect relaxation spot.
A modern indoor swimming pool with blue water, surrounded by a few beige lounge chairs and white towels. The space features a large skylight that allows natural light to flood the area. On the back wall, there are three framed abstract artworks.
A woman wrapped in a towel relaxes on wooden benches in a modern sauna with large windows offering an ocean view. Sunlight streams in, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. A bed of hot stones is visible in the foreground.
A modern fitness room with large windows offering an ocean view. The room features treadmills, stationary bikes, and other exercise equipment. There is also a glass shower enclosure. The space has a minimalistic design with wood and metal elements.
The image shows a scenic view from the deck of a ship cruising through an icy region at sunset. The sun hangs low over a vast, snow-covered landscape with patches of open water. A flag flutters at the rear of the deck, and the area is bathed in soft golden light.
A modern retail store interior with light wood finishes. Numerous products are neatly displayed on shelves; clothing on racks, bags, skincare items, and accessories. A cashier stands behind a curved counter on the right. The space is well-lit and organized.
A hotel front desk area with curved, modern design. A staff member is on the phone behind the desk, which is illuminated by overhead lights. The background includes a digital screen and doors. The space has a clean, contemporary feel with soft lighting.
A large cruise ship navigates icy waters surrounded by floating icebergs under a cloudy sky. In the foreground, two people in yellow and red clothing kayak through the partially frozen sea.
Ship Highlights
  • Size/Type
    492 ft.
  • Guest Capacity
    245
  • Features
    5 Passenger Decks
    High-Tech Lecture Theater
    Gastronomic Restaurant & Grill Restaurant
    Indoor & Outdoor Swimming Pool
    Winter Garden Conservatory
    Main & Panoramic Lounge
    Wellness Spa w/ Gym
    Sauna & Snow Room
    Hair & Nail Salon
    16 Zodiacs
View Deckplan

Cabin Details

On board, there are 135 suites and staterooms, ranging in size from 20 to 115 m, providing warm, understated settings that look out onto the outside world, each with a private balcony or terrace.

A modern hotel room features a large bed with white linens, gray and blue pillows, and a gray throw blanket. A curved couch is positioned next to a small round table with a turquoise glass and a magazine. The room has a large window with sheer and heavy curtains.
Modern bathroom with wooden paneling, a circular mirror with built-in lighting, a rectangular black sink on a wooden vanity with storage space underneath holding folded towels. The bathroom features glass doors reflecting additional fixtures.

Le Commandant Charcot – Ponant

Prestige Stateroom

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Modern hotel room with a neatly made bed featuring white linens and a gray throw blanket. The room has wooden accents, a flat-screen TV, a small round table with books, and a view of the hallway leading to a wooden door. A glass-walled shower is visible in the bathroom area.

Le Commandant Charcot – Ponant

Deluxe Suite

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A cozy cruise ship cabin with a large bed, decorated in neutral tones and blue accents, featuring two large windows revealing an ocean view. The room has light wooden walls, floor-to-ceiling curtains, a small sitting area with two chairs, and a lamp.

Le Commandant Charcot – Ponant

Prestige Suite

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A cozy cruise ship cabin with a large bed, decorated in neutral tones and blue accents, featuring two large windows revealing an ocean view. The room has light wooden walls, floor-to-ceiling curtains, a small sitting area with two chairs, and a lamp.
A modern changing room with wooden lockers, each with hanging space and a robe. A cushioned bench sits in the center of the room on a carpeted floor, and recessed lighting illuminates the space. A mirror is mounted on one wall.
A modern bathroom features a glass-enclosed shower on the left with dark gray tiles. Next to it is a wooden vanity with a black countertop, two sinks, and wall-mounted faucets. An oval, backlit mirror hangs above, and neatly folded white towels are stored below.

Le Commandant Charcot – Ponant

Grand Prestige Suite

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Modern hotel room with a neatly made bed featuring white linens and a gray throw blanket. The room has wooden accents, a flat-screen TV, a small round table with books, and a view of the hallway leading to a wooden door. A glass-walled shower is visible in the bathroom area.

Le Commandant Charcot – Ponant

Privilege Suite

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A modern living room with wooden walls features a cozy setup including two grey armchairs, a round wooden table with a magazine, a floor lamp, and a fireplace. A large mirror behind the seating area reflects the room, enhancing the sense of space.
A cozy nook under a modern wooden staircase features a small couch with light beige cushions and dark throw pillows against a light wood paneled wall. A contemporary table lamp with a loop handle and an open book are placed on a dark wooden platform beside the couch.
A modern bathroom with a large white bathtub, wall-mounted shampoo and conditioner dispensers, a rectangular mirror, and minimalist fixtures. The walls are clad in white tiles with wood accents, and a folded white towel hangs on the bathtub's edge.
A modern, well-lit living and dining area with wooden walls and a sleek design. The dining area features a round table with white chairs and a decorative centerpiece. The living area has a couch, lamps, wall art, and large windows offering a scenic view.
A modern bedroom features a large window offering an ocean view. The room includes a bed with white and gray bedding, a plush armchair, and a framed picture on a light wood-paneled wall. Light curtains frame the window, and the decor is minimalist and serene.

Le Commandant Charcot – Ponant

Duplex Suite

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Modern living area featuring light wooden surfaces, a cozy electric fireplace beneath a wall-mounted TV, and comfortable beige sofas paired with blue armchairs. Adjacent dining area includes a table with white chairs and a contemporary chandelier. The space is bright and inviting.
A man and woman sit on a deck, facing the ocean. The woman holds a mug, and the man is looking out to sea. Both are dressed warmly. The table in front of them has a camera, pastries, and a beverage. The sky is clear, and the ocean is calm.

Le Commandant Charcot – Ponant

Owner’s Suite

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TRIP FAQs

We have so much to share with you! How does this all work? Start with the frequently asked questions below, and if you want to talk to us directly, simply reach out by phone or form.

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You have the flexibility to choose your own travel dates on most of our trips. Certain trips, such as cruises, have fixed schedules. Availability on these trips is always changing so please contact us with your preferred travel time and we can find the perfect itinerary for you.

The first step is to get in touch with a Southern Explorations travel planner for date availability and information on activities, accommodations and other travel aspirations you may have. Give us a call at 1.877.784.5400, fill out this form or email info@southernexplorations.com.

Yes! All of our posted itineraries can be considered a starting point and were happy to tailor a trip to your exact desires. There may be some elements of a trip, such as a cruise or all-inclusive lodge stay, that cannot be modified but we can always adjust the tours around those components.

We provide full service tours so in general our trips include all guided activities with professional English-speaking guides, accommodations, transportation, airport transfers, entrance fees and permits, select meals, and pre-departure services. You will be responsible for international airfare while we will book all in-country airfare. Contact one of our expert travel planners for even more details on this specific tour.

We have more detailed information about each destination in the Plan Your Trip section of this website. Our team of friendly travel planners is also available to walk you through various options and to work with you on the perfect trip!

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Deanna and the entire team were very kind, patient, and accommodating. Id highly recommend them to arrange your Antarctica trip as they source the best itineraries and operators – period.

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