Ponant Explorations’ luxury icebreaker is about to achieve a new world first. In an unprecedented feat for a cruise ship, Le Commandant Charcot will embark on a full circumnavigation of the White Continent, between January and March 2028, departing from Ushuaia.
Le Commandant Charcot will journey through remote, uncharted regions and navigate nearly 18,000 kilometers of coastline along the frozen continent— larger than Europe. The circumnavigation of Antarctica is a polar expedition unlike any before.
Specifically designed for expeditions in extreme environments, Le Commandant Charcot features a PC2 polar hull, allowing her to navigate polar regions while minimizing her environmental impact thanks to her hybrid electric engine powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Sailing under the French flag, she meets the highest maritime safety and environmental standards. Her experienced crew is specially trained for ice navigation.
Le Commandant Charcot will set sail in January 2028, from Ushuaia (Argentina) westward to reach Hobart (Tasmania) in 30 days. After a two-day stopover, she will then depart again towards her starting point, this time following the eastern coast of Antarctica over 34 days.
This itinerary was designed by Captains Etienne Garcia and Patrick Marchesseau. Their expertise in ice navigation at the highest latitudes, gained while commanding ships of Ponant Explorations fleet, has made this new sailing dream a reality. They will jointly command Le Commandant Charcot during this exclusive voyage.
