Cruising Ushuaia / © StudioPONANT-Romain Farge
In early 2028, Ponant’s luxury icebreaker and polar exploration vessel, Le Commandant Charcot, will become the first cruise ship in its category to complete a full circumnavigation of Antarctica, covering nearly 18,000 kilometres of coastline. This incredible expedition will depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, following a westward route to Hobart, Tasmania, before returning to Ushuaia via the eastern coast. The journey honours legendary figures by retracing their routes and visiting significant historical sites.
The Significance of the Expedition
Captains Marchesseau and Garcia reflect on the significance of the voyage. As experts in high-latitude navigation, they designed this unprecedented itinerary. Their expertise ensures maritime safety and enables exploration of Antarctica’s uncharted regions, adding a new chapter to human adventure.
“After sailing the Ross Sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot, I had the privilege of following in the footsteps of explorers Ross, Shackleton, and Amundsen, who made history at the South Pole. I was captivated by the majesty of these polar landscapes, as well as the incredible human adventures etched into them. Today, we want to allow guests to experience the thrill of exploration through an extraordinary circumnavigation of Antarctica,” said Captain Patrick Marchesseau.
Captain Étienne Garcia added, “PONANT EXPLORATIONS’ spirit is about those moments of shared awe as we witness the immense forces of nature at play. As one of the originators of this project and personally involved, I am deeply committed to guiding guests in uncovering the secrets of this new maritime route.”
Observatory Lounge © PONANT-Gilles Trillard
Sommelier © PONANT-Gilles Trillard
The Vessel: Le Commandant Charcot
Le Commandant Charcot is a revolutionary vessel built for polar expeditions, designed to navigate extreme environments with minimal ecological impact.
Design, Capabilities, and Commitment to Sustainability
A commitment to sustainability is central to Le Commandant Charcot’s design. As a luxury hybrid electric cruise ship, it sets a new standard for eco-friendly navigation. Featuring a PC2 polar hull, it handles immense forces of sea ice with ease. The vessel’s hybrid electric engine is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), ensuring it meets strict environmental standards. This allows the ship to glide through delicate polar landscapes without heavy ecological footprints. Onboard laboratories facilitate scientific exploration, collecting valuable samples from water, ice, and air. With its advanced SIMS antenna measuring ice thickness, the ship demonstrates expertise in ice navigation.
Onboard Features and Luxury Accommodations
The ship ensures that every passenger enjoys unparalleled luxury while embarking on thrilling polar expeditions. It accommodates 245 guests in 123 opulent staterooms and suites, offering modern comforts amid breathtaking scenery. Dining options are plentiful, with two lavish restaurants on board. Guests can unwind in the spa, perfect for relaxing after exploring icy expanses.
PONANT plans full Antarctica circumnavigation for 2028 / © StudioPONANT
The Expedition Route
Sailing under the French flag, the vessel departs from Ushuaia, Argentina, and embarks on an exciting westward journey to Hobart, Tasmania.
This unique expedition marks the first complete circumnavigation of Antarctica by a luxury cruise ship and highlights some of the most spectacular natural sights on Earth. Along this route, travellers encounter iconic Antarctic regions like the Bellingshausen and Amundsen seas. The journey promises breathtaking stops, including the Ross Sea, known for being the world’s largest marine protected area
Key waypoints enhance this legendary journey. Charcot Island, covered in ice, and the Drygalski Glacier offer stunning views. Travellers will see Antarctic highlights like the Ross Ice Shelf, Witkins and Getz ice shelves, and Mount Erebus, the only active volcano. The voyage may include East Antarctica’s coastal ice floes and tabular icebergs, with hopes of reaching the French Southern and Antarctic Lands.
Ushuaia and Its Weddell Sea Penguins / © StudioPONANT-Morgane Monneret
Scientific Research and Wildlife Conservation
Le Commandant Charcot is at the forefront of scientific research and environmental protection in Antarctica. The vessel plays a vital role in conserving polar wildlife habitats through its innovative design and mission. Its environmental education programs emphasize conservation during expeditions. By measuring ice thickness, the ship gathers essential data to help protect wildlife habitats. The flexible itinerary ensures that expeditions do not disturb the pristine environments of these polar regions.
The breathtaking Suite de l’Armateur (Shipowner’s Suite) / © PONANT-Gilles Trillard
Experiencing Antarctica: The Traveller’s Perspective
The Commandant Charcot allows travellers to explore Antarctica like famous explorers, visiting remote and untouched areas. Guests brave icy seas and winds while sailing along nearly 18,000 kilometers of coastline, much of which is rarely seen by people. This journey offers a rare and adventurous connection to one of the last wild places on Earth.
Activities and Excursions
Aboard Le Commandant Charcot, guests can explore the polar regions through a variety of exciting activities. From Zodiac outings and kayaking to snowshoe hikes, each offering a different perspective on the dreamlike landscapes. Wildlife lovers can look out for Antarctic petrels, whales, seals, orcas, and various penguin species. Adventurous guests may experience the thrill of a polar plunge, diving into the icy Antarctic waters. Onboard, live music, dance, theatre performances, and educational lectures provide entertainment and enrichment, making every day of the voyage engaging and memorable.
Educational Opportunities
Le Commandant Charcot serves as an educational hub, perfect for curious minds. The vessel is equipped with two laboratories for collecting and analyzing environmental samples, a vital part of the polar expedition. Guests have the chance to learn about maritime safety and the high environmental standards crucial for exploring these unique areas. Experienced captains guide the journey, using their expertise in ice navigation to lead the vessel along uncharted maritime routes. Guests also get to explore the history of polar exploration, learning about the achievements of great explorers while witnessing advancements in marine research, including real-time ice thickness measurements via the onboard SIMS antenna.
Le Commandant Charcot will circumnavigate Antarctica from January to March 2028, departing Ushuaia /
© StudioPONANT-Morgane Monneret
Ponant’s Role in Polar Exploration
Ponant, a leader in luxury travel, is at the forefront of polar exploration with their ship, Le Commandant Charcot. Launched in September 2021, this hybrid electric polar exploration vessel is Ponant’s first luxury icebreaker. By utilizing LNG-powered hybrid engines, Ponant emphasizes sustainable travel, allowing for safe navigation in the challenging polar regions. Le Commandant Charcot’s upcoming journey in January 2028 will mark the first complete circumnavigation of Antarctica by a cruise ship. This voyage is not only a milestone in exploring the frozen expanses but also in promoting environmental research, as the ship’s onboard laboratories will analyze water samples from polar landscapes.
Booking Information
Operated by Ponant Explorations Group, sales for this exclusive voyage will open in December 2025. It represents a sailing dream, promising a blend of thrill and reverence—a unique opportunity to follow in the footsteps of polar explorers while respecting the forces of nature.
