Arctic & Alaska

Encounter with the Last Guardians of the North Pole

13 Days aboard Le Commandant Charcot. From AUD $22,560pp.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details

Overview

In the heart of the Arctic spring, Le Commandant Charcot will take you to explore the spectacular landscapes of western Greenland and experience a rare immersion into Inuit culture. You will sail in Disko Bay, where monumental icebergs drift slowly on icy waters, before reaching the distant village of Kullorsuaq, only accessible by Le Commandant Charcot in this season. There, you will take part in the daily life of the last polar hunters and share moments of unique exchanges, such as telling tales, making kayaks, dog sled trips… The adventure will continue in the heart of Baffin Bay, in the icy immensity of a preserved world.

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Itinerary Highlights

  • Exploration of north-western Greenland: encounter with the Inuit community of Kullorsuaq, the last guardians of the pole and sailing in Disko Bay and ice-covered Baffin Bay.
  • Itinerary co-designed with the polar explorer Nicolas Dubrueil, founder of SEDNA, the consultancy developing this cruise’s unique activity programme.
  • Activities: dog sled trips, snowshoeing, demonstration of traditional Inuit kayaking, polar plunge, snorkelling in a wetsuit among the ice floe, possibility of shore visits in a Zodiac dinghy, etc. Option to book activities with an overnight stay for an additional fee.

Itinerary in Brief

  • Day 1: Embarkation Day - Paris/Nuuk
  • Day 2 to 4: At sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot
  • Day 5 to 9: Kullorsuaq
  • Day 10: Baffin Bay exploration
  • Day 11: Disko Bay
  • Day 12: Baffin Bay exploration
  • Day 13: Disembarkation Day - Nuuk/Paris

This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.

Ship Information

For more information on the Le Commandant Charcot please view the ship page.

View Le Commandant Charcot

Travelling with Eclipse

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Day 1: Embarkation Day - Paris/Nuuk

After arriving in Paris, you will board your flight to Nuuk, which takes approximately five hours. Upon arrival, you will transfer to the pier for embarkation between 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., followed by the vessel’s departure at 6:00 p.m. to begin your Arctic expedition.

When Erik Le Rouge, the exiled Norse chief, landed on the coast of Nuuk, he found a fertile and welcoming land dotted with fjords. He settled there with a group of his former countrymen, and the Norse remained the principal inhabitants until, over a period of 500 years, their population declined and gave way to the Inuit. Nuuk is situated at the mouth of one of the largest networks of fjords in the world, where the waters never freeze. The town spreads gently out towards the Davis Strait and enjoys an historic center that is particularly rich in national heritage. The vivid reds, blues, greens and yellows of the houses are a lively contrast to the somber waters of Greenland and serve to lift the spirits of the locals during the Winter months.

Dinner included.

Day 2 to 4: At sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot

Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts. Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 5 to 9: Kullorsuaq

Well beyond the Arctic Circle, in the majestic landscapes of Greenland’s Northwest, you will find the village of Kullorsuaq, the last bastion of Greenland’s traditional hunters. Here is where you will find Greenland’s true character… Vast mineral expanses, sumptuous mountains, impressive glaciers and, above all, the local population which still lives off fishing and seal or bear hunting. Hospitality and respect for nature are essential elements in the daily lives of these men, who live an austere life. When we drop anchor in this remote part of the world, set off to discover these friendly people who are also talented craftsmen, deftly sewing the furs and skins of marine mammals. This will be a unique and authentic experience.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 10: Baffin Bay exploration

In the icy waters of Baffin Bay, you will sail into the heart of the scattered sea floe. You will be captivated by icebergs in dreamlike shapes as your ship takes you into the ice of the Far North. Everything comes in shades of white here and, if you watch closely, you may get a glimpse of the lord of this kingdom, the polar bear. This fascinating animal finds its food in the heart of the ice, so this is where you have more chances of spotting it. The polar light gives a shine to the ice floe that you sail along as you explore Baffin Bay, leaving you with memories of unforgettable moments.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 11: Disko Bay

To the east of Baffin Bay, discover Disko Bay, scattered with countless icebergs produced by the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From your ship, admire the majestic ballet of these ice giants as they slowly drift across the dark waters. This site is a natural marvel of Greenland, and is also renowned as an observation point for the region’s many humpback whales. The encounters with wild fauna and stunning landscapes in the heart of this spectacular and fragile nature will be pure moments of wonder for you.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 12: Baffin Bay exploration

In the icy waters of Baffin Bay, you will sail into the heart of the scattered sea floe. You will be captivated by icebergs in dreamlike shapes as your ship takes you into the ice of the Far North. Everything comes in shades of white here and, if you watch closely, you may get a glimpse of the lord of this kingdom, the polar bear. This fascinating animal finds its food in the heart of the ice, so this is where you have more chances of spotting it. The polar light gives a shine to the ice floe that you sail along as you explore Baffin Bay, leaving you with memories of unforgettable moments.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 13: Disembarkation Day - Nuuk/Paris

When Erik Le Rouge, the exiled Norse chief, landed on the coast of Nuuk, he found a fertile and welcoming land dotted with fjords. He settled there with a group of his former countrymen, and the Norse remained the principal inhabitants until, over a period of 500 years, their population declined and gave way to the Inuit. Nuuk is situated at the mouth of one of the largest networks of fjords in the world, where the waters never freeze. The town spreads gently out towards the Davis Strait and enjoys an historic center that is particularly rich in national heritage. The vivid reds, blues, greens and yellows of the houses are a lively contrast to the somber waters of Greenland and serve to lift the spirits of the locals during the Winter months.

After breakfast, you will disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight to Paris.

This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.

Breakfast included.

Next Departure Date: 04 Apr 2027
DatesCabinFromAdditional
04 Apr 2027 - 16 Apr 2027 AUD$22560ppExpand to view prices
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6AUD$22560ppContact us
Prestige Stateroom Deck 7AUD$22900ppContact us
Prestige Stateroom Deck 8AUD$23250ppContact us
Deluxe Suite Deck 6AUD$23770ppContact us
Deluxe Suite Deck 7AUD$24640ppContact us
Deluxe Suite Deck 8AUD$25320ppContact us
Prestige Suite Deck 7AUD$31200ppContact us
Prestige Suite Deck 8AUD$32060ppContact us
Grand Prestige Suite Deck 6AUD$32940ppContact us
Privilege Suite Deck 8AUD$34660ppContact us
Duplex Suite Deck 6AUD$45890ppContact us
Owner's SuiteAUD$74140ppContact us

**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply

Cabin Details

Prestige Stateroom Deck 6

20 metres-squared, private balcony, private bathroom with shower and French bath products, individually-controlled air conditioning, minibar, television, iPod dock, safety deposit box, dressing table with hair dryer, direct line telephone, 110V American / 220V European outlets, WiFi internet access

Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Prestige Stateroom Deck 7

20 metres-squared, private balcony, private bathroom with shower and French bath products, individually-controlled air conditioning, minibar, television, iPod dock, safety deposit box, dressing table with hair dryer, direct line telephone, 110V American / 220V European outlets, WiFi internet access

Prestige Stateroom Deck 7
Prestige Stateroom Deck 7
Prestige Stateroom Deck 8

20 metres-squared, private balcony, private bathroom with shower and French bath products, individually-controlled air conditioning, minibar, television, iPod dock, safety deposit box, dressing table with hair dryer, direct line telephone, 110V American / 220V European outlets, WiFi internet access

Prestige Stateroom Deck 8
Prestige Stateroom Deck 8
Deluxe Suite Deck 6

28 metres-squared, private balcony, private bathroom with shower and French bath products, individually-controlled air conditioning, minibar, television, iPod dock, safety deposit box, dressing table with hair dryer, direct line telephone, 110V American / 220V European outlets, WiFi internet access

Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Deluxe Suite Deck 7

28 metres-squared, private balcony, private bathroom with shower and French bath products, individually-controlled air conditioning, minibar, television, iPod dock, safety deposit box, dressing table with hair dryer, direct line telephone, 110V American / 220V European outlets, WiFi internet access

Deluxe Suite Deck 7
Deluxe Suite Deck 7
Deluxe Suite Deck 8

28 metres-squared, private balcony, private bathroom with shower and French bath products, individually-controlled air conditioning, minibar, television, iPod dock, safety deposit box, dressing table with hair dryer, direct line telephone, 110V American / 220V European outlets, WiFi internet access

Deluxe Suite Deck 8
Deluxe Suite Deck 8
Prestige Suite Deck 7

40 metres-squared, private balcony, private bathroom with 2 showers and French bath products, individually-controlled air conditioning, minibar, television, iPod dock, safety deposit box, dressing table with hair dryer, direct line telephone, 110V American / 220V European outlets, WiFi internet access

Prestige Suite Deck 7
Prestige Suite Deck 7
Prestige Suite Deck 8

40 metres-squared, private balcony, private bathroom with 2 showers and French bath products, individually-controlled air conditioning, minibar, television, iPod dock, safety deposit box, dressing table with hair dryer, direct line telephone, 110V American / 220V European outlets, WiFi internet access

Prestige Suite Deck 8
Prestige Suite Deck 8
Privilege Suite Deck 8

48 metres-squared, private balcony, private bathroom with shower and bathtub, butler service, individually-controlled air conditioning, minibar, television, iPod dock, safety deposit box, French bath products, dressing table with hair dryer, direct line telephone, 110V American / 220V European sockets, WiFi internet access

Privilege Suite Deck 8
Privilege Suite Deck 8
Grand Prestige Suite Deck 6

42 metres-squared, private balcony, private bathroom with shower and bathtub, butler service, individually-controlled air conditioning, minibar, television, iPod dock, safety deposit box, French bath products, dressing table with hair dryer, direct line telephone, 110V American / 220V European sockets, WiFi internet access

Grand Prestige Suite Deck 6
Grand Prestige Suite Deck 6
Duplex Suite Deck 6

48 metres-squared, private balcony, jacuzzi, private bathroom with shower and bathtub, butler, individually-controlled air conditioning, minibar, television, iPod dock, safety deposit box, French bath products, dressing table with hair dryer, direct line telephone, 110V American / 220V European sockets, WiFi internet access

Duplex Suite Deck 6
Duplex Suite Deck 6
Owner's Suite

114 metres-squared, private balcony with jacuzzi, private bathroom with shower and bathtub, butler service, individually-controlled air conditioning, minibar, television, iPod docks, safety deposit box, French bath products, dressing table with hair dryer, direct line telephone, 110V American / 220V European outlets, WiFi internet access

Owner's Suite
Owner's Suite

Le Commandant Charcot Deckplan

Le Commandant Charcot deck plan

Specifications

  • Length: 150m
  • Width: 28m
  • Draught: 10
  • Ice Class: PC2
  • Propulsion: LNG and Hybrid Electric
  • Shipyard: VARD
  • Classification: Bureau Veritas
  • Flag: French
  • Crew Members: 215
  • Passengers: 245
  • Guest capacity Antarctica: 200 pax
  • Onboard Expedition Zodiac: 16
  • Staterooms and Suites: 123 (including 31 suites)
  • Panoramic Restaurant: 1
  • Grill Restaurant: 1
  • Swimming Pools: 2 (indoor pool and winter garden, outdoor pool)
  • Spa, Sauna, Fitness Room: 1

What's included?

  • Economy class flight from Paris to Nuuk.
  • Economy class flight from Nuuk to Paris.
  • Transfer mentioned in the programme.
  • English-speaking assistance.
  • Accommodation in your selected stateroom
  • Landings and zodiac outings
  • A full meal plan
  • Open Bar: beginning with boarding, and during the duration of the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, Charles Heidsieck champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served on request and at any time of the day. Certain premium alcoholic beverages on the menu are not included in the Open Bar.
  • Free Wi-Fi internet access 24 hours a day
  • Port taxes

What's not?

  • Personal expenses.
  • Any other service not mentioned in the programme.

Important notes and additional information

This cruise is in partnership with SEDNA Exploration. Please note there will be optional activities as per below:

 

Included but advance booking required:

  • Camp Qilalukat: Demonstration of traditional Greenlandic kayaking practices and snorkelling activities around a marine hunting camp. Introduction to kayaking, harpoon use, and snorkelling.
    This activity requires a dog sled ride of more than 30 minutes from the ship. Please note that for snorkelling, an ECG (electrocardiogram) provided by your general practitioner will be required.
  • Camp Siku (“Ice”): Life on the ice (ice fishing and cultural sharing with fishermen) and discovery of traditional Greenlandic life on the pack ice. Experience halibut and cod fishing, seal observation, and explanations of Greenlandic techniques. Start your activity directly from the ship and travel by dog sled to various observation points with your Greenlandic guide and musher.
  • Camp Explorer : Introduction to autonomous polar expedition travel techniques using skis and pulkas, on the pack ice and in the mountains. After reaching the Narsuarq Peninsula by dog sled or snowmobile (approximately 20 minutes), enjoy a ski excursion with a pulka (approximately 2 hours) and take in breathtaking views over the ice desert.
  • Science Activities (science in service of the poles): After a dog sled or snowmobile ride of approximately 20 minutes, introduction to and participation in a scientific research camp.
  • Greenlandic Ice Fishing (Aalisartoq): What better place than the Arctic’s frozen regions to practice ice fishing? Assisted by a local guide, you will search for the ideal spot on the pack ice or frozen lakes to drill your hole and attempt to catch halibut using an ancestral method. This activity takes place near your ship.
  • Contemplative Dog Sled Experience: Aboard a qamutit, a traditional Greenlandic dog sled rooted in a 6,000-year-old tradition, enjoy an unforgettable ride through vast and pristine landscapes. A gentle and authentic polar immersion inviting contemplation.

 

Among the optional paid activities:

  • One night in a traditional Inuit tent (capacity 4 people) at the sacred site of the Nunanutaat. After a long dog sled journey (approximately 4–5 hours each way), embark on this unique adventure to reach the “unexplored lands” or “lands that did not exist,” formed by glacial retreat. Spend the night in a mystical and captivating atmosphere in a place filled with spirits for the Inuit. Share a Greenlandic meal and enjoy convivial moments listening to hunters tell their captivating stories.
    This activity requires excellent physical health (night temperatures may drop to -30°C, with intense wind chill on the dog sled).
  • One night in a modern tent (capacity 2 people) on the pack ice near Camp Explorer, including an expedition-style meal in tribute to Arctic pioneers. After reaching the Narsuarq Peninsula by dog sled or snowmobile (approximately 20 minutes), enjoy skiing with a pulka (approximately 2 hours) and spend the night in a modern tent.
    This activity requires good skiing ability and excellent physical condition (night temperatures may drop to -30°C).
  • One night in a traditional tent (capacity 4 people) on the pack ice near Camp Qilalukat. Share a Greenlandic meal and enjoy convivial moments. Practice traditional Greenlandic kayaking and snorkelling activities around a marine hunting camp.
    This activity requires a dog sled ride from the ship. For snorkelling, an ECG provided by your general practitioner will be required. Excellent physical health is necessary (night temperatures may drop to -30°C).
  • One night in the village of Kullorsuaq (single bed) inside a Greenlandic home with a local Greenlandic meal. After visiting the village, you will spend part of the evening with residents and enjoy a unique moment of conviviality through authentic exchanges.
    This activity may require travel by snowmobile or dog sled from the ship. The village visit involves walking on sloped and icy terrain.
  • One night in a Science Camp accompanied by passionate scientists, where you will take part in engaging discussions on marine biology, glaciology, and climatology. Spend the night in a modern tent with an expedition-style meal for full immersion on the pack ice. This activity requires approximately 20 minutes of travel by dog sled or snowmobile from the ship and excellent physical health (night temperatures may drop to -30°C).

Price Assurance

At Eclipse Travel, our expert destination knowledge and decades of travel planning experience come at no extra cost to you. While many think booking through a tour operator is more expensive than planning a trip independently, that’s not the case. We’re paid by our travel partners—such as hotels, activity operators, and cruise providers—via commissions, not by our clients.

Our team negotiates the best rates for you and ensures you receive unbiased advice, with no preference for any particular supplier. In fact, where we secure higher commissions, we often pass the savings on to you, giving us a competitive price edge.

Additionally, we lock in exchange rates at the time of your deposit, ensuring no surprise costs when it’s time for final payment. You can rest easy knowing we’ll handle the details with our suppliers. The only exceptions are national park fee increases or fuel surcharges imposed after your booking, though these are rare.

Take advantage of our team’s expertise and let us help you plan the perfect holiday—hassle-free!

Destination: Arctic

Viking history, Inuit villages and an abundance of wildlife are just some of the wonders you’ll discover in the Arctic. You’ll be amazed by the natural beauty that surrounds you. Search for Polar Bears while cruising through breathtaking fjords or around the nature lovers dream, Spitsbergen.

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Encounter with the Last Guardians of the North Pole

13 Days aboard Le Commandant Charcot. From AUD $22,560pp.