Head for 90 degrees North! Since the 16th century, the greatest expeditions have repeatedly attempted to reach the North Pole. This mythical geographic point inspires and attracts as much as it fascinates\emdash drawing dreamers and conquerors alike, all in search of the other side of the world. Following in the wake of explorers like Frederick Cook, Robert Edwin Peary, and Roald Amundsen, among the many who pursued this elusive goal, you'll be among the few who attempt to reach this near-unattainable point, some 700 kilometres from the nearest land. Swept by winds and currents, the drifting ice floe presents a constant challenge, and your ship's Captain will manoeuvre with great care in the effort to reach the northernmost point on Earth. Departing from Spitsbergen, you will sail north into the waters at the edge of the world\emdash toward landscapes that shift with the ice and skies alive with Arctic light. Here, nature reigns supreme, home to extraordinary wildlife: polar bears, seals, and various species of whales inhabit these icy waters. As you journey toward the North Pole, the Holy Grail of polar exploration, you may have the rare opportunity to witness them in their natural realm.
Breakfast: 15
Lunch: 14
Dinner: 15
Expedition Crew
Naturalist(s)
Le Commandant Charcot
Zodiac
16 nights premium boat
Relaxed
Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.
Fly from Paris to Longyearbyen, ready for embarkation aboard the luxurious Commandant Charcot. Longyearbyen is the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, located on Svalbard's main island and is the northernmost territorial capital on Earth. With winter temperatures dropping below 40°C, the landscapes of this mining town are simply breathtaking. The glaciers, the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the untouched natural surrounds, give the feeling that you're in completely unexplored territory. Embarkation will commence at approximately 4 p.m. and the ship will set sail in the early evening, around 6 p.m.
Grade: Premium Boat
Spitsbergen is the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, its name meaning pointed mountains, is the last piece of land before the Arctic ice floe. Aboard your ship, you will sail along the extremely spectacular coastline of this icy land. Between millennial glaciers and rugged mountains, you will discover a jagged coastline, hollowed-out by fjords. A unique setting and a refuge to an incredibly rich birdlife, you will have the opportunity to take many fabulous photographs from the deck of your ship.
Enjoy the unique experience of sailing to the heart of the ice floe, a vast expanse of pure, immaculate ice.
The landscapes are constantly changing, shifting from a smooth, flat wilderness to a chaos of ice, then to channels of open water. Your ship will sail along these naturally open channels and through the areas where the frozen layer is thinnest, offering you the chance to experience magical maritime moments in the midst of drifting sea ice.
You will also have the opportunity to spot some of the Arctic wildlife, dependent on the ice and sea conditions.
Perfect your photographic skills in the on-board workshops with photo ambassador Ian Dawson.
Enjoy engaging lectures delivered by the expedition crew, who will impart their knowledge of the local wildlife, geological features and the exploration history of this region.
Defined by a 90° North latitude, the Geographic North Pole lies on the Earth's rotational axis, at the intersection of all meridians. Plunged into darkness for six months of the year, then lit by the sun for the following six months, this mythical site, permanently covered in ice and remote from any land, has fascinated generations of explorers. So far, only a very few number of people have ever reached it: an exploit which is now accessible to you aboard Le Commandant Charcot.
We travel through the pack ice and make our way back to the shores of Spitsbergen.
Enjoy further on-board lectures from your naturalist guides and expedition crew.
Use the time at sea to organise your photographs from your remarkable adventure to the Northern tip of the Earth.
Spend time sampling the ship's facilities, enjoy a dip in the indoor pool or a massage or sauna session.
Position yourself out on deck, with a warm hot chocolate and enjoy the passing scenery and wildlife.
Look out for more Arctic wildlife as you reach the rugged shores of Spitsbergen; walrus, seal and perhaps even polar bear can be spotted from the deck of the ship.
We will sail past steep rock faces, bursting with birldlife; see and hear the countless kittiwakes as they nest high on the cliffs above. Enjoy the calls of fulmars and ivory gulls, as they circle in the skies around you. Your expedition crew will delight you with further lectures, helping you to identify the different varieties of birdlife that reside here at this time of year.
We arrive back to Longyearbyen in the early morning and disembark at 8 a.m, shortly after breakfast on board. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Paris, where the trip comes to a close.
Between May and September is the best time to visit this region, with summer temperatures reaching a maximum of 5 degrees centigrade. North of the Arctic Circle, the sun does not set between the middle of May and the end of July, so you can expect to encounter the midnight sun during this period.
+1
2 Pin Round
Kayaking, Polar plunge, hiking or snowshowing.
INSULATED BASE LAYER: Wool or thermolactyl technical underwear Polar or technical jacket - supplied on board for you to keep Polar sweater or sweatshirt Silk or wool glove liners Wool leggings Warm hiking socks Winter shoes (with a wool lining) WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER: Waterproof over-trousers - Mandatory Waterproof parka - Offered on board (not available in children's sizes) Windbreaker - Mandatory A warm woollen hat covering your ears Polar or woollen neck warmer Waterproof technical gloves HEALTH CARE: Sunscreen Lip protection balm Mosquito repellent, anti-itch balm and mosquito head net (Greenland) Medications and prescriptions OUTFITS ON BOARD: Casual outfits for the day Smarter outfits for dinners Elegant outfits for Gala evenings White or black and white outfit ACCESSORIES: Highly protective sunglasses Binoculars Walking poles Small waterproof backpack Swimsuit (for the spa on board) Gym wear (fitness) Battery charger and memory cards for your camera Mobile phone charger Clothing tips: INSULATING BASE LAYER AND WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER : Water-resistant parka - offered on board (not children sizes ; in case of consecutive voyages, only one complimentary parka). Comfortable trousers : classic winter trousers, warm cotton tracksuit or wool leggings. Waterproof and wind proof over-trousers - MANDATORY. Windbreaker Winter trousers with waterproof over-trousers are the ideal combination : water-resistance and flexibility of trousers are essential and imperative. Pullover, sweat-shirt or fleece jacket. Woollen or thermolactyl underwear. Woolen or fleece neck-warmer, woollen or fleece ear muffs or warm hat (avoid scarves as they do not stay in place) - MANDATORY Wool or silk under gloves, flexible technical and waterproof gloves. Thick warm socks (ideally woollen). Winter shoes (with a wool lining). Ideal clothes for life on board: During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended. Informal evening: In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed. For women: Simple dress Skirt or trousers Blouse Polo For men : Pleated trousers or chinos Sports jacket Shirt Polo Officer's evening: For all trips longer than 8 nights, an Officer's Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white). Gala evening: During the trip, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits. For women: Cocktail attire or evening dress (if you wish to) For men: Dark suit. Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
Complimentary waterproof boots will be supplied on-board. However, if you have extra small or large feet, you are advised to bring your own. Also ensure you take comfortable shoes for relaxing on-board.
15Kg
One main piece of baggage and daypack. Remember you are expected to carry your own luggage so don't overload yourself.
Sunglasses and sun cream Insect repellant Personal toiletries Books/reading material Camera and memory cards Seasickness remedy Walking poles (optional)
Le Commandant Charcot, Zodiac
Le Commandant Charcot is a newly-built, state-of-the-art, hybrid, Icebreaker ship. It is the very first hybrid-electric polar exploration ship powered by liquified natural gas and has been built with the greatest attention to detail in terms of safety and respect for the environment. In refined surroundings, complete with luxurious extras, this fine and sturdy vessel will transport you into the domain of the great polar explorers. Each of the common areas have been designed with discreet luxury and have been carefully planned so that all spaces are open to the extraordinary polar landscapes and scenery. There are seven cabin types available, ranging from Stateroom cabins to the Owner's Suite, all providing en-suite facilities, spacious comfort and balconies to enjoy the passing views. The wellness area offers a variety of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna and snow room, which can be enjoyed over the sea days or after a busy day of exploration.
Equipped with 123 suites and staterooms with private balcony or terrace, Le Commandant Charcot offers 7 cabin varieties to suit all passenger needs. Prices on the website are based on the lead-in cabin type which is s Prestige Stateroom (decks 6,7 and 8), comprising of a king- size bed(or two single beds), a bathroom with shower, a panoramic sliding bay window and a 5m² glazed private balcony. Other cabin types are as follows:- Prestige Stateroom (decks 6,7 and 8) - A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) - A bathroom with shower - A panoramic sliding bay window - A 5 m² glazed private balcony Deluxe Suite (decks 6,7 and 8) - A lounge area with chaise longue and two armchairs - A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) - A bathroom with shower - A panoramic sliding bay window - A 5 m² glazed private balcony Prestige Suite (decks 7 and 8) - A lounge with sofa, armchair, TV and sliding courtesy door - A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) - Two bathrooms with shower - Two panoramic sliding bay windows - A 10 m² glazed private balcony Grand Prestige Suite (deck 6) - Priority boarding - Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival - Butler service - An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day - A lounge area with chaise longue and second TV - A Samsung tablet connected to Wifi - A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) - A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub - A panoramic sliding bay window - A 5 m² glazed private balcony - Two pairs of Swarvoski CL Companion 10 x 30 binoculars Privelege Suite (deck 8) - Priority boarding - Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival - Butler service - An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day - A lounge with sofa bed, armchair, and sliding courtesy door - A Samsung tablet connected to Wifi - A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) - A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub - Two panoramic sliding doors and rectangular porthole - A 12.5 m² glazed private balcony - Two pairs of Swarvoski CL Companion 10 x 30 binoculars Duplex Suite (deck 6) - Private return transfer - Priority boarding - Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival - Butler service - An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and a basket of fruit every day - A lounge with armchairs, sofa bed, steam fireplace and TV - A dining room with a 6-seater table - A minibar with RIEDEL crystal glasses - A Samsung tablet connected to Wi-Fi - A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV - A bathroom with shower and balneo bathtub - Five panoramic windows and a glazed panoramic swing door - A private 26 m² terrace: outdoor lounge with sofa and armchairs, jacuzzi - Two pairs of Swarvoski CL Companion 10 x 30 binoculars Owner's Suite - Private return transfer - Priority boarding - Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival - Butler service - An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day - A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) - A living room with armchairs, two sofa beds, steam fireplace, and second TV - A desk and bookcase - A Samsung tablet connected to Wifi - A dining room with a 6-seater table - A minibar with RIEDEL crystal glasses - A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub - A one-hour spa treatments per person (for 2 people) in the well-being space, chosen from the facial and body treatments on offer - A private 186 m² terrace: outdoor lounge with deckchairs, hot tub, two sofas, and dining table - Two panoramic sliding bay windows - Two pairs of Swarvoski CL Companion 10 x 30 binoculars - A Swarovski Optik ST VISTA telescope
Meals are served in the large, spacious dining room with an open seating arrangement, perfect for swapping stories with your extended expedition family. A range of courses is offered at each meal time and you can enjoy a variety of wines, beers and soft drinks which are included within the voyage cost. Complimentary coffee, tea and snacks are available throughout the day, as well as drinks from the bar. Nuna - the 484 m² gastronomic restaurant at the rear of deck 5, can seat all the ship's passengers at a single sitting, offering an a la carte dining experience at breakfast, lunch and dinner. The ship's second bridge is located at the back of the restaurant: behind its large windows, you will have a front row seat to observe the crew during their operations. Sila - in a more relaxed atmosphere, a 320 m² restaurant located at deck 9 will welcome you for your breakfasts, buffet lunches and themed dinners. This restaurant takes a maximum of 142 people. Inneq - At the open-air bar, you can enjoy a varied and refined range of international sweet and savoury dishes throughout the day (11 am-6 pm) as well as a something from its everyday menu. Capacity is fixed at 62 for dining.
We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination's safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. Relevant government website links for UK, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens are available on our Travel Safety page. If you'd like some inital information on country-specific entry requirements, such as visas or any health declaration forms, please refer to our Entry Requirements page. The services and information on this page are provided by a third party, and so we will still recommend that you cross check this against your government website for the latest advice.
Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.
Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. Our price guarantee does not apply to Polar Voyages. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.Booking Conditions
Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.
Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information. You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.
Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both. The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.
Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.
If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking. For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here
It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom. Read more information about what travel insurance is required.
Explore can arrange your flights for you, to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.
You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.
We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.
On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.