Tourists Can Now Visit North Pole In 12 Days

Dhaka: Cruise line PONANT EXPLORATIONS, known for being the first to sail passengers to the Geographic North Pole in 2022, is introducing a new, shorter 12-night itinerary aboard its advanced polar vessel, Le Commandant Charcot.

Departing round-trip from Longyearbyen, Svalbard - the world's northernmost settlement - on 27 July, 8 August, 20 August, and 1 September 2027, the ship will navigate the Arctic Ocean, offering guests views of glaciers, fjords, and wildlife such as polar bears, Arctic foxes, whales, and seals, all under the midnight sun.

Classified Polar Class 2 (PC-2), Le Commandant Charcot is the first hybrid electric polar exploration vessel powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Designed as a platform for science, environmental stewardship, and cultural exchange, the vessel features two onboard research laboratories and significantly reduced emissions: 25pc fewer carbon emissions, 85pc fewer nitrogen oxides, and 95pc fewer fine particles, alongside minimal noise and vibration - a key factor in protecting marine life such as whales.

Guests can disembark via kayaks and zodiacs, land on polar ice, take a polar plunge, and visit the historic Arctic outpost Ny-Ålesund.

Onboard comforts include heated observation benches, a skylit indoor pool, an outdoor heated lagoon, and high-end amenities such as Dyptique Paris bath products, Bose speakers, and Nespresso machines in private staterooms and suites - many with balconies or terraces.

Dining is overseen by Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse, with French culinary flair served across the ship's restaurant, bar, and fire pit lounge areas.

Mathieu Petiteau, PONANT's Director of New Construction, remarked:“No ship like Le Commandant Charcot had ever been created. It was out of the question to sail in such privileged environments without minimising our impact as much as possible.”

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