From the St Lawrence to Greenland, the Last Moments of Winter

Quebec is a land where history, culture, and nature intertwine in a breathtaking symphony. As the heart of French-speaking North America, it carries an old-world charm infused with European elegance, from the cobblestone streets of Old Québec to the grand Château Frontenac towering over the St. Lawrence River.

Embarkation from 16:00 to 17:00

Departure 17/01/2025 at 18:00

During the deep winter months, the Saguenay Valley transforms into a land of icy enchantment, where the borough of La Baie is wrapped in a quiet, almost mystical beauty. The stark contrasts of this pristine landscape—snow-draped forests, frozen rivers, and towering cliffs—invite you to immerse yourself in a truly unforgettable experience. Here, the warmth of the Saguenayens, among the most welcoming people in the world, makes the cold feel less biting. Whether gliding through the wilderness on a dog sled, guiding a team as a musher, or trekking across the snow on traditional snowshoes, every step reveals the raw splendor of this frozen paradise. Le Commandant Charcot will anchor for several days amid the thick ice floes, giving you the rare opportunity to disembark and witness a cherished winter tradition.

Connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the vast Great Lakes, the Saint Lawrence Seaway stands as a testament to human ingenuity and ambition. Though efforts to navigate these waters date back over 250 years, it wasn’t until 1959 that this monumental waterway was officially inaugurated. Spanning nearly 4,000 kilometers, the seaway overcomes the once-impassable rapids through a series of meticulously engineered locks, allowing ships to travel seamlessly between inland North America and the open ocean. Built over four years through immense effort and innovation, this historic maritime corridor offers a one-of-a-kind sailing experience, where each lock passed is a step through time, tracing the evolution of trade, exploration, and engineering mastery.

In the serene embrace of the Canadian winter, Gaspé proudly stands as a preserved and authentic gem along the edge of the dark waters of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Nature appears to hold its breath in the glacial darkness. The majestic Mount Jacques-Cartier, the highest peak of the Chic-Choc Mountains range, adorns itself in a pristine blanket of snow while the frozen rivers wind through the landscape, capturing time in their icy embrace.

Immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes of the L'Anse-au-Griffon Valley during a snowshoe walk in the heart of Forillon National Park. Later, in Percé, facing the renowned eponymous Rock, explore the natural beauty of the "magic forest," where thousands of conifers, adorned in an immaculate white cloak, stand as silent guardians over this isolated piece of land. Discover the charm of this delightful town, where captivating history and the warmth of the locals blend in a harmonious union.

Nestled in the heart of the Magdalen Islands in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, Cap-aux-Meules may be the archipelago’s administrative and economic hub, but it retains the charm and tranquility of a coastal village. Named after the sandstone formations once used to craft grindstones, this island serves as the maritime gateway to the region, offering easy access to some of its most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. From here, visitors can explore the unspoiled beauty of windswept cliffs, rolling dunes, and picturesque coves. Cap-aux-Meules also provides a direct path to historic gems like Havre-Aubert, recognized as one of Quebec’s most beautiful villages, where heritage and natural splendor blend seamlessly in a timeless maritime setting.

In the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, some waters remain veiled in lingering ice, yet the thaw has commenced, creating a captivating spectacle. The fractured ice takes on enchanting forms, seemingly pirouetting across the undulating waves. Navigating through the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, you trace the footsteps of Jacques Cartier, who first reached these waters in 1534 during his inaugural voyage.

From the vantage point of the ship's bridge, with a stroke of fortune, you may witness seals and belugas inhabiting the region during this season. On the horizon, the boreal forests, their summits adorned in the last vestiges of snow, present an idyllic snapshot of this slice of Canada—a moment of indescribable magic.

As we depart Canada, spend time indulging in Le Commandement Charcot's outstanding facilities. Enjoy the view of the ice from the heated outdoor lagoon, and spend time in the indoor pool, relaxation areas or sauna. During your time at sea, our team of naturalists and scientists will undertake presentations in the ship's theatre and share their knowledge with you, ready for our next destination, Greenland.

Embark on the currents of the Davis Strait, and Qaqortoq, the largest town in southern Greenland, unveils itself within a rocky landscape adorned with pristine white in winter and enchanting green in summer. As your vessel enters the fjord hugging the town, the delightful sight of brightly-coloured houses perched on the hillsides surrounding this charming fishing port, the southernmost in Greenland, becomes apparent in the distance.

A stroll through the town centre offers a glimpse of Danish influences, featuring numerous historical buildings and landmarks, including the country's renowned and oldest fountain adorned with whales. Nearby, the open-air fish market beckons, providing the opportunity to witness fishermen selling the day's catch.

As we depart Canada, spend time indulging in Le Commandement Charcot's outstanding facilities. Enjoy the view of the ice from the heated outdoor lagoon, and spend time in the indoor pool, relaxation areas or sauna. During your time at sea, our team of naturalists and scientists will undertake presentations in the ship's theatre and share their knowledge with you, ready for our next destination, Greenland.

During your voyage, you’ll have the chance to explore Sisimiut, Greenland’s second-largest town, founded in 1756. Despite its size, this charming Arctic settlement embodies the essence of Greenlandic life, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes where colorful stilt houses contrast against rolling hills and icy horizons. The heart of Sisimiut reveals a rich cultural heritage, with historic buildings, a quaint wooden church, and a museum that tells the story of the Inuit people and their deep connection to the land. The bustling fishing port serves as a gateway to the Arctic’s frozen wonders, while local craft shops showcase traditional artistry. As your ship anchors in these northern waters, you’ll step ashore to experience the warmth of Greenlandic hospitality in an atmosphere that is uniquely Arctic.

Nuuk, the vibrant capital of Greenland, is a city where tradition and modernity coexist against a backdrop of stunning Arctic landscapes. Nestled along the rugged coastline, Nuuk is surrounded by dramatic fjords, towering mountains, and icy waters teeming with marine life. Despite its remote location, the city pulses with creativity and culture, home to contemporary art galleries, museums showcasing Greenland’s Inuit heritage, and a thriving culinary scene that blends local ingredients with Nordic influences. Colorful houses dot the hillsides, standing in contrast to the vast, untamed wilderness beyond. As the political and economic heart of Greenland, Nuuk is both a gateway to Arctic adventures and a place where Greenlandic identity flourishes, offering visitors a unique blend of history, nature, and modern Arctic life.

Disembarkation at 08:00