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

Off the shores of Canada, explore Saint Pierre Island, one of the two principal islands in the Saint Pierre and Miquelon archipelago, the sole French territory in North America. With a natural harbour, the island, named after the patron saint of fishermen, flourished around the fishing industry, and echoes of its maritime past still endure. Tales of whale hunting, cod fishing, and alcohol smuggling during Prohibition resonate in the capital, Saint-Pierre. The island is a haven for observing remarkable wildlife, featuring whales, fin whales, dolphins, seals, puffins, and petrels among its diverse fauna.

Embarkation from 16:00 to 17:00

Departure 17/01/2025 at 18:00

Embark on an extraordinary voyage aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world's inaugural luxury polar exploration vessel and the premier PC2-class polar cruise ship designed to navigate deep into the heart of ice-bound seas and oceans, places typically unreachable by conventional ships.

Le Commandant Charcot is equipped with state-of-the-art oceanographic and scientific instruments meticulously chosen by a committee of experts. Immerse yourself in on-board lectures and engaging discussions with these specialists to deepen your understanding of the polar regions. Join hands in advancing scientific research onboard, unveiling the yet-to-be-discovered wonders concealed in these captivating destinations.

While serving as the administrative and economic hub of the Magdalen Islands archipelago in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, the village of Cap-aux-Meules maintains a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for exploring pristine nature. Situated on the island of the same name, derived from the sandstone rocks of the cape historically used for grindstones, this location is primarily recognized as the maritime gateway to the archipelago.

Consequently, it provides exclusive access to numerous sites celebrated for their natural and historical significance, including Havre-Aubert, acknowledged as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Quebec.

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.

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.

Nestled at the entrance of the Humber River, within the embrace of the Bay of Islands, lies the harbour town of Corner Brook, embraced by majestic mountains. A blanket of snow adorns the slopes that beckon you to partake in winter pursuits amid a magnificent backdrop. On the fabled island of Newfoundland, explore the terrain through snowshoeing or engage in skiing or snowboarding adventures at the esteemed Marble Mountain Ski Resort. Alternatively, meander through the streets of this genuine Newfoundland town, unravelling its storied history at your own pace.

Navigating the Strait of Belle Isle promises a moment of profound emotion. Your vessel will glide into this passage, marking the division between Newfoundland and the North American continent just as the process of ice breakup commences. From the bridge's vantage point, should the ice persist, you might catch sight of the Greenland seals inhabiting these waters, punctuated by fragments of drifting ice, as they seek out breeding grounds. Time seems to freeze in this moment, enveloped in a magical enchantment.

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.

Nestled in the intricate web of fjords and bays in Greenland's southwest, the quaint village of Narsalik adds vibrant hues to the Arctic's pristine white with its colourful houses. In this remote corner of the world, you explore to connect with the Inuit community, creating unforgettable moments of shared experiences. Crafted in collaboration between PONANT and the residents of Narsalik, winter activities become a canvas for building lifelong memories. Throughout this shared time, curiosity and discovery will guide your journey.

As your ship approaches, unveil the enchanting town of Narsaq. The mesmerising beauty of the encircling blue icebergs and colossal ice formations displaying an array of shapes and ever-changing colours will captivate you. Nestled amidst verdant mountains, this petite town encapsulates the quintessential Greenlandic charm within a breathtaking natural panorama. The multi-hued facades of the houses and the glaciers, adorned in myriad shades of blue, create a magical backdrop, evoking a sense of wonder.

Venture into the heart of the Kujalleq municipality in Greenland as you visit the Inuit village of Nanortalik. Positioned a few hundred kilometres from the southern extremity of Greenland, it stands as one of the island's southernmost points. The primary economic livelihood of its residents revolves around fishing, providing you with an opportunity to partake in unforgettable moments with the locals. Embrace the snowy landscapes and engage in winter activities, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Inuit traditions.

The Cape Farvel Passage in southern Greenland is a maritime route with historical significance and captivating natural beauty. It serves as a gateway between the Labrador Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, connecting the vast expanse of the Arctic waters. Navigating through Cape Farvel Passage provides a unique experience, surrounded by dramatic coastal landscapes and the icy embrace of the Arctic environment. The passage has been traversed by explorers throughout history, adding an air of adventure and exploration to this remote, pristine maritime route.

As we leave the captivating scenery of Greenland in our wake, spend time indulging in Le Commandement Charcot's outstanding facilities. Enjoy the view 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, Iceland.

Reykjavík, Iceland's capital, extends along the shores of a vast bay in the western part of the country. Perlan, known as the "Pearl of Reykjavík," stands proudly on' Oskjuhlið hill, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A short distance away, the signpost guides visitors to the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church and the historical centre, where charming streets like Skólavördustígur and Laugavegur invite strolls amid lively small shops. For those seeking relaxation beyond city limits, the Reykjanes peninsula beckons with its renowned thermal lagoons, including the famous Blue Lagoon.

Disembarkation at 08:00