No Single Supplement

Inuit Spring of Ammassalik

Reykjavík, Iceland - Reykjavík

Arctic, Greenland, Iceland
04/05/2026 to the 14/05/2026
10 Nights
245 Guests

Starting from per person

£13,500

Select cruise date

Embark on an enchanting exploration aboard luxury icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot as you venture into the mesmerizing landscapes of the Ammassalik and Blosseville regions along the East Coast of Greenland. Accessing these exceptional lands, ordinarily off-limits to traditional ships in spring, promises a journey marked by moments frozen in time, in harmony with the powerful yet delicate nature that envelopes the icy shores after the long winter.

Amidst the whiteness, isolated villages with their colourful traditional houses stand out, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Inuit people who continue to perpetuate their traditions in harmony with changing seasons and ice. Join the last hunters of the region on dog sledge outings or kayak among the ice. Welcomed warmly by the community as among the first visitors of the season, you'll engage in privileged exchanges and experience the genuine hospitality of the Inuit. 

Witness the constantly evolving spectacle of different states and forms of ice, all while admiring the majestic wildlife, including eiders in flight, the grandeur of a blue whale, and the impressive silhouette of the great Nanuk – the polar bear.

Cruise Highlights

Cruise Highlights

  • Benefit from the eye and advice of our photo ambassador, offering workshops, conferences, and personalised guidance to enhance your photographic skills, ensuring an immortalised trip.
  • The option to participate in an adventurous 2-day/1-night Nordic skiing polar trek. a unique and all-new experience
  • Meet the Inuit people at winter's end, sharing unique moments on the ice floe, discovering their spring traditions, and enjoying a captivating dog sledge outing.
  • Follow the trail of great explorers attempting to navigate the once-isolated eastern coast of Greenland, a region accessible only at this time of year, thanks to Le Commandant Charcot.
  • Engage in the heart of Inuit culture with a thoughtfully designed dog sledging experience.
  • Explore the Ammassalik region, traversing diverse landscapes from alpine terrain to ice-sculpted panoramas on board or ice floe. Encounter a rich array of wildlife, including blue whales, humpback whales, polar bears, seals, and sea birds.
  • Engage in various brand-new activities such as dog sledging, kayaking, hiking or snowshoeing, ice fishing, and polar diving, ensuring a diverse and immersive experience.

Itinerary

Itinerary

Embark on a unique adventure to discover the ice-locked coast of East Greenland in the spring.

Reykjavik in Iceland in the winter
Day 1

ReyjavÍk, Embarkation

14th May 2025

Nestled on the edge of an expansive bay in the western part of the country, Iceland's capital unfolds its charms. The "Pearl of Reykjavík," Perlan, stands as a museum situated atop 'Oskjuhlið hill, providing a sweeping vista of the verdant landscapes below. Not far away, a signpost guides you to the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church and the historic centre, inviting leisurely strolls along the vibrant Skólavördustígur and Laugavegur streets, adorned with charming boutiques. For a tranquil retreat just beyond the city, visitors can explore the Reykjanes peninsula and indulge in the renowned thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.

Embarkation from 20:00 to 21:00

Departure at 22:00

CHARCOT in the Denmark Strait PONANT
Day 2

Sailing Through The Denmark Strait

15th May 2025

Situated between Greenland and Iceland, the Denmark Strait holds historical significance as the Vikings first traversed it in the late 10th century during Erik the Red's expeditions. The waters of the strait were also a battleground during the Second World War, witnessing a clash between the Kriegsmarine and the Royal Navy on May 24, 1941.

In winter, the Greenlandic coasts are enveloped by extremely dense pack ice, while the Transpolar Drift continues to transport icebergs throughout the year. However, during the summer, the strait generally remains clear of ice.

EXPLORATION OF AMMASSALIK REGION PONANT
Days 3 - 8

Exploring The Ammassalik Region

May 16th - 21st May 2025

A mere century ago, the east coast of Greenland stood in relative obscurity, and to this day, it remains the most genuine and awe-inspiring region in the Arctic. Venture into a world where alpine mountains seamlessly merge with the sea, and fjords showcase towering, snow-capped peaks while icebergs gracefully drift or become trapped in the pack ice. Delve into the heart of frozen landscapes adorned with surreal beauty, where the diverse textures of various ice types weave an ever-changing tapestry.

Trace the path of the renowned Pourquoi Pas?, Captain Jean-Baptiste Charcot's vessel that set sail in 1934, carrying his crew on a mission to land Paul-Émile Victor in Ammassalik. This small island, characterised by its primitive and untamed beauty, was the backdrop for Charcot's first ethnographic mission, where he studied the Ammassalimiut—an Inuit community previously little-known. Amid this seemingly frozen panorama, the tranquillity is interrupted solely by the sounds of dogs and sledge runners grating against the ice.

Welcoming villages sheltered by the fast ice extend warm invitations. Here, you can immerse yourself in the ancestral traditions of Inuit culture, participating in joyous and authentic moments shared with these communities.

BLOSSEVILLE Coast on COMMANDANT CHARCOT PONANT
Day 9

Blosseville Coast

22nd May 2025

Embark on a voyage following the path of Jules Poret de Blosseville, a French explorer and sailor. In 1833, aboard La Lilloise, he embarked on a journey to unveil eastern Greenland's isolated and uncharted expanse, bestowing French names upon various coastal sites. Unfortunately, the adventure likely ended in tragedy, as the crew was never located. Now named after him, this desolate region stretches south of Scoresby Sund. Enveloped by ice, icebergs, and fragments of pack ice, Blosseville Coast is one of those rugged and challenging terrains that only a fortunate few can explore.

Whale in the Denmark Strait Ponant
Day 10

Sailing the Denmark Strait

23rd May 2025

As we set sail for the return journey to Iceland, traversing the Denmark Strait became a compelling part of our voyage. Within the depths of the strait, an extraordinary natural wonder awaits—the world's largest waterfall, an undersea cataract created by the temperature disparity between the cold waters of the Greenland Sea and the warmer waters of the Irminger Sea. This phenomenon not only captivates with its uniqueness but also contributes to the strait's rich ecosystem, providing an ideal habitat for the flourishing of various cetacean species..

Reykjavik in Iceland in the winter
Day 11

ReyjavÍk

24th May 2025

On the final day of your journey, as we return to Reykjavik, explore the captivating facets of Iceland's capital that extend beyond the charms previously mentioned. Nestled along the edge of an expansive bay in the western part of the country, Reykjavik unveils its distinctive allure. The city, pulsating with life and energy, offers an array of cultural and historical gems waiting to be discovered.

Amidst the cityscape, landmarks such as Harpa Concert Hall and Sun Voyager beckon, showcasing modern architectural marvels and artistic expressions. Delve into Reykjavik's rich history by visiting the National Museum or stroll around Tjörnin, the picturesque city pond. Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods, each with its unique character, and savour the culinary delights in the local eateries.

As the day winds down, perhaps consider a relaxing soak in one of Reykjavik's geothermal pools, such as the geothermally heated Vesturbæjarlaug, to unwind and reflect on the memories created during this unforgettable journey through the wonders of Iceland.

Arrival: early morning

Disembarkation: 08:00

Activities

Activities

Nordic Skiing Polar Trek (2 Days / 1 Night)

Nordic Ski Polar Trek in Greenland

Embark on a novel and exclusive escapade in the heart of the Far North. Step out of the comfort of Le Commandant Charcot for a two-day and one-night Nordic skiing expedition in a small, self-sufficient group. Amidst the ice floe, grant yourself the opportunity for complete immersion in polar nature, accompanied by knowledgeable local Greenlandic guides. Set up camp in the heart of the expansive wilderness. Throughout this timeless adventure, the rewards of contemplation and serenity will complement your exertions, creating moments of camaraderie and shared experiences.*

*Optional activity with limited available spots, subject to an additional fee. Please enquire with our Travel Experience Team at the time of booking.

Dog Sledding

Dog Sledding in Greenland on an icebreaker cruise

Embark on a tradition dating back 6,000 years to our ancient past. Initially embraced by the Inuit around 1000 AD, sledge dogs became steadfast companions not only to the Inuit but also to trappers in the American Far North and intrepid explorers on their extraordinary journeys. Guided skillfully by their masters and your local guide, these dogs will lead you through enchanting landscapes on a mesmerising sleigh ride. Seizing weather and ice opportunities, you'll engage in this time-honoured mode of transportation, delving into exploring the ice floe. It's the perfect avenue to acquaint yourself with the ice sheet; all you'll hear is the gentle sound of the sledge's runners gliding over the ice, the dogs' paws on the snow, and the commands issued by the Inuit. Allow yourself to be entranced by the magic of the moment.*

*Optional activity with limited available spots. Please enquire with our Travel Experience Team at the time of booking. 

 

Kayaking

Kayaking in Greenland PONANT

Discover the art of embracing the natural elements, where you'll seize every opportunity provided by the ever-changing weather and ice conditions to navigate the crystal-clear polar waters. Under the expert guidance of licensed professionals, you'll embark on a kayaking adventure, a craft cherished by the Inuit people for over four millennia. Initially designed for hunting and fishing, the kayak now becomes your gateway to immersing yourself in the unspoiled wonders of polar regions, whether it's the White Continent or the enchanting Far North.*

*Optional activity with limited available spots. Please enquire with our Travel Experience Team at the time of booking. 

Ice Fishing

Ice Fishing activity

Where else could be more fitting for the pursuit of ice fishing than the frigid Arctic regions? With the guidance of our naturalist guides, you'll seek out the ideal location to carve a hole into the ice floe or frozen lakes, attempting to catch fish using an age-old method. Seizing the opportunities presented by weather and ice conditions, you'll engage in this unique activity, equally appealing to avid game fishing enthusiasts and those with a curiosity for new discoveries.*

*Optional activity with limited available spots. Please enquire with our Travel Experience Team at the time of booking.

Hiking or Snowshoeing

Hiking and snowshoeing on Le Commandant Charcot

Amid our shore landings, you'll have the chance to join our seasoned naturalist guides for hiking expeditions of varying difficulty levels based on the ecological resilience of the unique biome. These excursions may range from leisurely coastal strolls to extended treks lasting several hours, taking you to breathtaking viewpoints and historic sites. You'll seize the moment, adapting your journey to the prevailing weather and ice conditions. And when our itineraries permit, donning snowshoes* will transport you into the footsteps of early explorers, unlocking the uncharted corners that have remained largely untouched by mankind.

*Optional activity with limited available spots. Please enquire with our Travel Experience Team at the time of booking. 

Exploring By Zodiac

Exploring by Zodiac from Le Commandant Charcot

Exploring by Zodiac is an integral part of any expedition cruise. Led by a team of outstanding guides and naturalists, Zodiacs are a fantastic and intimate way to experience the pristine polar environment up close. When the conditions permit, the Zodiacs are launched, and you can enjoy a cruise or shore landing, experience close encounters with wildlife, and get up close to the magnificent ice formations. It's a perfect way to absorb the pristine nature fully.

Zodiac cruises are included as part of the experience on all expedition cruises, and no booking is required.

Polar Plunge

Polar Plunge activity PONANT

Prepare to be captivated by the unparalleled experience of plunging into frigid waters. Weather and ice conditions permitting, you'll have unique opportunities to partake in a polar plunge while clad only in your swimwear, right in the heart of the icy realm. The intense rush of emotions and the invigorating warmth that follows will leave you with unforgettable memories, reenergizing you for the journey ahead.*

*Please keep in mind that there are limited spots available for this daring adventure.

Your Ship

Your Ship

Le Commandant Charcot

Introducing the majestic Le Commandant Charcot, the world's first luxury icebreaker. Imagine exploring the seldom visited furthest reaches of the polar regions in comfort levels never seen before on an icebreaker. Her unique icebreaking PC2 Polar Class 2 Hull allows it to explore captivating destinations locked in by sea ice from the North Pole to the frozen seas of East Greenland and Antarctica, which are off-limits to standard expedition ships. The onboard experience is second to none, with fine dining, an outdoor heated lagoon and sumptuous ensuite cabins with verandas. With a team of onboard expedition experts, Le Commandant Charcot is perfect for adventurers and connoisseurs looking to explore the unexplored in safety and style.

Starting from per person

£13,500

Select cruise date

Why Reserve With Us?

Choose Your Cabin

Choose Your Cabin

Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
  • 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
Price per person
£13,630
Prestige Stateroom Deck 7​
  • 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
Price per person
£13,900
Prestige Stateroom Deck 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
Price per person
£14,170
Deluxe Suite Deck 6​
  • 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
Price per person
£14,580
Deluxe Suite Deck 7​
  • 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
Price per person
£15,250
Deluxe Suite Deck 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
Price per person
£15,790
Prestige Suite Deck 7​
  • 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
Price per person
£20,380
Prestige Suite Deck 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
Price per person
£21,050
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
Price per person
£21,730
Privilege 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
Price per person
£23,080
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
Price per person
£31,850
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
Price per person
£54,010
Why Reserve With Us?

Deck Plan

What's Included

Included

  • Luxury 5* expedition cruise as per the itinerary.
  • All listed activities are included but subject to availability (excluding the 2 day Nordic Skiing Polar Trek). Please enquire about activities at the time of booking.
  • All-inclusive experience with dining and drinks included.
  • Zodiac excursions.
  • Onboard lectures by guest speakers and guides.
  • An expedition parka (adult sizes only)

Optional Extras

  • Flights to and from Reykjavík. Our Travel Experience Team is happy to assist you with this.
  • Hotels in Reykjavík prior to embarkation and after disembarkation. We recommend arriving in Reykjavík the day before your departure. Our Travel Experience Team is happy to assist you with hotel booking.
  • 2 Day Nordic Skiing Polar Trek.
  • Spa treatments unless they are included in your cabin choice.
  • Purchases from the onboard boutique.
  • Rubber boots for shore landings are available for rental.
  • Personal expenses
  • Any other service not mentioned in the programme.

Important Information

  • Physical conditions for Nordic Skiing Polar Trek: Participants need to be adult and need to be provide an EKG carried out less than 6 months prior to the departure and need to be approved by shipboard doctor onboard Le Commandant Charcot. Good physical condition is precondition. Participant should be in good physical shape: he has already practised winter sports (skiing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing) and is capable of walking 10 to 15 kilometres (around 6 to 9 miles) per day.
  • This expedition involves travelling to lovely remote places with limited medical facilities. We ask you to be healthy and fit to participate. If you have a severe medical condition or have recently undergone surgery, please get in touch with us before making a reservation. Our Travel Experience Team will be happy to assist you with any questions.
  • Whilst our expeditions do not require exceptional fitness, you must be mobile enough to climb in and out of a Zodiac and undertake short walks.
  • Expedition programmes include zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landing"), moderate walks, and more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
  • Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, ice position, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may cancel or stop any activity or modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will consider the touristic quality of the sites and, above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
  • You must take out comprehensive travel insurance, which includes medical evacuation and cancellation at the time of booking. To learn more, please see our guide to Travel Insurance For Expedition Cruises.
  • You must hold a passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond completing your trip. Please check to see if you require a visa to enter the countries of embarkation and disembarkation. If you have any questions, our Travel Experience Team is always on hand to answer them.
  • Please note that an EKG (electrocardiogram) by your general practitioner will be required for a polar plunge.
  • Due to regulations in the Arctic, it is unfortunately impossible to use drones on this expedition at any time.
  • To guarantee the safety and well-being of our guests, certain items are strictly prohibited on board.
  • The minimum age for children to participate in this expedition is 8.
  • Due to the remote nature of this expedition, for safety reasons, we regret that pregnant women can not participate.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask our Travel Experience Team.

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