"I had just had an outdoor spa in the ship’s amazing Blue Lagoon and was enjoying a talk on Arctic Ice when the captain announced we had spotted a polar bear… no hang on, there’s a few more than one." Polar Bear Footsteps by Sarah Porter, Wild Earth Travel
Sarah Porter, Partnerships Manager at Wild Earth Travel, a cruise specialist company we collaborate with, had the extraordinary opportunity to explore the Arctic earlier this year aboard Ponant’s luxury icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot. We wanted to share her incredible story with you in the hopes that it inspires you to take on your own adventure. Stories like Sarah’s remind us of how lucky we are to be able to explore such breathtaking, pristine landscapes.
Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot, launched in 2021, has redefined Arctic exploration. It’s one of only a handful of ships capable of navigating through dense sea ice, making it an ideal choice for those drawn to the raw, untouched beauty of the polar regions. On her two-week voyage, Sarah describes feeling the spirit of true exploration - encounters with towering icebergs, stretches of untouched snow, and a sky that seemed to merge with the endless white horizon.
Perhaps the most extraordinary moment of Sarah’s journey was witnessing 68 polar bears congregating on a whale carcass, a once-in-a-lifetime experience that left both guests and crew in awe. Sarah recounts her first steps onto the ice, hearing the soft crunch of polar bear paws nearby and the sheer thrill of witnessing these majestic animals up close. For her, the journey was filled with so many “wow” moments, from kayaking through ice flows to watching the midnight sun illuminate the Arctic wilderness.
Led by Le Commandant Charcot’s experienced captain, Patrick Marchesseau, the ship’s path was shaped by ice and weather alone. This unique freedom to explore is part of what sets Ponant apart, creating truly spontaneous, immersive experiences in the Arctic.
Not only does Ponant offer exceptional Arctic encounters, but Le Commandant Charcot also exudes luxury with French-inspired décor, an on-deck Blue Lagoon spa, and gourmet dining overseen by Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse. The ship’s state-of-the-art design includes eco-friendly features, from dual diesel and LNG engines to a commitment to Arctic research, underscoring Ponant’s dedication to sustainable exploration.
For those interested in embracing the extreme beauty of the Arctic, a voyage with Ponant offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, comfort, and the thrill of the unknown. To read Sarah's full article in the New Zealand Herald, click here.
If Sarah’s story has sparked your interest in the Arctic, connect with us today! We’d love to help plan a truly unforgettable experience to this remarkable part of the world.
