National Geographic Expeditions, the travel arm of one of the world's most prestigious brands, and Ponant, a global leader in luxury expedition cruises, are launching a new hybrid electric vessel for polar expeditions. Named Le Commandant Charcot, this ship will revolutionize and expand the boundaries of navigation in the Arctic and Antarctic following its launch in 2021.
National Geographic Expeditions and Ponant have developed a new itinerary that will take advantage of the ship's new features and innovative technology to explore Northeast Greenland National Park . The itinerary is now available to book through StarClass, the cruise line's representative in Spain. Traveling with a National Geographic expert and photographer specializing in the region, travelers will gain an in-depth understanding of this remote area and learn how to best capture its unique landscape. The route explores the least accessible region of the far north, where nature displays all its splendor. Passengers will discover incredible landscapes such as strata, fjords, glaciers, and icebergs, and may spot polar bears, narwhals, seals, musk oxen, Arctic foxes, orcas, and seabirds.
The ship will be equipped with the latest environmental protection technology and will have a hybrid liquefied natural gas (LNG) and electric propulsion. This will allow for a reduction in emissions of SO2, NOx, CO2, and fine particulate matter from the vessel. Silent navigation will be possible in sensitive areas thanks to the batteries.
Powered by electric motors, the ship will be able to navigate with zero emissions and very low noise levels. It will also be equipped with technology to optimize energy consumption, wastewater treatment, and waste processing. Furthermore, when traveling with National Geographic Expeditions, guests help promote the work of its scientists, explorers, and educators worldwide, as National Geographic Expeditions distributes a portion of its revenue annually to the National Geographic Society.
The ship, Le Commandant Charcot, will feature 135 cabins, including 31 suites, a panoramic restaurant, a grill restaurant, an indoor and outdoor pool, and a spa area. To allow guests to fully experience the polar regions, a fleet of 16 Zodiac expedition boats will enable passengers to explore the icy areas and get up close to incredible wildlife.
The 12-night trip departs from Reykjavik on June 24, 2021, and is priced at €14,600 per person, based on double occupancy in a suite. Bookings are now available through StarClass. StarClass also offers the option to extend the trip before or after its departure date with their well-known "tailor-made" service, allowing customers to book hotels, flights, excursions, and anything else they desire.
