UNEXPLORED ANTARCTICA: A PONANT EXPEDITION CRUISE
USHUAIA | ANTARCTICA | TASMANIA
A sight envisioned by many yet seen by few, joining the ranks of lucky adventurers who have cruised to our most southerly continent has become an even more elite affair than ever.
Discover the Antarctic Circle between two continents
As if a best kept secret known only to the resident wildlife, the ethereal landscapes of Antarctica could fool anyone into thinking that they’re the first to tread its icy terrain. While that may not be the case, following in the footsteps of the great explorers of yesteryear aboard PONANT’s specialist ship, Le Commandant Charcot, is something truly special. Think walking out on deck to take in the size of the Drygalski Glacier or to spot orcas and penguins in the frigid waves – and even the chance to get as close to the past as possible when discovering Shackleton’s and Scott’s base camps near Mount Erebus.
What makes this voyage truly unique, though, is its crossing of three continents; where expeditions usually start and end in southern South America, it’s the isles of Oceania – specifically Tasmania – that are the last port of call on this voyage. Not to mention the accompanying guests of honour (including Jonathan Shackleton, descendant of Sir Ernest), who make life onboard as enlightening as the daily excursions are enriching.
Where you'll be going...
Get to know where you'll be exploring, from Antarctica's icy terrain to the ports of Hobart and Ushuaia.
EMBARKING FROM USHUAIA, ARGENTINA
DAY 1
Where the Andes meet the sea, Ushuaia may be considered the gateway to the world’s end, but it’s also the place where adventures in the ethereal White Continent begin.
THE DRAKE PASSAGE & ANTARCTIC CIRCLE
DAY 2-4
Mark the beginning of the voyage by crossing these two iconic areas while getting to know the ship and its upcoming ports of call.
CHARCOT ISLAND
DAY 5
Occupied only by seabirds, this largely untouched island shrouded in ice was discovered by its namesake, Jean-Baptiste Charcot, in 1910.
SAILING THE BELLINGSHAUSEN SEA & AMUNDSEN SEA
DAY 6-9
An awe for the natural world is innate in the Antarctic, seemingly untouched by humanity save for the occasional reminder of explorers gone by.
MARIE BYRD LAND
DAY 10-16
One of the most remote territories on the continent, this is one of only three current ‘terra nullius’ in the world – meaning no nation has claimed it.
INTERNATIONAL DATE LINE, DAY AT SEA & ROSS SEA
DAY 17-22
After crossing the International Date Line and a day at sea, the world’s largest marine protected area and historic explorer base camps demand exploration at the Ross Sea.
BALLENY ISLANDS
DAY 23
The remote location of these islands has allowed its wildlife to thrive, making sightings of whales, penguins and seals abundant.
AT SEA
DAY 24-29
Downtime on deck can be as enlightening or relaxing as you like. From educational talks and scientific equipment to try to a spa to while away time in.
DISEMBARKING FROM HOBART, TASMANIA
DAY 30
A charismatic and art-loving city hugged by mountains and ocean, both aesthetes and outdoorsy types can’t help but explore when they arrive in Australia’s second-oldest capital city.
Where you’ll stay...
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
The world’s only luxury icebreaker and PONANT’s first electric hybrid Polar expedition vessel, Le Commandant Charcot is the most eco-friendly way to navigate the Polar Regions. There’s no sacrificing on style and class though; plush staterooms and suites have a private yacht feel and decadent French cuisine steals the show in the dining venues.
The extraordinary experiences you'll be having...
GUIDE PRICE
From £128,000 based on a couple booking for 30 nights cruise and stay
INCLUDED IN YOUR TRIP
- Business class international flights
- Economy class flight Santiago to Ushuaia
- 1 night pre-cruise accommodation in Santiago
- 29 nights in a Prestige Stateroom on Deck 7 aboard Le Commandant Charcot
- All transfers
- All extraordinary experiences outlined above
Itinerary essentials
ONBOARD
29 NIGHTS
WHEN TO GO
JAN - FEB
FLIGHT TIME
28HRS LHR - MAD - EZE - USH
