The Geographic North Pole in Luxury

Join your included flight from Paris to Longyearbyen, the administrative capital of Svalbard, where you will transfer to the port to board your luxury expedition vessel. You can settle into your supremely comfortable cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship as we sail out of Longyearbyen surrounded by wonderful scenery and head into the Isfjord as your Arctic adventure begins.

Today will be spent onboard sailing along Spitsbergen’s dramatic west coast surrounded by enchanting scenery and a constant chance of observing wildlife. The largest island in Svalbard, between millennial glaciers and rugged mountains, you will discover a jagged coastline, hollowed-out by fjords. Photo opportunities abound, and as we sail, some time on deck should hopefully reward in wildlife sightings. We may even be lucky enough to spot a Polar bear!

As we make our way slowly towards the Geographical North Pole, we can enjoy the unique experience of sailing through the vast expanse of virgin, immaculate ice that makes up the ice floe between Spitsbergen and the farthest northern reaches of the globe. Wildlife sightings are likely as we sail through the constantly changing landscapes that are covered by a frozen layer of ice. Combined with a fantastic programme of lectures and presentations, and the wonderful amenities on board your ship, these days at sea are likely to be truly memorable.

Defined by a 90° North latitude, the Geographic North Pole lies on the Earth’s rotational axis, at the intersection of all meridians. Plunged into darkness for six months of the year, then lit by the sun for the following six months, this mythical site, permanently covered in ice and remote from any land, has fascinated generations of explorers. So far, only a very few people have ever reached it: an exploit which is now accessible to you aboard Le Commandant Charcot.

After our unforgettable discovery of the northernmost point on the planet, it’s time to head back into the ice floes for some more exciting ice navigation. We will then spend a further two days enjoying some more exploration along the west coast of Spitsbergen in search of wildlife and memorable experiences.

As you arrive back into beautiful Longyearbyen, after breakfast it will be time to disembark and join your included flight back to Paris. Numerous further Arctic adventures are available in Longyearbyen so please enquire should you wish to extend your experience and spend a few more days in this unique Arctic town.