Dark blue & white expedition ship sits beside ice as travelers in red jackets & kayaks paddle beside on a luxury North Pole voyage.
Mother polar bear & cub walk across snow-covered icebergs at sunset with pools of calm sea behind, seen in Svalbard, Norway.
Zodiac full of North Pole travelers in orange jackets cruises among small pieces of ice on a sunny day in the Arctic.
North Pole traveler in orange jacket with fur-lined hood holds camera up to photograph ice while sitting in a Zodiac in the sun.
Profile of Le Commandant Charcot small ship with dark blue hull & white upper decks as she cruises to the North Pole by icebergs.
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Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Le Commandant Charcot Transarctic Expedition: The Quest for the Two North Poles

In 1926, Umberto Nobile became the first man in the world to cross the Arctic via the North Pole. Aboard 245-guest Le Commandant Charcot, you have the opportunity to do the same, in the utmost style and comfort. Follow in the footsteps of Nobile to discover some of the Arctic’s secrets during a dedicated research mission at the highest point of the north.

Aboard Le Commandant Charcot, with up to 200 guests aboard her Arctic cruises, sail a novel transpolar maritime route that is inaccessible to traditional ships. From the legendary Bering Strait, a link between the East and the West, to the ice-covered land of Svalbard, the ship will carve out a path through the ice floes, exploring the ice of the Beaufort Sea, and use open water leads to attempt to reach the elusive Magnetic and Geographic North Poles. Along the way, learn about the onboard research projects being conducted by a multi-disciplinary team of around 20 researchers. Accompanied by expert naturalists, discover the unique ecosystems of the changing polar world.

Benefit from the latest expedition ship technology aboard Le Commandant Charcot, with her onboard safety equipment exceeding both tourism and military criteria and her sustainable features attaining a Clean Ship label. She is the first cruise ship with dedicated wet and dry labs for a team of scientists, and has been specially fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts. Take advantage of the onboard lectures and opportunities for discussion and citizen science research with these specialists to learn more about the poles. And opt to kayak, snowshoe and even go ice fishing on this incredible journey.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s North Pole cruises, Arctic cruises, Svalbard cruises, Alaska small ship cruises and Arctic expedition trips.



Itinerary

Transarctic, the Quest for the Two North Poles itinerary

This North Pole expedition cruise begins with a charter flight from Paris, France to embark the ship in Longyearbyen, Svalbard. Explore Svalbard and then cruise across the top of the globe before disembarking in Nome, Alaska and ending with a charter flight to Seattle, Washington.

Route map of Le Commandant Charcot Transarctic Expedition, from Longyearbyen, Svalbard by way of Paris, along the Magnetic & Geographic North Poles, to Seattle, Washington via Nome, Alaska.
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Day 1
Fly Paris, France to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen & Embark

Longyearbyen is the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, located on Svalbard’s main island, and is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet. With winter temperatures dropping to below 40°C, the landscapes of this mining town are simply breathtaking. The glaciers, the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the untouched nature, make you feel like you’re in completely unexplored territory.

Accommodations

Le Commandant Charcot

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Isfjorden

The vast Isfjorden is one of the main fjords in Svalbard. These different branches reach the heart of the island of Spitsbergen. Located deep inside the Billejforden, the Nordenskiöld Glacier with its front of ice, nearly 3 miles (5 km) wide, is one of the most spectacular in the Svalbard Archipelago. Perhaps have the opportunity to discover the ghost town of Pyramiden. Constructed at the foot of a mountain in the form of a pyramid, this former mining town, founded by Sweden at the beginning of the 20th century before being sold a few years later to the Soviet Union, and abandoned in 1998, has conserved all the buildings from its glory days, when it lived off coal mining.

Accommodations

Le Commandant Charcot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Hornsund

Nestling between millennial glaciers and carved mountains, and considered to be “the crown of Arctic Norway,” Spitsbergen is a place that never sees the night. Your ship will take you closer to this fascinating archipelago and, more particularly, the Hornsund fjord. Considered to be Svalbard’s southernmost fjord, it is especially reputed to be its most stunning: at the end of its vast bay, eight great glaciers slowly make their way down to the sea before giving way to the many icebergs elegantly drifting along its cold and mysterious waters.

Accommodations

Le Commandant Charcot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Soraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve

The Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve is the second largest protected area in Norway. Established in 1973, this nature conservation area stretching over more than 4,600 sq mi (21,000 sq km) will offer you stunning panoramas including coastal landscapes, rocky islets, mountain plateaus, vast tundra plains and ice floes. With a little luck, you will be able to observe a wide variety of seabirds, given the site is listed as an Important Bird Area, as well as cetaceans, Svalbard reindeer, or even arctic foxes. Among other things, Edgeoya Island is renowned for providing shelter to a number of polar bears during the breeding season.

Accommodations

Le Commandant Charcot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
Sailing in the Hinlopen Strait

Sailing in the Hinlopen Strait, in the heart of the Arctic Ocean, between the Norwegian islands of Spitsbergen and Nordaustlandet promises an unforgettable experience. This territory of the Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve offers breathtaking panoramas, with magnificent basalt formations and the ice cap stretching as far as the eye can see, diving into the sea. The shore line cut by the fjords moving inland composes a magical landscape in which icebergs float here and there, the result of the calving of the surrounding glaciers. This place, today a popular spot to observe the seabirds nesting in the enormous cliffs, polar bears and walruses, was once intrinsically linked to the history of the whalers who frequented the region from the 17th century. Indeed, it was one of them, Thijmen Jacobsz Hinlopen, then director of a Dutch whaling company, who gave the strait its name. Later on, Russian trappers, European explorers, scientists and even mountaineers roamed this region, as hostile as it is sublime.

Accommodations

Le Commandant Charcot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve

The Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve has been protecting the northernmost and coldest part of the archipelago, Nordaustlandet (North East Land), since 1973. This vast polar desert covered by two ice caps is the second largest island in the Svalbard archipelago. Protected by the Gulf Stream, the fjords and cliffs in the west and north are home to large colonies of birds and walruses. The landscapes in the colder east and south are dominated by imposing glaciers that calve majestic icebergs in the vast Hinlopen Strait. Large colonies of thick-billed murres may have taken up residence on the sheer cliffs (depending on nesting and migration period). You may even get the chance to see a bear or an arctic fox roaming in the vicinity.

Accommodations

Le Commandant Charcot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 7 - 9
Navigating Through the Sea Ice

Enjoy the absolutely unique experience of sailing to the heart of the ice floe, this vast expanse of virgin, immaculate ice. The landscapes are constantly changing, shifting from a smooth, flat wilderness to a chaos of ice, then to channels of open water. Your ship will sail along these naturally open channels and through the areas where the frozen layer is thinnest, offering you the chance to experience magic maritime moments in the midst of drifting sea ice. It will also often be an opportunity to see a particular kind of fauna, totally dependent on the ice floe.

Accommodations

Le Commandant Charcot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 10
Magnetic North Pole

The convergence point for the field lines of the Earth’s magnetic field, the Magnetic North Pole attracts the magnetic needle of the compass. While the Geographic North Pole is the Earth’s northernmost fixed point, marking the intersection of the Globe’s rotation axis with the Earth’s surface, the Magnetic North Pole moves over time. In fact, it is linked to the Earth’s magnetic field which originates in the Earth’s outer core, which is made up of molten metal and is subject to convection movements. Localised for the first time in 1831, in the Canadian Arctic, it has since moved towards Siberia and thus become closer to the Geographic North Pole. Set off in search of the Magnetic North Pole, try to get closer to it and, if luck allows it, attempt to reach it!

Accommodations

Le Commandant Charcot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 11
Exploring Sea Ice in Beaufort Sea

Bordering the north coasts of Alaska and Canada, the Beaufort Sea was feared for centuries because of its extreme climatic conditions. Covered for most of the year with a thick layer of ice, and unexplored until 1914, this part of the Arctic Ocean, named in honor of the British Admiral Francis Beaufort, will reveal its magnificent icy landscapes to you. With a bit of luck, maybe cross the path of some polar bears, since the region is renowned for sheltering the Lord of the Arctic.

Accommodations

Le Commandant Charcot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 12
Geographic North Pole

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 your ship.

Accommodations

Le Commandant Charcot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 13 - 20
Exploring Sea Ice in Beaufort Sea

Bordering the north coasts of Alaska and Canada, the Beaufort Sea was feared for centuries because of its extreme climatic conditions. Covered for most of the year with a thick layer of ice, and unexplored until 1914, this part of the Arctic Ocean, named in honor of the British Admiral Francis Beaufort, will reveal its magnificent icy landscapes to you. With a bit of luck, maybe cross the path of some polar bears, since the region is renowned for sheltering the Lord of the Arctic.

Accommodations

Le Commandant Charcot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 21
Disembark Nome, Alaska, Fly Seattle, Washington & Depart

Located along the Bering Strait at the westernmost point of Alaska, Nome offers the rustic charm of a former goldmining town, set in the middle of magnificent wilderness. Weave in and out of the brightly colored houses and discover the pioneering legacy that still marks local traditions. Fishing, reindeer rearing, sledge-racing… People here live from their manual labor. The surrounding plains provide stunning vantage points for observing Arctic fauna.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Charter flight from Paris, France to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen, and from Nome, Alaska to Seattle, Washington; all meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); evening entertainment and events; room service; highly qualified bilingual French/English expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; Zodiac and shore excursions; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited WiFi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities; activities indicated in cruise documents.

Exclusions

Other meals and services not mentioned in the program; optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise; visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; gratuities for the local guide; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Transarctic cruise begins in Paris, France (CDG), and ends in Seattle, Washington (SEA). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Two Economy class group charter flights are included on this itinerary: one between Paris, France and Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen, and another between Nome, Alaska and Seattle, Washington. The charter flights are unique per departure and details will be confirmed in advance. There is a luggage limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 18 lbs (8 kg) cabin baggage for Economy class. Additional Economy class baggage allotment can be requested and purchased and is based on availability. Business Class seating may be available upon request and would incur an additional charge. The luggage limit for business class is two 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 22 lbs (10 kg) cabin baggage.

Activities

Various optional, included activities may be available on this Transarctic cruise: kayaking, citizen science, polar plunge, walking, hiking and snowshoeing. Additional activities include practicing photography, Zodiac cruising and shore-based excursions. In addition to these off-ship excursions, a multitude of onboard activities keep guests engaged, including live music, dance and theater; spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; specialty food, wine and cocktail tastings; organized games; and lectures by guides and possible special guests.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining availability per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 8 years and older at time of travel are welcomed on this expedition. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

On Commandant Charcot, an EKG (electrocardiogram) is required from the doctor of any guest who wishes to participate in the polar plunge (where available). A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Sep 05 - Sep 25, 2025
Le Commandant Charcot • 21 days
From $51780USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Luxury Hybrid Electric Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
Le Commandant Charcot

Le Commandant Charcot, carrying 200-245 guests, is a sophisticated, luxury expedition ship cruising the Arctic & Antarctic. Her hybrid electric engine, powered by liquefied natural gas, is the first of its kind. And her activity options, including ice fishing, offer a unique polar experience, rounded out by a French-inspired onboard atmosphere.

Expert Reviews

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Taylor Cranney • December 2nd, 2022
Expert Review: Going to the North Pole

Hear from Adventure Specialist Taylor Cranney about what it’s really like at the North Pole in this review of her trip. See her impressions from 16 days at sea and who might be cut out for an expedition of this caliber.

Lauren Pilholski • October 25th, 2022
Expert Aboard: Le Commandant Charcot Ship Review

Get expert insight on the record-breaking ship Le Commandant Charcot. Our specialist was aboard for more than two weeks and reviews everything from the cabins to the crew and programming.

Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

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Le Commandant Charcot Transarctic Expedition: The Quest for the Two North Poles