Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
30% Ponant Bonus
20 m²
2
The Gulf of Bothnia, at the Gateway to the Arctic
Kemi - Helsinki
Dates:
30/12/2026
to
7/1/2027
Other available dates
days
nights on board
FLIGHT PARIS/KEMI + TRANSFERS + FLIGHT HELSINKI/PARIS
It’s raining stars in our bed. This sensitive evocation of the Arctic night, which is the title of Scandinavian poetry collection, invites us to the best seats in the house to watch the union between the vault of heaven and the earth’s crust, beneath a multitude of stars. In the delicious comfort of Le Commandant Charcot, experience winter at the gateway to the Arctic, admire the spectacle of the Gulf of Bothnia, between enchanted landscapes and traditions, and from the Stockholm Archipelago discover a magical world in half-light. Experience the period of Kaamos, the polar night, during which luminosity is reduced to a twilight of 4 to 5 hours per day, representing everyday life for the local population
The itinerary may be altered based on port approvals and to comply with applicable government regulations Please also note that the sailing programme, shore visits and activities cannot be guaranteed, as they are subject to weather conditions.
*The land-based activities and excursions can be conducted in English with a translator if required.
Ref : KH064 - CC301226
Your itinerary
A PONANT Explorations journey in the Gulf of Bothnia in the heart of the splendid northern winter, featuring singular history and stunning natural landscapes. Aboard Le Commandant Charcot, a luxurious and...
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Your trip in detail
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Included in your cruise
To make sure things run smoothly, PONANT has included certain elements before and after your cruise as part of the price.
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
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Services provided
- Glazed private balcony for all our staterooms and suites
- Terrace for the Duplex suites and the Owner's suite
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- 3 ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Clothing tips:
INSULATING BASE LAYER AND WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER :
- Water-resistant parka - offered on board (not children sizes ; in case of consecutive cruises, only one complimentary parka).
- Comfortable trousers : classic winter trouser, warm cotton tracksuit or wool legging.
- Waterproof and wind proof over-trousers – MANDATORY.
- Windbreaker
- Winter trousers with waterproof over-trousers are the ideal combination : water-resistance and flexibility of trousers are essential and imperative.
- Pullover, sweat-shirt or fleece jacket.
- Woolen or thermolactyl underwear.
- Woolen or fleece neck-warmer, woolen or fleece ear muffs or warm hat (avoid scarves as they do not stay in place) - MANDATORY
- Wool or silk under gloves, flexible technical and waterproof gloves.
- Thick warm socks (ideally woolen).
- Winter shoes (with a wool lining).
- Walking Sticks. Free rental will be offered on board.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men :
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry-cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
INSULATED BASE LAYER:
- Wool or thermolactyl technical underwear
- Polar or technical jacket
- Polar sweater or sweatshirt
- Silk or wool glove liners
- Wool leggings
- Warm hiking socks
- Winter shoes (with a wool lining)
WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER:
- Waterproof over-trousers - Mandatory
- Waterproof parka - Offered on board (not available in children’s sizes)
- Windbreaker – Mandatory
- A warm woollen hat covering your ears
- Polar or woollen neck warmer
- Waterproof technical gloves
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen
- Lip protection balm
- Mosquito repellent, anti-itch balm and mosquito head net (Greenland)
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
ACCESSORIES:
- Highly protective sunglasses
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Swimsuit (for the spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A PONANT Explorations journey in the Gulf of Bothnia in the heart of the splendid northern winter, featuring singular history and stunning natural landscapes.
- Aboard Le Commandant Charcot, a luxurious and reassuring cocoon opening out onto the exterior, take the time to observe unique landscapes, in particular during a scenic sail among the skerries off the coast of Stockholm.
- The snow-covered landscapes of Swedish and Finnish Lapland, to the north of the Gulf of Bothnia.
- Enjoy winter activities* (snowshoeing, dogsledding or reindeer sledding, ice fishing, etc.) thanks to a selection curated by our destination experts.
- Discover the wonderland of the Scandinavian towns illuminated for the winter.
- Towns with exceptional heritage: the old town of Rauma, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the church-town of Gammeltad (visiting from Lulea); and the neoclassical city of Oulu.
*Advance bookings open approximately two months prior to departure on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability.
The activities mentioned are given as examples, the programme of activities will be fine-tuned as the departure of your cruise approaches and will be available on the website.
Ports of Call & Excursions
30 December 2026 31 December 2026 - Kemi
Embarkation 30/12/2026 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 31/12/2026 at 12:00 am
Kemi reveals itself in the Gulf of Bothnia as, from the snow-covered shores of Finnish Lapland, you enjoy the pleasures of winter. The ephemeral snow castle will welcome you in an enchanted icy setting, and the bracing air will take hold of you during a snowmobile outing or a sled trip, pulled by huskies or reindeer – your choice. Around a hundred kilometres (60 miles) towards the North, on the mythical line of the Arctic Circle, the Santa Claus Village of Rovaniemi offers a magical discovery from a child’s eye view. In the heart of these preserved landscapes, the Scandinavian culture has been forged since the Stone Age, between the History and the traditions of the people of the Far North.
1 January 2027 - Oulu
Arrival 1/1/2027
Departure 1/1/2027
The bells are ringing, the snowflakes are whirling around in the air and the lights are illuminating the charming city of Oulu - the largest town in the north of Scandinavia, located 150 km (93 miles) from the Arctic Circle. On the edge of the Oulujoki River, the market square (Kauppatori) will tempt you with its stalls. The wooden houses that are home to cafés and restaurants make for reassuring refuges. Around you, the white kingdom awaits, with its snow-covered beaches and the promise of fabulous sunsets. Choose to go snowshoeing or on a nature excursion and become aware that you are breathing the purest air in Europe. Enter the tranquillity of the forest and familiarise yourself with Scandinavia’s emblematic animal, the reindeer, of course, during a visit to a farm.
2 January 2027 - Lulea
Arrival 2/1/2027
Departure 2/1/2027
Tucked away at the back of the Gulf of Bothnia, Lulea is the perfect departure point for exploring Swedish Lapland. Among the excursion opportunities, you will be able to go deep into the forest on a snowmobile or on snowshoes to attempt to glimpse a moose or a black grouse. Unless, of course, you would prefer to enjoy some ice fishing on a frozen lake. The Lappish night often offers an unforgettable spectacle of stars. In Gammelstad, discover the best-preserved example of a unique type of settlement found in northern Scandinavia, the church-town. Wander through the alleyways of the old town by lantern light and observe its 424 brick-red houses constructed around the stone church, which dates back to the beginning of the 15th century. Used in the past on days of worship and on religious holidays by the faithful arriving from the surrounding countryside, they are still used today as pieds-à-terre by families during ecclesiastical events.
3 January 2027 - At sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot
Arrival 3/1/2027
Departure 3/1/2027
Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts. Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us.
4 January 2027 - Rauma
Arrival 4/1/2027
Departure 4/1/2027
Stretching for 500 km (310 miles), the western coast of Finland is dotted with historic towns founded at the height of the Swedish Empire. Rauma, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tells part of this exciting history. The old town is built around a Franciscan monastery, the remains of which are the Church of The Holy Cross dating back to the middle of the 15th century. Stroll the streets and alleyways of this medieval city and discover an exceptionally well-preserved example of traditional Nordic wood construction techniques. At the Marela Museum, a fine ship-owner’s home, you will dive into the town’s maritime and industrial history and be able to immerse yourselves in the day-to-day life of a wealthy 19th-century merchant.
5 January 2027 - Stockholm
Arrival 5/1/2027
Departure 5/1/2027
The capital of Sweden occupies an archipelago in the east of the country at the junction of Mälar Lake and the Baltic sea. In Gamla stan, meaning “old town” in Swedish, you can stroll at your leisure in picturesque medieval streets until you reach the majestic Royal Palace. On the green island of Djurgården, you can visit several very different kinds of cultural centres: the Vasa museum is dedicated to a 17th century three-mast, the ecomuseum of Skansen presents traditional customs, and the ABBA museum is dedicated to the legendary pop group. For a fantastic, all-encompassing view of Stockholm, you can take a ride in SkyView, a glass-encased sphere gondola that takes you to the top of the world’s largest building, the Ericsson Globe, a Stockholm landmark.
6 January 2027 - At sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot
Arrival 6/1/2027
Departure 6/1/2027
Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts. Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us.
7 January 2027 - Helsinki
Arrival 7/1/2027 early morning
Disembarkation 7/1/2027 at 8:00 am
Seated in the southern peninsula of Finland, Helsinki offers the buzz of a cosmopolitan city that has opted for both elegance and beauty. Explore its historical centre where the soft hues of neoclassical buildings are juxtaposed with spectacular modern constructions. The bustling Kallio district is teeming with boutiques and restaurants where you can taste some local specialities like graavilohi - a sweet, marinated, aromatic salmon dish. Keskuspuisto park, a stone’s throw from the centre, is a good place to sit and unwind.
Le Commandant Charcot
With Le Commandant Charcot, PONANT has imagined and envisaged the cruise voyage of tomorrow. The latest addition to the fleet will take you following in the footsteps of the great polar explorers in refined surroundings complete with the kind of luxury services never before offered in the farthest reaches of the southern and northern hemispheres.
The indoor swimming pool, the conservatory, the panoramic restaurant, the Blue Lagoon outdoor restaurant, the Main Lounge, the Observation Lounge, the lobby… Each of the common areas has been designed to both convey French-style discreet luxury and arouse wonder and amazement. The common thread running through all their designs is the desire to allow the light to penetrate and open everything up the extraordinary polar landscapes and scenery.
This very first hybrid-electric polar exploration ship powered by LNG has been designed with the greatest attention to detail in terms of safety and respect for the environment.
Decks
FLIGHT PARIS/KEMI + TRANSFERS + FLIGHT HELSINKI/PARIS
For your serenity, PONANT selects a flight and organises the transfer between the airport and the port. This package is included in your cruise fare.
Embarkation day - Paris/Kemi
Flight Paris/Kemi selected by PONANT.
Approximate flight duration: 4 h 00.
We highly recommend you arrive in Paris the day before this flight.
We suggest you to be at the check-in counter 2 hours before departure.
Meet & greet at the airport by our local English-speaking representative.
Transfer to the pier for embarkation.
- Cruise aboard your cruise ship -
This programme includes:
- Flight Paris/Kemi selected by PONANT in economy class.
- Transfer mentioned in the programme.
- English-speaking assistance.
This programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Any other service not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- Flight included in the programme is as of today, operated in economy class.
- Due to limited local transportation resources, waiting might be generated.
- For passengers in transit in Paris, we recommend staying one night in Paris before this flight.
- Programme and flight schedule are subject to change without prior notice.
- PONANT will adapte the content of the transfer offer from airport according to your flight schedule.
New Year's Cruise
Spend an unforgettable New Year’s Eve with PONANT!
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
WINTER GETAWAY IN HELSINKI (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Helsinki
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will be transferred directly to the Kalkkiranta pier, where you will embark on board a steel boat (if the sea is clear) or a hovercraft (if there is ice).
After a 40-minute ride, you will reach a private island where you can experience a true feeling of winter and see what the archipelago looks like during colder months.
Your morning programme on the island includes a hike along a nature trail, as well as learning about cold water and survival skills in the water.
Then, a local buffet lunch will be served.
During the afternoon, a sauna experience will be possible. For guests who don’t want to do the sauna activity, they can just do the Jacuzzi if they wish to (showers available) or enjoy the calmness of the nature – the hosts are also on the island the whole time and the guests can hear about the archipelago living from them.
Transfer back to the mainland and drive to Helsinki. Chek-in to your hotel in the city center (around 4 pm).
End of the day and dinner at leisure.
Day 2 – Helsinki
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel:
Immerse yourself in a chic, urban atmosphere rooted in Nordic culture at the 4-star Lapland Hotel Bulevardi, situated in Helsinki's vibrant Design District. Rooms equipped with all the modern comforts reveal a harmonious decor that pays tribute to nature. The restaurant offers cuisine with local influences, inspired by the Lappish forests.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Northern Comfort room at the Lapland Hotel Bulevardi 4*, (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink and 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
- Hospitality desk at the hotel, the day of your departure.
Your programme does not include:
- Dinner on day 1 and lunch on day 2.
- Personal expenses.
- Visa if necessary.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Early check-in and late check-out.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
- Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m.
- Official hotel check-out time is 12:00 a.m.
- Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
- This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
- During December in Helsinki, the weather is usually cold, snowy and sometimes rainy. Temperatures range from -5 to +5. The days are short and dark, the sun sets in the afternoon.
- This programme requires you to be able to walk outside, in a forest, with a possibility of facing snowy and slippery conditions (cold and humid weather). We recommend you wear warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes and bring a small backpack for your day of visit.
- The Private Island has a main building, a summer café, indoor toilets.
- Survival suits are provided during the boat trip.
- Food is local archipelago style food, seating inside.
- 2 separate saunas available and depending of the group size, sauna slots can be arranged for couples (towels provided, swimsuit not provided).
- Depending on the total number of participants, small groups will be set up and activities organized in rotation.
Contact of your hotel:
Lapland Hotels Bulevardi
Bulevardi 28
00120 Helsinki
Telephone: +358 9 25251111
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$2,290
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.RELAX IN HELSINKI
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Day 1 – Helsinki
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will be drive to the downtown of Helsinki and your journey will start with a ride on the iconic SpåraKOFF pub tram, a one-of-a-kind experience combining sightseeing with local flavors. Sip on Finnish craft beer, cider, or soft drinks while the tram glides through the city’s streets, offering views of landmarks like Senate Square, Market Square, and Helsinki Cathedral. This charming vintage tram provides a cozy and unique way to see the city.
Next, indulge in an authentic Finnish lunch at Löyly, the city’s famous seaside retreat. Savor fresh, locally sourced salmon soup in a setting that combines modern architecture with natural beauty.
After lunch, immerse yourself in Finland’s cherished sauna culture. Löyly offers both a wood-heated and a smoke sauna, where you can relax and unwind. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a refreshing dip in the Baltic Sea or simply enjoy the stunning views from the terrace.
You will be transferred to the airport of Helsinki-Vantaa in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 local glass of beer or 1 soft drink and 1 coffee or tea).
- The services of a local French-speaking guide
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Visa if necessary.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Other services not mentioned in the program.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents. In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your program will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised program will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final program will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : AU$650
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.