Guest of Honour 
Polar Expedition 
Superior Stateroom
10% Ponant Bonus
21 m2
3
The Northwest Passage, in the wake of Roald Amundsen
Kangerlussuaq - Nome, Alaska
Dates:
31/8/2023
to
24/9/2023
days
nights on board
Flight Paris/Kangerlussuaq + transfers + flight Nome/Seattle
With featured guest Cindy Miller Hopkins, American Photo Ambassador.
PONANT takes you to the boundaries of the Far North during an exceptional trip in the wake of the legendary explorer Roald Amundsen. Sail the mythical Northwest Passage, a historic and famous shipping route, which winds its way among the labyrinthine channels of the northernmost world. Spend 25 days marvelling at the beauty of these remote regions where Inuit villages appear amidst the landscapes of the Arctic.
Greenland, and its traditional colourful houses, is the first port of call on your long adventure. You will sail along the west coast of this immense and immaculate island. Monumental icebergs criss-cross the Labrador Sea with you, to travel towards Baffin Bay.
Set sail to Northern Canada and the entrance of the Northwest Passage. Amundsen was the first to pave the way on this northern route between the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans, which long remained just a theory for navigators and scientists. In Gjoa Haven, discover the wintering site of the expedition he undertook between 1903 and 1906. Like him, get to know the Inuit people who perpetuate their ancestral traditions in the heart of grandiose nature. On Beechey Island, retrace the steps of the Franklin expedition, before marvelling at the sublime canyon at Fury Beach.
Throughout your trip, you will enter majestic fjords and sail at the edge of the ice floes, in the hope of glimpsing the polar bear, the lord of the Far North. Try to spot bowhead whales in the Beaufort Sea; as for grey whales, these occupy the waters of the Bering Strait before they migrate towards the south of the continent. An exceptional journey taking in the emblematic fauna of the Far North, dreamlike landscapes and unforgettable encounters with the people of the North.
We are privileged guests in these remote lands where we are at the mercy of weather, ice, tidal and current conditions. Landings on certain sites and the observation of certain wildlife cannot be guaranteed. They vary from day to day, making each PONANT cruise a unique experience. The Captain and the Expedition Leader will make every effort to ensure that your experience is as rich as possible, while complying with the safety rules and instructions imposed by the AECO.
Ref : KN1645 - BO310823
Your itinerary
With featured guest Cindy Miller Hopkins, American Photo Ambassador. The eye and the advice of our photo ambassadors, a privileged opportunity to immortalise your trip with, in the programme: workshops,...
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Your trip in detail
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Complete your trip
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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.
Services provided
- 24h room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wi-Fi (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 included
- 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)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Cindy Miller Hopkins
PONANT Photo Ambassador and full-time professional travel and wildlife photographer with 25 years’ experience and over six thousand publications to her credit. Her images can be seen on the pages of thousands of textbooks, travel brochures, calendars, fine art prints, consumer products, U.S. and international magazines, and newspapers. Her freelance, assignment and workshop career has taken her to all seven continents and to over 150 countries. Her 2018 shot of 5-species of penguins in one frame is thought to be the only one like it in the world and is currently the lead image in a campaign to fully protect South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. Along with her stock photography business, Cindy teaches digital photography classes, works as a professional photographer & guest lecturer on expedition ships and leads photo safaris around the world. She is past president of the NANPA (North American Photography Association) Foundation Board and is an active Foundation Board member for over 20 years. On average, Cindy is out of the country over 200 days a year. When not traveling, she lives at home with her husband in Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA.
Language spoken : English
Photo credit : Sue Flood
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Cindy Miller Hopkins
PONANT Photo Ambassador and full-time professional travel and wildlife photographer with 25 years’ experience and over six thousand publications to her credit. Her images can be seen on the pages of thousands of textbooks, travel brochures, calendars, fine art prints, consumer products, U.S. and international magazines, and newspapers. Her freelance, assignment and workshop career has taken her to all seven continents and to over 150 countries. Her 2018 shot of 5-species of penguins in one frame is thought to be the only one like it in the world and is currently the lead image in a campaign to fully protect South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. Along with her stock photography business, Cindy teaches digital photography classes, works as a professional photographer & guest lecturer on expedition ships and leads photo safaris around the world. She is past president of the NANPA (North American Photography Association) Foundation Board and is an active Foundation Board member for over 20 years. On average, Cindy is out of the country over 200 days a year. When not traveling, she lives at home with her husband in Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA.
Language spoken : English
Photo credit : Sue Flood
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landing"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, position of ice, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to polar/isolated regions is an exhilarating experience in remote areas: please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- A PONANT polar water-resistant parka is offered on board for all departures with an Expedition programme (no children sizes, in case of consecutive cruises, only one complimentary parka).
- Half calf rubber boots with non-slip soles, which will allow you to go ashore in 20 cm of cold water, keeping your feet dry for walks and visits on steep paths. Boot rental will be offered onboard (for adults only) on Expedition cruises.
- Comfortable trousers: classic Winter trousers, warm cotton tracksuit, wool leggings
- Waterproof and windproof over-trousers – MANDATORY
- Winter trousers with waterproof over trousers are the ideal combination: water-resistance and comfort of trousers are essential
- Pullover, sweat-shirt or fleece jacket
- Woollen or thermolactyl Thermal underwear
- A warm hat, woollen ear muffs or fleece ear muffs, fleece or woollen neck warmer (avoid scarves that do not stay in place)- MANDATORY
- Wool or silk glove liners, water-resistant and supple gloves
- Thick warm socks (ideally woollen)
Accessories:
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
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
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
- With featured guest Cindy Miller Hopkins, American Photo Ambassador.
- The eye and the advice of our photo ambassadors, a privileged opportunity to immortalise your trip with, in the programme: workshops, conferences and personalized advice to improve your photographic skills.
- The crossing of the Northwest Passage, a labyrinthine shipping route at the boundaries of the Far North, in the wake of the legendary explorer Roald Amundsen.
- Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.
- The possibility of meeting the Greenlandic and Canadian Inuit people to share a unique moment in Holman and Gjoa Haven.
- In the footsteps of the great polar explorers, the discovery of Amundsen’s wintering site in Gjoa Haven, right near the mythical shipwrecks of John Franklin’s HMS Erebus and HMS Terror.
- The discovery of the western coast of Greenland, bathed by Baffin Bay, and its traditional villages surrounded by icebergs, glaciers, tundra and sumptuous mountains.
- Disko Bay, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see the Northern Hemisphere’s largest icebergs.
- Landscapes: ice pack, myriads of jagged islands, fjords, glaciers, mountain chains, monumental icebergs as you travel towards Greenland.
- Wildlife: Arctic foxes, sea birds, belugas, narwhals, bowhead whales, humpback whales, muskox, walruses and the possibility of seeing polar bears.
Ports of Call & Excursions
31 August 2023 - Kangerlussuaq
Embarkation 31/8/2023 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 31/8/2023 at 6:00 pm
From 1941 to 1992, the town of Kangerlussuaq in Greenland was home to an American military base. Nowadays, thanks to its international airport, it has become a transit point for travellers seeking adventure in the Far North. Located to the north of the Arctic Circle, this town is the starting point of magnificent discoveries surrounded by unspoiled nature. Indeed, just a few dozen kilometres from there it is possible to get close to the Greenland ice sheet, the largest body of ice in the Northern Hemisphere. From Kangerlussuaq, admire also the superb landscapes of tundra in autumnal colours, where Arctic hares, musk oxen, Arctic foxes, reindeer, falcons and eagles live.
1 September 2023 - At sea
Arrival 1/9/2023
Departure 1/9/2023
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
1 September 2023 - Sisimiut
Arrival 1/9/2023
Departure 1/9/2023
During your cruise, we invite you to discover Sisimiut, founded in 1756 and the second largest town in Greenland. This small town is typical of Greenland, boasting bewitching panoramas: here and there, colourful stilt houses dot the undulating landscape, and the small fishing port stands as the gateway to an icy realm. As for the town centre, it is home to a number of historic buildings, a small church and a museum which retraces the history of the Inuit people, as well as many craft shops. When your ship drops anchor here, you will set out to meet the locals in a typically arctic atmosphere.
2 September 2023 - Kitsissuarsuit (Dog's Island)
Arrival 2/9/2023
Departure 2/9/2023
The Dutch were the first to come and hunt whales on this island they called “isle of dogs” - Kitissuarsuit in Greenlandic. Indeed, when they arrived there in the summertime, the inhabitants had left the island, leaving behind their dogs, and moved to the neighbouring fjords for a season of fishing. Kitissuarsuit is considered to be the larder of the small town of Aasiaat, which is further away from the fishing areas, and the villagers still live self-sufficiently thanks to the marine resources, while trying to keep their age-old traditions alive.
3 September 2023 - Disko Bay
Arrival 3/9/2023
Departure 3/9/2023
To the east of Baffin Bay, discover Disko Bay, scattered with countless icebergs produced by the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From your ship, admire the majestic ballet of these ice giants as they slowly drift across the dark waters. This site is a natural marvel of Greenland, and is also renowned as an observation point for the region’s many humpback whales. The encounters with wild fauna and stunning landscapes in the heart of this spectacular and fragile nature will be pure moments of wonder for you.
4 September 2023 - Qeqertarsuaq
Arrival 4/9/2023
Departure 4/9/2023
On the southern coast of Disko Island, Qeqertarsuaq is one of just two small villages on this island the size of Corsica. Its isolation makes it an observation post popular among naturalists since the beginning of polar exploration and the set-up, in 1906, of the Arctic Centre research facility. During a cruise exploring the natural wonders of Greenland, the potential encounters with wild fauna, such as the humpback whale, and the stunning basalt landscapes will be pure moments of wonder for you. In the heart of this spectacular and fragile nature, enjoy the breath-taking views of the grandiose and varied landscapes of Disko Island and Disko Bay.
5 September 2023 - Paul-Émile Victor Base Camp, Eqi Glacier
Arrival 5/9/2023
Departure 5/9/2023
"The most beautiful place in the Arctic" is how Paul-Émile Victor described Greenland, a land of great icebergs and of towering ice formations calved by the giant glaciers of the polar ice cap. The Eqi Glacier is one of the region’s most impressive sights. Here, the silence is broken only by the roaring and cracking of the ice. It is impossible to know if one is shivering from cold or from the sheer thrill of being here... Imagine the vast outline of a glacier, its translucent crystals glowing with an ice-blue fire in the sunlight. Paul-Émile Victor’s shelter cannot be overlooked; it was from here that the French Polar Expeditions’ anthropological and geographic explorations set off in the 1950s.
6 September 2023 - Upernavik Fjord
Arrival 6/9/2023
Departure 6/9/2023
The glacier that calves in the majestic Upernavik Fjord is extremely active. You will sail between the gigantic icebergs drifting in this large bay, scattered with around 100 tiny islands, home to a number of marine mammals such as the beluga or the narwhal. The fjord, which has always been frequented by hunters, bears the name of a neighbouring village, which means “the region of spring”. It is in this dynamic area that PONANT is working to preserve Inuit culture and contributes to the transmission of artisanal know-how through its participation in the Upernavik Fablab, an innovation that combines tradition and modernity, respecting the pioneer spirit and adaptive capacities of the Inuit populations.
7 September 2023 - Kullorsuaq
Arrival 7/9/2023
Departure 7/9/2023
Well beyond the Arctic Circle, in the majestic landscapes of Greenland’s Northwest, you will find the village of Kullorsuaq, the last bastion of Greenland’s traditional hunters. Here is where you will find Greenland’s true character… Vast mineral expanses, sumptuous mountains, impressive glaciers and, above all, the local population which still lives off fishing and seal or bear hunting. Hospitality and respect for nature are essential elements in the daily lives of these men, who live an austere life. When we drop anchor in this remote part of the world, set off to discover these friendly people who are also talented craftsmen, deftly sewing the furs and skins of marine mammals. This will be a unique and authentic experience.
8 September 2023 - Savissivik
Arrival 8/9/2023
Departure 8/9/2023
Some places in this world are so magical that their beauty cannot be described in words… Savissivik, a small Inuit village with less than a hundred inhabitants, is one such place. Rightly considered to be the biggest iceberg graveyard in Greenland, it is a stunning sight to behold. During your zodiac outing, you will sail between these icy giants. Once on land, you can hike to a viewpoint from which to enjoy breathtaking views over these icebergs, which come in an incredibly diverse range of shapes and colours. Photographers will love it. Savissivik Bay attracts many bears and is also known for having been the home of one of the world’s biggest meteorites, but the latter has now been moved to a museum in New York.
9 September 2023 - Pond Inlet, Nunavut
Arrival 9/9/2023
Departure 9/9/2023
On Baffin Island, located in northern Canada at the mouth of the famous NorthWest Passage, there is a small Inuit settlement at the very bounds of infinity. To get there, cross the Arctic Circle, the imaginary line that separates man from lands of mystery and wonder. It’s not so much the way of life that sets Pond Inlet’s inhabitants apart, so much as the setting. Snow-capped mountains, fjords and glaciers combine in a dazzling natural environment that fills space and expands time. Some discoveries change you forever: this is one of them.
10 September 2023 - Beechey Island, Nunavut
Arrival 10/9/2023
Departure 10/9/2023
Beechey Island, at the eastern end of Resolute Bay, will call to mind some of the most important moments of Franklin’s expedition. Sir John set off in 1845 in search of the mythical Northwest Passage and was forced to take shelter in Erebus Harbour for two long years, while he waited for the ice floes to recede and allow him a way through. It is a spectacular location; seeing the three wooden grave markers, bleached by the sun (indicating the burial places of at least three of Captain Franklin’s men) and visiting the memorial that has been erected in memory of Franklin and his men can only reinforce the hushed sense of reverence. If the surrounding wilderness impresses us, the ochre and yellows of the rocky desert soften the landscape.
11 September 2023 - Fury Beach, Nunavut
Arrival 11/9/2023
Departure 11/9/2023
The ice floe gradually appears as you approach Somerset Island, in the heart of the North West Passage. In a zodiac dinghy, you will land on Fury Beach, a place with a rich history where the English explorer William Edward Parry ran aground in 1825. He left materials and supplies here in order to help the next expeditions that would pass by this site. During your hike around the majestic canyon of Fury Beach, you’ll be dazzled by the surprising landscape: the turquoise green water and sheer cliffs are reminiscent of the Grand Canyon or the High Atlas in Morocco. If fortune smiles on you, you will perhaps come across a family of polar bears roaming the enormous ice floes. A sublime hike; a sense of wonder is guaranteed.
12 September 2023 - Fort Ross, Nunavut
Arrival 12/9/2023
Departure 12/9/2023
Discover Fort Ross, the last trading post established by the Hudson's Bay Company. Constructed in 1937, it was used as a fur and whaling trading post at the same time. Fort Ross, located on a small island at the entrance to the Bellot Strait, is still home to this former store as well as the house for the manager and staff. The interior of these two buildings has been damaged over time and by the presence of polar bears. After a short walk towards the summits of the island, you will be able to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view over the Bellot Strait and surrounding area.
12 September 2023 - Bellot Strait
Arrival 12/9/2023
Departure 12/9/2023
A key stage in the North West Passage, the Bellot Strait, crossed by strong currents, promises you an unforgettable sailing experience. The entrance to the strait is dominated by the Ross Cairn. The buildings of Fort Ross also stand not far from here. Separating Somerset Island from the Boothia Peninsula, this 2-km-wide strait was discovered in 1852 by Captain William Kennedy of the Royal Navy, and the Frenchman Joseph-René Bellot, during an expedition in search of Sir John Franklin. Discover a magnificent décor covered in snow, fragmented by large ice floes. As you sail between them, your ship will perhaps be accompanied by a few polar bears.
13 September 2023 - Gjoa Haven, Nunavut
Arrival 13/9/2023
Departure 13/9/2023
Discovered by the Scottish explorer John Ross in 1830, King William Island was named in honour of the reigning British King. In September 1903, Captain Roald Amundsen was the first to drop anchor at Gjoa Haven, the only inhabited part of the island, where a few Inuit were the only sign of human life. The Norwegian sailor decided to overwinter here for two years, to attempt to find the location of the mysterious Magnetic North Pole. Roald Amundsen interacted with the local Inuit to learn how to survive in these extreme conditions and freezing temperatures. We invite you to discover this small hamlet in the Nunavut region, located just above the Arctic Circle. Do not miss this unique opportunity to discover these forgotten lands.
14 September 2023 - At sea
Arrival 14/9/2023
Departure 14/9/2023
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
15 September 2023 - Edinburgh Island, Nunavut
Arrival 15/9/2023
Departure 15/9/2023
Fall under the charm of small and uninhabited Edinburgh Island, in Nunavut. Blueberries, crowberries, arctic willow, cranberries: vegetation rules the roost here, with no fewer than 19 types of dwarf shrubs, berries and flowers identified. In autumn, these species are adorned with shimmering colours that produce a magnificent picture. The tundra, dotted with red and yellow touches, competes in its beauty with the superb ochres of the sandy beaches and the dark tones of the surrounding cliffs. At the end of a walk towards the heights of the island, enjoy a superb panorama with a view over lakes, sea and basalt mountains. An enchanting place, frequented by caribous, peregrine falcons, reindeer, Arctic foxes and hares.
16 September 2023 - Holman (Ulukhaktok)
Arrival 16/9/2023
Departure 16/9/2023
Set off to meet the inhabitants of Holman for an unforgettable moment in the midst of a welcoming community. With some 500 inhabitants, this hamlet located on the west of Victoria Island has learned how best to adapt to an at-times harsh environment and a difficult climate. As you visit this village in the Canadian Far North, admire the prints and other objects created by the very rich local craftsmanship. Traditional singing and dancing are also part of the daily life of this commune, to the great delight of fans of Inuit culture. The village of Holman, also called Ulukhaktok, is one of those places in which you can share an authentic experience in a remote land.
17 September 2023 - Smoking Hills
Arrival 17/9/2023
Departure 17/9/2023
In the far north of the Northwest Territories, nestling at the junction of the Amundsen Gulf, the Smoking Hill astonish, intrigue and captivate. Considered one of the most fascinating and mysterious phenomena on the planet, this geological paradise, where dozens of kilometres of smoke columns emanate from impressive cliffs coloured in ochre and crimson, will take you on a timeless journey. Spotted for the first time by the British navigator John Franklin during an exploration of the region in 1926, these smoking strata of hydrocarbons result from the chemical reaction between the oil shales and the lignite deposits, a mix of clay shale and pyrite that spontaneously ignites on contact with air, causing this unique natural phenomenon.
18 September 2023 - Jesse Harbour
Arrival 18/9/2023
Departure 18/9/2023
In the glacial waters of the Beaufort Sea, on the eastern shores of Banks Island, Jesse Harbour is thought of as the end of the world, beyond the 72nd parallel north. The island is known for its large population of musk oxen, these behemoths covered in thick fur, perfectly adapted to the harsh Arctic climate. In these distant polar lands, the changing weather imposes its will. Conditions permitting, an outing and various hikes will provide an opportunity to get as close as possible to the abundant fauna that inhabits the ice floe and this far-flung world.
19 September 2023 - Franklin Bay
Arrival 19/9/2023
Departure 19/9/2023
This large bay, 48 km long and 40 km wide, is located in the Northwest Territories, in Canada. It was given its name in 1826 by the naturalist John Richardson, in honour of the British polar explorer Sir John Franklin. Franklin Bay always offers fine occasions to come across marine mammals. During your cruise here, you will also see the famous smoke column show at Smoking Hills, which are cliffs made of sulphur and lignite in beautiful yellow, ochre and brown colours.
20 September 2023 - Herschel Island
Arrival 20/9/2023
Departure 20/9/2023
The Canadian Arctic Archipelago is composed of a myriad of islands and reveals landscapes you will only see at this far end of the world. Come and discover the small canadian island of Herschel, a frozen paradise located in the Beaufort Sea, within the Ivvavik National Park. During an expedition in 1826, Sir John Franklin was the first european to lay eyes on these unique places and their inhabitants, the Inuvialuit, the nordic cousins of the Inuit. It was during this trip that he named the island after one of his friends, John Herschel, a brilliant british astronomer and scientist. Herschel Island is a landmark in the West Arctic and has since served alternately as a whaling station, a relay station and a refuge for travellers.
21 September 2023 23 September 2023 - Sailing in Beaufort Sea
Arrival 21/9/2023
Departure 23/9/2023
Delimited by the entrance to the Northwest Passage and the Amundsen Gulf to the east and by Canada’s Yukon and Northwest Territories to the west, the Beaufort Sea makes up part of the – almost – inaccessible Arctic Ocean. Due to its extreme weather conditions, it was not explored until 1914, by the Canadian explorer Vilhjalmur Stefansson. However, it was named after Francis Beaufort, a British admiral and hydrographer. You will sail on these remote waters strewn with a mosaic of ice resulting from sea-ice breakup. Surrounded by this stunning scenery, you may spot a few belugas and bowhead whales, established in colonies in the region.
23 September 2023 - King Island, Alaska
Arrival 23/9/2023
Departure 23/9/2023
Situated in the Bering Sea, King Island was discovered in 1778. It is named after James King, a crew member of the expedition led by James Cook. King Island was inhabited by a group of Inupiat until the mid-20th century; their now-abandoned village was called Ukivok. You will enjoy sailing around this island with its sheer cliffs that shelter many bird species, such as tufted and horned puffins, black-legged kittiwakes, and thick-billed murres.
24 September 2023 - Nome, Alaska
Arrival 24/9/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 24/9/2023 at 8:00 am
Located along the Bering Strait at the westernmost point of Alaska, Nome offers the rustic charm of a former gold-mining town, set in the middle of magnificent wilderness. As you weave in and out of the brightly coloured houses, you will discover the pioneering legacy that still marks local traditions. Fishing, reindeer rearing, sledge-racing... People here live from their manual labour. The surrounding plains provide stunning vantage points for observing Arctic fauna.
The Ice Fjord by the sea
As your ship will be at anchoring, you will board small local boats directly from the ship.
First, you will cruise along the coast to discover Ilulissat and its coloured houses, and then get to the open-sea to reach the ice fjord, the Isfjord. The small boats will slide on the calm waters of the Disko Bay, by clearing its way between the small ice packs.
You will perhaps see the boats of some fishermen and seal hunters. Then, huge white masses with bluish glints and deep caverns will appear… icebergs! The vision is imposing and gripping!
At the end of this navigation among the ices, you will go back to your ship.
- For this excursion and like everywhere else in Greenland, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket, a hat and sunglasses and to take a warm pullover and an insect repellent. Please be aware that this excursion is submitted to weather and ice conditions.
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sermermiut & the Ice Fjord
From the wharf, your coach will drive you through Ilulissat to the south. Upon arrival, a guided walk of about 45 minutes will lead you to the idyllic Sermermiut valley that lies out towards the ice fjord.
In 1727, the place was Greenland’s biggest settlement and home to more than 250 people. Excavations have subsequently revealed that, for thousands of years, the beautiful valley has at various times been home to all of the cultures that have lived along the west coast of Greenland. This abandoned settlement is nowadays a very important archaeology centre for scientists, even if there aren’t any spectacular relics of these civilisations, as the Inuits did not build huge constructions.
Here, the main highlights are the beautiful landscapes of this sober, pure and fascinating nature: white and bluish masses, rising like mysterious mountains… Icebergs everywhere! Indeed, the Sermermiut Glacier is the most ice-productive in the northern hemisphere.
You will then walk back to your coach so as to return to Ilulissat, the old city and the port. You may wish to saunter in the city, and perhaps pay homage to Knud Rasmussen, the famous Danish explorer born in Ilulissat, whose childhood home is now a museum.
- For this excursion including a round-trip walk of 1½ hour and like everywhere else in Greenland, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket, a hat and sunglasses, and take a warm pullover and an insect repellent. Please note that this excursion is submitted to weather conditions.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Boréal
Le Boréal, like its Sisterships L’Austral, Le Soléal and Le Lyrial, epitomises the unique feel and atmosphere of the ships of the PONANT fleet. Subtly combining luxury, intimacy and serene well-being, the ship has been designed to offer passengers both moments of conviviality and spaces conducive to peaceful tranquillity and a sense of escape and getting away from it all. Its exterior and interior lines testify to the ingeniousness and refinement with which the Sisterships have been designed.
Up to 264 Guests
132 staterooms & suites
145 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Flight Paris/Kangerlussuaq + transfers + flight Nome/Seattle
For your serenity, PONANT selects flights and organises transfers between the airport and the port. This package is included in your cruise fare.
Embarkation day - Paris/Kangerlussuaq
Flight Paris/Kangerlussuaq selected by PONANT.
Approximate flight duration: 5 h
We suggest you to be at the check-in counter 2 hours before departure.
We highly recommend you arrive in Paris the day before this flight.
Meet & greet at the airport by our local English-speaking representative.
Transfer to the pier for embarkation.
- Cruise aboard your ship -
Disembarkation Day - Nome/Seattle
Disembarkation
Meet and greet at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
Transfer to the airport in time for check-in of flight Nome/Seattle selected by PONANT.
Flight Nome/Seattle selected by PONANT.
Approximate flight duration: 5 h
We highly recommend you stay one night in Paris after this flight.
This programme includes:
- Flight Paris/Kangerlussuaq and Nome/Seattle selected by PONANT in economy class.
- Transfers mentioned in the programme.
- English-speaking assistance.
This programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Any other service not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- Flights included in the programme are as of today, operated in economy class.
- Due to limited local transportation resources, waiting might be generated.
- For passengers in transit in Paris and Seattle, we recommend staying one night in Paris before and one night in Seattle after these flights.
- Programme and flight schedule are subject to change without prior notice.
- PONANT will adapt the content of the transfer offer from and to airport according to your flight schedule.
Polar Expedition
Realise your dream of adventure in the polar regions ! Discover the icy vastness and the fauna of Antarctica (humpback whales, seals, penguins and more) or the Arctic's fjords, glaciers and icebergs in shifting colours, not to mention the polar bears, the variety of wildlife and the special moments shared with the locals. Our team of naturalist guides share their knowledge with you during varied lectures about the fauna, the flora, the history of great explorations, geology and climatology. Thanks to its conscientiousness and to the responsible approach that is its hallmark, PONANT has been a leader and expert in cruises to these destinations for more than 20 years.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
30/8/2023 - COMFORT PACKAGE: NIGHT IN PARIS CDG AIRPORT + TRANSFER HOTEL/AIRPORT
AU$270
Find out moreCOMFORT PACKAGE: NIGHT IN PARIS CDG AIRPORT + TRANSFER HOTEL/AIRPORT
For your serenity, PONANT selects for you an ideally located hotel and organises your transfer to the airport.
Day 1 - Roissy CDG
Meet-and-greet and check-in in Pullman Roissy CDG hotel, from 4:00 pm.
The rest of the day and the evening are at leisure.
Dinner is on your own.
Day 2 - PONANT selected flight for embarkation
Breakfast is on your own.
Group transfer from the hotel to the airport terminal, in time for check-in of flight selected by PONANT.
Your hotel:
The Pullman Roissy CDG hotel is a four stars property located in Roissy. Located at 2 minutes walking from Roissypole, RER and CDGVal station, you will easily be able to join it.
This programme includes:
- 1-night accomodation in Classic Room at the Pullman Roissy CDG 4*.
- Transfer mentionned in the programme.
- A soft welcome drink, upon arrival at the hotel.
This programme does not include:
- Dinner of day 1.
- Breakfast of day 2.
- Tips and gratuities.
- All personal expenses (meals and drinks, sightseeing, etc.)
- Early check-in, late check-out and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- Official hotel check-in time is 4:00 p.m
- Official hotel check-out time is 12:00 p.m.
- Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
- Departure time of the hotel will be communicated by our representative.
Total : AU$270
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
The Ice Fjord by the sea
As your ship will be at anchoring, you will board small local boats directly from the ship.
First, you will cruise along the coast to discover Ilulissat and its coloured houses, and then get to the open-sea to reach the ice fjord, the Isfjord. The small boats will slide on the calm waters of the Disko Bay, by clearing its way between the small ice packs.
You will perhaps see the boats of some fishermen and seal hunters. Then, huge white masses with bluish glints and deep caverns will appear… icebergs! The vision is imposing and gripping!
At the end of this navigation among the ices, you will go back to your ship.
- For this excursion and like everywhere else in Greenland, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket, a hat and sunglasses and to take a warm pullover and an insect repellent. Please be aware that this excursion is submitted to weather and ice conditions.
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
Sermermiut & the Ice Fjord
From the wharf, your coach will drive you through Ilulissat to the south. Upon arrival, a guided walk of about 45 minutes will lead you to the idyllic Sermermiut valley that lies out towards the ice fjord.
In 1727, the place was Greenland’s biggest settlement and home to more than 250 people. Excavations have subsequently revealed that, for thousands of years, the beautiful valley has at various times been home to all of the cultures that have lived along the west coast of Greenland. This abandoned settlement is nowadays a very important archaeology centre for scientists, even if there aren’t any spectacular relics of these civilisations, as the Inuits did not build huge constructions.
Here, the main highlights are the beautiful landscapes of this sober, pure and fascinating nature: white and bluish masses, rising like mysterious mountains… Icebergs everywhere! Indeed, the Sermermiut Glacier is the most ice-productive in the northern hemisphere.
You will then walk back to your coach so as to return to Ilulissat, the old city and the port. You may wish to saunter in the city, and perhaps pay homage to Knud Rasmussen, the famous Danish explorer born in Ilulissat, whose childhood home is now a museum.
- For this excursion including a round-trip walk of 1½ hour and like everywhere else in Greenland, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket, a hat and sunglasses, and take a warm pullover and an insect repellent. Please note that this excursion is submitted to weather conditions.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
POST OVERNIGHT IN SEATTLE (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Seattle
Meet at Seattle Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will be transferred to the hotel Thompson Seattle 4*.
Check-in.
The rest of the day is at leisure.
Dinner is at leisure.
Day 2 - Seattle
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
Transfer 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:
Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Seattle, near the Puget Sound waterfront and the Pike Place Market, the Thompson Seattle is an elegant boutique hotel. Behind the sleek glass façade, the hotel is a refuge to chill out. Inside, the contemporary and elegant design invites you to relax. All the 158 rooms and suites feature modern comfort and design. From the rooftop bar, you will be overlooking an incredible panoramic view of the downtown skyline, Elliott Bay and the Olympic mountains. The restaurant provides creative and hyperlocal menu.
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 King City View room at Thompson Seattle Hotel 4*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
- Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- 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.
- The hotel room will be available for check-in at 3 pm.
- The hotel room will be released for check-out at 11 am.
Contact of your hotel:
Thompson Seattle
110 Stewart St, Seattle
Seattle, WA 98101
Telephone number: +1 206-623-4600
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$1,070
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.