Below is a list of Le Commandant Charcot Cruise FAQs, or Frequently Asked Questions for people looking to cruise to the Antartic on one of the PONANT cruise ships.
Please note: this is general information and may change without notice.
Frequently Asked Questions - Click on the '+' sign to read answers
It’s the world’s first luxury hybrid-electric polar exploration vessel powered by LNG, with PC2 icebreaker classification, allowing access to remote Antarctic regions unreachable by other cruise ships.
Yes. Guided zodiac landings and outings are part of the daily expedition program, weather and ice permitting, led by a team of naturalists, scientists, and polar experts.
Pack layered clothing: thermal base layers, a down or insulated mid-layer, waterproof outerwear, hats, gloves, sunglasses, and a neck warmer. PONANT provides a polar parka and waterproof boots for use during the voyage.
Yes, a fully equipped medical centre and an experienced physician are available 24/7.
While children over 6 are allowed, Antarctic cruises are best suited to older children due to the remote environment and expedition nature.
Expect sightings of penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds like albatrosses and petrels. For more details, click here to read more on Wildlife in Antractica.
Yes. All meals and most beverages (wine, beer, soft drinks, and select spirits) are included.
Yes, satellite Wi-Fi is available, but connection may be slow and intermittent in polar regions.
French and English are spoken. All announcements, menus, and excursions are bilingual.
No visa is required for Antarctica itself, but entry requirements apply to departure countries (typically Argentina or Chile).
You should be moderately fit and mobile enough to board zodiacs and walk on uneven terrain during landings.
Yes, gratuities for onboard staff are included in your cruise fare.
Absolutely. The ship has Polar Class 2 certification, an icebreaking hull, and complies with the highest safety and environmental standards, including IAATO guidelines.
Yes! The ship features an onboard science lab, and guests can participate in citizen science projects and lectures by researchers and experts.
Dining includes the Alain Ducasse-designed Nuna Restaurant, the more casual Sila buffet, and Inneq, an open-air bar serving light bites. 24/7 room service is also included.
The Antarctic cruise season runs from November to March. December to February offers the warmest weather and peak wildlife activity. For more detailed information on weather and temperatures, CLICK HERE.