Below is a list of the Le Soleal FAQs, or Frequently Asked Questions for people looking to cruise to the Antartic on one of the PONANT cruise ships.
Below is a guide to the Le Soléal FAQs, designed to help travellers prepare for an Antarctic or polar expedition with Ponant. Life aboard Le Soléal combines luxury, intimacy, and adventure, providing a refined yet expedition-ready environment for fewer than 264 guests. These FAQs address the practical details every traveller wants to know — from staterooms, dining, and onboard amenities to Zodiac landings, recommended clothing, and eco-friendly practices. Whether this is your first polar voyage or a return to remote destinations, our guide offers clear, practical information to help you plan your journey with ease and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typical inclusions on Ponant voyages include:
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Accommodation in an ocean-view or balcony stateroom or suite
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All meals in onboard restaurants and 24-hour room service
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Drinks, including selected wines, spirits, and soft drinks
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Shore excursions, Zodiac landings, and guided tours
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Expert-led enrichment lectures and onboard workshops
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Complimentary use of parkas or cold-weather gear on expeditions (where required)
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Gratuities and port charges
Special activities such as kayaking, hiking, or submersible dives may be offered at an additional cost.
Yes, Le Boréal offers WiFi access, but as with all expedition ships, speeds can be limited in remote areas. It is best for emails, messaging, and light browsing. Streaming or video calling may not always be reliable.
Le Boréal maintains a smart-casual onboard atmosphere, with evenings slightly more elegant than daytime attire. During excursions or Zodiac outings, layered and weather-appropriate clothing is essential. Formal wear is optional and generally reserved for gala evenings or special events.
Ponant recommends:
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Thermal base layers
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Fleece or wool mid-layers
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Waterproof and windproof jackets and pants
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Gloves, hat, and scarf
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Sunglasses and sunscreen
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Comfortable walking shoes for excursions
The expedition team will advise on what gear and outerwear are provided and what guests should bring.
Depending on the season and itinerary, guests may encounter:
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Penguins – Gentoo, Chinstrap, Adelie, and occasionally King penguins
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Whales – Humpbacks, Minkes, and Orcas
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Seals – Leopard, Weddell, Crabeater, and Elephant seals
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Birds – Albatross, Petrels, Sheathbills, and Skuas
Guided Zodiac excursions maximise opportunities for wildlife encounters.
Excursions vary by destination, but typical activities include:
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Zodiac landings on remote shores
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Guided hikes and wildlife observation
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Kayaking or small-boat exploration (optional)
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Photography workshops and onboard lectures
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Cultural visits to local communities (where applicable)
Le Boréal incorporates a range of environmentally conscious features:
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Low-emission engines and energy-efficient systems
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Advanced waste management and water treatment
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Compliance with IAATO and other environmental regulations in polar regions
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Use of sustainable materials and responsible operational practices
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November–December: Early summer, excellent snow landscapes, penguin nesting
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January–February: Peak wildlife activity, whale sightings, vibrant scenery
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February–March: Later season with fewer tourists, ideal for photography and observing young penguins
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation and emergency services is strongly recommended for all polar expeditions. BlueSun Travel is a distributor for nib. For more details or to obtain a personalised quote, visit BlueSun Travel's Travel Insurance page or contact their team directly at 1300 799 758.