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Polar Lights: From North Cape to the Lofoten Islands

Polar Lights: From North Cape to the Lofoten Islands

About This Cruise

Winter is silently approaching, and near the Arctic Circle daylight is slowly fading, giving way to the long twilight that precedes the darkness. From the welcoming comfort of Le Commandant Charcot, take time to discover the shores of Norway, including the breathtaking Lofoten archipelago. See the North Cape, the tip of mainland Europe, and explore the rugged coastline at the edge of the Arctic and the natural sanctuaries of Norway: dolomite cliffs, an archaeological site dating from the Bronze Age, pine forests, and Lapland, home to the Sami, one of Europe's last indigenous communities.

The itinerary may be altered based on port approvals and to comply with applicable government regulations  The sailing programme, shore visits, activities and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed and are subject to weather conditions.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Adults only

    Le Commandant Charcot is an adults-only ship

  • Couples

    An adults-only atmosphere made for two

  • Over 50s

    Refined, unhurried cruising with enrichment on board

Type

Ocean, Luxury

Ship

Le Commandant Charcot

Departure Date

24 October 2026

Cruise Line

PONANT EXPLORATIONS

Duration

8 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at (01) 554 1010

Itinerary

Norway

Tromsø

With its centre located on the island of Tromsø, the municipality of Tromsø is more than five times the size of Norway’s capital, Oslo, and is the world’s northernmost university city. Lying 200 miles inside the Arctic Circle, it is known as the 'Gateway to the Arctic' because it was used as a starting point for hunters looking for Arctic foxes, polar bears and seals. In the 19th century it was a base for explorers on Arctic expeditions – a history that is remembered in the city’s Polar Museum, which you can visit on an excursion. Also commemorated in the area is the history of Norway’s indigenous people, the Sami. Visitors can learn about the traditions, heritage and modern preservation of the Sami culture at the Tromsø Museum. Nowadays, Tromsø is a charming mix of old and new, with wooden buildings sitting alongside contemporary architecture such as the impressive glacier-like Arctic Cathedral, which features one of the largest stained glass windows in Europe. Looking down on the city is Mount Storsteinen, and a cable car runs to the top, giving wonderful views over the surrounding countryside of forested peaks and reindeer pastures.

Norway

Honningsvåg

Searching in 1553 for a northeast passage to India, British navigator Richard Chancellor came upon a crag 307 yards above the Barents Sea. He named the jut of rock North Cape, or Nordkapp. Today Europe's northernmost point is a rite-of-passage journey for nearly all Scandinavians and many others. Most cruise passengers visit Nordkapp from Honningsvåg, a fishing village on Magerøya Island. The journey from Honningsvåg to Nordkapp covers about 35 km (22 miles) across a landscape characterized by rocky tundra and grazing reindeer, which are rounded up each spring by Sami herdsmen in boats. The herdsmen herd the reindeer across a mile-wide channel from their winter home on the mainland. Honningvåg's northerly location makes for long, dark winter nights and perpetually sun-filled summer days. The village serves as the gateway to Arctic exploration and the beautiful Nordkapp Plateau, a destination that calls to all visitors of this region. Most of those who journey to Nordkapp (North Cape), the northernmost tip of Europe, are in it for a taste of this unique, otherworldly, rugged yet delicate landscape. You'll see an incredible treeless tundra, with crumbling mountains and sparse dwarf plants. The subarctic environment is very vulnerable, so don't disturb the plants. Walk only on marked trails and don't remove stones, leave car marks, or make campfires. Because the roads are closed in winter, the only access is from the tiny fishing village of Skarsvåg via Sno-Cat, a thump-and-bump ride that's as unforgettable as the desolate view.

Norway

Bear Island

Almost half way between Tromsø and Svalbard is isolated Bear Island – considered the southernmost island of the Svalbard Archipelago. The unglaciated island is an impressive Nature Reserve of steep, high cliffs that are frequented by seabirds, specifically at the southern tip. Brünnich’s Guillemots, Common Guillemots, Black Guillemots, Razorbills, Little Auks, Northern Fulmars, Glaucous Gulls, Black-legged Kittiwakes, and even Atlantic Puffins and Northern Gannets nest along the cliffs south of Sørhamna. Because of the large numbers of birds and the isolated location, Bear Island has been recognized as an Important Bird Area. It was once a hotspot for whaling and walrus hunting, and at one stage even mining. Bear Island received its name because of a polar bear encountered by early explorer Willem Barentsz. Today polar bears rarely visit the island and its only settlement is a meteorological station manned all-year round on the north side.

Norway

Alta

People have been attracted to the community of Alta for thousands of years, and prehistoric rock carvings discovered in 1973 can be seen at the Alta Museum. Situated at the head of the Altafjord, it is a lush, green and hospitable shelter in the otherwise cold and windswept Finnmark landscape. Halfway between the grim, barren mountain plateau and the wet, stormy coast, Alta offers tree-clad valleys, pleasant temperatures and no more rain than the Sahara. However at 70 degrees North it is quite a different story in winter, when heavy snowfalls and sub-zero temperatures are the order of the day, and clear dark night skies become the arena for dazzling displays of the elusive Aurora Borealis, also referred to as 'the temperamental lady' by Laplanders. The world’s first Northern Lights Observatory, which played an important role in the development of geophysical and meteorological research during the first half of the 20th century, is located just 12 miles from Alta. Perched atop Haldde Mountain, it towers almost 3,000 feet above Kafjord, where the battleship Tirpitz was based during the Second World War.

Norway

Tromsø

With its centre located on the island of Tromsø, the municipality of Tromsø is more than five times the size of Norway’s capital, Oslo, and is the world’s northernmost university city. Lying 200 miles inside the Arctic Circle, it is known as the 'Gateway to the Arctic' because it was used as a starting point for hunters looking for Arctic foxes, polar bears and seals. In the 19th century it was a base for explorers on Arctic expeditions – a history that is remembered in the city’s Polar Museum, which you can visit on an excursion. Also commemorated in the area is the history of Norway’s indigenous people, the Sami. Visitors can learn about the traditions, heritage and modern preservation of the Sami culture at the Tromsø Museum. Nowadays, Tromsø is a charming mix of old and new, with wooden buildings sitting alongside contemporary architecture such as the impressive glacier-like Arctic Cathedral, which features one of the largest stained glass windows in Europe. Looking down on the city is Mount Storsteinen, and a cable car runs to the top, giving wonderful views over the surrounding countryside of forested peaks and reindeer pastures.

Norway

Stokmarknes

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Norway

Leknes

Blessed with some of the most spectacular scenery in Norway (and goodness only know that this is land blessed with rolling hills, soaring peaks, valleys, tranquil fjords and white sandy beaches, so the competition is high!), Leknes is what Norway is meant to be. Pretty red houses lay dotted on the green covered hills, and the midnight sun is rises above the horizon from 26th May to 17th July, (while in winter the sun does not rise from 9th December to 4th January). Part of the stunning Lofoten islands, this pretty port offers much in the way of recreation, although understandably most of this is outdoor based. Take a boat ride around the archipelago, try your hand at some deep sea fishing, or simply stroll thought the city centre, perhaps rent a bicycle and discover the hinterland at your own pace. Bikes can be easily rented and note that hybrid and electric bikes are a great option for those who might be a bit out of practice with their pedal power. Gastronomes with a sweet tooth will be rewarded with one simple pleasure: a fresh-from-the-oven skillingsbolle – or big, fluffy cinnamon rolls, fit for indulging in if all the fresh air has made you hungry! Look out for the quirky coffee shops, settle down for some Norwegian kos, say takk for maten and enjoy!

Norway

Narvik

At 68 degrees North, Narvik lies 140 miles inside the Arctic Circle. Its history as a settlement began in the Stone Age, and Vikings are also known to have lived in the area. The modern town came into existence in the 1870s to serve the needs of the iron industry. Iron ore is mined in neighbouring Sweden and, as an ice-free port, Narvik was chosen as the ideal export location. The LKAB mining corporation is still a major employer and landowner in the area, shipping some 25,000,000 tons of iron ore from the port annually. This industrial heritage has shaped the town and now forms the basis of some of its most popular tourist attractions. In 1883 a co-owned British-Swedish company was given permission to build a railway connecting the Swedish iron mines in Kiruna to Narvik. It opened in 1902 and the town, then christened Victoriahavn, grew up around it. Unfortunately much of Narvik was destroyed in World War II. Invaded by the Nazis on 9 April 1940, it was later retaken by the Allies, representing the first military defeat of Hitler’s troops, but was evacuated as part of Operation Alphabet when it came under German occupation again. The local war museum documents the turbulent history of this period.

Norway

Narvik

At 68 degrees North, Narvik lies 140 miles inside the Arctic Circle. Its history as a settlement began in the Stone Age, and Vikings are also known to have lived in the area. The modern town came into existence in the 1870s to serve the needs of the iron industry. Iron ore is mined in neighbouring Sweden and, as an ice-free port, Narvik was chosen as the ideal export location. The LKAB mining corporation is still a major employer and landowner in the area, shipping some 25,000,000 tons of iron ore from the port annually. This industrial heritage has shaped the town and now forms the basis of some of its most popular tourist attractions. In 1883 a co-owned British-Swedish company was given permission to build a railway connecting the Swedish iron mines in Kiruna to Narvik. It opened in 1902 and the town, then christened Victoriahavn, grew up around it. Unfortunately much of Narvik was destroyed in World War II. Invaded by the Nazis on 9 April 1940, it was later retaken by the Allies, representing the first military defeat of Hitler’s troops, but was evacuated as part of Operation Alphabet when it came under German occupation again. The local war museum documents the turbulent history of this period.

Overview

Winter is silently approaching, and near the Arctic Circle daylight is slowly fading, giving way to the long twilight that precedes the darkness. From the welcoming comfort of Le Commandant Charcot, take time to discover the shores of Norway, including the breathtaking Lofoten archipelago. See the North Cape, the tip of mainland Europe, and explore the rugged coastline at the edge of the Arctic and the natural sanctuaries of Norway: dolomite cliffs, an archaeological site dating from the Bronze Age, pine forests, and Lapland, home to the Sami, one of Europe's last indigenous communities.

The itinerary may be altered based on port approvals and to comply with applicable government regulations  The sailing programme, shore visits, activities and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed and are subject to weather conditions.

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Suite

Owner's Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • Private return transfer
  • Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
  • Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival
  • Butler service
  • A fruit basket every day
  • A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
  • A living room with armchairs, two sofa beds, steam fireplace, and second TV
  • A desk and bookcase
  • A Samsung tablet connected to Wifi
  • A dining room with a 6-seater table
  • A minibar with RIEDEL crystal glasses
  • A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub
  • A one-hour spa treatments per person (for 2 people) in the well-being space, chosen from the facial and body treatments on offer
  • A private 186 m² terrace: outdoor lounge with deckchairs, hot tub, two sofas, and dining table
  • Two panoramic sliding bay windows
  • Two pairs of Swarvoski CL Companion 10 x 30 binoculars
  • A Swarovski Optik ST VISTA telescope

Included in all staterooms

  • A private balcony
  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Concierge Service: tailor-made and fully customisable services, from your reservation until you return from your trip
  • Terrace for the Duplex Suites and the Owner's Suite
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Suite

Duplex Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • Private return transfer
  • Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
  • Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival
  • Butler service
  • A fruit basket every day
  • A lounge with armchairs, sofa bed, steam fireplace and TV
  • A dining room with a 6-seater table
  • A minibar with RIEDEL crystal glasses
  • A Samsung tablet connected to Wi-Fi
  • A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV
  • A bathroom with shower and balneo bathtub
  • Five panoramic windows and a glazed panoramic swing door
  • A private 26 m² terrace: outdoor lounge with sofa and armchairs, jacuzzi
  • Two pairs of Swarvoski CL Companion 10 x 30 binoculars

Included in all staterooms

  • A private balcony
  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Concierge Service: tailor-made and fully customisable services, from your reservation until you return from your trip
  • Terrace for the Duplex Suites and the Owner's Suite
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Suite

Privilege Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
  • Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival
  • Butler service
  • A fruit basket every day
  • A lounge with sofa bed, armchair, and sliding courtesy door
  • A Samsung tablet connected to Wifi
  • A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
  • A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub
  • Two panoramic sliding doors and rectangular porthole
  • A 12.5 m² glazed private balcony
  • Two pairs of Swarvoski CL Companion 10 x 30 binoculars

Included in all staterooms

  • A private balcony
  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Concierge Service: tailor-made and fully customisable services, from your reservation until you return from your trip
  • Terrace for the Duplex Suites and the Owner's Suite
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Suite

Grand Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
  • Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival
  • Butler service
  • A fruit basket every day
  • A lounge area with chaise longue and second TV
  • A Samsung tablet connected to Wifi
  • A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
  • A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub
  • A panoramic sliding bay window
  • A 5 m² glazed private balcony
  • Two pairs of Swarvoski CL Companion 10 x 30 binoculars

Included in all staterooms

  • A private balcony
  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Concierge Service: tailor-made and fully customisable services, from your reservation until you return from your trip
  • Terrace for the Duplex Suites and the Owner's Suite
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Suite

Prestige Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A 107 ft² glazed private balcony balcony
  • Two bathrooms with shower
  • Two sliding panoramic windows
  • Living room with sofa, armchair, TV, and courtesy sliding door
  • One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)

Included in all staterooms

  • A private balcony
  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Concierge Service: tailor-made and fully customisable services, from your reservation until you return from your trip
  • Terrace for the Duplex Suites and the Owner's Suite
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Suite

Deluxe Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A 53 ft² glazed private balcony balcony
  • Panoramic sliding window
  • Lounge area with chaise lounge and two armchairs
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • Bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

  • A private balcony
  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Concierge Service: tailor-made and fully customisable services, from your reservation until you return from your trip
  • Terrace for the Duplex Suites and the Owner's Suite
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

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Balcony

Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A 53 ft² glazed private balcony balcony
  • Panoramic sliding window
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • Bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

  • A private balcony
  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Concierge Service: tailor-made and fully customisable services, from your reservation until you return from your trip
  • Terrace for the Duplex Suites and the Owner's Suite
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

Suite

Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
  • A bathroom with shower
  • A panoramic sliding bay window
  • A 5 m² glazed private balcony

Included in all staterooms

  • A private balcony
  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Concierge Service: tailor-made and fully customisable services, from your reservation until you return from your trip
  • Terrace for the Duplex Suites and the Owner's Suite
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet


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international

Nuna (The Earth) - Gastronomic Restaurant

The Nuna, the one and only Alain Ducasse restaurant at sea, offers an excellent menu specially designed by the Michelin-starred chef, featuring some of his signature dishes.

Ligne Roset furniture, French Bernardaud porcelain and Elne glassware bring elegance and refinement to your à la carte breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

varies

Sila (the sky, outside) - Restaurant

In a more relaxed atmosphere, a bright 320 m² restaurant welcomes you for your breakfast, buffet lunches and themed dinners.

varies

Inneq (the fire) - Open-air bar

At the outdoor bar, a varied and refined selection of sweet and savoury international cuisine, as well as a permanent menu, are available throughout the day (11am–6pm).

room

Room Service

Whether you want to fully enjoy your cabin for breakfast, savor a peaceful snack in the middle of the day, or have your meal in complete privacy, room service is at your disposal. Treat yourself to a moment of indulgence and enjoy a diverse menu available at any time of day and night.

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Lounge, Bar, Smoking Lounge, Musicians

The Main Lounge

Enjoy a relaxing time in the grand lounge with a warm musical atmosphere or access the Cigar Lounge, one of the most exclusive spaces on the ship.

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Lounge, Bar, Observation Point

The Anori Observatory

Browse through some of the books dedicated to travel available in the observatory lounge's luminous library.

Shop

The Illu Shop

An extension of the journey and the ship, la Boutique ILLU offers an exclusive shopping experience with ready-to-wear and technical gear for polar adventures (Swarovski Optik, Garmin, Vuarnet, Feelfree, Columbia, Arctic Edge), classic products to treat yourself (Eric Bompard, 727Sailbags, Le Minor, children’s collection, jewelry, luxury BRIONI), unique souvenirs and adventure novels. Hours follow the voyage schedule, including days at sea, and all purchases on board are tax-free.

Pool Deck

Heated Indoor Swimming Pool

Bathed in natural light thanks to large windows, the pool offers a breathtaking view of the polar landscapes. An unforgettable swimming experience.

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Observation Point

Promenade Deck

Fitness session, meditation, Nordic walking along the uninterrupted promenade bridge, face to face with the immensity from the bow of the ship... The awakening of the senses is heightened in the heart of the polar world.

Theatre

The Theatre - Kita

Comfortably seated, you can attend conferences given by the guests and teams of naturalists, as well as the various shows, concerts and performances organised by professional dancers and musicians on board.

Music and dance

Opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts or ballets at sea or on land: musical cruises and dance cruises offer privileged experiences, in small groups, alongside prestigious partners, such as Radio Classique or the Paris National Opera and talented artists of international renown.

Art and literature

Share high-quality moments and attend conferences by curators from national and international museums, women and men from the world of culture, renowned writers, actors and philosophers. They discuss their passion during conferences or private visits. Experience the opportunity to open up to new perspectives.

Studio, Photographers

PONANT Studio

A photography and videography team escort you throughout your trip. These professionals capture the most beautiful moments of your cruise, which you can share with family and friends upon your return. Meet them on DECK 5 (DECK 6 on the PONANT Explorers ships) at the photo/video area, where you can also order souvenir pictures and videos.

Reception

Reception

If you have not made a pre-booking before your cruise, you can book your excursions on board during one of the daily opening times of the excursion desk (timetables available in your daily program). It is only possible to pre-book one excursion per port day. If you would like to book a second excursion on the same day, please contact the excursion desk to check availability.

Smoking Lounge

Cigar Lounge

The Cigar Lounge is located on Deck 5.

Spa, Wellness

Spa

Enjoy exclusive treatments inspired by the natural treasures of the poles. The professional skincare products from Biologique Recherche for the skin and body, and Davines for the hair, combine innovation, customization, and commitment to the planet: formulas tailored to each individual and the extreme polar environment, natural and fair trade ingredients, fight against plastic pollution.

Sauna

Sauna

At the heart of Nordic traditions, the gentle heat of the sauna provides a moment of serenity after a day of exploration, while enjoying the spectacular landscapes.

Spa, Exclusive, Wellness

Snow cabin

Experience an authentic polar ritual by going from the sauna to the snow cabin. A moment that revitalizes the body and mind, reserved for adventurers.

Gym

Fitness Centre

The fitness room offers a wide range of exercises suitable for all levels to train facing magnificent views.

Salon

The Hairdressing Salon

Each product has been crafted using the most advanced cosmetic technologies and natural ingredients. Developed and packaged while minimising the environmental impact, Davines® products are inspired by the Sustainable Beauty ideal, an inseparable unit between Beauty and Being. During your cruise, treat your hair to a unique beauty experience. Our expert stylist will do an in-depth analysis of your hair and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Pool, Whirlpool/Jacuzzi

Blue Lagoon Baths

Relax in front of polar landscapes in the waters of the Blue Lagoon, heated between 27 and 37°C thanks to the energy recovery generated by the ship's propulsion.