It's raining stars in our bed. This sensitive evocation of the Arctic night, which is the title of Scandinavian poetry collection published by Gallimard, 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 an enchanting setting in tune with this trip to the Gulf of Bothnia, musician Renaud Capuçon, along with a line-up of virtuoso artists and Alain Duault, in partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE, invites you to spend the festive season enjoying some memorable concerts. "We want to share the music we love and...read more make this a real journey for the senses during this trip," says Renaud Capuçon. Aboard Le Commandant Charcot, a refined and warm cocoon, experience winter at the gateway to the Arctic, and discover a magical world in half-light.
In the same way as the day, fleeting at this time, enhances the beauty of nature, the night awakens the poetry of this region. From the uninterrupted outside promenade deck and the Blue Lagoon pool, marvel at the unique spectacle of the Gulf of Bothnia in winter. Celebrate the holiday season in the heart of enchanting landscapes, illuminated Scandinavian cities, little-known archipelagos, snow-capped peaks or boreal forests in Lapland. Enjoy your sensorial discovery of these festive traditions, between the bracing freshness of the season and the warmth of Scandinavian culture.
You will set sail towards the Stockholm archipelago. Hundreds of rocky islets will reveal themselves as you sail across the water, beneath the subtle glow of the winter skies. The holiday period is perfect for family gatherings and exudes a magical atmosphere, creating joyous moments aboard, in the Scandinavian townsthat are illuminated in the precocious night or in the Santa Claus Village of Rovaniemi. Among the woody scents and traditional singing, the lively Christmas market stalls offer artisanal creations, delicious cinnamon and ginger biscuits, and the famous glögg, a spicy mulled wine, in a convivial atmosphere.
From the sumptuous panoramic lounge of your ship and on shore, the Gulf of Bothnia reveals itself with each port of call chosen. Between cultural heritage and urban planning suited to the climate, the wild panoramas give way to charming cities beneath the timid daylight. Take the time to observe the natural splendours of the High Coast, as you sail in this archipelago located in northern Sweden. Observe the snow-covered scenery of Laplandand Finland, from their untamed shores to the northern forest.
You will be amazed by these preserved territories and experience the intense pleasure of hiking among immaculate expanses; enjoy, from a child's eye view, merry moments in the midst of winter and feel the exhilaration of an outing on a snowmobile, dog sled or reindeer sled. And if luck is on your side, you will be able to admire the fleeting splendour of the Northern Lights, an unexpected gift from the sky. "Christmas isn't a season, it's a state of mind." Like this saying, experiencea fairytale epic for children and adults alike, and celebrate the wonders of winter together. The itinerary is subject to modifications. On board, the sailing programme, outings and activities cannot be guaranteed and are subject to weather conditions.
Cruise Itinerary
Arrive
Depart
Day 1:Helsinki
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18:00
Day 2:Stockholm
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Day 3:Stockholm
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Day 4: Rauma
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Day 5: Cruising At Sea
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Day 6: Lulea
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Day 7: Oulu
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Day 8: Kemi
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Day 9: Kemi - Flight to Paris
08:00
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Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Transfers to and/or from the ship port may be required.
Life Onboard Le Commandant-Charcot
Brochure
Ponant Luxury Cruises (2023-24)
Discover our range of incredible luxury expeditions and yacht-style voyages in 2023, exploring Antarctica, the Norwegian Fjords, Caribbean & Latin America, The Indian Ocean & Persian Gulf and Oceania & Polynesia. Includes a range of trailblazing polar explorations aboard Le Commandant Charcot. If you are a travel agent, please email brochures.aus@ponant.com...more with your details and number of copies to be ordered.
Note Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Ponant. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.