From the St Lawrence to Greenland, the Last Moments of Winter

Saint Pierre and Miquelon, a small French archipelago near the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, exudes a unique blend of French charm and rugged North Atlantic beauty. This remote outpost of France offers a slice of Gallic culture, complete with quaint bistros, street-side cafés, and shops selling French goods. The islands’ colourful houses and the old-world feel of its capital, Saint-Pierre, transport visitors to a coastal town in Brittany or Normandy.

The natural surroundings are marked by stark, windswept landscapes, offering ideal conditions for hiking and bird watching. The rich waters around the islands are also popular for fishing and observing marine life, such as seals. Saint Pierre and Miquelon stand as a fascinating fusion of French culture and subarctic wilderness.

Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts.

Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us.

Cap-aux-Meules, located in the heart of Quebec's Magdalen Islands, serves as the gateway to this unique archipelago in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Known for its distinctive red sandstone cliffs and inviting beaches, the area offers a rich blend of Acadian culture and maritime heritage. Explore local artistry at the numerous galleries and shops, or sample regional seafood delicacies in the town’s welcoming eateries.

The Lighthouse at Borgot Point offers panoramic views and a chance to learn about local maritime history, and the Fromagerie du Pied-De-Vent is a must-visit for cheese lovers, offering a taste of the island's renowned homemade cheeses. Ships dock at the port in Cap-aux-Meules.

In the glacial darkness of the Canadian winter, Gaspé stands proud like a preserved and authentic jewel at the edge of the dark waters of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Nature seems to be holding its breath. The captivating Mount Jacques-Cartier, the highest point of the Chic-Choc Mountains range and the South, is dressed with an immaculate coat of snow, while the frozen rivers slowly wind their way, fixing time in their icy embrace.

During a snowshoe walk, fall in love with the captivating landscapes of the L’Anse-au-Griffon Valley, right in the heart of the Forillon National Park. Then, in Percé, opposite the famous eponymous Rock, dive into the natural beauty of the “magic forest”, where thousands of conifers decked out in an immaculate white cloak are like silent guardians watching over this isolated piece of land. You may also fall in love with this charming town, where the exciting history and the conviviality of the locals come together in a delightful blend.

Cruise through the Gulf of St. Lawrence and witness a blend of history and natural beauty. The region boasts historic landmarks like the Gaspé Peninsula, where Jacques Cartier first landed in 1534. The waters are rich with marine life, and the scenic shores are lined with dramatic cliffs and verdant forests, making for a truly memorable voyage.

Corner Brook, a picturesque port city in Newfoundland, Canada, is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes including the Corner Brook Gorge and Three Bear Mountain. Ships will dock at the Corner Brook Port, which is a 10-minute drive to town. Bask in the community's warmth and authenticity during this port of call.

Visit the Captain James Cook National Historic Site, honouring Captain Cook who first surveyed the area in 1767, or delve into a treasure trove of cultural exhibits at the Corner Brook Museum and Archives. Wander through the vibrant downtown, discovering local boutiques and enjoying the Newfoundland cuisine at waterfront eateries.

Sailing the Strait of Belle Isle will guarantee a moment of intense emotion. Your ship will enter this waterway, which separates Newfoundland from the North American continent, while the ice break-up is only just beginning its cycle. From the bridge, if the ice is still present, you will perhaps observe the Greenland seals which populate these waters dotted with fragments of ice floe, aiming to breed there. Time stands still, a magical spell is cast.

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.

The largest town in southern Greenland, colourful Qaqortoq rises steeply over the fjord system around the city, offering breath-taking panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, deep, blue sea, Lake Tasersuag, icebergs in the bay, and pastoral backcountry. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to shore.

Top Things to Do in Qaqortoq:

• hike around Lake Tasersuaq
• visit the Norse ruins at Hvalsey Church
• tour the Qaqortoq Art Walk
• bathe in the hot springs on Uunartoq Island
• visit the Qaqortoq Museum
  

Narsaq, located in southern Greenland, is a picturesque town known for its stunning natural surroundings and rich Norse history. Nestled between towering mountains and the Tunulliarfik Fjord, Narsaq offers breathtaking views of icebergs and lush landscapes. The town's colourful houses create a striking contrast against the dramatic backdrop.

Visitors can explore the nearby Norse ruins at Dyrnæs and Sandhavn, which provide a glimpse into Greenland's Viking past. Narsaq is also a great base for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing. The local museum showcases artefacts from the town's history and offers insights into traditional Greenlandic culture. With its combination of natural beauty and historical significance, Narsaq is a fascinating destination in Greenland.

Nanortalik is located on a small island in the southern tip of Greenland. It is an adventurer's wonderland with vertical cliff walls, sheets of floating sea ice and a plethora of Arctic wildlife, including seals and Minke, humpback and fin whales. Sometimes polar bears can also be spotted on the offshore flow of ice. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to shore.

Top Things to Do in Nanortalik:

• visit the Nanortalik museum
• take a cruise amongst the ice bergs
• join a boat tour of the Tasermiut Fjord
• take a hike through the beautiful scenery

At the southern tip of Greenland, where the North Atlantic Ocean and the Labrador Sea meet, sail in the heart of the Cape Farewell passage. The waves crash against the stem of the ship as you advance in the waters of the Far North. Observing cetaceans and admiring the southern lands on the horizon will be a highlight of your trip.

Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts.

Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us.

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Begin your day exploring the striking Hallgrímskirkja church, with its panoramic city views from the tower. Wander through the colorful streets of the Old Harbor, where you can find quirky shops, cozy cafes, and stunning views of Mount Esja.

Don't miss the Harpa Concert Hall, an architectural marvel on the waterfront, or a visit to the National Museum for a deep dive into Icelandic history. Recharge at one of Reykjavik's many geothermal pools, like the Blue Lagoon, just a short drive from the city. Wrap up your visit with a stroll along the scenic Sun Voyager sculpture, capturing the spirit of adventure and discovery.