PONANT EXPLORATIONS is set to achieve a significant milestone in 2028 with the inaugural circumnavigation of Antarctica aboard the icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot. This remarkable 62-day expedition will cover almost 14,300 miles.
The journey will take place in two segments: a 30-day westward expedition along Antarctica’s coastline commencing from Ushuaia to Hobart, Tasmania, starting in January 2028, followed by a three-day stopover in Hobart, and concluding with a 31-day return journey along the eastern shores of Antarctica back to Ushuaia.
Key highlights of the journey will consist of navigating the Ross Sea adjacent to the world’s largest ice shelf; exploring lesser-known islands like Charcot Island,Marie Byrd Land, Wilkes Land, Adélie Land, and the Balleny Islands; in addition to witnessing Mount Erebus, the southernmost volcano on Earth.
Throughout the voyage, travelers will gain insights into the exploits of renowned polar explorers – Sir Ernest Shackleton, Sir Robert Falcon Scott, Captain Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Mawson, and Amundsen – along with the chance to visit the remnants of their campsites and sail through the region where the Endurance met its fate.
“PONANT EXPLORATIONS emerged from an adventurous ethos, and Le Commandant Charcot embodies the height of exploration, offering adventurers experiences that were previously viewed as unattainable,” stated Samuel Chamberlain, CEO of PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP Americas. “As the sole passenger vessel with a PC2 classification, it is exceptionally equipped to undertake this unique milestone journey that encapsulates the spirit of polar exploration – all while ensuring safety and respect for the ecosystems of this untouched area…”
The entire 62-day circumnavigation can be reserved as a complete journey, or travelers can opt for either segment independently for a half-circumnavigation of Antarctica. Rates for the full circumnavigation begin at $147,360 per individual.
Fonte: Travel Market Report
