A reunion at the edge of the world…

They say that travel is the best way to grow… and Tom would agree. Accustomed to travelling the world, the young man set off on a PONANT expedition that would hold many surprises for him.

Travel in the blood

Tom has been seasoned traveller since he was a young boy… His parents, keen on adventure, took him on their many trips. At the age of 11, he even went on a polar trip to Greenland with his family. This destination would be particularly memorable for the youngster. More than a passion, travel has become a way of life for him. So, a few years after this voyage, when it was time to choose a career path, Tom joined the French Maritime Academy: the École Nationale Supérieure Maritime (ENSM). His training takes him on a special voyage with PONANT: a dry run to the North Pole (test trip without passengers) aboard Le Commandant Charcot.

A surprise reunion full of emotion

On his father’s advice, Tom took photos of his trip to Greenland with him. Some of the faces on board look familiar… With the help of the photos, he recognises the expedition leader Nicolas Dubreuil and Ollie, an Inuit from the village of Kullorsuaq, who was invited on board to share his expertise on sea ice with the crew. During his trip in 2011, 11-year-old Tom visited Kullorsuaq and spent time with Ollie and his family, despite the language barrier. There’s no need for words when you can enjoy a specially prepared meal or play football with children of your own age. It was a moment that will forever be engraved in his memory. A few years later, on board Le Commandant Charcot, it is with heartfelt emotion that Tom and Ollie recall memories of their first meeting. So, yes, travel does help you grow, and so do great friendships!

Photo credits: © PONANT/Julien Fabro; © Studio PONANT / Nath Michel

Be enchanted by the magic of the Far North