Explore the Rarely Visited Northwest Passage

Embarking on an expedition through the seldom-sailed Northwest Passage aboard a luxury PONANT small ship promises an unforgettable adventure through some of the Earth’s most remote and spectacular landscapes. There are, of course, innumerable reasons to witness this spectacular seaway with us firsthand. Here, we’d like to point out a few of them.

Nearly 120 years ago, Norwegian Roald Amundsen plied through the Northwest Passage, the ice-strewn sea route on the northern coast of North America. It was a triumph in its day, as much of the route was blanketed by impenetrable ice. Since 2009, a combination of ice decline and the technologically advanced navigation of PONANT’s Le Commandant Charcot has opened the passage to more explorers, including you.

The allure of the Northwest Passage lies not just in its history but also in its remoteness and formidable natural beauty. PONANT takes you to its farthest reaches in ultimate comfort, complete safety, and with environmental sensitivity. Its exceptional yacht-style suites and staterooms were designed for relaxation, with a generous array of plush amenities. The most advanced navigational technology at sea and a Polar Class 2 icebreaker hull help us venture deeper into the icy passage. And for responsible sailing, this electric hybrid vessel is powered by Liquefied Natural Gas and boasts equipment that lets us explore with minimal impact to marine life and environments. Perhaps best of all, you’ll savor unparalleled attention and service and fine French-inspired dining from our Alain Ducasse kitchen throughout your expedition.

Discover Greenland’s West Coast and Inuit Culture

Along the west coast of Greenland, our journey takes us to traditional villages where time seems to stand still. Here, the Inuit people continue to thrive amidst a landscape that is both harsh and stunningly beautiful. In Qaqortoq and Nuuk, the rainbow of brightly colored houses that cluster near the water embody the vibrancy of life. These seaside hamlets may be small, but they are big on charm and character. Explore the Stone & Man outdoor sculptures in Qaqortoq and the humble Nuuk Cathedral in Nuuk. It’s a rare opportunity to closely witness two communities deeply connected to their environments, where hunting on land in nearby fjords and fishing on icy waters shape everyday life, feeding residents in the same way they have for centuries.

Marvel at the Serenity of a Pristine Wilderness

The Northwest Passage treats travelers to a spectacle of nature’s grandeur: vast glaciers glistening in the Arctic sunlight, colossal, blue-tinted icebergs drifting silently through frigid waters, and rugged mountain peaks piercing the sky. This is a wilderness that few have seen firsthand, offering a profound sense of awe and humility in the face of its sheer magnitude and beauty.

Amidst the icy expanse, there’s a profound sense of tranquility that envelops you. It’s a reminder that in this pristine corner of the world, humans are mere guests. With your morning coffee or evening glass of wine, step out on deck to listen to the stillness as the low sun casts a soft light on the sea and the ice. Perhaps you’ll spot polar bears roaming the floes, Arctic foxes darting along the coast, and whales breaching the steel-grey waters—each moment a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Arctic wildlife in an ever-changing environment. Our Expedition Leaders are on hand to illuminate your every observation and enlighten you on the surprising array of wildlife that teems all around you.

Engage in Unique Expedition Activities

Beyond observing this stunning world from our decks, our expedition invites you to actively explore the Arctic. Join our leaders for thrilling activities such as kayaking amidst icebergs, hiking or snowshoeing across pristine tundra, or experiencing the exhilaration of a polar plunge. Whether you’re casting a line for Arctic char or trekking through silent landscapes, each activity connects you more deeply to this extraordinary region.

To connect you further, PONANT invites special guests along and offers enriching onboard experiences to fully engage and immerse you in these enchanting polar reaches. Our professional Photo Ambassadors help you capture those perfect moments, whether you’re snapping shots with your phone or your analog camera. Highly skilled and supportive, they’ll enhance your expedition with onboard workshops, conferences, and personal advice. Members of The Explorers Club offer scholarly or filmmaking expertise, sharing their scientific findings and cultural chronicles with you during formal lectures and informal chats. Our resident onboard scientists are always on hand to share the latest findings that they’ve gleaned from samples and readings they’ve taken in our shipboard laboratory. And of course, our PONANT Expedition Leaders lend their far-reaching polar expertise to help you get the most from your adventure every moment of every day.

Cross the Legendary Northwest Passage with PONANT

A voyage through the Northwest Passage with PONANT Cruises is not just a journey—it’s an immersion into a world few have witnessed firsthand. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form, to witness resilience and beauty in equal measure, and to be inspired by the spirit of exploration that has driven adventurers for centuries. Whether you seek adventure, photography, cultural insight, or scientific discovery, this expedition promises an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.