getting to the pole

Le Commandant Charcot, the pioneering luxury hybrid electric polar exploration ship fueled by LNG, will navigate through the sea ice to transport the marathon group to 90N.

Le Commandant Charcot is the world's only luxury Icebreaker powered by liquefied natural gas, and equipped with a Polar Class 2 (PC2) hull, bringing scientists, adventurers, and marathoners to the Geographic North Pole. Leveraging cutting-edge innovations and pioneering new technologies, she stands as one of the most advanced polar vessels at sea today.

The top priority is the preservation of polar ecosystems and the coastal sea ice, which serves as a critical habitat for marine wildlife. Responsible exploration is guided by principles such as expertise, innovation, respect for nature, and collaboration with local communities.

IS IT SAFE TO go to THE NORTH POLE?

Le Commandant Charcot is the only passenger ship in the world with a Polar Class 2 hull, which allows for navigation through multiyear ice. The rescue and safety equipment developed and designed from scratch by PONANT for Le Commandant Charcot (Ice Cube, group survival kit, floating polar shelters and survival suits) currently exceed the existing safety criteria established by the tourism industry as well as the military, raise the bar for maritime safety and standards in polar tourism, and help experts across the world to devise new safety strategies.

IS THERE ANY LAND AT THE NORTH POLE?

No. The North Pole is not situated on land, but on the Arctic Ocean. Athletes will therefore be running 'on' water…frozen water! You will be running on an ice sheet some 6 - 12 feet thick above 12,000 feet of Arctic Ocean on the top of the world

WILL I GET TO STAND AT THE EXACT NORTH POLE?

Yes, the vessel will reach the precise Geographic North Pole (90N) thanks to its state-of-the-art technology and the expertise of our captain and crew. Remember that we are floating on the Arctic Ocean and within minutes we will have moved away from the exact North Pole!

Are there additional activities apart from running?

The journey is a complete polar immersion, providing authentic experiences crafted by a skilled expedition team deeply passionate about the polar regions. Engage in exciting activities such as kayaking amidst icebergs, wildlife observation from inflatable boats, and fully immerse yourself in a polar plunge. Onboard, attend captivating talks and lectures by scientists and naturalists, delving into biology, history, geology, ice and ocean studies, and environmental conservation.

is there wi-fi available?

Yes, unlimited WiFi is included for the entire journey, and video calls with friends and family is possible even at the pole, thanks to the blazing fast Starlink internet. Please be aware that internet speeds may vary at times, depending on the connection between the receiving equipment and the satellites.

The Ship

Le Commandant Charcot

The World’s first luxury hybrid electric polar exploration ship powered by LNG, Le Commandant Charcot encapsulates an eco-friendly design never before seen in the polar regions. Provided with 123 staterooms, in total harmony with nature, it will carry you safely and comfortably beyond known lands. Two research laboratories on board enable scientists to collect data that will increase our knowledge of the poles.

  • Flag: French
  • Construction: Sovik, NOR
  • Year: 2021
  • Length: 492 ft
  • Beam: 92 ft
  • Draft: 33 ft
  • Speed: 15 knots
  • Gross tonnage: 31 757 UMS
  • Ice class Polar: Class: PC2
  • Classification: Bureau Veritas
  • Guest capacity: 245
  • Crew members: 210
  • Electric propulsion motors: 34 MW
  • Installed power: 42 MW
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Owner Suite

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The sauna in the wellness area, which also includes the Biological Recherche Spa, hair and nail salon, fitness room, snow cabin

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Fine dining throughout the journey

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The relaxation area, with a heated indoor swimming pool and a detox bar

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The Blue Lagoon area, deck 9

NORTH POLE
MARATHON