This polar expedition is the definition of transformative travel

Travelling to the top of the world is an exhilarating experience. Even better if you explore on a luxury vessel with French-flagged Ponant

In partnership with PONANT

Icebergs drift by, you hear the splash of a whale tail, brisk wind whips your face. The world stands still when you visit the Arctic, one of the most remote – and fragile – pockets of the planet. This landscape inspires goosebumps. Just wait until you see a polar bear.

Expedition cruising to the northern regions of the planet with PONANT is all about these ‘pinch-me’ moments. Experiences not only transformative because of the landscapes that unfold before you like a National Geographic documentary. A perk of being on one of the small ships in PONANT’s ultra-luxe expedition fleet. You get to go where other cruisers simply can’t, and experience rare ports of call and elusive wildlife along the way.

Kayaking Storo Island, Greenland by Daniel Ernst

Small ships mean setting foot in extraordinary ports of call

Picking a favourite destination in the Arctic is a bit like choosing a favourite child. It’s an impossible feat – there are too many highlights to list.

Many gravitate toward Longyearbyen, the postcard-pretty capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago. This is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet, with vast white landscapes that unite glaciers and untouched mountains, stretching as far as the eye can see. Make no mistake, this is one of the world’s most fascinating northern frontiers. You’ll want to linger at the Monaco Glacier, an impenetrable, blue-tinged jagged gem. The sound of ice calving into the water around it will leave you speechless, particularly if polar bears and whales join you to watch the spectacle.

In the north of the Arctic Circle you’ll have the thrill of discovering Tromsø, a secluded town located in the Norwegian county of Tromsø. Locals call it the ‘Paris of the north’. You’ll soon see why when you glimpse its extensive neoclassical architectural heritage – case in point the Arctic cathedral, a major monument whose stylistic purity echoes the outline of the mountains surrounding the town.

Another northern city that will wow is Reykjavik, Iceland’s harbour-hugging capital with attractions like Perlan – the ‘Pearl of Reykjavík’ – a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offering a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. Look up to gaze at the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, then warm up in the misty thermal waters of Blue Lagoon, just outside the city.

Polar Bear waving hello! Captured by Ian Dawson

Zodiac cruise through Eternity Fjord Greenland, By Olivier Blaud

The colours of PONANT’s Arctic

Venture over to Greenland to discover Disko Bay, scattered with countless icebergs produced by the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From your ship, admire the majestic ballet of these ice giants as they slowly drift across the dark waters. Humpback whales seem to appreciate the drama as well, and are a common sight here on PONANT itineraries, backdropped by the rainbow-hued houses of Ilulissat. As you head out to sea you’ll begin to sense you’re being followed… by towering icebergs with bluish glints and deep caverns, bobbing along beside your PONANT ship.

Just as colourful is Streymoy Island, the largest and most populated of the Faroe Islands. Wedged between Scotland and Iceland, the 18-island Danish archipelago is a wilderness lover’s dream, replete with emerald hills shadowed by enormous basalt cliffs that seem to cleave off the edge of the Earth. To the north, the small village of Saksun, with its traditional grass-covered rooftops, has just a few friendly inhabitants. In the curve of a magnificent natural amphitheatre, it overlooks a fjord with a lagoon: an idyllic setting in a secluded and peaceful environment.

Left: Baffin Bay, Greenland by Cindy Miller Hopkins
Right: Le Boréal exploring Hornsund Fjord, Spitsbergen by Olivier Blaud

PONANT have made these extraordinary destinations more accessible than ever with an exclusive credit of up to $1,500 per person to use toward international airfare on select itineraries exploring Iceland to Greenland, the Arctic Circle and everything in between in their 2025 season*.

Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen
Spitsbergen to Spitsbergen
9 Departures in 2025| 7 Nights
Aboard Sisterships Le Lyrial & Le Boréal

Expedition to the edge of the Ice Sheet
Reykjavík – Kangerlussuaq
Departs 8 August 2025| 13 Nights
Aboard Sistership Le Lyrial

Baffin Bay Secrets
Kangerlussuaq to Kangerlussuaq
Departs 20 July 2025 | 13 Nights
Aboard Sistership Le Boréal

Guests zodiac cruising at Scoresbysund, Greenland by AmbassadorSue Flood

PONANT is calling all polar explorers!

Just by virtue of jumping aboard a PONANT expedition vessel you’re channelling your inner adventurer. If you’re particularly intrepid, you’ll want to experience one of the brand’s Grand Voyages, which combine multiple itineraries, so you have the opportunity to delve deeper into the remote regions you visit and experience the ultimate polar thrill.

From towering glaciers to rugged coastlines sailing through the fjords of Spitsbergen, PONANT are offering four exclusive Grand Voyages in their 2025 Arctic season. These combined itineraries offer an expert-led and comprehensive exploration of the northern polar regions, allowing you to venture further and linger longer in these extraordinary environments. Plus, you will save 10% on second and subsequent voyages booked! What’s holding you back?

Grand Voyage Scotland – Iceland
Glasgow – Reykjavik | 15 ports of call
Departs 11 July 2025
17 Nights aboard Sistership Le Bellot

Grand Voyage – Scottish Isles, Fjords & Polar Bears
Glasgow to Longyearbyen | 18 ports of call
Departs 25 May 2025
20 nights aboard Sistership Le Lyrial

Grand Voyage –  Norwegian Fjords and Scandinavian Cities
Tromsø to Stockholm | 14 ports of call
Departs 5 April 2025
19 Nights aboard Sistership Le Champlain

Days spent exploring local communities by Ian Dawson

On the Ultimate Arctic Grand Voyage you can expect the unexpected

If you are one of those intrepid types seeking the Ultimate Arctic adventure, PONANT has an epic expedition for you. Over 24 nights, you’ll have the chance to dock in Glasgow, in the heart of Scotland’s Clyde Valley. The city’s architectural swagger is a stark contrast to the wild beauty that surrounds. And it makes for an eye-opening stopover.

Close by in Northern Island, the capital city of Belfast offers a glimpse into a history that is just as fascinating. Located on the very tip of Belfast Lough, in the northeast of the Emerald Isle, the city has an infamous cruising history. As you explore you’ll witness a building shaped like a fragmented liner – welcome to the Titanic Belfast, a homage to the famous transatlantic liner, which was designed and built here.

In the city’s  historical centre, you’ll also travel back in time when you see the majestic Edwardian columns of the City Hall, and the imposing neo-gothic towers of Queen’s University. The carved wooden façades of the Victorian pubs will certainly entice you in for a pint of beer or chilled cider while rubbing shoulders with the locals. As you voyage through awe-inspiring vistas, you’ll encounter a myriad of wildlife, from playful seals to soaring seabirds, their presence adding to the magic of the journey. Delve into the rich tapestry of cultures along the way, from the ancient Neolithic sites of Orkney, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the enduring Viking legacy of the Shetland Islands.

Prepare to be captivated as you navigate the iconic Geirangerfjord, a masterpiece of nature where sheer cliffs plunge into crystalline waters, and verdant forests blanket the landscape in hues of green. Alongside these natural wonders, immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions and customs of local communities, gaining insight into their way of life and timeless rituals.

Crossing the Arctic Circle, the adventure continues as you set sail for the Arctic jewel of Spitsbergen. Here, amidst a landscape of ice and snow, you’ll witness the untamed beauty of the far north, encountering polar bears, walruses, and other inhabitants in their icy domain. Each moment on this extraordinary voyage promises to be a testament to the sheer magnificence of nature, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

The Ultimate Arctic Grand Voyage
Glasgow – Longyearbyen | 31 ports of call
Departs 29 May, 2025
24 Nights aboard Sistership Le Boréal

Guess clink their Champagne in front of the mountain view, Greenland by VioletteVauchelle

The PONANT Signature

All PONANT expeditions include the opportunity for daily excursions. So after spending eye-opening days ashore with industry leading expert guides, kayaking, hiking and discovering fascinating wildlife you will return to the warm comforting luxuries of your vessel, where you can relax in PONANT ‘s signature style. Characterised by sleek shapes, refined interiors, and an ambiance reminiscent of a private yacht, each vessel offers an intimate experience with a maximum of just 132 staterooms and suites, all boasting ocean views. Most cabins also feature balconies, providing the perfect spot to enjoy room service if desired. The experienced and expert crew ensure personalised service throughout your voyage, including a butler service for added comfort in select suite categories.

Perhaps indulge in a little pampering with a French treatment in the on-board spa and salon. Or go on a gastronomic journey via the cuisine by world-renowned chef Alain Ducasse – pair it with a flute of bubbles (it’s free flowing around the clock) from the open bar.

Everything is taken care of, right down to the unlimited Wi-Fi and often pre- and post-embarkation hotel stays. All you need to do is sit back and be awed by Mother Nature.

*For a limited time, PONANT is offering flight credit up to $1,500 per person on a selection of Arctic 2025 expedition itineraries* PONANT Grand Voyage’s offer 10% savings on expertly combined back-to-back itineraries. Conditions apply and subject to availability. For more information or to book visit au.ponant.com or contact your preferred travel agent.