Small Ships, Big Dreams

PONANT CRUISES HAS LONG BEEN REVERED AS A WORLD LEADER IN SMALL-SHIP CRUISING — a distinction that was recently validated by Cruise Critic, who named Ponant “Best in the Arctic” in its 2022 Editors’ Picks Awards. It’s not difficult to understand why Ponant is worthy of such recognition. After all, the company has roughly 20 years of experience in extreme regions and has completed more than 400 polar cruises. But there’s more than stats and numbers that make Ponant a true expedition specialist. The cruise line’s onboard experts, inspiring itineraries, and sumptuous amenities set Ponant poles apart from other Arctic operators.

Evoking an almost mythical sense of place, the Arctic is often dismissed as an isolated and iced-over tundra where only the hardiest survive. The common misconception being the far North is a place reserved for glaciologists and documentary film makers catapulting themselves toward unknown adventures. Yet on a Ponant Cruise, passengers can explore the vast remote in complete comfort — stunning suites offer panoramic views of calving glaciers, floating icebergs, and migrating humpbacks, while executive chefs prepare gourmet cuisine and butlers cater to every need.

In all, Ponant offers more than 60 Arctic cruises, each with jaw-dropping scenery and heart-pumping wildlife viewing — polar bears, Arctic foxes, walruses, orcas, and whales are all possible sightings. For an extra adrenaline rush, activities like polar snorkeling, snowshoeing, or kayaking are options. While the Arctic encompasses eight countries, including the US (thanks, Alaska), here are some of our top picks.

REYKJAVIK, ICELAND is the northernmost capital city in the world, famed for its nightlife, museums, and restaurants as much as its 64°08‘N latitude, just two degrees south of the Arctic Circle.

GREENLAND is home to the world’s largest national park: Northeast Greenland National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and a dreamlike alpine landscape where immense glaciers and astonishing icebergs lie beneath dark waters.

THE GEOGRAPHIC NORTH POLE is the northernmost point on the planet and getting there is no easy feat. With some expert maneuvering by the ship’s captain, the vessel will be positioned at exactly 90 degrees, signifying you’ve reached the holy grail of polar exploration.