The Gulf of Bothnia, at the Gateway to the Arctic

Cruise overview

At the crossroads of gastronomy and diplomacy, enjoy a unique experience aboard Le Commandant Charcot, where the culinary arts serve international relations. In partnership with the Club des Chefs des Chefs, this cruise brings together exceptional figures: Gilles Bragard, Cristeta Comerford, Executive Chef of the White House from 2005 to 2024, Guillaume Gomez, former chef of the Élysée Palace and ambassador of French gastronomy (present on board during the first days of the cruise), and Sylvie Bermann, a leading figure in French diplomacy. An immersion into global balances, where the table becomes an instrument of influence and flavors reveal the subtleties of dialogue between nations.

It’s raining stars in our bed. This sensitive evocation of the Arctic night, which is the title of Scandinavian poetry collection, invites us to the best seats in the house to watch the union between the vault of heaven and the earth’s crust, beneath a multitude of stars. In the delicious comfort of Le Commandant Charcot, experience winter at the gateway to the Arctic, admire the spectacle of the Gulf of Bothnia, between enchanted landscapes and traditions, and from the Stockholm Archipelago discover a magical world in half-light. Experience the period of Kaamos, the polar night, during which luminosity is reduced to a twilight of 4 to 5 hours per day, representing everyday life for the local population

Extend your journey with a complimentary additional night in Helsinki, after your cruise.*

*Offer valid for each guest from 9th March until 30th June 2026 on a selection of cruises aboard Le Commandant Charcot, valid for any new booking and subject to availability. The offer cannot be backdated and cannot be exchanged for a voucher, credit or any other service; it can be combined with current offers, excluding “No single supplement”. For bookings by a guest travelling alone, the offer remains applicable but the single supplement (single room) will be invoiced in accordance with current conditions. In the event of cancellation by the guest, the establishment’s standard cancellation terms and conditions will apply.

The itinerary may be altered based on port approvals and to comply with applicable government regulations  Please also note that the sailing programme, shore visits and activities cannot be guaranteed, as they are subject to weather conditions.

The land-based activities and excursions can be conducted in English with a translator if required.