Ocean Voyage: Reykjavik-Brest

Built around a magnificent harbour, Brest opens onto the Iroise Sea and the river Penfeld that runs through the city. Its port was used by the French navy for centuries before becoming an important commercial port and marina appreciated by the great navigators. As you stroll along Quai Commandant Malbert, you may catch a glimpse of the superb schooner La Recouvrance and, in the distance, a few lighthouses along the chiselled coastline. You will be able to discover the marine ecosystems at the Oceanopolis centre  and visit the naval museum housed in Château de Brest. Officially recognised as a city of art and history, Brest will also charm you with its architectural eclecticism, mingling modernism, neoclassicism, art nouveau and art deco.

Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts. Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us.

Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.