Boutique cruise Lapland

Route

From Helsinki, you sail through the archipelago to Stockholm. You then cross the frozen Gulf of Bothnia toward Rauma, Luleå in Swedish Lapland, and Oulu, before finishing your journey in snow-covered Kemi.

Pace

The cruise offers a great balance between relaxing days at sea and excursions ashore. You will discover vibrant cities and their culture, take part in fun winter outdoor activities, and unwind completely on board in the evenings.

Highlights

An overnight stay in Stockholm, sailing through frozen waters, wooden UNESCO architecture in Rauma and Gammelstad, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and a visit to a reindeer farm near the Arctic Circle.

Accommodation

You will stay aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world's first luxury PC2-class polar expedition ship. On board, you can relax in total comfort and enjoy fascinating lectures by onboard experts.

Profile

Ideal for travellers looking to discover the winter nature of the Far North aboard a comfortable, small-scale ship.

This boutique cruise is available from 22/12/2026 to 30/12/2026 and from 07/01/2027 to 15/01/2027. Or the reverse route from 30/12/2026 to 07/01/2027 and from 15/01/2027 to 23/01/2027. Feel free to contact us for other options or an extension at one of our lovely addresses.

Day 1: Welcome to Helsinki & embarkation

Your journey begins in trendy Helsinki. Stroll through the historic centre, admire the neoclassical architecture, or head into the lively Kallio district to taste graavilohi (cured salmon). Embarkation on Le Commandant Charcot takes place between 4 pm and 5 pm. At 6 pm, the ship sets sail for Sweden.

Day 2 & 3: Stockholm & the archipelago

Sailing through the thousands of islets of the archipelago, the ship makes its way to Stockholm. You dock near medieval Gamla Stan. Wander through the cobblestone streets toward the Royal Palace, visit the Vasa Museum, or enjoy panoramic views from above in the SkyView gondola. As the ship stays overnight in port, you have plenty of time to explore the illuminated city in the evening and dine at your leisure.

Day 4: On the frozen sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot

Today, the ice crunches around the ship as you cross the Gulf of Bothnia. Attend one of the lectures given by onboard scientists or unwind in the wellness area. You are in a remote region that remains completely unreachable for standard ships during this season.

Day 5: Wooden heritage in Rauma

You dock on the west coast of Finland. Rauma is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved wooden houses. Walk through the narrow alleys of the old town and discover its maritime history at the Marela Museum. True Finns can take on a traditional sauna experience followed by a refreshing ice dip today.

Day 6: Sailing the northern ice sea

A peaceful day at sea as you sail deeper into the Arctic. From the deck, take in the winter landscapes while onboard experts share insights into the fragile polar ecosystem.

Day 7: Swedish Lapland & Gammelstad

Go ashore at Luleå in Swedish Lapland. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gammelstad, a church town with hundreds of red wooden cottages surrounding a 15th-century stone church. In the afternoon, set off into the snow-covered forest on snowshoes or opt for a dog-sledding excursion. With a bit of luck, you might spot the first evening stars or even the northern lights!

Day 8: Snow, reindeer, and the North in Oulu

You dock in Oulu, Northern Scandinavia's largest city, located close to the Arctic Circle. Stroll across the Kauppatori market square and visit a local reindeer farm to meet these iconic animals.

Day 9: The ice palace of Kemi & farewell

Early in the morning, arrive in Kemi on the snow-covered coast of Finnish Lapland. Disembarkation is at around 8 am. Before heading to the airport, you can visit the famous SnowCastle or explore Rovaniemi. Afterward, begin your journey back home.

What budget should you expect?

For this polar expedition cruise, guide prices start from €13,000 per person. This includes flights, full-board accommodation aboard the luxury icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot (including beverages), port fees, scientific lectures, and the mentioned package of included excursions on ice and ashore. The final price depends on the selected cabin category, availability, travel period, and any optional extra activities or extensions.

Frequently asked questions about this boutique cruise

What makes sailing on Le Commandant Charcot so unique?

This is the world's first luxury PC2-class polar expedition vessel. Thanks to its sturdy icebreaker bow, the ship navigates effortlessly through the ice of the Gulf of Bothnia. This allows you to reach remote corners of the Far North that are completely inaccessible to regular ships in the depth of winter.

How cold does it get, and what should you pack?

In December and January, temperatures in Lapland and across the Gulf of Bothnia average between -5 °C and -20 °C. Layering is key: warm thermal underwear, a wind- and waterproof outer shell, a good beanie, gloves, and sturdy insulated hiking boots. On board, the ship is comfortably heated throughout.

What about the Northern Lights?

Because you sail close to the Arctic Circle with minimal light pollution at sea, chances of spotting the Northern Lights are good. With a clear night sky and a little luck, the green glow may appear right above the frozen sea.