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North Pole Marathon

North Pole Marathon

In the realm of extreme adventures, few journeys are as audacious and unique as sailing to the North Pole. While many associate the high Arctic with forbidding ice floes, treacherous waters, and challenging conditions, for a select few, it is the ultimate destination. Currently the only passenger vessel able to comfortably navigate this icy realm is Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot, a state-of-the-art polar exploration vessel.

On this journey, there’s a special mission in mind: to run the North Pole Marathon (or half marathon), the most remote marathon on earth. Very few have stood at the North Pole. Even fewer have run a marathon at the pole. A very select group have run marathons on all seven continents and the North Pole, forming the Marathon Grand Slam Club. And, of course, course non-runners are welcome too. The runners will need all the support they can get as they battle the elements in this extreme environment.

Image by Ophelie Bleunven

This expedition is far more than just a race at the top of the world, it’s a journey of discovery. As the ship makes its way toward the North Pole, you will witness breathtaking sights. Svalbard’s majestic glaciers, vast expanses of sea ice, and enigmatic Arctic wildlife—such as polar bears, seals, and migrating birds—make the journey an unforgettable visual experience.  you will learn from a team of experts about the sea ice, ocean currents, history, wildlife and more.

Polar Bear on the Arctic Ocean north of Svalbard
Taking a walk on the pack ice.

Le Commandant Charcot is the very first luxury hybrid electric polar exploration ship powered by liquified natural gas. It is the first passenger vessel with an ice class of PC2 (other expedition ships working in Arctic or Antarctic waters are rated PC5 – PC7 and unsuited for this journey).

Enjoy beautifully appointed suites, exceptional cuisine (including the only Alain Ducasse gastronomic restaurant at sea) and informative and entertaining presentations from experts.

123 suites and staterooms

7-22 July 2025. 2026 Dates TBA

44,900 Euro per person (Deck 6, prestige stateroom). Non-runners 41,900 Euro per person

Day 1 – 7 July

Fly on a charter flight to Longyearbyen, Svalbard from Charles de Gaulle airport. Board the magnificent icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot.

Day 2

Sail up the west coast of Svalbard enjoying magnificent scenery as we make our way north.

Days 3-6

Breaking ice en route to the North Pole. We’ll enjoy expert presentations and be on the look out for polar bears as we head to the pole.

Day 7

Race Day. Run the world’s northern most marathon at the North Pole.

Day 8

We will remain at the North Pole in the morning providing an opportunity to participate in the northernmost polar plunge and afford opportunities for on board scientists to take observations. Depart North Pole.

Days 9-11

Enjoy expert presentations and excursions on the ice as we head back to open water, all the while looking for wildlife.

Days 12-14

Enjoy excursions in Svalbard, zodiac cruising among the ice or take a hike enjoying the glorious Svalbard scenery.

Day 15 – Disembark in Longyearbyen for the return flight to Paris.

What’s included:

  • Paris – Longyearbyen flights return economy class
  • Meals with wines
  • Open bar service in the bars and cabin mini-bars
  • Highly qualified expedition team
  • Polar parka (to keep) and boot rental
  • Wi-Fi
  • Evening entertainment
  • Registration fee for marathon and half/marathon
  • Medals, t-shirts, patches and other souvenirs for runners
  • Event photos/video for personal use and local publication
Paris – Longyearbyen – North Pole – Svalbard – Longyearbyen – Paris
Bearded Seal
Bearded Seal
Reminders of Svalbard’s whaling history

Gallery

What to expect on your adventure!

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