First ‘near-zero’ emission cruise ship heads to Arctic
Captain Arctic, which is described as the first near-zero carbon emission cruise ship available for charter, is heading to the Arctic.
The vessel, built by French polar expedition company Selar and operated by Pelorus Yachting, an agency specialising in experiential and expedition yachting, is scheduled for year-round availability starting December 2026.
This 70-metre ship, designed specifically for polar expeditions, will cruise the Arctic regions, including Norway, Svalbard and Greenland, accommodating up to 30 guests with a team of polar experts and guides.
Hopefully it won’t meet the fate of the Bahamas-flagged Norwegian ship Ocean Explorer, which ran aground in a remote stretch of Greenland last year, leaving over 200 passengers stranded for days.
Captain Arctic has five rigid solar sails, each containing two 100-square-metre panels. These sails provide continuous energy to meet onboard power needs and hotel load.
While cruises are typically known for being disastrous for the environment, Pelorus says the yacht operates with “minimal” environmental impact, reducing CO₂ emissions by up to 90 per cent compared to similar vessels. In low-wind and sunlight conditions, the yacht can be powered by fuel derived from vegetable oil. The yacht features 16 cabins, one of which is wheelchair accessible.
Pelorus Yachting describes Captain Arctic as a platform for remote, experience-led travel. Expeditions are tailored to guests’ interests and will include polar wildlife observation, Arctic hikes, kayaking, and ice-edge experiences.
Pelorus Yachting says in its marketing materials that it will donate 5 per cent of profits to Arctic conservation initiatives. However, MIN asked Pelorus several times to clarify which organisations would be funded, and the firm did not respond.
For onboard amenities, the interiors—designed by Joséphine Fossey—showcase Swedish-French influences and mid-century design elements, with warm tones and textural comfort. Guests can enjoy spaces including a fitness room, sauna, polar plunge pool, library, and a 1920s-style bar. A dedicated “silent room” will be available for quiet reflection. The yacht will also host an onboard science lab, helping contribute to environmental research on polar regions.
Captain Sophie Galvagnon, who has over 17 years of experience as a captain and ice pilot, will lead Captain Arctic.
From March to August, Captain Arctic cruises through Svalbard, offering views of glaciers and fjords under the midnight sun, with opportunities for snowshoeing and wildlife spotting. In East Greenland from August to October, it navigates Scoresby Sund, known for its vast icebergs and interactions with local Inuit communities. During the winter months, from November to February, the yacht explores Northern Norway, where guests can view the Aurora Borealis, hike, and take part in Viking heritage tours.
The charter fee for Captain Arctic begins at $590,000 per week on an all-inclusive basis.
