Today we’re venturing to one of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on Earth – the Arctic. Where ice meets ocean, wildlife roams freely, and every moment feels extraordinary. There’s a saying amongst explorers: “In the far north, every moment feels like a first.”

Joining me to inspire your first journey to the Arctic are Cindy Hopkins, a photographer who has spent over 30 years capturing the Arctic’s beauty, and Captain Ettiene Garcia, the first mariner to reach the North Pole of Inaccessibility – a point so remote even seasoned explorers dream about it.

Together we chat about luxury icebreakers, rare wildlife encounters, unforgettable itineraries, and the stories that make this part of the world so magical.

Support the podcast by booking any of the luxury trips HERE

Listen to hear:

• 02:15 – What’s going on around their favorite scene
• 03:17 – How Cindy got started in photography and the story behind her favorite photo taken in the Arctic
• 07:07 – Why the Arctic geography is so unique
• 09:36 – About the communities and cultures they interact with along the way
• 11:51 – What the common misconceptions about the Arctic are
• 16:30 – About the ships they use, including a few favorite spots onboard
• 20:09 – What it sounds and feels like when the ship is breaking through ice
• 23:03 – If the onboard helicopter is available for guests and how it’s used
• 27:00 – About the special details and behind-the-scenes moments that you won’t find online
• 29:20 – What a typical day looks like on an Arctic expedition
• 34:02 – How Cindy engages with guests through photography during the trip
• 38:21 – About a wild wildlife story you won’t believe
• 40:56 – What the craziest situation when Captain Garcia had to navigate a ship in the Arctic is
• 43:46 – How they help guests choose between different itineraries
• 47:26 – About a few insights into the North Pole trips and what the journey includes
• 48:43 – What actually happens once they reach the North Pole
• 51:32 – Why they have a favorite memory of a past guest
• 56:11 – About their favorite choices and recommendations
• 60:50 – What you’ll learn about the world by sailing with Ponant to the Arctic

Listener Exclusive Amenities

$100 per person additional onboard credit (on top of the $100 per person for Virtuoso) for new bookings deposited through the end of the year (Dec 31, 2025)