Ponant Explorations has announced an exclusive collaboration with the Club des Chefs des Chefs, the world’s most prestigious gastronomic society. This partnership will come to life aboard Le Commandant Charcot beginning January 15, 2027 on the eight-night voyage, “The Gulf of Bothnia, at the Gateway to the Arctic.” Departing from the snow-blanketed shores of Finnish Lapland and sailing to the design-forward capital of Helsinki, the itinerary explores the frozen expanse of the Baltic Sea’s northernmost reaches aboard Ponant Explorations’ polar exploration ship, Le Commandant Charcot.
Guests will be joined by culinary and diplomatic luminaries including Chef Cristeta Comerford, the longest-serving executive chef at the White House; Guillaume Gomez, former head chef of the Élysée Palace and France’s first Ambassador for Gastronomy; Sylvie Bermann, one of France’s most respected diplomats; and Gilles Bragard, founder of the Club des Chefs des Chefs. The voyage will feature a series of curated meals by Chefs’ Comerford and Gomez, culinary demonstrations, tastings and discussions exploring the role of cuisine in diplomacy.
Each guest brings a remarkable story and perspective to the table:
- Cristeta Comerford, the first woman and first person of Asian descent to serve as Executive Chef at the White House. With a career spanning five U.S. Presidents, from Bill Clinton to Joe Biden, Comerford has overseen more than 50 State Dinners and will share insights into the culinary traditions that shape American diplomacy.
- Guillaume Gomez, who served four French presidents and has represented France at major international summits including the G8 and G20. Named France’s first Ambassador for Gastronomy by President Emmanuel Macron in 2021, Gomez will reflect on the cultural power of French cuisine on the world stage.
- Sylvie Bermann, former French Ambassador to China, the United Kingdom, and Russia—making her the first woman to serve as France’s ambassador to three permanent members of the UN Security Council. Her presence underscores the intersection of diplomacy, culture, and shared table traditions.
- Gilles Bragard, founder and secretary general of the Club des Chefs des Chefs, will speak to the organization’s history and mission: fostering friendship and diplomacy through the shared language of fine cuisine.
Founded on the belief that cuisine can serve as a powerful tool for diplomacy, the Club des Chefs des Chefs brings together the personal chefs of world leaders and royalty. To qualify for membership, one must serve as the official chef to a president, monarch or head of state—or be the executive chef of the official residence that hosts state functions.
Le Commandant Charcot is a luxury icebreaker, seamlessly blending advanced polar exploration capabilities with refined French design. All staterooms and suites feature private balconies or terraces. Dining is a highlight, with Nuna—the only Alain Ducasse restaurant at sea—offering a gastronomic experience that celebrates French culinary artistry. Public spaces include the glass-enclosed Observation Lounge, fire-lit Main Lounge, open-air Blue Lagoon deck with heated seating and a spa featuring Biologique Recherche treatments, a snow room, sauna and an indoor pool.
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