Selar Captain Arctic: Low-emission polar vessel

A New Era of Polar Exploration Where Wind, Silence and Innovation Lead the Way

As travelers increasingly seek meaningful adventures with a lighter environmental footprint, Selar introduces a bold new vision for Arctic exploration. Scheduled to launch its first expeditions in November 2026, the French expedition company is preparing to unveil Captain Arctic, a revolutionary 70-meter sailing yacht designed to become one of the world’s most sustainable polar expedition vessels. Far removed from the traditional cruise experience, Captain Arctic combines renewable energy, intimate luxury and scientific exploration, offering a slower and more conscious way to discover some of the planet’s last untouched landscapes.

Designed to Sail Toward Nearly Zero Emissions

Every aspect of Captain Arctic has been engineered to dramatically reduce its environmental impact without compromising comfort. The yacht is powered primarily by wind and solar energy through five rigid aluminum sails rising 35 meters above the deck and covered with nearly 2,000 square meters of photovoltaic panels. Electricity generated on board is stored in an advanced battery system capable of powering both hotel operations and electric propulsion whenever wind conditions require assistance. Additional innovations include hydrogeneration technology that produces electricity while sailing, reverse-osmosis freshwater production, a biomass heating system fueled by recycled wood pellets, complete wastewater treatment and HVO biofuel used exclusively for harbor maneuvers. Altogether, these technologies are expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 90% compared to conventional expedition vessels.

An Arctic Experience Designed Around Nature

Unlike many polar expedition ships, Captain Arctic is not an icebreaker. Instead of breaking through sea ice, its reinforced hull allows it to navigate carefully among glaciers and icebergs while respecting fragile ecosystems. There are no fixed itineraries. Every voyage adapts to weather conditions, wildlife encounters and the natural rhythm of the Arctic itself. Orcas may determine the day’s destination just as much as shifting ice or favorable winds, creating expeditions that are entirely unique. Perhaps the greatest luxury on board is silence. Free from engine noise, vibrations and fuel odors, guests experience an extraordinary level of immersion while observing whales, polar bears, walruses, seabirds and glaciers in complete tranquility.

Only 36 Guests On Board

With just 19 suites and cabins accommodating 36 guests, Captain Arctic offers one of the most intimate expedition experiences available in the polar regions. The interiors, designed by French-Swedish creative Joséphine Fossey, embrace Scandinavian minimalism through natural materials, handcrafted objects and carefully sourced vintage furniture. Rather than extravagant luxury, the atmosphere favors warmth, authenticity and understated elegance inspired by the surrounding Arctic landscapes. The yacht also features inviting social spaces, a restaurant, library, fitness area and sauna, creating a comfortable retreat after each day’s adventures.

Longer Landings, Deeper Discoveries

The yacht’s intimate size transforms the expedition experience ashore. Because every guest can disembark simultaneously, land excursions last up to six hours—significantly longer than on most traditional expedition cruises. Accompanied by four expert expedition guides, travelers can tailor each day to their interests, whether glacier hiking, ski touring across Norwegian fjords, paddleboarding among icebergs, snorkeling alongside orcas, wildlife observation or visits to remote Inuit communities. Every landing is designed to foster a deeper connection with the Arctic environment rather than simply passing through it.

Where Adventure Meets Science

Captain Arctic is much more than a luxury expedition yacht. Equipped with a 15-square-meter scientific laboratory, the vessel will support Arctic researchers by transporting scientists, equipment and supplies to remote research stations while contributing to environmental monitoring in rarely visited regions. Selar is also partnering with Clean Up Svalbard, committing to remove at least five tons of plastic waste annually from the archipelago’s coastline, reinforcing its long-term commitment to protecting the environments it explores.

Explorers, Photographers and Artists On Board

Selected departures will be hosted by internationally recognized adventurers, wildlife photographers and polar specialists, including Loury Lag, Arthur Guérin, Caroline Côté, Jérémie Villet and Florian Ledoux. Certain expeditions will also welcome artists-in-residence—from painters and designers to writers and musicians—transforming each voyage into a creative retreat inspired by the extraordinary landscapes of the High Arctic.

Disconnect to Reconnect

One of Captain Arctic’s most distinctive features may be what it deliberately leaves behind. Internet access is intentionally limited to a single secluded room, encouraging guests to disconnect from their devices and reconnect with nature, fellow travelers and the expedition team. It is a philosophy that reflects Selar’s broader vision: slowing down, embracing silence and allowing the Arctic itself to become the journey’s greatest luxury.

The Future of Sustainable Arctic Cruising

Captain Arctic’s inaugural season begins in November 2026, with expeditions exploring the orca-filled fjords of Northern Norway before sailing toward Svalbard and Greenland. More than introducing a new expedition yacht, Selar is pioneering a new philosophy of polar travel—one where innovation serves conservation, luxury is measured by simplicity, and every voyage leaves behind little more than memories.

We love Selar Captain Arctic for:

– Launching in November 2026 with pioneering Arctic expeditions in Norway, Svalbard and Greenland
– A 70-meter expedition sailing yacht designed to operate with up to 90% lower CO₂ emissions
– Just 19 suites and cabins accommodating 36 guests for an intimate expedition experience
– Powered primarily by wind and solar energy, with nearly 2,000 m² of photovoltaic sails
– Flexible itineraries shaped by wildlife, weather and Arctic conditions rather than fixed routes
– Onboard scientific laboratory, expert expedition guides and immersive adventures on land and at sea