A New Frontier in Polar Exploration: Selar and the Captain Arctic

In the ever-evolving landscape of expedition cruising, a new player is carving a distinct path. Selar, a young French company, is on the verge of launching its inaugural polar expedition in November 2026. One year after announcing its arrival, Selar is poised to challenge the conventions of polar travel through innovation, sustainability, and an enhanced sensory experience.

The Vision Behind Selar

Co-founded by Sophie Galvagnon, the first female captain of polar expedition vessels, Selar aims to redefine Arctic exploration by championing nearly zero-emission expeditions. Galvagnon’s vision transcends mere adventure; she emphasizes emotional connection and meaning over speed and performance—an ambition rare in today’s exploration yachting landscape, often driven by technology for competitive gains.

Sophie is not alone on this journey. She is joined by Julia Bijaoui and Quentin Vacher, entrepreneurs who share her vision and have helped establish Selar as a pioneering force in the realm of sustainable travel.

Captain Arctic: A Manifesto for Change

At the heart of this new venture is the Captain Arctic, a 70-meter ship that embodies Selar’s ethos with its cutting-edge design and technology. This vessel is not just a means to an end; it’s a manifesto. With the capacity to host only 36 travelers, every journey promises an intimate connection with the stark beauty of the polar landscapes.

As of now, the hull has been completed and launched, with essential components like electric motors and a solar energy system set for integration. The ship boasts five large aluminum sails—an innovative design element that merges aesthetics with functionality. Galvagnon describes witnessing the hull touching water for the first time as a profoundly overwhelming experience, emphasizing that this venture represents more than just shipbuilding; it’s about laying the foundation for a new way of exploration.

A Thoughtfully Designed Lifestyle Onboard

Selar promises to offer more than breathtaking vistas. A unique travel culture awaits passengers aboard the Captain Arctic. The ship’s interiors draw inspiration from Scandinavian minimalism, accompanied by artisanal finishes and thoughtfully curated artworks, ensuring that every detail serves a purpose.

Culinary experiences will also play a significant role, featuring meals that blend French cuisine with Nordic influences. Imagine dining on the ice under the Northern Lights, savoring freshly caught Arctic sushi, or enjoying warm barbecues—a true gourmet adventure amid nature.

Storytelling Through Expeditions

Selar’s inaugural season will kick off in Norway before venturing into Svalbard. The expeditions are designed as narrative experiences, turning each voyage into a story rather than a checklist of destinations.

Itineraries include:

1. Chasing the Northern Lights

   • A magical journey through Norway’s fjords during the polar night, with opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and kayaking.

2. Wild Waters with Arthur Guérin-Boëri

   • A focus on polar snorkeling, guided by the record holder for dynamic apnea under the ice, deepening the connection to the Arctic depths.

3. Svalbard Adventures

   • Encompassing activities from wildlife spotting to zodiac excursions during the summer’s midnight sun and immersive survival skills training in spring.

Commitment to Sustainability

Beyond mere tourism, Selar is dedicated to forging sustainable scientific partnerships. Collaborations with organizations like ORCA (for ethical observation of marine mammals) and Clean Up Svalbard (focusing on coastal plastic collection) underscore their commitment to protecting the fragile Arctic ecosystems while promoting responsible exploration.

Community and Experience

Behind Selar is a community of over 3,000 dedicated individuals—engineers, craftspeople, scientists, guides, and explorers—all unified by a singular belief: exploration can be ambitious without being exploitative. Selar is not merely a travel service; it’s cultivating a “North Stars” community that redefines participatory travel, prioritizing connections among travelers and guides alike.

The Future of Expedition Yachting

As Selar is set to launch, it represents a transformation in the adventure travel sector. Starting at €6,780 per person for an all-inclusive seven-day expedition, it positions itself within the premium segment of the market. However, Selar emphasizes a luxury that is not merely transactional but experiential—highlighting that true luxury is about precision, sustainability, and conscious living.

With this innovative approach, the future of polar yachting begins on the canvas of this solar-powered vessel, quietly navigating the icy silence while carrying the weight of a significant, conscientious mission.