Selar: Sustainable cruise to the North Pole

Captain Arctic: The Sustainable polar odyssey

A breath of adventure and innovation sweeps across the icy waters of the Arctic. Captain Arctic, the brand-new exploration sailboat conceived by the French company Selar, is revolutionizing the world of polar cruises with a pioneering approach that combines discreet luxury and environmental respect.

A masterpiece of green technology
Born from the vision of Sophie Galvagnon, the first female captain in the Arctic, and entrepreneurs Julia Bijaoui and Quentin Vacher, this 70-meter sailboat promises a unique experience that blends comfort and ecological responsibility. Built at the CNOI shipyard in Mauritius, the Selar is equipped with five 35-meter aluminum masts, covered with nearly 2,000 m² of solar panels. These retractable sails, developed in collaboration with the Breton startup Cormoran and the Ship-ST engineering office, allow the ship to sail silently and emission-free, combining solar and wind energy. Its electric engines, equipped with a hydrogen-generation system, can produce electricity while sailing. Designed to reduce its CO₂ emissions by 90% compared to traditional ships, the Selar also includes a pellet boiler using recycled wood for heating, an inverse osmosis system for producing fresh water from seawater, and a wastewater treatment tank. All these measures reflect Selar’s commitment to preserving polar ecosystems.

A sailboat designed to preserve the Arctic
Every detail on board is designed to minimize the ecological footprint. The Selar accommodates only 36 passengers in its 19 refined cabins, designed by Franco-Swedish designer Joséphine Fossey. The interior combines simplicity and elegance, with sustainable materials and a soft atmosphere conducive to contemplating Arctic landscapes. The common areas include a restaurant, library, fitness area, and sauna, all designed to offer an exclusive and immersive experience. Each expedition is accompanied by a team of 24 crew members and scientists, ensuring a deep immersion into the richness of the Arctic.

An expedition in harmony with nature
The cruises aboard the Selar do not follow a pre-established itinerary. Routes are defined according to weather conditions and local wildlife, ensuring unique and environmentally respectful discoveries. Passengers can observe orcas off the coast of Norway, sail through the fjords of Svalbard, or explore Greenland’s glaciers, in tune with the elements. Every journey is an invitation to rediscover sea travel from a more authentic and sustainable perspective.

A first departure expected in 2026
The first expeditions of the Selar are scheduled for November 2026, with a dive alongside the orcas in Norway. Other destinations include Svalbard and Greenland, offering adventurers a rare opportunity to explore these remote regions while minimizing their ecological footprint.

The Selar does more than pave the way for sustainable exploration: it redefines our relationship with travel, combining innovation with respect for nature. An invitation to navigate differently, up close to the raw and pristine beauty of the poles.

Budget

On request