The 13th ship in French line Ponant’s fleet has been officially launched.

With a hybrid electric Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system, Le Commandant Charcot is being touted as the most “ground-breaking” ship in the fleet.

The innovation is aligned with a commitment by the company to sustainable tourism with itineraries by the Polar class vessel including the Arctic and Antarctic.

The ship, which can carry up to 245 passengers, will be able to reach polar destinations, such as the geographic north pole, the Weddell sea, the Ross sea or Pierre-1st island, according to the company.

It is also fitted with facilities and equipment for research, providing a platform to study the polar eco-systems.

The latest green technologies on board include waste recycling and sewage management.

Ponant chief executive Hervee Gastinel said at the ceremony in Le Harve: “The boldness of this project is not just about taking passengers to the far corners of the Arctic and the Antarctic, it is about doing it safely and following the same values and principles of seamanship that move us.

“Our values are first about respect for nature – this nature that is so dear to us, all the more knowing how much we owe the oceans and the fragile eco-systems we travel.

“Polar regions in particular deserve the highest respect and attention. We are committed to this mission every day and today ever more.”