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Nighttime panoramic view of snow-covered mountains reflecting in a partially frozen body of water under a vibrant, starry sky with the Milky Way.

Arctic Cruise Ships

Enjoy privileged access to the icy wilds of the Arctic Circle aboard one of our elite polar vessels and savor the ultimate Arctic expedition experience: comfortable, safe, and filled with excursions and wildlife encounters that showcase the grandeur of the planet’s northernmost reaches.

Unlike standard ocean cruises, Arctic expedition vessels are small, agile, and specifically designed for adventurous exploration in the Far North. Built to handle icy seas and extreme conditions, we offer a selection of the finest polar-class ships from trusted partners – preeminent pioneers in Arctic travel who provide exceptional itineraries, unparalleled expertise, and top-tier service.

Le Commandant Charcot

N/A Days, 0 Itineraries
245 Guests, Luxury
Sold Out

National Geographic Endurance

10-12 Days, 3 Itineraries
126 Guests, Mid-Range
USD$ 15,358 - USD$ 32,714
Per Person

National Geographic Explorer

8-15 Days, 2 Itineraries
148 Guests, Mid-Range
USD$ 8,140 - USD$ 47,844
Per Person

National Geographic Resolution

10-24 Days, 5 Itineraries
138 Guests, Luxury
USD$ 15,358 - USD$ 102,758
Per Person

Ocean Albatros

N/A Days, 0 Itineraries
169 Guests, Mid-Range
Sold Out

Arctic Cruise Routes

The allure of an Arctic expedition lies in the unique journey itself, a voyage to one of the world’s most captivating and pristine regions. The Arctic’s distinctive geography and immense scale offer diverse ways to explore its breathtaking landscapes and witness its rich array of natural wonders.

Discover the most sought-after routes for Arctic cruises, including the iconic Arctic Circle, the remote North Pole, and the stunning landscapes of Svalbard, Greenland, and the Canadian High Arctic with its historic Northwest Passage, and the unique beauty of Iceland (most commonly explored in conjunction with Greenland).

Close-up of a map centered on the Arctic Ocean with a red pushpin marking the North Pole.
North Pole Cruises
Avg Length: 15 Day / 14 Night
Close-up of a map centered on the Arctic Ocean with a red pushpin marking the North Pole.

North Pole Cruises

Break through sea ice aboard a remarkable icebreaker to reach 90° North, and stand at the the top of the world, where adventure and exploration heritage peaks.
Avg Length: 15 Day / 14 Night
Embarkation Ports: Longyearbyen
Sites:
Satellite view of a partially frozen Arctic landscape showing islands, waterways, and ice formations under cloudy skies.
Northwest Passage Cruises
Avg Length: 23 Day / 22 Night
Satellite view of a partially frozen Arctic landscape showing islands, waterways, and ice formations under cloudy skies.

Northwest Passage Cruises

Trace the legendary Arctic route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific through the Canadian Arctic, with stops at historic sites and remote Inuit communities.
Avg Length: 23 Day / 22 Night
Embarkation Ports: Anchorage, Nuuk, Nome, Reykjavik
Sites: Nuuk, Sisimut, Disko Bay, Ilulissat, + 3 More
Aerial view of a snow-covered, mountainous landscape meeting a dark blue body of water, partially obscured by clouds.
Pole-to-Pole Cruises
Avg Length: 80 Day / 79 Night
Aerial view of a snow-covered, mountainous landscape meeting a dark blue body of water, partially obscured by clouds.

Pole-to-Pole Cruises

Embark on an epic journey from the Arctic to Antarctica, crossing the equator and visiting the world's most remote landscapes and biodiverse regions.
Avg Length: 80 Day / 79 Night
Embarkation Ports: Longyearbyen, Reykjavik, Ushuaia
Sites:
A vessel navigates a calm, icy bay in front of a large glacier and towering, snow-dusted mountains under a clear sky.
Svalbard Cruises
Avg Length: 10 Day / 9 Night
A vessel navigates a calm, icy bay in front of a large glacier and towering, snow-dusted mountains under a clear sky.

Svalbard Cruises

Cruise the Svalbard archipelago in search of polar bears, sailing among sea ice, glaciers, and untouched Arctic tundra teeming with wildlife.
Avg Length: 10 Day / 9 Night
Embarkation Ports: Longyearbyen
Sites: Longyearbyen
Icebergs and ice floes drift in a calm, reflective body of water under a vibrant, colorful sunset sky.
Iceland Cruises
Avg Length: 10 Day / 9 Night
Icebergs and ice floes drift in a calm, reflective body of water under a vibrant, colorful sunset sky.

Iceland Cruises

Circle the Land of Fire and Ice on an unforgettable expedition cruise, discovering geothermal wonders, icy fjords, black sand beaches, and puffin-covered cliffs.
Avg Length: 10 Day / 9 Night
Embarkation Ports: Reykjavik, Ísafjörður
Sites: Westfjords of Iceland, Siglufjörður, Húsavík, Borgarfjarðarhöfn, + 2 More
Colorful houses dot a rocky hillside overlooking a calm blue bay with icebergs and snow-capped mountains under a clear sky.
Greenland Cruises
Avg Length: 12 Day / 11 Night
Colorful houses dot a rocky hillside overlooking a calm blue bay with icebergs and snow-capped mountains under a clear sky.

Greenland Cruises

Embark on a cruise along Greenland’s rugged coastlines, where colossal glaciers calve into iceberg-filled fjords beside vibrant Inuit settlements.
Avg Length: 12 Day / 11 Night
Embarkation Ports: Nuuk, Ilulissat, Kangerlussuaq
Sites: King Frederick VI Land
A large, arched iceberg dominates a cold, choppy sea dotted with smaller ice chunks, with a red-sailed boat in the distance under a cloudy sky.
Iceland & Greenland Cruises
Avg Length: 14 Day / 13 Night
A large, arched iceberg dominates a cold, choppy sea dotted with smaller ice chunks, with a red-sailed boat in the distance under a cloudy sky.

Iceland & Greenland Cruises

Sail from volcanic Iceland to Greenland’s icy wilderness, where colorful villages meet towering glaciers and ancient Inuit culture thrives.
Avg Length: 14 Day / 13 Night
Embarkation Ports: Reykjavik, Ísafjörður, Kangerlussuaq, Nuuk
Sites:
View from the bow of a ship sailing through calm, deep blue water surrounded by towering, rocky cliffs under a blue sky.
Arctic Circle Cruises
Avg Length: 12 Day / 11 Night
View from the bow of a ship sailing through calm, deep blue water surrounded by towering, rocky cliffs under a blue sky.

Arctic Circle Cruises

Venture beyond the Arctic Circle into a world of midnight sun and drifting icebergs, where polar bears roam and glacial scenery stretches as far as the eye can see.
Avg Length: 12 Day / 11 Night
Embarkation Ports: Longyearbyen, Reykjavik, Kangerlussuaq
Sites:
A large glacier with a blue ice face meets calm, dark water, with snow-capped mountains rising in the background under an overcast sky.
Canadian Arctic (High Arctic) Cruises
Avg Length: 14 Day / 13 Night
A large glacier with a blue ice face meets calm, dark water, with snow-capped mountains rising in the background under an overcast sky.

Canadian Arctic (High Arctic) Cruises

Explore the untamed beauty of the Canadian High Arctic, where ice-choked channels reveal dramatic fjords, Arctic wildlife, and ancient Inuit heritage.
Avg Length: 14 Day / 13 Night
Embarkation Ports: Iqaluit, Nuuk, Reykjavik
Sites: Beagle Channel, South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula
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Best-Selling Arctic Cruises

Arctic expeditions unveil a tapestry of polar experiences beyond the ice. Explore the domain of magnificent Arctic wildlife like the polar bear and narwhal, delve into the compelling history of Arctic exploration, potentially reaching the North Pole by icebreaker or traversing the legendary Northwest Passage, and immerse yourself in thrilling adventures, from hiking and kayaking amidst icebergs to witnessing phenomena such as the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun.

Experience all this and more with our curated selection of popular Arctic cruises.

Arctic Odyssey: Iceland, Greenland and Canada (2026 Expedition)

Length: 16 Day / 15 Night
Ships: National Geographic Explorer
USD$ 18,571 - USD$ 47,844
Per Person

Arctic Odyssey: Iceland, Greenland & Canada

Length: 15 Day / 14 Night
Ships: National Geographic Explorer
USD$ 18,571 - USD$ 47,844
Per Person

Fire and Ice: An 8-Day Sail Around Iceland

Length: 8 Day / 7 Night
Ships: National Geographic Explorer
USD$ 8,140 - USD$ 21,387
Per Person

Polar Circle Air-Cruise

Length: 10 Day / 9 Night
Ships: Magellan Explorer, Ocean Nova
USD$ 15,995 - USD$ 38,995
Per Person

Svalbard: In Search Of Iconic Arctic Wildlife

Length: 10 Day / 9 Night
Ships: National Geographic Endurance, National Geographic Resolution
USD$ 15,358 - USD$ 28,833
Per Person

Arctic Cruise Themes

Find your perfect Arctic adventure with our curated cruise themes. Whether you’re yearning for the luxurious side of polar exploration, seeking an affordable Arctic escape, or passionate about Arctic photography, we have a voyage for you.

Imagine encountering majestic polar bears and ghostly white beluga whales, observing incredible Arctic wildlife under the Midnight Sun, or chasing the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Consider the thrill of an icebreaker, the camaraderie of a solo traveler’s group, or the unique experience of an Arctic eclipse.

Explore the Arctic’s diverse wonders based on your specific interests below.

The Arctic Expedition Experience

Just as Antarctica has long held an almost mystical allure, its icy landscapes whispering tales of exploration, so too does the Arctic beckon with its own distinct and captivating charm.

From the dance of the aurora borealis to the midnight sun painting the Arctic skies, and the incredible wildlife that thrives in this frozen realm, the Arctic offers experiences every bit as profound as its southern counterpart.

For us, specializing in polar expeditions, the opportunity to now guide adventurers to both the Arctic and Antarctic–the Earth’s magnificent bookends but very much with their own epic stories to tell–fills me with immense pride and excitement, and we can’t wait to share the wonders of the Arctic with you.

Jeremy Clubb, Antarctica Cruises' Founder & Director
Jeremy Clubb
Founder & Director
A large, light blue iceberg with a pointed peak stands prominently in a calm, dark blue sea, with a small red boat and distant, snow-capped mountains under a clear, bright sky. Colorful houses dot a rocky hillside overlooking a calm blue bay with icebergs and snow-capped mountains under a clear sky.
A photographer in a red jacket and black backpack kneels on a black sand beach, taking a picture of a bright blue iceberg with a professional camera on a tripod, with waves crashing in the background under a cloudy sky.

Guided Arctic Adventures

As pioneers of immersive Arctic expeditions on nimble, small ships, our aim is to maximize your time exploring and minimize time in transit, offering a truly authentic Arctic experience. Led by expert advisors who will help you choose your ideal Arctic voyage and accompanied by knowledgeable naturalists on every excursion, you’ll actively discover this extraordinary polar realm.

Imagine cruising alongside majestic icebergs and spotting whales from a Zodiac, kayaking through serene waters, and observing Arctic wildlife like polar bears and seals in their natural habitat. Let our specialists guide you deep into the heart of the Arctic, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Two arctic fox cubs lie on green grass and moss, looking at the camera.

Meet The Wildlife

The Arctic teems with unique and captivating wildlife, from the iconic polar bear, king of the Arctic, to the elusive narwhal, the “unicorn of the sea.” Witness the bustling colonies of seabirds, the playful seals basking on ice floes, and the majestic whales that frequent these northern waters.

The Arctic region offers an unparalleled opportunity for intimate encounters with remarkable avifauna and marine life, all adapted to thrive in this challenging yet breathtaking environment. Prepare to be amazed by the resilience and beauty of the Arctic’s near-mystical inhabitants.

A foggy, overcast view of several small buildings, including a prominent blue and white house, in a sparse, open landscape.

Trace the Arctic Pioneers

The history of the Arctic resonates with the daring feats of legendary explorers, from early adventurers seeking new passages to modern scientists unraveling its mysteries. Follow in their courageous footsteps, feel the spirit of discovery in the crisp Arctic air, and imagine their challenges navigating through sea ice and charting unknown territories.

Visit historical sites that bear witness to past expeditions, offering a glimpse into the remarkable stories of Arctic exploration and the enduring human quest to understand this extraordinary region.

A puffin with a colorful beak stands on a grassy, rocky cliff overlooking the ocean with distant rock formations under a cloudy sky.

Embrace the Arctic Rhythm

The Arctic is a realm where nature reigns supreme, demanding flexibility and an open mind from all who venture here. More than schedules, it is the ice conditions, weather patterns, and wildlife movements that shape our Arctic journeys.

Release any rigid expectations of specific landings or sightings – each Arctic expedition unfolds uniquely. Embrace the spontaneous nature of the North, surrender to its majestic rhythm, and discover the unexpected wonders that await around every icy corner.

A person in dark clothing stands next to a red sled pulled by a team of six dogs across a vast, snow-covered plain towards a large, dark, rocky mountain range under a clear blue sky.

Discover Arctic Cultures

Beyond its breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife, the Arctic is home to diverse and resilient Indigenous cultures that have thrived in this challenging environment for millennia.

An Arctic expedition offers a unique opportunity to respectfully engage with these communities, learn about their traditions, and gain insight into their deep connection with the land, sea, and ice.

Aerial view of a fractured, bright blue and white glacier meeting dark, open water.

Become An Arctic Advocate

Many who experience the Arctic leave with a profound appreciation for its raw beauty and delicate ecosystems, gaining powerful insights into our planet’s interconnectedness. Witnessing the Arctic’s grandeur and fragility firsthand, connecting with its unique wildlife, and learning about the impact of global changes will undoubtedly inspire you to become an Arctic Advocate.

Join us in championing the vital importance of protecting this extraordinary region, raising awareness about the challenges it faces, and promoting the collective responsibility for its crucial conservation for generations to come.

Arctic Expedition Cruise Guide

While not as geographically isolated as Antarctica, the Arctic possesses its own remote charm and a history of intrepid exploration. With its captivating cultural heritage and equally irresistible call to adventure, fascinating wildlife, and stunning icy vistas, it’s important to remember the Arctic’s raw and untamed nature; this majestic region demands respect and any Arctic expedition cruise requires thoughtful preparation.

Ready yourself for an unforgettable journey to the top of the world with our comprehensive Arctic travel guide.