Arctic Adventure Tours & Cruises
Highlights
- Experience firsthand some of the last great wilderness on Earth
- Shadow the treacherous routes of historical Arctic expeditions
- From the Arctic Circle to the North Pole itself, venture to hallowed polar geographies
- Visit Inuit communities in Greenland and the Canadian Arctic, providing insights into Arctic survival, lifestyle, and culture
- Arctic adventure cruises offering Zodiac excursions & landfalls, sea kayaking, hiking, dog-sledding, helicopter flights & more
The Arctic promises high adventure against a backdrop of stunning high-latitude scenery. Magnificent fjords—glacially gouged troughs emptying to the sea—and iceberg-jostled bays backed by monumental ice streams. The glimpse of an Arctic fox trotting across a tundra sea, or a herd of walruses surging along a rockbound coastline. The chance to mingle with Indigenous peoples who’ve made this Far North land home for millennia—and to trek to back-of-beyond archaeological sites documenting long-ago stabs at settlement within a remote and harsh environment.
From Norway to Greenland, Arctic adventure tours introduce you to some of the wildest country and least-spoiled landscapes and seascapes left on the planet. Whether you’re kayaking through an icy inlet, choppering over the North Pole, or locking eyes with a polar bear, journey to the ends of the Earth and come away changed.
About Arctic Adventure Tours & Cruises
The Arctic promises high adventure against a backdrop of stunning high-latitude scenery. Magnificent fjords—glacially gouged troughs emptying to the sea—and iceberg-jostled bays backed by monumental ice streams. The glimpse of an Arctic fox trotting across a tundra sea, or a herd of walruses surging along a rockbound coastline. The chance to mingle with Indigenous peoples who’ve made this Far North land home for millennia—and to trek to back-of-beyond archaeological sites documenting long-ago stabs at settlement within a remote and harsh environment.
From Norway to Greenland, Arctic adventure tours introduce you to some of the wildest country and least-spoiled landscapes and seascapes left on the planet. Whether you’re kayaking through an icy inlet, choppering over the North Pole, or locking eyes with a polar bear, journey to the ends of the Earth and come away changed.
Svalbard - Last Stop Before North Pole
Svalbard Circumnavigation
Iceland & East Greenland: Through the Lens Photography
Svalbard Odyssey
Iceland: Circumnavigating the Land of Fire and Ice
Arctic Adventure Cruise FAQs
What makes an Arctic adventure cruise different from a regular Arctic cruise?
Arctic adventure cruises focus heavily on immersive experiences and active exploration beyond standard sightseeing. They typically involve zodiac excursions, kayaking, hiking, and potentially even polar plunges, prioritizing getting guests off the ship and into the wild, often accompanied by expert guides and natura...
What kind of activities can I expect on an Arctic adventure cruise?
You can expect daily opportunities for outdoor activities such as Zodiac boat excursions to explore coastlines and spot wildlife, guided hikes on tundra, sea kayaking, paddleboarding, and potentially snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or even diving, depending on the itinerary and conditions.
Do I need prior experience for the activities on an Arctic adventure tour?
Generally, no prior experience is required for most activities, with the exceptions of diving and skiing. The expert guides provide instructions and ensure safety for all participants, from beginners to more experienced adventurers. You should, however, have a reasonable level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the ...
What type of clothing should I pack for an Arctic adventure cruise?
Layering is key! Pack waterproof and windproof outer layers, warm insulating layers (fleece, down), thermal base layers, warm hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. Many operators provide a complimentary expedition parka, but check with your specific cruise.
Are Arctic adventure tours suitable for all ages?
While there’s no strict age limit, adventure tours are best suited for individuals with a good level of mobility and an eagerness to participate in outdoor activities. Some itineraries may have more strenuous options, so it’s best to check the physical requirements for your chosen trip.
How close do adventure cruises get to wildlife?
Adventure cruises aim for close, respectful wildlife encounters from Zodiacs or land excursions, always adhering to strict guidelines to avoid disturbing animals. This often means getting excellent viewing opportunities for polar bears, seals, whales, and birds from a safe distance.
Arctic adventure cruises focus heavily on immersive experiences and active exploration beyond standard sightseeing. They typically involve zodiac excursions, kayaking, hiking, and potentially even polar plunges, prioritizing getting guests off the ship and into the wild, often accompanied by expert guides and naturalists.
You can expect daily opportunities for outdoor activities such as Zodiac boat excursions to explore coastlines and spot wildlife, guided hikes on tundra, sea kayaking, paddleboarding, and potentially snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or even diving, depending on the itinerary and conditions.
Generally, no prior experience is required for most activities, with the exceptions of diving and skiing. The expert guides provide instructions and ensure safety for all participants, from beginners to more experienced adventurers. You should, however, have a reasonable level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the excursions.
Layering is key! Pack waterproof and windproof outer layers, warm insulating layers (fleece, down), thermal base layers, warm hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. Many operators provide a complimentary expedition parka, but check with your specific cruise.
While there’s no strict age limit, adventure tours are best suited for individuals with a good level of mobility and an eagerness to participate in outdoor activities. Some itineraries may have more strenuous options, so it’s best to check the physical requirements for your chosen trip.
Adventure cruises aim for close, respectful wildlife encounters from Zodiacs or land excursions, always adhering to strict guidelines to avoid disturbing animals. This often means getting excellent viewing opportunities for polar bears, seals, whales, and birds from a safe distance.
Arctic Expedition Ships Offering Adventure Cruising
Recommended Reading
10 Fascinating Polar Bear Facts
10 Wild Wolverine Facts: A Marvel Of The Arctic Kingdom
A History Of Arctic Exploration (Including Timeline)