Arctic
Earth’s northern polar regions are a vast wonderland of glacial landscapes, rare wildlife and fascinating cultures. Only 400 miles from the North Pole in the High Arctic, human habitation gives way to the polar bears, reindeer, walrus and belugas that you might spy on a Zodiac safari or shore landing amid the golden tundra and snow-clad mountains of the Svalbard archipelago. Sailing a yacht into the majestic fjords of Greenland and Canada is likewise an unforgettable experience. On either side of the Arctic Circle, colorful villages and vibrant capital cities thrive in these lands, which is why some Polar Expeditions here offer not only included safaris and landings but also optional excursions ashore to immerse you in destinations where human civilization has taken root.
Svalbard Odyssey
Regions of the Arctic
Greenland
It is said that more people get the opportunity to summit Mount Everest than to visit Northeast Greenland National Park. The Arctic seascapes of the world’s largest national park afford the unique opportunity to explore truly pristine fjords and vivid blue icebergs on a Zodiac safari and hike massive glaciers on landings ashore. Along the way, watch for the narwhals, seals, walrus, musk oxen and polar bears that inhabit these remote regions. Amid the equally wondrous scenery of UNESCO-protected hinterland and icefjords bounded by the country’s most active glaciers, discover the traditional customs and cuisine of the hardy locals that make their homes on Greenland’s southwestern coasts. Some Polar Expeditions may also call on cities in Greenland and nearby Iceland that have the infrastructure to offer an array of optional excursions ashore, from fascinating museum tours to hikes across inland lava fields.
Canada
Explore the northern reaches of Canada, where polar tundra meets a historic tradition of thriving civilizations. From the Viking history of Newfoundland to the distinctive cultures of the Inuit, Mi’kmaq and other Indigenous peoples, the diverse heritage of this region tells captivating tales. The natural wonders are just as impressive, from breaching whales in Red Bay to walrus hauled out on rocky islands in the Davis Strait. Some days may present the opportunity to launch Zodiac safaris, perhaps cruising through Saglek Fjord amid the towering granite cliffs of the Torngat Mountains in search of beluga whales and polar bears. Just as exciting are optional shore excursions to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Gros Morne National Park or the ancient Norse settlement at L’Anse aux Meadows.
High Arctic
The northernmost region we sail, the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard is situated in the High Arctic just a few hundred miles from the North Pole. Your expedition team will scout locations for shore landings and Zodiac safaris in this remote wilderness, and astonishing adventures are assured wherever you explore. Glaciers shimmer in the Midnight Sun, icebergs calve into the sea, and striated cliffs frame massive fjords. Human outposts are rare and wildlife abounds, so you may see breaching belugas, nesting puffins, and polar bears on the prowl, as well as seals, walrus, the elusive Arctic fox and countless seabirds. Some Polar Expeditions combine exploration of Svalbard with calls on Norway’s southern coasts or neighboring Iceland, where towns nestled in majestic fjords offer the chance to explore on optional excursions ashore.
Featured Expeditions
Seize the moment to embark on the expedition of a lifetime.
Offers
Expedition Experience: Polar
Whether exploring jagged peaks and ice blue glaciers of Greenland’s Prince Christian Sound or crossing the legendary 80th parallel just 10 degrees from the North Pole, Polar Expeditions in the Arctic reveal wonders that few have seen. Travel here requires a polar-class vessel equipped with Zodiac boats and staffed with expert expedition leaders, who provide daily briefings on board and guide adventures ashore, all with our compliments. As cities and villages have prospered on southern Arctic shores, we also offer optional shore excursions on select Polar Expeditions in this fascinating region.
Featured Shore Landings and Ports of Call
Pre- and Post-Expedition Experiences
Airfare and Transfers
For your convenience in reaching remote destinations, select Arctic expeditions include free private charter jet service and private group transfers for one or more legs of the voyage. Please see individual itineraries for inclusions. Our travel team is happy to assist with booking airfare and transfers for any and all Arctic expeditions.
Pre- and Post-Expedition Hotels
Should you wish to extend your expedition with a hotel stay, our travel team is happy to handle those arrangements, and we source only the finest hotels to ensure your accommodations meet the same exceptional standards of comfort and service that you find aboard our yachts.
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