Antarctica
Antarctic expedition cruises allow you to discover worlds that remain hidden from most other travellers. Cruise across seas of glass, passing bizarre formations of white snow and glowing blue ice. Look out for penguins, whales, elephant seals, fur seals and a variety of sea birds. Zodiac landings in the eternal ice of Antarctica will leave memories that last forever. Expedition teams offer kayaking past glaciers, hiking along the icy coastline and perhaps even camping on the snow.
Antarctic expedition ships promote environmentally-friendly cruising. Luxury expedition ships designed for polar conditions offer world-class facilities including helicopters and submarines for exclusive access to parts of Antarctica that are usually unreachable. It is now also possible to start your cruise right in the heart of the Antarctic by flying across the Drake Passage direct to Antarctica.
Chilean Fjords
An Antarctic expedition cruise can be combined with a voyage through the enchanting beauty of the Chilean Fjords. In this remote area barely touched by humans snow-capped peaks contrast with ancient glaciers and stunning coastline. Seals and dolphins patrol these uninhabited fjords whilst further inland the granite towers of the Torres del Paine dominate the landscape.
Falkland Islands
Some Antarctica expedition cruises also call at the Falkland Islands, a remote British territory with a rich military and maritime history. Penguins, seals and albatrosses can be seen on the islands, and the fantastic scenery ranges from flower-dotted hillsides to aquamarine seascapes and pristine white beaches. The islands’ British heritage is most apparent in the capital, Port Stanley, where traditional pubs, bright red mailboxes and even British telephone boxes can all be seen.
South Georgia
Rarely-visited South Georgia can be explored on an Antarctica expedition cruise. The island is an important breeding ground for king penguins. Learn more about the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton whose grave is situated on South Georgia and perhaps see the whaling stations at Grytviken, Stronsnes or Fortuna Bay.
Svalbard
Arctic expedition cruises explore Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard Archipelago. The majestic mountains, spectacular cliffs and scenic fjords of Svalbard are home to migratory birds, reindeer, seals, arctic foxes and polar bears. Svalbard expedition cruises may call at the remote Norwegian island of Jan Mayen which is known for its prolific birdlife and immense volcano.
Greenland
Greenland expedition cruises explore the largest island in the world. Discover the ice-covered extremities of the north or the fertile green expanses of the south. Cruise deep into the heart of Scoresbysund, the world’s largest fjord system, admire majestic icebergs and spot unforgettable wildlife including musk oxen, polar bears and whales.
Russian Arctic
Sail the legendary Bering Strait on a Russian Arctic expedition cruise and discover pristine coastlines rich with Arctic wildlife. Enjoy tundra walks on remote Franz Josef Land, get up close with marine wildlife on kayaking trips and Zodiac cruise along the face of a glacier to see the wonders of calving ice.
Canadian Arctic
A polar expedition cruise to the High Arctic reveals glacier-topped mountains, glistening icebergs and traditional Inuit settlements. On-board experts will connect you with the Canadian Arctic’s unique history and geography. Retrace the steps of the intrepid Franklin expedition on a cruise through the challenging Northwest Passage.
North Pole
The ultimate polar expedition is a trip to the North Pole on an icebreaker ship that crushes through pack ice that is metres thick, ensuring a rewarding and rare expedition.