Uncover the Best Polar Region Cruises
Snow-capped mountains and icy tundras await when you embark on an Arctic or Antarctic cruise. Journey to some of the most extreme environments on the planet on a cruise that captures the imagination with unbelievable scenery and unique wildlife encounters.
Top Polar Region Cruise Destinations
The Earth’s poles offer some of the world’s most excellent cruise itineraries, with cruises to the Antarctic and Arctic both offering destinations that feel otherworldly in their scale and beauty. Sail through icy waters on an Arctic cruise that passes through Norway, Iceland, and Greenland, or journey south to the pristine wilderness of Antarctica.
Unlike traditional cruises, polar itineraries are typically led by expert guides and naturalists. Guests can look forward to zodiac landings, wildlife viewing, and expert lectures within a single voyage that’s ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers.
Sail the Legendary Seas - Book Your Polar Region Cruise Today!
From day trips to the coastal towns that live in harmony with the icy seas to excursions that totally immerse them in snowy wilderness, guests can look forward to a variety of experiences when they choose an Antarctic or Arctic cruise.
Cruises to the Antarctic or Arctic are typically operated on smaller ships with fewer passengers and greater flexibility. These ships are designed for navigating icy waters, specially equipped to give guests the ultimate polar experience. With zodiacs for shore landings and ice cruising, observation lounges and lecture theatres for learning more about the incredible landscapes, and on board biologists, glaciologists, and historians, these cruises are truly enriching.
However, we must not overlook the quality of luxury that guests can expect as well. Many cruise lines also offer fine dining, spa facilities, and enhanced comfort while maintaining a strong focus on exploration.
Top Ports on a Polar Region Cruise
Cruising to the polar regions isn’t just about snowy vistas and icy weather. Guests can look forward to a diverse and thought-provoking itinerary that explores both isolated landscapes and beautiful towns and cities.
Antarctica
Cross the legendary Drake Passage and discover towering glaciers, tabular icebergs, and colonies of penguins, seals, and whales.
The Arctic
Explore the northernmost parts of the world and experience summers of 24-hour daylight and days of kayaking, hiking, and tundra exploration.
Norway
Visit the Lofoten Islands, Nordkapp, and Svalbard with itineraries that showcase dramatic Fjords, midnight sun, and rugged Arctic landscapes.
Tips for Booking the Best Polar Region Cruise Deals
When it comes to booking your Arctic or Antarctic cruise, planning ahead can result in significant discounts. We recommend booking in advance to secure early-bird discounts, but when is the polar region's cruising season?
For Antarctic cruises, the season runs from late October to March during the Southern Hemisphere summer. Dramatic ice formations and penguin mating season characterise the early season, while later months bring the chance of whale sightings and more accessible landing sites.
The Arctic cruise season, on the other hand, typically spans late May to September, depending on the destination. The remaining ice build-up during June and July offers excellent opportunities to see Arctic wildlife, while August and September are ideal for reaching more remote areas, such as the Northwest Passage.
Polar Region Cruises – Frequently Asked Questions
- Antarctica: Expect penguins (including Emperor and Gentoo), whales, seals, and seabirds.
- Arctic: You may see polar bears, arctic foxes, reindeer, whales, walruses, and puffins, depending on the itinerary.
Yes! Fly cruises allow guests to jet off to destinations like King George Island, skipping the Drake Passage crossing and jumping right into the action.
Guests require no prior experience to enjoy a polar region. These cruises are designed for all levels of fitness and offer a variety of activity levels. If guests require additional support, expert guides are available to assist them throughout the excursions.
Many leading cruise lines offer itineraries exploring the Arctic region, including Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Fred. Olsen Cruises, Holland America, and Oceania Cruises.
Antarctic cruises can range in price depending on the cruise line and itinerary. Prices can be as low as £1,900 per person (approx.), but for a full list of prices, check out our available polar region cruises.
- Antarctica: Best from November to March, during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer when wildlife is most active and ice conditions allow navigation.
- Arctic: Best from June to September, with long daylight hours and ideal conditions for spotting polar bears, walruses, and birdlife.
Polar cruises typically attract adventurous travellers and nature enthusiasts. They’re often aboard smaller expedition ships and include expert-led excursions. Basic fitness is recommended for zodiac landings and guided walks.