ITINERARY INSPIRATION
From the fiery red dunes of Sossusvlei to the fairytale palaces of northern India, use our latest itineraries as inspiration to start planning your next adventure.
UNSPOILT WILDERNESS
Expedition cruises to the Arctic operate between June and September (the Arctic summer) when enough sea ice has melted to allow access to vessels. The later in the season you travel the further north you will be able to explore, as larger icebergs continue to melt and break up. In late June and early July (high summer) you can expect 24 hours of sunshine and temperatures that aren’t quite as cold as you might expect. Although wind chill may make it feel cooler, temperatures rarely fall before 5°C and highs of up to 16°C can be experienced.
With pack ice often affecting cruise itineraries in early June, the months of July and August are, for many travellers, the best time for an Arctic cruise. Marking the opening of the Northwest Passage, the melted sea ice will have left large open spaces allowing for smoother and more remote sailing.
During this period you have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife including countless seabirds, seals, polar bears and walruses. Migrating whales – including minke, fin, humpback and blue – can also be spotted breaking the surface of the water.
By September, many vessels will make their way east to Greenland and by the winter months the days become night and travellers can witness the spectacular aurora borealis.
OUR FAVOURITE HOTELS
WHEN TO VISIT THE ARCTIC
Arctic
- BEST TIME TO GOYear round
- TIMEZONENo specific timezone
- GEOGRAPHIC SIZE14,060,000 km²
- NUMBER OF ARCTIC NATIONS8
TRUSTED BY FELLOW TRAVELLERS
Planning my first solo trip felt like a big step, but The Ultimate Travel Company made it easy from the outset. I reached out over a year in advance, and Rob Kent quickly put together a thoughtful itinerary based on exactly what I was looking for, securing great flights and always being available to talk things through. Everything ran smoothly and I felt looked after every step of the way. The accommodation in Japan, Fiji and Tahiti was excellent and the experiences unforgettable.
DISCOVER MORE INDEPENDENT REVIEWS FROM FEEFO
DESTINATION SPECIALISTS
Jonny
Claire
START PLANNING YOUR JOURNEY
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
With years of experience and first-hand knowledge, our dedicated team of Polar consultants will be able to find the perfect cruise ship for your Arctic expedition.
INSPIRING STORIES
From the whispered secrets of centuries-old monuments to the vibrant accounts of our travel experts, let these tales ignite your imagination and inspire your travels.
