How to Find and Book the Best Arctic Cruises

An Arctic cruise is a thrilling adventure that offers unparalleled encounters with wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and the chance to explore one of the world’s most remote and pristine regions. To ensure an unforgettable and smooth journey, it’s essential to find and book the best Arctic cruise tailored to your interests and preferences. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of selecting and reserving the ideal Arctic expedition.

In a Nutshell…

1. Best Time to Book: Aim for 6-12 months in advance when cruise lines open bookings. This ensures better cabin selection and fares.
2. Peak Season: Mid-June through mid-July offers optimal weather and daylight for cruising Alaska.
3. Megaresort Experience: Consider Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas for amenities, glitz, and family-friendly features. It sails round-trip from Seattle, offering scenic views and unique experiences.
4. Land and Sea Adventures: Holland America Line’s Koningsdam combines sea voyages with land tours, allowing you to explore both coastal and inland Alaska.
5. Luxury Cruises: Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, Silversea, and Windstar offer high-end experiences with immersive nature and wildlife encounters.
6. Expedition Cruises: For small ship adventures, consider lines like Alaskan Dream Cruises, Lindblad, and UnCruise Adventures, focusing on nature and wildlife experiences.
7. Family-Friendly Options: Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International cater to families with diverse activities and entertainment.
8. Couples’ Retreat: Celebrity Cruises provides a romantic atmosphere for couples seeking an intimate Alaska experience.
9. Budget-Conscious Cruisers: Explore budget-friendly options that still offer adventure and scenic beauty.

An Arctic cruise offers a unique blend of adventure, wildlife viewing, and cultural experiences. From witnessing the midnight sun and the northern lights to encountering polar bears, whales, and seals, an Arctic voyage is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the enchanting beauty of the far north.

When to Go

The Arctic cruise season runs from late May to early September. Early season voyages (June) offer longer days and pristine landscapes, while late-season cruises (August-September) provide better chances of seeing the northern lights and wildlife gathering for migration.

Types of Arctic Cruises

Arctic cruises can be categorized into two main types:

1. Expedition Cruises: These voyages focus on exploration and adventure, with itineraries that include wildlife viewing, Zodiac excursions, and guided hikes. Expedition ships are typically smaller, allowing access to remote areas and offering a more intimate experience.
2. Scenic Cruises: These cruises emphasize comfort and relaxation, with larger ships that provide extensive onboard amenities. While scenic cruises still offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and shore excursions, the pace is generally more leisurely.

Popular Arctic Cruise Destinations

1. Svalbard: A Norwegian archipelago located between mainland Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard is known for its stunning fjords, glaciers, and diverse wildlife, including polar bears, reindeer, and a variety of seabirds.
2. Greenland: The world’s largest island offers a mix of Inuit culture, colorful villages, and dramatic landscapes, with highlights including the Ilulissat Icefjord and the capital city of Nuuk.
3. The Northwest Passage: This historic route connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, offering a unique blend of wildlife, culture, and historical sites.
4. The North Pole: Some expedition cruises venture to the geographic North Pole, providing an extraordinary opportunity to stand at the top of the world.

Choosing the Right Arctic Cruise

When selecting an Arctic cruise, consider the following factors to find the best fit for your preferences and budget:

• Itinerary: Research the destinations and experiences offered by each cruise to ensure they align with your interests. Consider the duration of the voyage and the pace of the itinerary.
• Ship Size: Smaller ships (50-150 passengers) provide a more intimate and adventurous experience, while larger vessels (200-500 passengers) offer more onboard amenities and stability.
• Activities: Look for cruises that cater to your interests, such as photography workshops, kayaking, snowshoeing, or cultural visits.
• Budget: Arctic cruises vary significantly in price. Determine your budget and compare the inclusions and exclusions of each cruise, such as flights, pre- and post-cruise accommodations, and optional activities.
• Cruise Operator: Research different cruise operators to find one that matches your preferences. Consider their reputation, experience, and commitment to sustainable tourism.

How to Book the Best Arctic Cruise

1. Research: Begin by exploring various Arctic cruise options online. Websites like AdventureSmith Explorations, Quark Expeditions, and Hurtigruten offer a wide range of Arctic itineraries and provide detailed information about their voyages.
2. Consult a Travel Agent: Specialized travel agents can offer expert advice and help you find the best Arctic cruise tailored to your interests and budget. They can also assist with booking flights, accommodations, and pre- or post-cruise extensions.
3. Book Early: Arctic cruises often sell out well in advance, especially for popular destinations and dates. To secure your preferred cabin and any early booking discounts, aim to book 12 to 18 months ahead of your desired departure date.
4. Review Terms and Conditions: Before booking, carefully review the cruise operator’s terms and conditions, including their cancellation policy, payment schedule, and any required travel insurance.

Packing Essentials

Packing the right gear is crucial for an enjoyable Arctic cruise. Key items include:

• Base layers (moisture-wicking fabrics)
• Insulating layers (fleece or down)
• Waterproof outer layers (jacket and pants)
• Insulated gloves and hat
• Waterproof boots and comfortable shoes
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Camera equipment
• Medication (seasickness remedies, prescription medications)
• Sun protection (high SPF sunscreen and lip balm)

Tips for Your Arctic Cruise

• Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, evacuation, and repatriation.
• Health and Fitness: Consult your doctor to ensure you’re in good health and up-to-date on any necessary vaccinations. Engage in regular exercise before your trip to improve your strength and endurance.
• Respect the Environment: Familiarize yourself with the guidelines set by the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) to minimize your impact on the fragile Arctic ecosystem.

Conclusion

An Arctic cruise is an extraordinary adventure that requires careful planning and preparation. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to find and book the best Arctic cruise tailored to your interests and preferences.

So…

Finding and booking the best Arctic cruise requires careful research and planning. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process and secure an unforgettable Arctic adventure:

Research Cruise Lines and Ships

Start by exploring the top cruise lines that operate in the Arctic. Some of the best options include:Silversea Expeditions: Known for luxury expedition cruises, Silversea offers all-inclusive voyages on ships like Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, and the advanced Silver Endeavour.Hurtigruten: Offers both winter and summer Arctic cruises, with a growing fleet of specialist expedition ships under their HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) brand.Hapag-Lloyd Cruises: Operates bilingual cruises on modern ships like Hanseatic Nature, Hanseatic Inspiration, and Hanseatic Spirit.Lindblad Expeditions: Partners with National Geographic to provide expedition-focused cruises with advanced exploration tools and expert photographers onboard.Ponant: French cruise line known for stylish yachts and the innovative Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first hybrid-powered luxury icebreaker.

Choose Your Itinerary

Arctic cruises typically explore various regions:

• Svalbard archipelago
• Greenland
• Canadian Arctic
• Iceland
• Northwest Passage
• Russian Arctic

Popular itineraries include:

• Svalbard Encounter Expedition Micro Cruise: An 8-day summer cruise through Svalbard.
• Norway’s Fjords and Arctic Svalbard: A 17-day expedition exploring Norway’s coast and Svalbard.
• Northwest Passage cruises: Following the historic route through the Canadian Arctic.

Consider Cruise Duration

Arctic cruises range from short 8-day trips to extended voyages of 17 days or more. Choose a duration that fits your schedule and desired level of exploration.

Timing Your Cruise

The Arctic cruise season typically runs from June to September, with each month offering unique experiences:

• June: Ice breaking up, wildlife becoming active
• July and August: Peak season with warmer weather and longer days
• September: Potential for Northern Lights viewing

Choosing Your Cabin

When selecting your cabin, consider:

• Balcony rooms: Highly recommended for private wildlife viewing
• Oceanview cabins: A more budget-friendly option that still provides scenic views
• Interior cabins: The most economical choice, but you’ll miss out on direct views

Booking Shore Excursions

Arctic cruises offer a variety of exciting shore excursions. Popular options include:

• Wildlife viewing (polar bears, whales, seabirds)
• Zodiac cruises among icebergs
• Hiking on tundra or glaciers
• Visits to remote Arctic communities
• Kayaking in Arctic waters

Book early to secure spots on popular excursions.

Packing for Your Cruise

Arctic weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers, including:

• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Warm sweaters or fleeces
• Thermal underwear
• Warm, waterproof boots
• Gloves, hat, and scarf
• Sunglasses and sunscreen (for the Midnight Sun)

Many expedition cruises provide essential gear like parkas and rubber boots.

Budgeting for Your Cruise

Consider these factors when budgeting:

• Cruise fare
• Airfare to departure port
• Shore excursions (if not included)
• Onboard expenses
• Travel insurance

Look for cruise deals and promotions, which are often available for early bookings or last-minute sailings.

Enhancing Your Arctic Experience

To make the most of your Arctic cruise:

• Participate in onboard programs: Many cruise lines offer enrichment lectures and workshops about Arctic wildlife, geology, and culture.
• Take advantage of expedition tools: Some ships offer unique exploration tools like underwater ROVs or helicopters.
• Be flexible: Arctic weather and ice conditions can affect itineraries, so be prepared for changes.

Booking Your Cruise

When you’re ready to book:

1. Compare prices and inclusions: Check what’s included in the fare. Some luxury lines like Silversea offer all-inclusive packages.
2. Look for special features: Consider ships with unique offerings, like Ponant’s hybrid icebreaker for reaching remote areas.
3. Read reviews: Look for feedback from past travelers to get a sense of the onboard experience and itinerary highlights.
4. Consider working with a travel agent: Specialized agents can provide valuable insights and potentially access to exclusive deals.

Preparing for Your Departure

As your cruise date approaches:

• Complete online check-in as early as possible
• Review and book shore excursions if not already included
• Ensure your passport is valid and check visa requirements
• Obtain appropriate travel insurance for Arctic travel

Sustainability Considerations

When choosing your Arctic cruise, consider the environmental impact:

• Look for cruise lines with strong sustainability practices
• Choose newer ships with more efficient engines and waste management systems
• Opt for smaller ships that have less impact on fragile Arctic ecosystems

By thoroughly researching and planning your Arctic cruise, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s last great wildernesses. From witnessing majestic polar bears and breaching whales to marveling at towering icebergs and the mesmerizing Northern Lights, an Arctic cruise offers a unique blend of adventure, natural wonder, and cultural insights. Whether you choose a luxury expedition vessel or a more intimate ship, the Arctic’s stunning landscapes and rich experiences await your discovery.

– Reviewed by Contributing Author Silvester Thomson