Top Arctic Cruising Destinations for Wildlife and Adventure Lovers

Passengers bundled in orange jackets admire the breathtaking icy landscapes from the deck of an cruise ship.

Imagine standing on the deck of an expedition ship, surrounded by towering glaciers and endless icy waters. The air is crisp, and the quiet is broken only by the sound of a distant humpback whale surfacing or a colony of seabirds circling above. Arctic cruising offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the most remote and stunning destinations on Earth. With adventure and exploration at the heart of every journey, Arctic cruises are perfect for the curious traveler who values learning and discovery with a dash of adventure. To highlight this, let’s dive into the unique features of five breathtaking Arctic destinations: Svalbard, Iceland, Greenland, the Northwest Passage, and Alaska.

Svalbard: The Kingdom of Polar Bears

Two polar bears traverse fragmented ice.

Svalbard, an archipelago located between mainland Norway and the North Pole, is a wildlife lover's paradise. Known as the "Kingdom of Polar Bears," it is one of the best places on Earth to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. During the summer months, the ice recedes, allowing ships to navigate the region's fjords and inlets while offering travelers close encounters with Arctic foxes, reindeer, and a variety of seabirds.

Why Choose Svalbard?

• Wildlife Focus: Polar bears, walruses, and Arctic foxes take center stage.

  
  

• Midnight Sun: From late April to late August, Svalbard experiences 24 hours of daylight, perfect for extended exploration.

  
  

• Accessible Wilderness: With its dramatic glaciers and rugged terrain, Svalbard offers an untouched beauty that’s both awe-inspiring and humbling.

  
  

• Activities: Embark on zodiac rides to explore hidden fjords, kayak among icebergs, hike on the tundra, and visit cultural sites to learn about the region's history.

  
  

Best Time to Visit: 

May to September, when the ice recedes and wildlife is most active.

Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice

Puffins stand on a rugged rock.

Iceland’s stark contrasts make it a top destination for Arctic explorers. Here, fiery volcanoes meet massive glaciers, creating a landscape unlike anywhere else. Expedition cruises allow you to explore the dramatic fjords, sail past volcanic islands, and discover wildlife like puffins, Arctic terns, and humpback whales.

Why Choose Iceland?

• Geothermal Wonders: Witness steaming geysers, hot springs, and lava fields.

  
  

• Rich Culture: Learn about Viking history and modern Icelandic traditions in charming coastal towns.

  
  

• Diverse Wildlife: From whale watching to spotting seabirds in the Westfjords, Iceland is teeming with life.

  
  

• Activities: Enjoy stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) along scenic coastlines, take guided hikes on glaciers, and visit quaint villages to connect with Icelandic culture.

Best Time to Visit: 

Late spring to early fall for optimal wildlife viewing and comfortable weather.

Greenland: The Arctic’s Hidden Gem

Colorful town on the rugged shore of Greenland.

Greenland’s massive ice sheet and colorful coastal villages offer a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural discovery. As the world’s largest island, Greenland features towering icebergs, calving glaciers, and opportunities to meet Inuit communities who have thrived in this harsh environment for generations.

Why Choose Greenland?

• Cultural Encounters: Visit Inuit settlements to learn about their rich history and traditions.

  
  

• Iceberg Alley: Sail among some of the most stunning ice formations in the Arctic.

  
  

• Adventure Activities: Kayak through glacial waters, hike along the tundra, or explore by zodiac for a closer view of Greenland’s dramatic landscapes.

  
  

Best Time to Visit:

July to September for mild weather and navigable waters.

The Northwest Passage: A Journey Through History

A glacier flows into the icy waters, flanked by snowy mountains shrouded in mist.

The Northwest Passage, a sea route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through Canada’s Arctic Archipelago, is steeped in exploration history. Follow in the footsteps of legendary explorers as you navigate this icy maze, witnessing pristine landscapes and diverse wildlife along the way.

Why Choose the Northwest Passage?

• Historical Significance: Learn about the explorers who risked everything to map this treacherous route.

  
  

• Rare Wildlife: Spot narwhals, beluga whales, and muskoxen in their natural habitats.

  
  

• Remote Beauty: The untouched Arctic landscape offers unparalleled serenity and wonder.

  
  

• Activities: Explore remote areas by kayak or zodiac, hike across tundra landscapes, and visit Inuit communities to gain insight into their way of life.

  
  

Best Time to Visit:

August to September, when ice conditions allow for navigation.

Alaska: America’s Last Frontier

Views of Alaskan mountains and glaciers.

While the majority of Alaska’s territory is technically not within the Arctic Circle, its northern regions offer an Arctic-like experience with a touch of familiarity. From towering glaciers to iconic wildlife like grizzly bears and orcas, Alaska’s rugged beauty and abundant biodiversity make it an essential stop for any Arctic explorer.

Why Choose Alaska?

• Diverse Landscapes: Experience everything from temperate rainforests to Arctic tundra.

  
  

• Wildlife Encounters: Spot humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles, and grizzly bears.

  
  

• Cultural Insights: Learn about Alaska Native cultures and traditions in coastal villages.

  
  

• Activities: Take guided hikes on glaciers and kayak through serene waters.

  
  

Best Time to Visit:

May to September for peak wildlife activity and mild weather.

Why Choose an Arctic Cruise?

Kayakers paddle near a massive iceberg.

Expedition cruises are designed for travelers who value exploration without the hassle of planning every detail. With small-group tours, expert naturalists, and state-of-the-art ships, these cruises offer a perfect balance of adventure, education, and comfort. Whether you’re captivated by the idea of spotting polar bears in Svalbard or kayaking alongside icebergs in Greenland, there’s an Arctic itinerary that will ignite your curiosity and sense of wonder.

Activities to Expect:

On an expedition cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to embark on zodiac rides to navigate ice-filled waters, kayak or stand-up paddleboard near towering glaciers, hike across tundra and even glaciers, and, in some cases, camp on the tundra, go heli-hiking or go mountain biking for an adrenaline-filled adventure. Cultural visits to remote villages offer invaluable insights into the traditions and stories of Arctic communities.

Ready to take the next step in your Arctic adventure? Let Summit & Tide Travel help you plan the journey of a lifetime. Reach out today to discuss itinerary options!