Antarctica & Arctic Expedition Cruises
Stand among penguins, cruise past blue-white icebergs and land by Zodiac on the last great wilderness. A polar expedition cruise is the adventure of a lifetime.
Antarctica and the Arctic are best seen from a small expedition ship: you cross to the ice, then explore daily by Zodiac with expert naturalists. From penguin colonies and whales in Antarctica to polar bears and glaciers in Svalbard and Greenland, a polar cruise specialist matches you to the right ship, cabin and season.
Why Take a Polar Expedition?
The last wilderness
Antarctica and the high Arctic, few people ever see.
Zodiac landings
Go ashore among penguins, seals and glaciers daily.
Expert naturalists
Guides and lecturers who bring the polar world to life.
Every detail handled
Ships, cabins, gear and gateway logistics coordinated.
Where Polar Voyages Go
Antarctica
The Peninsula, penguins, whales and icebergs.
Arctic Svalbard
Polar bears, walrus and midnight sun.
Greenland & Iceland
Fjords, glaciers and Inuit culture.
Northwest Passage
The legendary Arctic sea route.
Plan Your Polar Voyage
- Antarctica Peninsula expeditions
- Arctic Svalbard & polar-bear voyages
- Greenland & Iceland sailings
- Small luxury & adventure ships
- Best-season & crossing guidance
Ready for the polar regions?
Tell us your region, dates and ship style and we’ll match the perfect voyage. Get up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes from a polar cruise specialist.
Get up to 5 expedition quotes!Why Smart Traveler?
Smart Traveler is a service of the travel division of Best of the USA, Inc. Entrust your trip to seasoned professionals specializing in cruises, tours, vacation packages, all-inclusive resorts and international airfares. With over 50,000 travel advisors in our growing database, we’re sure to have the experts right for your travel needs!
50+ years of expertise
Five decades fine-tuning the art of travel — every journey a masterpiece.
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Tradition blended with technology — book your dream trip with a click.
Exclusive proprietary rates
Insider access to rates and partnerships unavailable to the average traveler.
Polar Cruises — Frequently Asked Questions
When can I cruise to Antarctica?
The Antarctic season runs roughly November–March (austral summer); the Arctic season is roughly June–September. A specialist advises on wildlife by month.
How rough is the crossing?
The Drake Passage can be lively; some voyages offer fly-over options to skip the crossing. A specialist explains the choices.
Do I need to be very fit?
Most polar cruises are accessible, with optional activity levels; Zodiac landings are guided and assisted.
How do I get a polar cruise quote?
Request up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes from a polar cruise specialist and compare ships and seasons.