The Arctic region is home to a remarkable ecosystem filled with rare species and exotic wildlife nestled in the northern part possessing distinct and varied landmasses jutting northwards to form a circle without a center. This circle is called the Arctic Circle, located above the 66th Parallel line. These landmasses belong to diverse nations like Russia, Canada, Greenland, Norway, Iceland and Alaska (USA).
Not only wildlife, but you also get to see the earliest humans still surviving this harsh tundra land with a distinct set of wildlife than that of the south pole. You can also behold the earliest Viking settlement remains in the Arctic region, especially in Greenland and Iceland.
So, what are you waiting for? Embark on a remarkable journey through the breathtaking, icy fjords, mountains, glacial landscapes, and pristine wilderness of the Arctic with our list of Arctic cruises on our website. We are your gateway to an unforgettable adventure, offering a wide range of Arctic cruise options that allow you to explore this remote and awe-inspiring region.
Regarding Arctic cruising, the ideal season runs from May to September. This is the perfect time of the year when daylight is omnipresent 24/7 and brightens and warms the Arctic landscape sufficiently well (even 2 am sunlight seems a bit surreal, don't you think?), which is why they also call the Arctic the Land of the Midnight Sun. You get to see the polar bears, walruses, and arctic birds gathering their resources, hunting and doing various survival activities you can watch through your binoculars. The best times to observe wildlife in its full primal bloom are the months of July and August. The ice retreat allows many small ships to take advantage of the opening of limited-duration routes to the deep north.
But the Arctic Cruises also run in the harsh winter season because of the colorful phenomena called Aurora Borealis. North of Norway attracts tourists wanting to see this amazing atmospheric solar event and participate in winter sports.
Regarding Arctic cruises, several departure ports offer unique charm and access to different parts of the Arctic based on what you want to see in a given year. These departure ports are gateways to the majestic landscapes and incredible wildlife that await you.
Here are some notable Arctic cruise departure ports:
a) Tromsø, Norway: Known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," Tromsø is a vibrant city in northern Norway. It offers a convenient starting point for Arctic cruises, with easy access to the Norwegian fjords and the spectacular Northern Lights.
b) Reykjavik, Iceland: Iceland's capital city, Reykjavik, is another popular departure point for Arctic cruises. You can set sail from here to explore Iceland's rugged coastline, dramatic glaciers, and volcanic landscapes before venturing further into the Arctic.
c) Longyearbyen, Svalbard: Located on the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, Longyearbyen is the northernmost town in the world. It serves as a gateway to the High Arctic. It is a perfect starting point for cruises that explore the polar ice pack, wildlife-rich fjords, and towering glaciers.
d) Murmansk, Russia: Murmansk is a key departure port for Arctic expeditions in the far northwest of Russia. From here, you can embark on thrilling journeys to the Russian Arctic, including the remote Franz Josef Land, where you can encounter polar bears and other Arctic wildlife.
As you embark on your Arctic cruise, you'll have the opportunity to visit several major cruise ports that offer unique experiences and access to remarkable sights. These ports serve as gateways to explore the Arctic's natural wonders and cultural heritage. Here are some of the major cruise ports you may encounter during your Arctic adventure:
Nuuk, Greenland: As Greenland's capital city, Nuuk is a vibrant port that combines modernity with traditional Inuit culture. Here, you can explore colorful houses, visit museums, and witness the stunning beauty of Greenland's fjords and icebergs.
Spitsbergen, Svalbard: The largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, Spitsbergen is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with six nature parks doing a splendid job of preserving. Cruising along its coastlines, you can spot polar bears, walruses, reindeer, and various bird species, while admiring the towering glaciers and rugged landscapes.
Jan Mayen, Norway: Located between Greenland and Norway, Jan Mayen is a remote and rarely visited island. Its volcanic landscapes, cliffs, and unique flora make it a fascinating destination for intrepid explorers, which is also why the Norwegian government declared this a natural reserve.
Franz Josef Land, Russia: This remote Russian archipelago offers unparalleled opportunities to witness Arctic wildlife in their natural habitat. Franz Josef Land is home to polar bears, walruses, Arctic foxes, and a rich diversity of birdlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Since 2012, it is part of the Russian Arctic National Park.
Aalesund, Norway: Located on the west coast of Norway, Aalesund is a popular departure port for Arctic cruises. It offers easy access to western Norway and Arctic Circle's fjords and glaciers. On its own, it is a town with a rich history preserved as an art exhibition, taking the viewers back to the tragedy that once struck this town in 1904.
At CruiseBooking, we specialize in curating extraordinary Arctic cruise holidays that cater to your preferences and ensure an unforgettable experience. With our extensive network of cruise lines and tour operators, we offer a wide selection of itineraries, ships, and onboard amenities to suit every traveler's needs. When you book with CruiseBooking, you can expect exceptional customer service, competitive pricing, and a seamless booking process. We work closely with trusted cruise partners who prioritize safety, sustainability, and environmental conservation. We aim to provide you with a journey that leaves you with incredible memories and contributes to the long-term preservation of the Arctic's fragile ecosystem.
