When to make a cruise to the Arctic and what to see

By The_Polar_Travel_Company | Apr 10, 2019

Arctic Landscape

Arctic Landscape

A voyage to the top of the world can take us to fascinating places such as Russia’s Far East, the Canadian Arctic, Svalbard, Greenland,Alaska, or even to the Geographic North Pole.
The Arctic is visited by expedition ships from June to September, and there is a vast option of ships and voyages, from powerful ice-breakers to the North Pole to luxury cruise ships and yachts to more adventurous expedition ships and small sailing boats.

Polar bears, walrus, seals, Arctic foxes and a huge range of seabirds inhabit the Arctic wilderness.

June to mid-July


This is the time to see ice and snow. The sea ice has not melted yet; polar bears and walrus will be searching for food at the ice edge and at this time there are good chances for spotting them. Birds are returning to breed.

Mid-July to mid-August


This is the pick of the season, there will be plenty of daylight, there will be likely less sea ice blocking the channels and bays. Tundra flowers are blooming and wildlife is abundant.

Mid-August to September


The days are shortening; birds begin to migrate south; and skies can be moody. There is less sea ice, and the sun will be in an angle, that can give nice opportunities for sunrise and sunset pictures. This is also a great time for Northern Lights.

United States North America Scandinavia North Pole Planning Svalbard Denmark Norway Canadian Arctic Greenland Russia’s Far East Europe Alaska Arctic

Share this tip:

Written by The Polar Travel Company
We are a team of professionals in Polar Regions, with a great knowledge of Antarctica and the Arctic. Having worked on board several expedition ships as Expedition Leaders, Lectures, and Naturalists ourselves (and we continue to do so every season), we have the inside knowledge to give you the best advice at the time of choosing the right expedition for you.

Thoughts? Questions?

See also

Accommodations

Tours and activities

Tanzania Wildlife Adventure & Remote Tribes

Depart on this epic journey to the Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Lake Eyasi & Lake Natron on a Private Mid-range Safari. Travel in comfort across Tanzania's Northern Circuit on this short safari yet full of highlights. Witness the famous big 5 and learn the traditional ways of life of the last remaining bushmen.

3 Days safari in Selous game reserve

Discover the UNESCO-listed Selous Game Reserve on a 3-day safari from Tanzania’s capital. Venture across the African grasslands and see many native animals such as elephants, zebras, lions, giraffes, buffalo, and much more. Enjoy an evening boat safari on Lake Burungi and spend your nights under the stars. This is an ideal safari for