Discover a pristine wilderness spanning millions of square miles in the Far North. For adventure seekers, an arctic ocean cruise opens access to territories where few have ventured before.
Poseidon Expeditions’ modern vessels navigate through pristine waters, where travelers witness 24-hour daylight and encounter diverse wildlife including polar bears, walruses, and Arctic foxes. With temperatures averaging 32-40°F during summer months, these voyages combine comfort with remarkable experiences like walking on floating ice and visiting indigenous settlements.
You Might Walk on Floating Ice
One of the most unexpected experiences aboard an Arctic expedition cruise is the opportunity to walk on ice floes – massive pieces of sea ice floating in the Arctic Ocean. During Poseidon Expeditions’ voyages, trained guides assess stable ice floes and, when conditions permit, allow passengers to step onto these natural platforms for a truly unique Arctic experience.
“Walking on an ice floe feels like stepping onto another planet,” says Conrad Combrink, a veteran polar expedition leader. “It’s an experience that connects you directly with the Arctic’s essence, something few travelers ever get to do.”
The experience involves careful preparation and expert guidance. Expedition leaders thoroughly check ice thickness and stability before anyone sets foot on these floating islands. This extraordinary activity often becomes a highlight of the journey, offering unparalleled photography opportunities and a profound connection with the Arctic environment.
The Itinerary is Never Set in Stone
Unlike traditional cruises with fixed port schedules, Arctic expeditions embrace nature’s unpredictability. Your Poseidon Expeditions’ captain might adjust the route based on ice conditions, weather patterns, or wildlife sightings. This flexibility often leads to unexpected discoveries and memorable moments that weren’t on the original itinerary.
What makes this approach special is the expedition team’s ability to turn challenges into opportunities. When dense pack ice blocks one route, your ship might discover a pod of narwhals or a polar bear hunting along another path. Each day brings new possibilities, making every Arctic cruise unique.
You Can Kayak Where Ancient Hunters Paddled
The Arctic’s waters hold centuries of history, and modern travelers can experience them just as indigenous peoples did thousands of years ago. Poseidon Expeditions offers guided kayaking programs that connect adventurers with this rich heritage while providing an intimate perspective of the Arctic ecosystem.
Key aspects of Arctic kayaking include:
- Professional guides trained in polar water navigation
- Small group sizes for personalized attention
- High-quality expedition kayaks designed for Arctic conditions
- Protective dry suits and safety equipment included
- Opportunities to paddle near icebergs and along glacier fronts
These kayaking excursions often yield close encounters with seals, whales, and seabirds that might be missed from the ship’s deck.
Remote Settlements are Part of The Journey
Many travelers don’t expect to find communities thriving in the High Arctic, yet these settlements offer fascinating glimpses into life at the world’s edge. Visiting places like Ittoqqortoormiit in East Greenland or Longyearbyen in Svalbard reveals how humans adapt to extreme environments while maintaining rich cultural traditions.
During these community visits, you might witness traditional craft demonstrations, learn about modern Arctic life challenges, or share stories with local residents. These interactions provide authentic cultural experiences that go far beyond typical tourist encounters.
The Weather Might Defy Your Expectations
One of the most common misconceptions about Arctic cruises concerns the weather. “Many of our guests pack for extreme cold, then find themselves overdressed during summer expeditions,” shares a Poseidon Expeditions’ cruise director. Summer temperatures in popular Arctic cruise destinations often hover around a surprisingly comfortable 32-40°F (0-4°C).
The Arctic’s summer climate creates ideal conditions for exploration and wildlife viewing. Stable temperatures, relatively calm seas, and minimal precipitation make June through September perfect for expedition cruising. The weather patterns during this season also contribute to the region’s remarkable clarity, offering photographers exceptional visibility for capturing the Arctic’s dramatic landscapes.
Unlike winter’s harsh conditions, summer weather allows for comfortable deck observations and shore excursions. Even activities like hiking and photography sessions can be enjoyed in light expedition gear rather than heavy arctic clothing. Poseidon Expeditions provides detailed packing guidelines to ensure guests are properly prepared without overloading their suitcases with unnecessary heavy gear.
The Polar Plunge is a Thing
Perhaps the most surprising tradition on Arctic cruises is the polar plunge – a voluntary quick dip in the Arctic Ocean. This invigorating experience has become a rite of passage for many Poseidon Expeditions’ guests, completed under careful supervision with safety measures in place.
The plunge happens in protected waters, with the ship’s medical staff present and warm towels waiting. While the water temperature hovers just above freezing, participants often describe the experience as exhilarating rather than uncomfortable. Following the plunge, many guests celebrate their achievement in the ship’s hot tub or sauna, making it a memorable social event.
The Midnight Sun Changes Everything
Arctic summers create a phenomenon that transforms the cruise experience: 24 hours of daylight. This continuous illumination dramatically extends wildlife viewing opportunities and creates surreal landscapes bathed in golden light. The midnight sun period varies by latitude but typically occurs between late April and late August.
This unique lighting phenomenon allows for extended exploration time and unprecedented wildlife photography opportunities. Imagine photographing a polar bear at midnight or watching seabirds fish in the golden light of the never-setting sun. The extended daylight also means more chances for wildlife encounters and shore excursions.
Arctic Wildlife Has Unusual Behaviors
The Arctic’s wildlife often surprises visitors with unexpected behaviors. Walruses, despite their intimidating size, show remarkable curiosity toward small boats and kayaks. Polar bears demonstrate incredible swimming abilities, sometimes spotted miles from shore. Arctic foxes change their coat color completely with the seasons.
“What fascinates our guests most is how these animals have adapted to life in the Arctic,” notes a Poseidon Expeditions naturalist. “Every behavior we observe tells a story of survival in one of Earth’s most challenging environments.”
The key to meaningful wildlife encounters lies in patience and respect for their natural behaviors. Poseidon Expeditions’ trained guides ensure responsible viewing practices while sharing insights about Arctic wildlife ecology.
Conclusion
An Arctic cruise delivers experiences that challenge preconceptions and create lasting memories. Whether you’re walking on floating ice, kayaking past icebergs, or witnessing the midnight sun, these voyages offer adventures that surprise and delight even the most experienced travelers. With Poseidon Expeditions’ expertise in polar navigation and commitment to responsible tourism, your Arctic journey promises to be both comfortable and extraordinary.
