Pack ice or icebergs? North Pole or South? These are some of the many questions facing travelers with a desire to reach the ends of the earth. At Cruise Specialists, our cruise experts can educate you about both spectacular destinations, the Arctic and Antarctic.
In this guide you’ll find our recommendations for the top luxury cruise lines and expedition companies that can fulfill your dreams of exploring these fascinating places. Depending on the level of luxury and enrichment you prefer, there are some very important distinctions.
Seabourn
Seabourn is an ultra-luxury small ship cruise line that features ships no larger than 600 guests. Their ultimate Antarctica and Patagonia Experience includes Zodiac landings, opportunities for frequent wildlife sightings from the ship and on shore, a skilled expedition staff and a host of all-inclusive amenities.
Seabourn’s elegant ships also venture above the Arctic Circle, taking you to exotic destinations such as Storstappen Island, Norway; scenic cruising Norway’s North Cape; plus jaw-dropping landscapes and iceberg-dotted bays of Greenland.
See what you can expect in the Arctic Circle >>
Silversea Expeditions
Cast off to the ends of the earth on a Silversea Expedition voyage. In Antarctica, view spectacular icebergs, visit historic sites of early explorers and watch for whales, seabirds and penguins. In the Arctic, crunch through pack ice and trek across tundra, visit the world’s fastest-moving glacier, and search for polar bear, walrus, reindeer, caribou and more.
Silversea Expedition ships include a degree of luxury rarely seen in expedition cruising; a butler for every suite, free WiFi, open bar, complimentary shore excursions, complimentary keepsake parkas and much more. You will feel pampered by the attentive and intuitive service, and have access to expedition specialists on every voyage carrying no more than 200 passengers. They give lectures, guide excursions and are always ready to share their knowledge and insights.
Lindblad Expeditions
From the brilliant Northern Lights, to the remote Antarctic, you’re sure to experience your own “National Geographic moment” on a voyage with Lindblad Expeditions. You’ll actively explore, using a myriad of cool tools such as Zodiacs and kayaks.
Lindblad’s experienced expedition leaders get you out daily, often twice daily, on unforgettable forays. Back on board, catch the daily Recap, organize photos on your laptop, or socialize over drinks and dinner.
Quark Expeditions
Quark Expeditions is so dedicated to the Polar Regions, it is the only place they travel. Guests will enjoy unparalleled technical expertise, leadership and passion for these expedition trips. Every ship is equipped with Zodiacs for shore transfers and ocean-level cruising. Their ships are platforms for optional sea kayaking, camping, mountaineering and cross-country skiing.
Quark Expeditions maintains a spirit of adventure with a deep sense of environmental responsibility and a strong desire to educate you about the wonders of the Arctic and Antarctic. Ships range from helicopter-equipped icebreakers to new, all-inclusive, all-suite vessels.
Zegrahm Expeditions
Zegrahm Expeditions attracts like-minded travelers who are explorers, rather than tourists. These are immersive journeys, accompanied by teams of experts who are onboard and who go ashore with you to enhance your experience.
Zegrahm’s Antarctic and Arctic expeditions feature Zodiac landings, wherever nature and curiosity dictate. They afford rare opportunities to view wildlife and meet indigenous people who live at the ends of the Earth. The ships Zegrahm charters are from the best fleets in the world, with access to myriad amenities.
The regions are polar opposites. Both are life-changing experiences in their own right. Call us at (888) 327-2916 and we can help you begin your journey.
