The Arctic is a breathtaking region, home to glaciers, icebergs, diverse wildlife like polar bears and whales, and unique flora. Timing is crucial for the best experiences, from polar bear voyages in the Arctic Ocean to exploring Inuit communities and enjoying the Arctic's autumn colors.

There are three main entry points for Arctic expeditions, starting with Svalbard in May for polar bear sightings and glacier landscapes.

By mid-July, expeditions expand to Greenland and Canada as the ice melts.

In August, the Northwest Passage opens, offering a chance to follow early explorers' routes, visit Inuit communities, and see abundant wildlife on Wrangel Island.

The Arctic also offers adventure activities like hiking and dog sledding, and opportunities to learn about indigenous cultures. It's a vast area with much to explore, so research is advisable to make the most of your visit.

Canadian Arctic. The Canadian Arctic Archipelago is situated in the northernmost extremity of North America. The group of over 35,000 islands comprises much of the territory of Northern Canada-most of Nunavut and part of the Northwest Territories. Canada's claim to its north rests first on the charter granted to the Hudson's Bay Company by King Charles II in 1670. Exploration of the Arctic has been a facet of Canadian history from the arrival of the first Europeans in North America until today. The ill-fated Franklin expedition of the Northwest Passage was one such exploration.

Northwest Passage. Travel the famed Europe-Asia sea route, where Franklin's Expedition remains lost to this day.

Greenland. As the best vantage point for incredible displays of Northern Lights, home of the world's most prolific glaciers and wondrous icebergs, welcoming Inuit elders and the birthplace of kayaking, Greenland is best explored via its coast, as no roads connect the towns. 

Iceland. Located just below the Arctic Circle in the North Atlantic Ocean, Iceland is Europe's second largest island and owes its existence to numerous volcanoes which merged through various eruptions. Less than one-fifth of Iceland is covered in vegetation, and the majority is barren mountains, lava beds, glaciers and ice fields. Cruising coastal Iceland brings a unique perspective on this vibrant country and showcases the geological drama of the land.

North Pole (90° N). Few places have stirred the hearts and minds of explorers more than the North Pole. It wasn't until 1948 that anyone actually stood there for the first time. Today, only a few operators give their lucky passengers the right to claim they stood at the top of the world.

Spitsbergen. Spitsbergen is the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, located halfway between Norway and the North Pole. Remote and untouched, it was the 16th century home to whaling stations and a staging point for many expeditions to the North Pole. It is a wildlife playground, with the majestic polar bear at the top of the food chain, along with thousands of migratory seabirds nesting on the coastal cliffs, as well as walrus, whales and many seals.

Wild Earth Travel is owned and operated by expedition leaders with over 30 years' experience voyaging, leading and creating expeditions all over the globe.

• We Are Travellers. Our team of small ship cruise specialists is very well travelled. We have led small ship cruises all over the world and experienced the most unique and fascinating corners of the planet, and we love sharing our experiences with you!

• Unbiased Advice. Our team are all passionate expedition and small cruise ship travellers, and our knowledge and stories come from our own personal experiences, which we then use to match you with the best small ship options for you.

• Largest Choice Providers. Our collection of small ship cruises is constantly growing, we now feature over 1200 cruises aboard more than 80 small ships. Our insider knowledge of the industry means there is barely a ship or a destination worldwide that we haven't experienced.

• Convenience Matters. We offer you the ability to pay in the original currency of the ship operator, meaning that you won't pay more in currency buffers. You can be assured that you are in safe hands as our team of specialists guide you through the entire booking process.

• Personalised Service. As you prepare for your cruise, we will be in touch to ensure you have everything you need, from packing lists and suggested reading lists to pre- and post- transfers and accommodation. For some cruises, there may be the option to add on extra activities.

• The Arctic region is vast. From hiking and kayaking, to wildlife spotting and visiting remote communities, this diverse landscape is a wonderland for adventurers, but what kind of adventure are you looking for? With a firsthand experience cruising the Arctic, we will find the right trip for you! 

If you'd like to learn about some of our other Arctic itineraries, please contact us. You may also be interested in specific Arctic destinations including the North Pole, Greenland and Iceland, Svalbard/Spitsbergen or Canadian Arctic and Northwest Passage.

Alaska • Antarctica • Antarctica Express • Asia • Asia River Cruises • Australia • British Isles • Canadian Arctic & Northwest Passage • Central America • Chatham Islands (New Zealand) • Classic Antarctica • Europe • Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Circle • Fiordland & Stewart Island (New Zealand) • French Polynesia • Galapagos Islands • Great America Waterways • Greenland & Iceland • India • Indian Ocean • Indonesia • Japan • Kimberley Coast (Australia) • New Zealand • North Pole • Norway • Patagonia • Ross Sea • Sailing Adventures • Scandinavia • South East Asia • South Pacific • Spitsbergen • Subantarctic Islands • Tasmania & South Australia • The Adriatic • The Arctic • The Mediterranean • USA • West Coast USA