Arctic Cruises

Embark on an Arctic Adventure: Discover the Unique Charms of the North

The Arctic region, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, icy landscapes, and elusive wildlife, offers a unique cruising experience like no other. A cruise to the Arctic allows you to witness magnificent glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and vibrant tundra filled with diverse fauna. With the opportunity to encounter wildlife such as polar bears, walruses, and various migratory birds, this is truly a destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Fun fact: The Arctic is home to the largest land carnivore, the polar bear, which can weigh up to 450 kilograms! Set sail for an unforgettable journey to one of the planet’s most remote and enchanting regions.

Top Harbours in the Arctic Region

When cruising in the Arctic, these harbours provide captivating experiences that showcase the beauty and culture of the region:

Best Times to Cruise the Arctic

The optimal time to explore the Arctic is between June to September when temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C. This season allows for the best weather conditions and improved wildlife sightings, especially during the summer months when the days are long and the sun shines brightly. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, consider cruising in June when ice begins to melt, and you can start to see spectacular landscapes coming to life. The early fall months of September to mid-October offer another unique experience, where you can witness the breathtaking autumn foliage and potentially catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Cruise Pricing Overview for the Arctic

What can you expect for cruise prices in the Arctic? A standard 1-week cruise typically ranges from $3,500 to $7,000, while luxury options can start at $9,000 and go upwards of $15,000. For those considering a longer, 2-week cruise, regular packages can fall between $5,500 and $10,000, while luxury cruises might range from $15,000 to $30,000. The best prices can often be found during the shoulder months of June and early September, while peak cruising in July and August tends to be pricier due to high demand. Dining and drinks in the region can vary; expect to spend around $25 to $50 for a meal, with drinks typically costing around $10 to $20.

Major Cruise Lines to the Arctic

• Holland America Line
  Holland America operates a fleet of 11 ships, with four offering itineraries to the Arctic, including Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam. Departures typically occur from Rotterdam or Dover, and Holland America is known for its immersive travel experiences, providing guided excursions that focus on the cultures and wildlife of the region, ensuring a well-rounded Arctic adventure.
• Princess Cruises
  With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises has five that offer Arctic itineraries, specifically Crown Princess and Emerald Princess. Most often departing from Sydney, Brisbane, Dover, or Southampton, Princess is cherished for its exceptional onboard service and unique shore excursions that allow guests to engage deeply with the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of the Arctic.
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  Norwegian’s fleet consists of 20 ships, with four heading to the Arctic, including Norwegian Star and Norwegian Prima. With regular sailings from Reykjavik or Southampton, Norwegian stands out with its freestyle cruising concept, allowing guests to tailor their dining and entertainment experience, enhancing the enjoyment of their Arctic adventure.
• Cunard
  Cunard operates a fleet of four ships, with two—Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne—visiting the Arctic. Most cruises depart from Southampton or New York, and Cunard is famed for its luxurious atmosphere and impeccable service, ensuring that guests experience refined elegance throughout their journey.
• Celebrity Cruises
  With a fleet size of 16 ships, Celebrity offers two vessels—Celebrity Silhouette and Celebrity Eclipse—that cruise to the Arctic. These cruises typically depart from Reykjavik or Amsterdam, and Celebrity is known for its modern luxury approach, featuring excellent dining options and enriching onboard programs that reflect the destinations visited.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking Ocean Cruises
  Viking operates 11 ships, with six dedicated to Arctic itineraries, particularly Viking Neptune and Viking Octantis. Departing most frequently from Reykjavik or Nuuk, Viking is celebrated for its all-inclusive approach and commitment to cultural immersion, providing guests with in-depth experiences at ports of call.
• Silversea
  Silversea has a fleet of 13, with four ships offering Arctic cruises, including Silver Endeavour and Silver Shadow. Most departures occur from Reykjavik or Dublin, and Silversea is renowned for its ultra-luxury offerings, providing incredible levels of service, exclusive shore excursions, and personalized experiences at every destination.
• Oceania Cruises
  With eight ships, Oceania features four that visit the Arctic, specifically Sirena and Marina. Departures typically happen from Reykjavik or New York, and Oceania is known for its top-notch dining experiences and destination-focused itineraries that provide a unique opportunity to intimately connect with each port.
• Ponant
  Ponant operates a fleet of 11, with five ships offering Arctic itineraries, including L’Austral and Le Bellot. Departures often occur from Perth (Fremantle) or international ports like Reykjavik. Known for its small ship luxury experience, Ponant focuses on eco-friendly travel in remote areas, allowing for enriching encounters with the natural environment.
• Azamara Cruises
  With four ships in their fleet, Azamara has two offering Arctic itineraries—Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest. Departures usually occur from Reykjavik or Copenhagen, and Azamara is recognized for its commitment to destination immersion, focusing on longer stays and late departures to maximize the experience at each port.

Consider These Alternative Regions for Your Next Cruise

If the Arctic is calling to you but you’re open to other regions, consider these options:

• Alaska: Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife, cruising through Alaska offers dramatic fjords, bustling ports, and the chance to engage with local cultures that are rich in history, making it a fantastic alternative for nature lovers.
• Antarctica: For adventure seekers, a cruise to Antarctica is unparalleled. Experience stunning glacial landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the ultimate serenity of one of the planet’s last great wildernesses, a truly once-in-a-lifetime journey!
• Norwegian Fjords: If you love dramatic scenery, the Norwegian Fjords offer breathtaking views, cascading waterfalls, and charming villages. It’s an incredible cruising destination that evokes the beauty of nature in one of its finest forms.
• Greenland: Known for its rugged terrain and stunning icebergs, cruising in Greenland provides a unique perspective on Arctic culture while experiencing dramatic landscapes and wildlife encounters that you won’t find anywhere else.
• British Columbia: Explore the pristine coastlines, stunning national parks, and vibrant wildlife of British Columbia. This region offers a mix of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures amid breathtaking ocean views and towering mountains.

Ready to venture to the Arctic? Book your extraordinary cruise with CruiseAway today and explore one of the most remarkable regions on Earth!