Arctic and Greenland cruises with Cruise Unique offer a journey into the pristine beauty of the north. This remote wilderness, accessible during the brief Arctic summer, enchants adventurers with its stark, majestic landscapes, colossal icebergs, and rich wildlife. Witness polar bears roaming the ice floes, walruses basking on rocky shores, and whales navigating the icy waters. The isolation and rugged terrain make every voyage a true exploration. Sail through the Ilulissat Icefjord, marvel at the glaciers of Disko Bay, and experience the midnight sun. With Cruise Unique, your Arctic and Greenland adventure includes expert-led excursions, cultural encounters, and breathtaking vistas, promising an unforgettable expedition into one of Earth’s last great frontiers.
Arctic and Greenland Cruise Highlights
Zodiac Expeditions
Navigate the icy waters of the Arctic and Greenland with expert-led zodiac excursions. Get up close to towering icebergs, visit walrus colonies, and land on sites of historical significance, offering intimate encounters with the region’s untouched beauty.
Wildlife Encounters
Experience unparalleled wildlife viewing. From polar bears roaming the ice floes to seals basking on rocky shores and whales patrolling the waters, the Arctic and Greenland are sanctuaries for some of the most unique wildlife on the planet.
Scenic Vistas
Marvel at the dramatic landscapes of the Arctic and Greenland, from imposing mountain ranges to surreal, blue-tinged icebergs that dot the seascape. Witness the calving of glaciers and the serene beauty of snow-covered expanses.
Educational Programs
Engage with the Arctic and Greenland’s environment and ecosystems through onboard lectures and presentations by experts in polar history, geology, and wildlife. Learn about the ongoing research and conservation efforts that aim to preserve these fragile wildernesses.
Arctic Cruise Destinations
Nuuk, Greenland: The capital city, offering a blend of traditional Inuit culture and modern amenities. Highlights include the National Museum, fjord cruises, and stunning natural landscapes.
Ilulissat, Greenland: Known for the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can witness calving glaciers, massive icebergs, and enjoy the vibrant local culture.
Sisimiut, Greenland: The second-largest town in Greenland, offering opportunities for hiking, dog sledding, and exploring historical sites such as the Sisimiut Museum.
Qaqortoq, Greenland: Known for its colorful houses and historical stone carvings. Visitors can explore the town’s rich Norse history and enjoy scenic hikes.
Reykjavik, Iceland: The starting or ending point for many Arctic cruises. Highlights include the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, and vibrant city life.
Longyearbyen, Svalbard: The northernmost settlement with a significant population. It’s the gateway to the Arctic wilderness, offering dog sledding, ice caving, and polar bear sightings.
Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard: One of the world’s northernmost settlements and a hub for Arctic research. It offers a unique glimpse into scientific endeavors and the history of Arctic exploration.
Tromsø, Norway: Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø offers vibrant nightlife, museums, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights.
Honningsvåg, Norway: The gateway to the North Cape, offering dramatic coastal landscapes and the chance to see the midnight sun.
Spitsbergen, Svalbard: The largest island of the Svalbard archipelago, known for its rugged terrain, glaciers, and abundant wildlife, including polar bears and walruses.
Must See Places in the Arctic and Greenland
Ilulissat Icefjord, Greenland: A UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with enormous icebergs calved from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier.
Disko Bay, Greenland: Known for its stunning ice formations and diverse marine life, including whales, with incredible views and cultural experiences.
Nuuk, Greenland: Greenland’s capital, where modernity meets tradition. Highlights include the Greenland National Museum and the colorful colonial harbor.
Longyearbyen, Svalbard: The world’s northernmost town, offering activities like dog sledding, ice caving, and polar bear spotting in the Arctic wilderness.
Reykjavik, Iceland: Often a starting or ending point for Arctic cruises, featuring attractions like the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, and vibrant city life.
Best Time to Visit the Arctic
The best time to cruise in the Arctic is from late June to early September, when the weather is milder and daylight extends for longer hours. Late June to July offers 24-hour daylight and peak wildlife viewing, including migratory birds, whales, and polar bears, as ice begins to melt. August continues to provide excellent wildlife sightings and vibrant arctic flora, with optimal ice navigation. Early September offers a chance to see the Northern Lights, fewer crowds, and ongoing wildlife activity before migration. This period ensures the best experience of the Arctic’s landscapes, wildlife, and natural phenomena.
Cruise Lines that Visit the Arctic and Greenland
For those seeking unparalleled adventure and luxury on their Arctic and Greenland cruise, a select few expedition cruise lines stand out with their superior offerings and meticulous attention to detail.
Hurtigruten and Hurtigruten Expeditions, renowned for their extensive experience in polar regions, offers an immersive journey through the Arctic, combining sustainable travel practices with expert-led expeditions that unveil the region’s breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife.
Seabourn, synonymous with ultra-luxury, delivers a refined expedition experience, featuring lavish accommodations and personalized service, while exploring the remote beauty and cultural heritage of the Arctic and Greenland with exclusive access to pristine locations.
Silversea, a leader in luxury expedition cruising, promises an all-encompassing voyage, complete with butler service, gourmet dining, and enriching shore excursions that delve into the fascinating history and natural wonders of the Arctic.
These esteemed cruise lines are dedicated to providing an elite travel experience, inviting discerning adventurers to discover the Arctic and Greenland’s majestic and unspoiled wilderness with elegance and sophistication, ensuring an unforgettable exploration of one of the world’s most captivating destinations.
Why Book a Cruise to the Arctic and Greenland with Cruise Unique?