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Curious About the Arctic?
Venture to the Top of the World
We’d love to help you plan your perfect trip
Explore the Raw Beauty of the Far North
The Arctic is a region of striking contrasts, where icy wilderness meets ancient cultures and wildlife thrives in one of the harshest environments on Earth. From the fjords of Norway to the icebergs of Greenland, this polar frontier promises adventure, solitude and unforgettable encounters with nature.
Travel through Svalbard, where polar bears roam the pack ice and walrus lounge on pebbled shores. Cruise along Greenland’s west coast and visit colourful Inuit villages framed by towering glaciers. Witness the midnight sun casting golden light over Arctic waters, and explore by Zodiac, kayak or on foot across rugged tundra.
Arctic expeditions are typically run by small ships with expert guides, naturalists and historians on board. Each day offers a chance to explore a new landscape, whether it’s hiking on a remote island, cruising through ice-strewn channels or learning about the region’s ecosystems and Indigenous cultures.
The best time to visit is between May and September, when the ice begins to melt and wildlife becomes more active. Depending on your itinerary, voyages may depart from Norway, Iceland or Canada, with routes tailored for scenery, wildlife or cultural immersion.
At Nexus Travel, we help you choose the best ship and sailing to match your sense of adventure. Whether you dream of spotting a polar bear or sailing through glacial fjords, we’ll tailor every detail to make your Arctic journey meaningful, safe and truly extraordinary.
Suggested Trips and Tours
Explore our hand-picked selection of suggested trips and tours, designed to help you experience the very best each destination has to offer.
Polar Bear Encounters
Living Inuit Culture
Ilulissat Glacier Adventure
Chasing Midnight Sun
Northwest Passage Quest
Wild Spitsbergen Voyage
Svalbard Ice Escape
Dancing Northern Lights
Baffin Island Expedition
Arctic Kayaking Escape
North Pole Journey
Inuit Village Visits
Arctic Bird Safari
Greenland Wilderness Voyage
Husky Sled Adventure
Tromsø City Escape
Iceland Fire Ice
Uncover Iceland’s striking contrasts – geysers, lava fields, glaciers and waterfalls. Ideal for Arctic gateway travel with culture, scenery and natural wonders.
Whale Watching Voyage
Sleep in Igloo
Arctic Cruises
Venture to the top of the world with our expertly curated Arctic cruises, where untamed wilderness meets extraordinary wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery. Sail through ice-strewn fjords, past towering glaciers, and into remote polar regions in search of polar bears, walrus and whales. Explore the dramatic coastlines of Svalbard, Greenland and the Canadian Arctic on board a luxury expedition ship, complete with expert guides and Zodiac landings. Whether you’re drawn by the Midnight Sun, the rich Inuit culture, or the chance to witness nature at its most raw and powerful, our Arctic cruises offer an unforgettable journey into the heart of the polar north.
Ponant Le Commandant Charcot
Quark Expeditions Ultramarine
Aurora Expeditions Greg Mortimer
Hapag-Lloyd Hanseatic Nature
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ Hanseatic Nature is a luxury expedition ship tailored for Arctic voyages. With a Polar Class 6 rating, it ensures safe navigation in icy waters. Guests enjoy spacious suites, gourmet dining, and guided Zodiac excursions.
National Geographic Endurance
Hurtigruten MS Fram
Hurtigruten’s MS Fram is a modern expedition vessel designed for Arctic and Antarctic cruises. With a Polar Class 1A rating, it ensures safe navigation in icy waters. Onboard, guests enjoy comfortable accommodations and guided excursions.
Scenic Luxury Cruises Eclipse
Seabourn Venture
Seabourn’s Venture is an ultra-luxury expedition ship designed for Arctic exploration. Featuring a Polar Class 6 hull, it ensures safe navigation in icy waters. Guests experience spacious suites, gourmet dining, and guided Zodiac excursions.
Silversea Silver Endeavour
Silversea Cruises’ Silver Endeavour is a luxury expedition ship for Arctic voyages. With a strengthened hull and advanced technology, it offers safe navigation in polar regions. Guests enjoy all-suite accommodations, fine dining, and immersive excursions.
Viking Expeditions Octantis
Useful Information for your trip to the Arctic
Entry Requirements
The Arctic spans multiple countries, including Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Canada, and Russia. You will need a valid passport and may require a visa depending on the country you enter through.
Best Time to Visit
Arctic expeditions typically operate from May to September, when daylight is long, wildlife is active, and sea ice has retreated enough for ship passage and excursions.
Vaccinations
There are no specific vaccinations required for Arctic travel. Standard travel immunisations are recommended. Always check the entry health requirements of your transit countries.
Currency
The Arctic has no unified currency. You will use the local currency of the country you are visiting, such as the Norwegian Krone, Canadian Dollar, or Danish Krone in Greenland. Credit cards are widely accepted in towns and ports.
Language
Languages vary by region. Norwegian, Greenlandic, Russian, and Inuktitut may be spoken locally. English is widely used on expedition vessels and tourist services throughout the Arctic.
Electricity
Power outlets and voltages vary by country. Most ships use European-style plugs (220V). It is best to bring a universal adaptor to ensure compatibility throughout your journey.
Svalbard
This Norwegian archipelago is known for its dramatic landscapes, glaciers, and polar bear sightings. It is one of the best places to experience Arctic wildlife and remote beauty.
Greenland
Explore colourful coastal villages, towering fjords, and vast ice sheets. Greenland offers an authentic mix of Inuit culture and spectacular natural scenery.
Canadian Arctic
Home to remote communities, national parks, and the legendary Northwest Passage, Canada’s Arctic offers rich wildlife and a deep connection to indigenous traditions.
North Pole
An ultimate adventure for many, the geographic North Pole can be reached via icebreaker cruise or chartered flight, offering a true once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Iceland’s Westfjords
Remote and rugged, this region of Iceland offers dramatic cliffs, sea bird colonies, and thermal springs, perfect for small-ship exploration or hiking adventures.
Russian Arctic
Explore Franz Josef Land or Wrangel Island for incredible wildlife and eerie, ice-laden landscapes. Access may be limited depending on visa regulations and cruise availability.
Getting There
Arctic journeys typically begin in Norway, Iceland, Canada, or Greenland. Major departure points include Longyearbyen, Reykjavik, Kangerlussuaq, and Ottawa. Flights may be limited, so book well in advance.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential, including medical cover and emergency evacuation. Arctic expeditions often travel to extremely remote areas with limited access to care.
Packing Essentials
Dress in layers with thermal base clothing, waterproof outerwear, gloves, and warm hats. Most expedition ships provide outer gear, but always confirm in advance.
Weather Conditions
The Arctic climate is highly variable. Even in summer, sudden changes in wind, sea ice, and temperature can impact plans. Itineraries are often flexible to adapt to conditions.
Environmental Care
Protecting the fragile Arctic ecosystem is vital. Follow all environmental guidelines, avoid approaching wildlife, and take only photos and memories with you.
Health & Fitness
Arctic travel involves moderate physical activity, including zodiac landings and walks on uneven terrain. A basic level of mobility and balance is beneficial for safety and enjoyment.
Land of the Midnight Sun
During Arctic summer, the sun does not set for weeks. This phenomenon provides incredible lighting and long days for exploration and photography.
Home to Polar Bears
The Arctic is the only place in the world where polar bears live in the wild. They are a symbol of the region and a key highlight for many travellers.
Inuit Culture
The Arctic is home to indigenous peoples with rich traditions, including the Inuit of Canada and Greenland. Cultural visits offer unique insights into their way of life.
Icebergs and Glaciers
Massive glaciers and floating icebergs are a signature feature of the Arctic landscape. Their scale and beauty are both humbling and unforgettable.
Wildlife Encounters
Besides polar bears, the Arctic hosts Arctic foxes, reindeer, walrus, whales, and numerous seabird species. Each region offers different opportunities for viewing animals in the wild.
Climate Science Hub
The Arctic plays a key role in global climate systems. Scientists closely monitor the region’s ice cover, ecosystems, and weather patterns to track environmental change.
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Personal Specialist
Expert travel advisor from start to finish
- Direct access to your travel specialist
- Consistent support for all your bookings
- Tailored advice based on your profile
- Responsive help for all your concerns
- Reliable contact throughout your journey
- Trusted expert guiding every next step
Tailored Itineraries
Every journey shaped just for your style
- Plans designed around your expectations
- Custom routes built with care and detail
- Itineraries focused on your interests
- Schedules refined to fit your timing
- Balanced pacing throughout the trip
- Trips planned for meaning and comfort
Continuous Improvement
Constantly refining how we support you
- Feedback-driven changes every season
- Lessons learned improve every detail
- Refined processes through experience
- Team development fuels better results
- Reviews drive smarter planning always
- We update your journey with insight
NEXUS Benefits
Perks and upgrades exclusive to NEXUS
- Complimentary upgrades where available
- Priority reservations secured for you
- Partner deals with extra added value
- Private access to premium experiences
- Special offers for returning travellers
- Loyalty rewarded with every journey
End-to-End Support
Complete travel help at every step
- Planning to follow-up, fully handled
- 24/7 support whenever it's needed
- Pre-checks for all essential documents
- Live help for any travel disruptions
- Support continues after you return
- Every detail managed start to end
Trusted Partners
We choose only trusted travel experts
- Fully accredited suppliers worldwide
- Partners meet strict service standards
- Vetted through years of shared success
- Backed by consistent client feedback
- Trusted by us and our customers alike
- Reviewed regularly for quality control
Getting to the Arctic
Access Points: Arctic voyages commonly depart from Longyearbyen (Svalbard), Reykjavik, Tromsø, Kangerlussuaq or remote towns in northern Canada.
Flights from the UK: Direct or connecting flights are available to gateway cities such as Oslo, Reykjavik or Montreal. We arrange onward flights and transfers as needed.
Visa Details: Visas may be required depending on the countries visited. For example, Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, while Canada and Norway have their own rules.
Entry Documents: A valid passport with at least six months’ validity is essential. Additional permits may be required for specific protected zones or Indigenous territories.
Travel with Nexus: We partner with leading Arctic operators offering small-ship expeditions, luxury vessels, and wildlife-focused voyages with expert guides onboard.
Arrival Support: We coordinate airport pickups, hotel stays, port transfers and pre-cruise briefings so you can focus on the journey ahead.
Getting Around the Arctic
Expedition Ships: Travel is by ice-rated expedition ships equipped for Arctic navigation. These vessels offer a balance of safety, comfort and exploration opportunities.
Zodiac Landings: Inflatable Zodiacs are used for shore landings and wildlife excursions, giving access to remote tundra, icebergs and marine life habitats.
Flights & Fly-Cruises: Some itineraries include internal flights to reach isolated embarkation points. We manage these connections to ensure smooth travel.
Guided Excursions: Led by naturalists and local experts, excursions may include glacier hikes, birdwatching, tundra walks and community visits.
Polar Safety: Operators adhere to strict safety protocols, and your clothing, boots and gear will be checked to prevent the introduction of non-native species.
Tailored Experiences: Whether you prefer polar bear sightings, cultural immersion or adventure activities, we match you with the perfect Arctic itinerary.
FAQs
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Final inspiration – Why the Arctic?
Other Popular Destinations
Antarctica
Canada
Alaska
