Polar Cruises

Discover the unique wildlife and breathtaking scenery of the Arctic and Antarctica, perhaps the last pristine and true wildernesses left on our planet. For centuries, the polar regions, both in the north and south, have beckoned explorers to uncover their immense mysteries.

Today, these remote and captivating realms are more accessible than ever thanks to polar cruise ships like the MS Expedition and MV Plancius. Prepare to embark on a wondrous journey, where you'll encounter stunning wildlife and awe-inspiring landscapes on a truly unforgettable adventure.

Featured Holidays in the Polar Regions

Highlights of a Polar Cruise

Embarking on a polar expedition immerses you in the pristine habitats of some of the planet's most enchanting creatures. In Antarctica, you'll encounter endearing penguins waddling gracefully and colossal elephant seals basking on icy shores. Beneath the frigid waves, humpback whales and orcas breach, while albatrosses glide gracefully overhead. In the Arctic, fortunate adventurers may have the privilege of spotting the iconic polar bear as it forages for sustenance. The Arctic also hosts the delightful Arctic fox, massive walruses, charming seals and majestic bowhead whales.

Discover Antarctica

Antarctica remains a destination visited by only a handful of people and fewer yet get to experience it the way you can with KE. Our exclusive Antarctica tours provide a once-in-a-lifetime chance to either unwind on our specialised expedition vessels or embark on an unforgettable camping adventure on the Antarctic shelf, retracing the paths of legendary polar explorers like Shackleton and Scott. During your Antarctica cruise, you'll be immersed in encounters with magnificent wildlife from breaching whales and playful seals to charismatic penguins and much more.

 

Learn More

Arctic adventures

Embrace the chance of a lifetime to venture into one of Earth's most remote and mesmerising realms. These expeditions lead you through the unspoiled, icy domains of the Arctic, revealing dramatic fjords, towering glaciers and a starkly beautiful wilderness. Whether you're navigating Greenland's rugged coastlines, discovering the Svalbard archipelago or delving into Canada's Arctic, every cruise promises breathtaking encounters with the region's exceptional wildlife, including seals, arctic foxes and hopefully polar bears.

 

 

Learn More

More information about Polar Cruises

The best time for a Polar cruise is typically during the Arctic's summer months from May to September, or the Antarctic's summer season from November to March. These periods offer milder weather, active wildlife and extended daylight hours for exploration. Your choice depends on whether you're heading to the North or South Pole and your specific interests.

Five of our favourite polar cruises


Svalbard Hike and Sail

In the Arctic realm, this polar cruise expedition takes you on a week long journey along Svalbard's coastline. Aboard the elegant 3 mast schooner, the Rembrandt van Rijn, with a maximum of 33 passengers, you'll have a chance to spot Arctic wildlife such as walruses, Arctic foxes and even polar bears. Zodiac and shore excursions around Spitsbergen, including the northernmost community in the world, Ny Alesund, offer unforgettable experiences. Plus, expert expedition staff lead fantastic hikes through awe-inspiring landscapes.

 

Antarctic Hike and Sail Expedition

For those seeking a more active polar cruise, the Antarctic Hike and Sail Expedition is a dream come true. This thrilling journey includes kayaking, snowshoeing, mountaineering and camping in Antarctica's pristine wilderness. With zodiac and shore excursions for wildlife spotting and activities, an expert team of expedition polar leaders ensure an unforgettable adventure.

 

North Spitsbergen, Arctic Summer

This incredible polar cruise offers a stunning 10 day holiday on a schooner with opportunities to witness Arctic wildlife like walruses, Arctic foxes and polar bears. Explore the north of Spitsbergen and marvel at the impressive Monaco Glacier. With fantastic walks in awe-inspiring landscapes, guided by expert expedition staff, this trip promises to be a breathtaking experience.

 

Antarctica Classic Expedition

The Antarctica Classic Expedition is a once-in-a-lifetime polar cruise to the majestic Antarctic continent. Witness penguins, whales and magnificent Antarctic wildlife as you traverse the famous Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands. A team of expert expedition polar leaders ensures an enriching journey with all zodiac excursions, shore trips and meals included. For the adventurous, there are options to kayak and camp but advance booking is essential due to limited availability.

 

In the Realm of the Polar Bear and Ice

This polar cruise offers a circumnavigation of the Svalbard archipelago, the land of the midnight sun, surrounded by stunning Arctic wildlife. With opportunities to spot whales, walruses, seabirds and hopefully polar bears, this expedition provides a profound connection with the Arctic's natural wonders. Zodiac shore excursions, hiking on and around Svalbard and 24 hours of sunlight in the height of summer make this journey an unforgettable exploration of the land of the midnight sun.

Worldwide Adventure Holidays

We offer over 360 active adventures in 100 countries worldwide. Best known for our pioneering itineraries and challenging trips with an 'edge', we also offer a range of easier guided and self-guided walking, cycling, family and wildlife journeys throughout the world. Based in Keswick in the Lake District, we are passionate about creating unique travel experiences for our customers.

fa icon-harness

Trusted

40 years of operating; fully bonded and your money 100% protected.

fa icon-backpack

Active

From leisurely walking and cycling to push-your-limits expeditions.

fa icon-planet

Worldwide

400 Guided Group and Self-Guided adventures in 100 countries.

fa icon-save-the-planet

Sustainable

100% carbon absorption. Caring for the environment and local communities.

Footer logos
Your Wishlist
No Wishlist Items

Start your next adventure.

Click the heart icon on the search or holiday pages to save a holiday to your wishlist.

Holiday Search