Picture yourself standing on the deck of an expedition ship, the crisp Arctic air filling your lungs as you watch a massive glacier calve before your eyes. The thunderous crack echoes across the fjord, followed by the mesmerizing splash of ancient ice meeting the sea. In the distance, a pod of humpback whales surfaces, their misty spouts visible against a backdrop of towering mountains. This isn’t some nature documentary it’s what awaits on a Greenland and Canadian Arctic cruise.
Unlike the crowded Mediterranean or Caribbean cruise routes, an Arctic expedition invites you into one of our planet’s last true wildernesses. These aren’t vacations filled with poolside lounging and endless buffets (though the food is surprisingly excellent). Instead, they promise genuine adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and encounters with wildlife and indigenous cultures that will forever change how you see the world.
Join me as we explore the extraordinary expedition cruise lines, remote destinations, and unforgettable experiences that make Greenland and Canada’s Arctic coast an adventure traveler’s dream.
Why Cruise to Greenland & Canada?
The Arctic regions of Greenland and Canada remain among the world’s least visited destinations not because they lack appeal, but because they’re challenging to access. This is precisely where expedition cruising shines, offering comfortable access to these remote wonders:
Arctic Landscapes That Defy Imagination
Nothing prepares you for your first glimpse of Greenland’s ice sheet, which covers 80% of the country. Towering glaciers meet the sea in dramatic fashion, calving icebergs larger than office buildings. Fjords cut deep into mountainous coastlines, creating otherworldly passages your ship will navigate. The Canadian Arctic’s Baffin Island offers equally stunning terrain, with sheer cliffs and pristine wilderness untouched by human development.
Wildlife Encounters of a Lifetime
The Arctic teems with extraordinary wildlife adapted to extreme conditions. Your daily logs will fill with sightings: humpback whales breaching alongside your ship, narwhals (the unicorns of the sea) in distant waters, seals sunning on ice floes, and if you’re lucky, polar bears hunting along the shoreline. Bring good binoculars you won’t want to miss a whale breach or an arctic fox darting across the tundra!
Cultural Richness Beyond Expectations
The human story of the Arctic is as compelling as its natural beauty. Inuit communities have thrived in these challenging landscapes for thousands of years, developing remarkable technologies and cultural practices. Many cruises include visits to communities where you’ll learn about traditional hunting techniques, witness intricate handicrafts, and perhaps join in traditional games or dances. You’ll also encounter evidence of Norse settlements in Greenland and the haunting remains of failed expeditions seeking the Northwest Passage.
Remote Exploration Made Accessible
Without an expedition ship, reaching many Arctic destinations would require weeks of difficult travel if they could be reached at all. Expedition cruises transform this equation, allowing you to sleep in a comfortable cabin while traveling to increasingly remote locations. Each morning brings a new adventure, with expert guides ensuring both safety and enrichment.
The Perfect Match for Adventure Seekers
If you’ve “been there, done that” with traditional vacations, the Arctic offers genuine adventure. Kayak alongside glaciers, hike across spongy tundra carpeted with tiny wildflowers, or take a polar plunge in frigid waters (yes, people actually do this!). Each day presents opportunities for discovery that few travelers will ever experience.
Top Expedition Cruise Lines
Choosing the right expedition cruise line dramatically impacts your Arctic experience. Each company brings its own philosophy, expertise level, and comfort standards:
For First-Time Arctic Explorers
Hurtigruten Expeditions
Hurtigruten offers an excellent introduction to expedition cruising, balancing adventure with accessibility. Cruise lines like Princess Cruises and Azamara also offer enriching expedition-style voyages that suit first-time Arctic travelers seeking comfort and discovery. Known for their Norwegian coastal expertise, they’ve expanded into polar regions with a strong science and sustainability focus.
Their hybrid-powered ships like the MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen reduce emissions while providing comfortable accommodations. Onboard you’ll find citizen science projects, lectures from glaciologists and marine biologists, and a distinctly Scandinavian atmosphere.
What makes them special: Their Science Center serves as the heart of each ship, where you can examine Arctic specimens under microscopes, attend workshops, and interact directly with the expedition team. The Norwegian heritage of the company gives them deep polar expertise.
Quark Expeditions
For nearly 30 years, Quark has specialized exclusively in polar travel, making them true Arctic and Antarctic experts. Their bright yellow parkas have become iconic in expedition cruising, and their focus remains squarely on maximizing your time exploring rather than onboard frills.
Their newest vessel, the Ultramarine, features two helicopters for incredible aerial exploration, while their tried-and-true Ocean Adventurer provides a more intimate experience with just 128 passengers.
What makes them special: Quark’s expedition staff includes world-class polar experts, many with scientific backgrounds and decades of Arctic experience. Their activity program is particularly strong, with options like helicopter flightseeing, alpine heli-hiking, and overnight camping (in Antarctic programs).
For Luxury & Comfort Seekers
Silversea Expeditions
If you’re hesitant about sacrificing comfort for adventure, Silversea proves you don’t have to choose. Their expedition ships, including the purpose-built Silver Endeavour, offer all-suite accommodations with butler service, fine dining, and sophisticated public spaces all while accessing the same remote locations as more spartan vessels.
Other cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises and Regent Seven Seas also cater to high-end travelers seeking Arctic experiences without compromising on luxury. Zodiac landings and wildlife excursions are just as adventurous, but you’ll return to luxurious surroundings, perhaps for a massage or cocktail in the observation lounge.
What makes them special: The all-inclusive nature of Silversea means virtually everything is covered premium spirits, gratuities, shore excursions, and even expedition gear like parkas and boots. Their guest-to-staff ratio is among the highest in expedition cruising.
Ponant
This French luxury expedition line has invested heavily in cutting-edge polar vessels, including the revolutionary Le Commandant Charcot the world’s first luxury icebreaker ship with hybrid-electric propulsion. Their distinctly European sensibility brings elegance to the Arctic, with French cuisine, chic design, and attentive service.
What makes them special: Ponant balances luxury with genuine scientific purpose their ships serve as research platforms, collecting data for oceanographic institutions. Le Commandant Charcot can reach destinations few other passenger vessels can access, including the geographic North Pole.
For Serious Adventurers
Lindblad Expeditions/National Geographic
The company that pioneered expedition cruising continues to set the standard for immersive exploration. Their partnership with National Geographic ensures top-tier naturalists, photographers, and researchers accompany every voyage, turning your cruise into a genuine expedition with scientific purpose. Royal Caribbean and Viking Cruises are also expanding into polar and expedition-style journeys, appealing to adventurous travelers with a taste for exploration and innovation.
Their ships emphasize functionality over luxury, though the newer National Geographic Endurance and National Geographic Resolution offer significantly upgraded accommodations with polar-class capabilities.
What makes them special: The expedition heritage runs deep founder Lars-Eric Lindblad led the first civilian expedition to Antarctica in 1966. Their undersea specialists use ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) to capture footage of marine life beneath the ice, sharing discoveries in daily presentations.
Aurora Expeditions
This Australian company takes a decidedly adventurous approach to Arctic exploration. Their ships including the Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle feature innovative X-BOW designs that cut through rough seas more efficiently and provide exceptional stability.
Group sizes are kept small, and the focus remains on maximizing time off the ship with extended shore excursions and activity options.
What makes them special: Aurora offers some of the most robust activity programs, including polar snorkeling, mountaineering, and extended trekking options for the physically fit. Even brands like MSC Cruises are beginning to test the waters in polar adventure cruising, signaling the growing demand for immersive Arctic itineraries. Their passenger demographic tends toward the more adventurous traveler seeking authentic experiences over amenities.
Most Arctic expedition cruises carry between 100-200 passengers, an ideal range that allows for intimate experiences while supporting a comprehensive expedition team. Ships are typically ice-strengthened or ice-class rated, with reinforced hulls and stabilization systems for navigating polar waters. All feature multiple Zodiacs those sturdy inflatable boats that serve as your transportation for landings and close-up exploration.
What to See: Arctic Wonders
The Arctic landscape presents a raw, elemental beauty unlike anywhere else on Earth. Here’s what awaits beyond the horizon:
Icebergs & Fjords
Greenland’s Ilulissat Icefjord (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) offers the ultimate iceberg experience. Here, the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier one of the fastest and most active in the world calves massive icebergs that drift through the fjord. Standing on deck as your ship carefully navigates these frozen giants creates a profound sense of humility before nature’s power.
The sheer scale is difficult to comprehend until you witness a Zodiac boat looking tiny as a water beetle approach an iceberg the size of an apartment building. The blues range from delicate turquoise to deep sapphire, created by centuries of compacted snow and the scattering of light.
Many expeditions offer kayaking among smaller icebergs and growlers (smaller fragments of ice), allowing you to paddle alongside these ephemeral sculptures. Equally moving are the guided hikes to glacier viewpoints, where you might witness calving events when massive chunks break away in a thunderous display of nature’s power.
Wildlife Encounters
Arctic wildlife sightings carry an element of fortunate chance, but experienced expedition leaders know where to maximize your opportunities:
Marine Mammals
Whale encounters often become cruise highlights, with humpbacks, minke, and fin whales commonly spotted in summer months. More elusive are the true Arctic specialists narwhals with their spiral tusks, ghostly white belugas, and bowhead whales that can live over 200 years. Harbor seals and walruses often lounge on ice floes, regarding passing ships with apparent indifference.
Polar Bears
Seeing a polar bear in the wild is never guaranteed, but certain routes improve your chances. Hudson Strait and northern Baffin Island offer good opportunities in late summer when bears patrol the shoreline. Your expedition team will scan constantly, and the announcement “Polar bear on the port side!” triggers an immediate rush of passengers to the rails.
Arctic Land Animals
Keep watch for arctic foxes darting across the tundra in their summer brown or winter white coats. Musk oxen with their prehistoric appearance graze in small herds, while caribou might be spotted in Canadian Arctic regions. Bird enthusiasts will delight in Arctic seabirds, from impressive glaucous gulls to charming puffins and rare ivory gulls.
Northern Lights & Midnight Sun
The Arctic’s light phenomena create magical conditions for travelers:
Midnight Sun
From June through early August, the sun never sets above the Arctic Circle, creating surreal 24-hour daylight that transforms the cruising experience. Evening Zodiac excursions in golden light that never dims, 3 AM wildlife watching from the observation deck, and meals with sunlight streaming through windows regardless of hour all become part of your new normal.
Northern Lights
Later season cruises (late August and September) offer the possibility of witnessing the aurora borealis. While never guaranteed, expedition crews monitor conditions and will often announce aurora sightings in the middle of the night for those who wish to witness this ethereal light show dancing across the Arctic sky.
Indigenous and Cultural Experiences
The human story of the Arctic is as compelling as its natural wonders, with Inuit communities maintaining traditional practices while adapting to the modern world:
Community Visits
Many expeditions include visits to settlements like Sisimiut or Ittoqqortoormiit in Greenland, or communities like Pond Inlet on Baffin Island. These visits are carefully arranged with community leaders to ensure respectful interaction. You might visit a local museum, watch traditional drum dancing performances, or shop for remarkable soapstone carvings and other handicrafts directly from the artists.
One particularly moving experience is learning about dogsledding traditions that remain vital for winter hunting. The special relationship between mushers and their working dogs offers insight into how humans have adapted to Arctic conditions for thousands of years.
Onboard Cultural Enrichment
Expedition ships often invite local cultural ambassadors aboard to share stories, demonstrate crafts, or perform traditional music. These encounters go beyond tourist presentations, offering genuine cultural exchange. You might learn throat singing techniques, try traditional games that test strength and agility, or hear firsthand accounts of climate change’s impact on traditional lifestyles.
Archaeological Sites
Throughout the Arctic lie remnants of human history from ancient Thule culture sites (ancestors of modern Inuit) to Norse settlements established over 1,000 years ago. Walking among the ruins of a Norse church in Greenland creates a tangible connection to the past, especially when expedition historians explain the archaeological significance of what you’re seeing.
Respectful Travel Tips
When visiting Arctic communities:
- Consider bringing small, thoughtful gifts to exchange quality tea, useful tools, or photos from your hometown are appreciated
- Always ask permission before photographing people
- Support local economies by purchasing authentic handicrafts
- Listen more than you speak, showing genuine interest in local perspectives
- Be mindful that some communities have restrictions on alcohol
Must-See Greenland and Canada Cruises Itineraries
Arctic expedition routes vary widely in focus, duration, and destination highlights:
Greenland Coastal Cruises (7-10 days)
These journeys typically focus solely on Greenland’s western or eastern coast, offering deeper exploration of this massive island:
West Greenland Highlights
Departing from Kangerlussuaq (reached by charter flight from Copenhagen), these voyages explore the picturesque western coastline. Key stops often include:
- Ilulissat with its UNESCO-protected icefjord
- Sisimiut, Greenland’s second-largest city with vibrant Inuit culture
- Nuuk, the charming capital with excellent museums
- Remote settlements like Itilleq, where you might join a community soccer match
These routes offer excellent glacier viewing, hiking opportunities on colorful tundra, and cultural encounters, making them perfect for first-time Arctic travelers.
East Greenland Exploration
Less visited and more remote, East Greenland cruises often operate between Reykjavik (Iceland) and Scoresby Sund, one of the world’s largest fjord systems. Highlights include:
- Scoresby Sund’s towering fjords and massive icebergs
- Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the world’s most remote settlements
- Possible polar bear sightings in the pack ice
- Dramatic geology and abandoned hunting cabins
These expeditions tend to be more adventurous, with fewer settlements and more wilderness experiences.
Canadian Arctic Passages (10-14 days)
Canada’s northern territories offer extraordinary landscapes and wildlife viewing:
Baffin Island Adventures
Often sailing from Iqaluit or Resolute, these expeditions explore the island’s dramatic eastern coastline and the wildlife-rich Lancaster Sound. Highlights include:
- The fluted mountains and fjords of Baffin Island
- Pond Inlet, where narwhal sightings are possible
- Devon Island’s stark “Mars-like” landscape
- Beechey Island, where Franklin Expedition remains were discovered
These voyages often focus on wildlife, with excellent opportunities for polar bear, seal, and whale encounters.
Northwest Passage Segments
Few expeditions traverse the entire Northwest Passage (typically 21+ days), but many cruise portions of this historic route. These journeys follow in the wake of famous explorers through the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, combining historical significance with remote wilderness. Highlights might include:
- Cambridge Bay with its cultural exhibitions
- Prince Leopold Island’s massive bird colonies
- Gjoa Haven, where Amundsen wintered during his successful passage
- Intricate navigation through island channels
Greenland + Canada Combination (14-17 days)
The most comprehensive Arctic expeditions combine western Greenland with the Canadian High Arctic, offering contrasting landscapes and cultures:
Kangerlussuaq to Resolute
These epic voyages cross Davis Strait to explore both regions:
- Begin with Greenland’s colorful communities and massive glaciers
- Cross to Baffin Island for Canadian wildlife opportunities
- Navigate parts of the Northwest Passage
- Experience both Danish-influenced Greenlandic culture and Canadian Inuit communities
These comprehensive expeditions provide the most complete Arctic experience but require a longer time commitment.
Most expeditions operate from a handful of gateway cities:
- Kangerlussuaq, Greenland (reached via charter from Copenhagen)
- Reykjavik, Iceland (for East Greenland routes)
- Ottawa/Toronto with charter flights to Resolute or Iqaluit
- Longyearbyen, Svalbard (for some combination itineraries)
Best Time to Visit
The Arctic cruise season is surprisingly short, running primarily from June through September, with each period offering distinct advantages:
Early Season (June–Early July)
Advantages:
- Pristine snow and ice conditions with maximum ice coverage
- Arctic flora bursts into brief but beautiful bloom
- Longer daylight hours with midnight sun phenomenon
- Birds returning to nesting colonies in great numbers
Considerations:
- Colder temperatures require more layers
- Some landing sites may remain inaccessible due to ice
- Polar bear sightings less likely as sea ice still extends offshore
Early season cruises feel more “wintry” and emphasize ice formations and landscapes. Pack extra warm layers, as temperatures typically range from 30-40°F (0-5°C), with wind chill making it feel colder.
Peak Season (Mid-July–August)
Advantages:
- Warmer temperatures (relatively speaking)
- Maximum wildlife activity, especially marine mammals
- Fuller access to landing sites as ice recedes
- Continued long daylight hours
Considerations:
- Prime season means higher prices
- More expedition ships in the region (though “crowded” is never an issue)
This represents the ideal balance for most travelers, with temperatures sometimes reaching the 50s°F (10-15°C) on sunny days. You’ll still need warm clothing, but activities become more comfortable.
Late Season (September)
Advantages:
- Possibility of Northern Lights as darkness returns
- Fall colors tinting the tundra red and gold
- Excellent whale watching as they prepare for migration
- Generally fewer vessels operating
Considerations:
- Rapidly cooling temperatures
- Rougher seas possible
- Some wildlife beginning to migrate south
September brings a more contemplative atmosphere, with beautiful low-angled light for photography. However, come prepared for temperatures dropping back into the 30s°F (0-5°C) and increasing wind.
Weather & Packing Tips
The Arctic deserves respect when it comes to preparation. Even in “summer,” conditions can range from pleasantly sunny to bitingly cold and wet within hours:
- Layer strategically: Base layer (wool or synthetic), mid-layer (fleece or down), waterproof outer layer
- Don’t forget extremities: Waterproof gloves, warm hat, neck gaiter, and quality wool socks
- Footwear matters: Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support for uneven terrain
- Protect your eyes: Polarized sunglasses and brimmed hat (the Arctic sun is intense)
- For photographers: Extra batteries (cold drains them quickly) and rain protection for gear
Most expedition companies provide detailed packing lists and often supply expedition parkas and rubber boots, saving you luggage space.
Shore Excursion & Activity Highlights
Arctic expeditions offer a remarkable range of activities, most included in your cruise fare:
Zodiac Cruising
The workhorse of expedition cruising, these sturdy inflatable boats get you closer to icebergs, shorelines, and wildlife than the ship ever could. Bundled up in your layers with life jacket secured, you’ll zip across the water with an expedition guide, perhaps approaching a maze of icebergs or following a pod of whales. The 360-degree views and proximity to the elements make Zodiac cruises unforgettable.
Pro tip: Sit on the side rather than middle bench for the best photography opportunities, and always keep one hand for the boat when conditions are choppy.
Guided Hikes & Tundra Walks
Most expeditions offer hiking options for different fitness levels:
- Easy nature walks: Gentle strolls to photography vantage points or archaeological sites
- Moderate hikes: Climbing ridgelines for panoramic views or reaching more distant glaciers
- Challenging treks: For the fit and adventurous, expeditions sometimes offer longer, more strenuous options
Walking across Arctic tundra feels otherworldly the spongy vegetation beneath your feet, tiny wildflowers defying the harsh climate, and vast open spaces creating a profound sense of wilderness.
Community Visits
Already discussed in the cultural section, these opportunities to connect with Arctic residents provide important context for your journey. Whether watching artisans at work, participating in traditional games, or simply wandering a settlement’s streets, these encounters often become unexpected highlights.
Specialty Activities
Depending on your expedition cruise line, additional activities may be available (sometimes at extra cost):
- Kayaking programs: Some ships offer one-time paddling excursions, while others have dedicated kayak programs running throughout the voyage
- Photography workshops: Expert photographers lead sessions both onboard and ashore
- Polar plunges: The (brief!) experience of swimming in Arctic waters, followed by warm towels and hot drinks
- Helicopter flight-seeing: On ships equipped with helicopters, aerial tours provide breathtaking perspectives
- Fishing experiences: Learn traditional fishing techniques in certain locations
Cruising Responsibly in the Arctic
The Arctic’s fragile environment demands thoughtful visitation:
Small Ship Advantage
Expedition vessels typically carry 50-200 passengers, creating minimal impact while allowing meaningful experiences:
- Smaller groups mean less shoreline disturbance during landings
- Lower fuel consumption and emissions compared to conventional cruise ships
- Less visual and noise pollution in pristine environments
- More educational focus, building ambassadors for Arctic conservation
Sustainability Practices
Look for expedition companies demonstrating environmental commitment through:
- Carbon offset programs for voyage emissions
- Elimination of single-use plastics onboard
- Advanced wastewater treatment systems
- Use of sustainable or hybrid propulsion technology
- Support for scientific research and conservation initiatives
AECO Guidelines
Most reputable operators belong to the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), which establishes strict protocols for responsible tourism:
- Wildlife distance requirements to prevent disturbance
- Visitor guidelines for community interactions
- Site-specific landing protocols to minimize impact
- Educational standards for expedition teams
As a passenger, you can contribute by following guide instructions, leaving no trace during shore landings, supporting local economies during community visits, and becoming an informed advocate for Arctic conservation after your journey.
Conclusion
An expedition cruise through Greenland and Arctic Canada offers so much more than a vacation it’s a journey of discovery that changes how you see our planet. From the humbling experience of standing before a massive calving glacier to the joy of watching a pod of narwhals from your ship’s deck, these adventures connect you with our world’s wildest places in meaningful ways.
The Arctic speaks in a language of vast silences, dramatic light, and elemental forces. It reveals how humans have adapted to extreme conditions for thousands of years while showcasing wildlife that thrives where most creatures couldn’t survive. Above all, it offers perspective reminding us of nature’s grandeur and our responsibility to protect these irreplaceable wilderness areas.
Ready to step into the world’s last great wilderness? Start researching expedition options for 2025 now the short season and limited capacity mean the best itineraries fill quickly. Whether you choose Greenland’s iceberg-filled fjords or Canada’s wildlife-rich passages, an Arctic expedition promises memories that will stay with you long after you’ve returned to warmer latitudes.