What is your idea of a perfect vacation? Most people prefer white-sand beaches with turquoise waters and sipping cocktails under a palm tree, and that’s okay. There’s nothing wrong with a beach holiday, or a vacation spent in a uniquely beautiful city like Lisbon or Valencia, but what if you crave an adventure to the less explored parts of the world? What if you want to explore the wonders of the polar circle?
Going on a polar expedition is the escapade of a lifetime, but it requires preparation and knowledge before you set off into the unknown. Here’s what you need to know to choose the right polar expedition.
Do you want to go to the Arctic or the Antarctic?
The first question you need to answer is whether you want to go to the Arctic or the Antarctic. Earth’s northernmost and southernmost destinations are vastly different, so knowing what to expect is important before you board your ice-classed vessel.
The Arctic – Polar Bears, Rich Indigenous Cultures, and Variety
When you think of a polar expedition, chances are you’re thinking of traversing the Arctic Ocean in search of polar bears and stunning glacier views. Also known as the Northern Pole, the Arctic is accessible from Canada, Greenland, Russia, and Norway, and is much easier to reach than its southern counterpart, which makes it a more popular choice for a polar expedition.
There’s no better place in the world to be awestruck by Aurora Borealis, and learn more about indigenous communities that have lived there for centuries. Depending on the expedition you pick, you could visit Sámi, Nenets, or Inuit and discover more about their culture, traditions, and way of life.
North Pole is the only place where you can see polar bears in the wild, along with reindeer, and Arctic Foxes. The marine life is just as unique, and the expedition here could put you on the trail of beluga whales, orcas, and even narwhals.
The Arctic is not just ice and snow. It boasts dramatic fjords, massive glaciers, tundra, evergreen forests, and volcanic islands, each breathtaking in its own way. But if you’re not quite ready to go to the North Pole, there are trips like the EYOS Svalbard expedition that can take you close to the polar circle and show you its astounding beauty without going to the literal end of the world.
Antarctica – The Land of Extremes
Maybe you’re ready to push your limits and head to the South Pole, which is more isolated than the Arctic and gives a whole new meaning to the phrase “polar expedition.” This is where you come for otherworldly landscapes and to tread where very few people have.
Antarctica doesn’t have permanent human settlements, but various research facilities turned it a into hub for global climate research. Expansive glaciers and frozen plateaus stretch as far as the eye can see, all framed by unfathomably tall icebergs that make the South Pole look like an alien planet.
Even though the climate is unforgiving, over 230 animal species call Antarctica home, and among them, the most popular are emperor penguins and Weddell seals. You can do whale-watching, looking for blue, humpback, and killer whales, and giggle at leopard, elephant, and fur seals as they nap on the shore. Antarctica is also one of the few places on the planet to see Aurora Australis aka Southern Northern Lights.
Different Types of Expeditions on Offer
Now that you know the general direction of your travel, it’s time to choose the type of expedition that resonates with you the most. The biggest factors to consider are comfort, different activities, and the duration of your trip. Here are some of your options:
- Adventure Cruises: If you’re interested in actively participating in the exploration of the landscapes and love an adrenaline kick now and then, an adventure cruise could be a good fit for you. You’ll have comfortable accommodations, experienced guides, and a chance to do ice climbing, sea kayaking, snowshoeing, and for the bravest, polar snorkelling.
- Expeditionary Voyages: These expeditions are a level above adventure cruises in terms of exciting experiences and trip duration. They’re usually reserved for hardcore adventurers because they take longer and include ice camping, glacier skiing, or even diving beneath the ice. You should be prepared for some extreme conditions, physically fit, and prepared to take on the elements.
- Luxury Cruises: Finally, if having comfort and a five-star experience on your cruise is your priority, booking a luxury cruise could be the right choice. You’ll travel to the pole in luxurious cabins, have fabulous food, and go on excursions that are less extreme but no less memorable. You’ll probably travel to your destination on an ice yacht, famous for its unparalleled comfort.
Choosing the Right Operator and Budgeting
When you’re going to the end of the world, you want to travel with someone you trust. This is why it’s vital to choose the right and trustworthy expedition operator. Your safety is the priority, so look for companies that have pristine safety records, seasoned expedition guides, and care about sustainable travel practices.
Depending on your preferences, you can book with an operator specializing in a specific region. Additionally, some companies offer custom-tailored itineraries that cater to your interests and have small groups, which is always a welcome perk.
When it comes to budgeting, it’s important to state the facts from the get-go – polar expeditions aren’t cheap. The cost will vary on the type of experience you pick, but the prices go from $5,000 for budget options, up to $10,000 for mid-range trips, and upward of $20,000 for luxury cruises. Going on a polar expedition is definitely an investment, but one that will bring you one-of-a-kind memories.
Conclusion
Going on a polar expedition once in your life is a special experience that you’ll cherish forever. Whether you choose the North or the South, an adventure trip or a luxury cruise as long as you’re open to seeing the world in a completely new way and being prepared for the unexpected, traversing into the polar circle could just be one of those adventures that expand your horizons forever.
**This is a collaborative post
