Arctic Holidays

As a populated region, the Arctic is relatively accessible at any time of year - the winter months providing some of the best opportunities to witness the northern lights. However, in terms of cruising, the summer season, between June & September offer the best conditions for exploration.

For Wildlife

Birds are at their most spectacular and active early in the season, so we recommend trips in June & July. For other wildlife, sightings can be good throughout the summer - it is often a matter of luck, though our expedition leaders know the best places to look.

For Accessibility

North & West Spitsbergen cruises are the first to operate in the season, as this part of the archipelago becomes ice-free earliest. Other parts of the region are only accessible late in summer, when the ice has broken up sufficiently to allow vessels through. Even so, on our cruises around Spitsbergen, and to Greenland and the Canadian Arctic, the route can never be guaranteed. It is generally true to say that the later in the season, the more likelihood of getting there!

For Photography

While 24 hours of daylight early in the season mean you can watch for wildlife at any hour of the day or night, the light can be rather harsh during the day. Later in the season, the light is often better for photography.

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Voyages » About the Arctic » Best time to travel