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Polar Tours

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Quick answer

A polar tour is an expedition — usually by small ship — to the Arctic regions of Svalbard and Greenland, where you land by Zodiac boat to watch wildlife, glaciers and sea ice with naturalist guides. The season runs mainly from late spring to late summer, under the midnight sun.

Updated Ekim 2026

What to expect on Polar tours

  • Expedition, not cruise

    Plans are driven by ice, weather and wildlife. The expedition leader may change the route overnight to follow a polar bear sighting or avoid a storm. Flexibility is the point — and the magic.

  • Zodiac landings and ship days

    Most days include one or two outings in small inflatable boats: landing on remote shores, cruising past glacier fronts, hiking on the tundra. Between them you'll attend talks by biologists, geologists and historians.

  • Wildlife on its own terms

    Walruses, seals, reindeer, Arctic foxes, seabirds — and with luck, polar bears. Strict distance rules protect the animals and you, and armed guides accompany every landing in polar bear country.

  • Comfort at the end of the world

    Expedition ships are smaller than classic cruise liners, with a relaxed dress code, cabins with private bathrooms and a lounge with big windows. Waterproof expedition boots are usually provided.

Your Polar tour questions, answered

When is the best time for an Arctic expedition?

Most Arctic expeditions run from about May to September. June and July bring 24-hour daylight and nesting seabirds; August and September offer more open water to sail further north and sometimes the first northern lights.

Will I definitely see polar bears?

Sightings are common on Svalbard expeditions but never guaranteed. Bears live on the sea ice, and the expedition team spends hours scanning with binoculars to find them — from a safe distance.

Is a polar expedition physically demanding?

Moderately. You need to step in and out of Zodiac boats with help from the crew and walk on uneven terrain. Most healthy travelers manage well; tell us about any mobility issues before booking.

What should I pack for the Arctic?

Layers: thermal base layers, a fleece, a waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers, warm gloves, a hat and sunglasses — the light reflected from ice is intense. Check what your ship provides, as many lend boots and parkas.

Do I need special documents for Svalbard?

Svalbard has its own entry rules, but almost all travelers arrive via mainland Norway, so you go through Norwegian (Schengen) border control on the way. Check the entry requirements for both Norway and Svalbard before you travel.

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