The frozen bookends of the Earth, Antarctica and the Arctic, are two of the most hypnotically beautiful destinations one can ever have the privilege of visiting. Despite their polarising locations, these destinations share an enigmatic wonder in their tranquil majesty, and expeditions here leave an indelible mark on the soul.
Those venturing north into the icy waters of the Arctic can find storied lands where polar bears roam beneath the emerald glow of the Northern Lights and Inuit communities live on the edge of civilisation following traditions unchanged for centuries. On the other side of the world, the waters of the Southern Ocean encircle a magical land where thousands of miles of Antarctic expanse are only occasionally broken by the cacophony of colossal penguin colonies, and where icebergs the size of cities calve into the waters of the Weddell Sea.
These days, one does not have to brave the conditions once endured by the great explorers to encounter the wonders of the Polar regions. A well-regulated number of supremely comfortable expedition cruise ships and luxury icebreakers offer comprehensive explorations of Polar waters, accessing areas of pristine wilderness simply impossible to reach by land. Those preferring an experience on dry land, however, are better catered for than ever before, with a plethora of stunning wilderness lodges to be found across the Arctic, as well as the advent of White Desert’s pioneering leave-no-trace luxury pods tempting those seeking the Antarctic adventure of a lifetime.
Venture to lands trodden by very few on an epic journey to the North Pole from Norway, sailing in supreme luxury. Trace the breathtaking coast of Spitsbergen before venturing north into an ice-filled wonderland.
Follow in the footsteps of the explorers crossing from Greenland to the Canadian High Arctic along the fabled Northwest Passage. Towering glaciers, majestic Arctic wildlife and isolated Inuit communities all await.
One of the only luxury icebreakers to traverse Arctic waters, Le Commandant Charcot delves deep into the frozen north while never comprising on luxury and adventure.
A dazzling new addition to the Polar circuit, Quark's Ultramarine offers some of the most spacious, modern suites in its class, and helicopter flights over pristine Antarctic wilderness.
Combine the convenience of a fly-cruise to Antarctica with the intimacy of a smaller, luxury vessel. Time at landing sites is maximised with capacity for just 76 passengers on board this modern, purpose-built ship.
With a focus on thrilling expeditions, an industry-leading guest to crew ratio and a formidable ice rating make Silver Endeavour perfect for those seeking intimate and luxurious Arctic adventures.
Inspired by space, Echo's six futuristic pods offer the most exclusive experience of the White Continent imaginable, and a collection of thrilling adventures on the ice.
Overlooking Antarctica's sparkling Schirmacher Oasis, Whichaway's outstanding location makes it the ideal base from which to explore azure ice caves and experience the wonders of Antarctica from dry land.
£££ | Great quality at competitive prices |
££££ | Excellent accommodation at a moderate to higher price level |
£££££ | The very best in class and priced accordingly |