The Arctic vs. Antarctica Cruises: Cruising North or Sailing South for Your Polar Adventure?

The Arctic

The best time to explore the Arctic is from late spring to early fall (May–September). During these months, temperatures are milder and wildlife is more active, making it an excellent time for outdoor adventures.

Choose the Arctic if you love:

• A blend of wildlife and cultural immersion (indigenous communities, reindeer herding).

• Slightly warmer climates and activities like dog sledding and ice fishing.

• Easier accessibility with flights to Norway, Sweden or Canada.

For a cruise that focuses on the journey towards the North Pole and the cultural heritage of the indigenous communities, consider Encounter with the Last Guardians of the North Pole (13 Days) from Ponant.

Ponant's cruises offer adventure and sustainability with a French flair, and this is no exception. Sailing to and from Nuuk, Greenland, this cruise takes you along the western coast of Greenland to the remote village of Kullorsuaq. Here you can enjoy the hospitality of the Inuit peoples, learning about their history and way of life. Activities include taking a dog sled trip, learning to make a traditional Inuit kayak and even camping overnight on the pack ice!

For immersive wildlife experiences, consider Svalbard Explorer — Best of High Arctic Norway (10 Days) from Quark Expeditions.

Expert guides will help you explore the landscape and wildlife of the Svalbard archipelago, north of mainland Norway. The islands are famous for wildlife, including polar bears and walruses, along with breathtaking fjords and glaciers. Adventure options include shore excursions via Zodiacs for a closer look at the rugged terrain and unique Arctic ecosystems. And for the brave, a "Polar Plunge" is scheduled once on each voyage! Purely optional, participants can take a dip in the icy waters — closely monitored by the crew and onboard physicians, of course.

Antarctica

The best time to travel to Antarctica is from November to March, the Antarctic summer. During these months, wildlife is at its most active and temperatures are relatively milder, allowing for better access to the continent and its surrounding waters.

Choose Antarctica if you love:

• Landscapes of towering icebergs and glaciers.

• Extraordinary wildlife encounters, from penguins to humpback whales.

• The thrill of reaching the planet's southernmost frontier.

For a nature-focused cruise, consider The Antarctic Explorer (13 Days) from Viking Expeditions.

This cruise gives you the opportunity to explore Buenos Aires and Tierra del Fuego in Argentina, before crossing the Drake Passage to Antarctica. There's plenty of time to kayak among glaciers. You can take a Zodiac ride to the shore to view napping seals at a respectful distance, or even explore the icy depths on a submarine dive. And as with all these polar cruises, resident scientists and experts onboard can help you learn more about your destination for a richer experience.

Finally, for a voyage that offers a culturally rich journey with a mix of Antarctic and South American highlights, consider The Southern Journey Voyage from Azamara (24 Days).

This cruise includes four days in Antarctica, including Elephant Island, as part of a wider itinerary that encompasses Chile, Argentina, the Falkland Islands and Uruguay. The Chilean stops include Puerto Montt, the gateway to Chile's Lake District and western Patagonia. The Falkland Islands are renowned for their many penguin colonies, seabirds and marine life. Finally, Montevideo and Buenos Aires offer a sophisticated way to round off the trip. Here you can explore elegant architecture, lively markets and irresistible food and wine.

While onboard an Arctic or Antarctic cruise, you will have access to a variety of dining options depending on which line you sail with. Historically, if you were an explorer traversing these parts of the world, you would have had a lot less to choose from!