An Arctic cruise is an unforgettable experience. You will travel to the heart of one of the most pristine areas on earth, where you will be treated to magical landscapes, impressive wildlife and the chance to see the spectacular northern lights. But before you leave, good preparation is essential. This is no ordinary holiday! These four tips will ensure your Arctic cruise is an adventure to remember.
Choose The Right Season For Your Trip
The Arctic is an environment where the seasons can vary quite extremely, and the time of year you travel determines what to expect. Want the unique experience of the midnight sun, where it is light 24 hours a day? Then you should definitely travel during the summer months, from May to August. This constant sunshine creates a surreal effect and allows you to enjoy the nature around you every moment of the day. However, if you are fascinated by the magical northern lights, the autumn period, from September onwards, is ideal. The days get shorter and the night offers a good chance to see this spectacular light show. This is also the time when the ice formations return and the landscape changes back into an impressive ice world. Think carefully about what you would like to experience during your trip, as the right season can make a big difference.
Prepare For All Weather Conditions
The weather in the Arctic has a mind of its own and often changes faster than you expect. Temperatures can be fairly mild in summer, but cold winds, rain or even snow are always possible. It is therefore useful to dress in layers, that way you can easily take off or add a layer if needed.
A sturdy, waterproof jacket and good, warm shoes are not a luxury. Don’t forget your sunglasses either, as the sunlight reflecting off the ice can be quite bright. In autumn, the cold intensifies quickly, so thick socks, a warm hat and gloves are essential. Comfortable clothing really is a must here, as nothing should distract you from enjoying the scenery. With the right equipment, you can have a relaxed adventure and focus on the Arctic instead of the cold!
Discover The Special Animals You May Encounter
One of the biggest highlights of an Arctic cruise is the chance to see unique animals in their natural habitat. The Arctic is home to impressive animal species that are perfectly adapted to the extreme cold. Think polar bears moving across ice floes, walruses basking on rocky shorelines, and maybe even humpback whales swimming through the water. Seeing these animals up close is a truly magical experience. It is smart to do some reading about these animals before departure. Most Arctic cruises have expert guides on board to help you spot wildlife and understand their behaviour. This way, you not only learn more about these special animals, but you also get a sense of being part of their habitat. Binoculars are not a luxury, by the way, as they allow you to get an even better view of everything while keeping a safe distance and not disturbing the animals.
Take Advantage Of All Activities And Excursions
An Arctic cruise offers you the chance to do much more than just enjoy the view from the ship. Adventure activities and excursions are often offered that bring you closer to the landscape and nature.
Think kayaking among the icebergs, hikes across the tundra, and for the real daredevils: a polar plunge into the icy waters! These experiences make the adventure even more intense and create memories you won’t soon forget. Shore excursions are often a highlight of the cruise. You get the chance to explore the land on foot and get to unique places you would never normally visit. Whether you are a photographer dreaming of unique images, or just want to breathe in the peace and beauty of the surroundings, these excursions add so much more to your trip. Find out in advance which activities are available so that you get the most out of your Arctic cruise.
