Polar Expeditions: Discovering the Wonders of Antarctica and Svalbard | Travel News

There are places on Earth that feel like much more than a dot on a map. The Arctic and Antarctica are two of those destinations – untouched polar regions where raw beauty, dramatic scenery, and incredible wildlife are the stars of the show.
 

Two Different Worlds

While they are both in the polar region, they present contrasting experiences.
Svalbard to the north reveals stunning fjords, glaciers, tundra, and historical sites, with either the midnight sun in the summer or the aurora borealis in winter to light up the scenery. Wildlife in Svalbard includes Arctic foxes, seals, and if you are lucky, polar bears.

An expedition to Antarctica provides mind-blowing scenery, towering icebergs, endless white vistas, and a sea filled with waddling penguins, spirited whales, and lounging seals to greet you. Pure, untouched wilderness.

Life Onboard

Between explorations there is comfort and contemporary amenities to be found onboard the ships. For example, your Antarctic cruise could sail on MS Roald Amundsen, which includes a two-floor observation deck, on MS Fridtjof Nansen with three separate restaurants and fitness centre facilities, or potential on the MS Fram, which is decorated with Nordic themes. In the Arctic, the MS Fram or MS Spitsbergen could be used for navigating your adventure aboard a comfortable vessel for 150 guests.
 

Science and Exploration

Each cruise expedition will mix adventure and meaning. Upon traveling, guests will be given opportunities to participate in authentic research initiatives and science projects. For example, you might perform plankton observations, log whale sightings or collect climate data, as well as observe and record specimens through microscopes. All the ships have science centres containing and offering special microscopes, samples, and oceanographic instruments, including underwater drones.

Wildlife Encounters

Both regions will allow for incredible experiences with wildlife. Svalbard - April to August is generally the best opportunity to see polar bears, while May to August provides 11 cruise departures for seeing glaciers studying climate projects. If you travel to Antarctica, you may even be able to camp under the stars of the continent like a true explorer would experience it.

A Lasting Impression

Although these expeditions are designed for adventure and discovery, they are also designed to encourage a commitment to fragile ecosystems through appreciation and knowledge of emerging issues. With a responsibility and a stronger connection to nature, travelers will contribute to global research initiatives of travel adventures.