Exclusive Arctic Experiences: Sailing the Top of the World with Princess Cruises®

There are places on this earth that whisper to the soul, landscapes so vast and primordial they seem to exist outside of time. The Arctic Circle is one such place. It’s a realm of surreal light, of profound silence broken by the crack of a calving glacier, and of wildlife that thrives at the very edge of existence. For over two decades, I’ve sailed to the planet’s most remote corners, and I can tell you with certainty: a journey to the top of the world is not just a vacation; it is a transformation.

But how does one approach such a formidable, untamed wilderness? The answer lies in choosing a vessel that marries the spirit of exploration with the grace of refined comfort. This is where Princess Cruises® excels, offering a passage to the extraordinary without sacrificing an ounce of elegance. They have perfected the art of bringing you to the world’s wonders in a way that feels both adventurous and utterly serene.

This is your guide to that once-in-a-lifetime voyage. As you read and feel the call of the north, remember that you can explore specific itineraries, dates, and pricing at any time using the comprehensive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page. Your grand adventure is closer than you think.

Why Princess Cruises®? The Perfect Blend of Exploration and Elegance

Choosing the right cruise line for an Arctic expedition is paramount. You need a company with proven logistical expertise in navigating challenging waters, yet you desire an onboard experience that pampers and restores you after a day of profound discovery. Princess Cruises strikes this balance with masterful precision.

• Unmatched Comfort: Imagine returning from a Zodiac tour among icebergs to a warm, inviting stateroom, complete with the renowned Princess Luxury Bed. This is the difference. Princess ships are floating sanctuaries, ensuring that your adventure is always cushioned by comfort.
• World-Class Service: The crew onboard a Princess ship are more than staff; they are the architects of your experience. From the steward who remembers your name to the sommelier who suggests the perfect wine to pair with the view, their warm, intuitive service elevates every moment.
• Effortless MedallionClass® Experience: Modern exploration is made seamless with the OceanMedallion™. This wearable device unlocks your stateroom, allows you to order food and drinks to wherever you are on the ship, and provides a truly personalized, touch-free journey. It’s sophisticated technology designed to make your voyage simpler, so you can focus on the spectacle outside your window.
• Enrichment and Insight: Princess understands that a journey to the Arctic is an educational one. Onboard lectures from naturalists, geologists, and historians provide deep context to the landscapes you’re witnessing, transforming your trip from a scenic tour into a profound learning experience.

We understand that a journey of this magnitude is a significant decision. To see how these elements can come together to create your perfect voyage, we invite you to Plan Your Arctic Circle Adventure with a complimentary, no-obligation quote from our travel experts.

Your Floating Sanctuary: Onboard the Journey North

The ship is more than your transport; it is your home, your restaurant, and your front-row seat to the greatest show on Earth. Princess ships that ply these northern waters are designed with the destination in mind, featuring expansive glass windows and observation lounges that blur the line between inside and out.

Staterooms with a View

In the Arctic, your stateroom is your private observation deck. I cannot overstate the value of a Balcony or Mini-Suite on this itinerary. Waking up, drawing the curtains, and stepping out into the crisp polar air to witness a pod of whales breaching in a sun-drenched fjord is an experience that will stay with you forever. It’s the ultimate luxury: a private, intimate connection to this wild place.

Wondering about the difference between a balcony and a mini-suite for this journey? Our experts have sailed these ships and can provide firsthand advice. Simply click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner for a real-time conversation.

Culinary Delights at Sea

Princess Cruises is celebrated for its culinary program, and this is never more appreciated than in the remote Arctic. After a day of exploration, settling in for an exceptional meal is part of the ritual.

• Specialty Dining: Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria or savor a perfectly cooked steak at the Crown Grill. These intimate dining venues provide a sophisticated atmosphere to recount the day's adventures.
• Main Dining Rooms: With "Dine My Way," you have the flexibility to eat when and with whom you choose, enjoying a multi-course menu of exquisite dishes that changes daily.
• Casual Fare: From the World Fresh Marketplace to the pizza at Alfredo's, there are always delicious, convenient options available, perfect for a quick bite before a lecture or evening show.

Relaxation and Rejuvenation

The rhythm of an Arctic cruise is one of exhilarating discovery followed by peaceful contemplation. The ship’s amenities are designed to facilitate this. Unwind in the adults-only Sanctuary, a serene enclave where you can enjoy the passing scenery from a plush lounger. Soothe tired muscles with a hot stone massage in the Lotus Spa, or simply find a quiet corner in the library with a good book and a cup of tea, watching the world of ice and rock drift by.

A Tapestry of Ice and Fire: Unveiling a Potential Arctic Itinerary

While every Arctic itinerary is unique, they all weave a narrative of dramatic landscapes and ancient cultures. A typical voyage often explores the jewels of Norway and Iceland, with select sailings venturing even further into the high Arctic.

The Norwegian Fjords: Gateway to the High North

Your journey often begins by tracing the intricate, majestic coastline of Norway. You’ll sail through deep fjords carved by ancient glaciers, their sheer cliffs plunging into impossibly blue water. Ports like Tromsø, the "Paris of the North," offer a vibrant mix of polar history and modern Norwegian culture. Further north, you reach Honningsvåg, the gateway to the North Cape. Standing at this cliff edge, gazing out at the Barents Sea under the ethereal glow of the Midnight Sun, is a moment of pure, unadulterated awe.

Iceland's Dramatic Landscapes: Where Volcanoes Meet Glaciers

The "Land of Ice and Fire" is a geological wonderland. In Akureyri, nestled in Iceland’s longest fjord, you can embark on world-class whale watching tours, seeking out humpbacks, minke whales, and even the elusive blue whale. From Reykjavík, the vibrant capital, the famous Golden Circle awaits, showcasing the explosive power of the Geysir geothermal area, the thundering majesty of Gullfoss waterfall, and the historic beauty of Þingvellir National Park, where tectonic plates pull apart.

The Untamed Edge: Svalbard & Greenland (Select Sailings)

For the ultimate polar expedition, select itineraries venture to the Svalbard archipelago or the icy shores of Greenland. This is a different realm entirely. Here, the landscape is dominated by immense glaciers and stark, beautiful tundra. It is the kingdom of the polar bear, the arctic fox, and vast colonies of seabirds. These sailings are true expeditions, offering a glimpse into a world that remains profoundly wild.

Have a specific question about a particular port of call or the feasibility of combining certain shore excursions? Our dedicated cruise specialists are on hand to provide personalized advice. Give them a call at 1 (888) 883‑0460 for a no-obligation chat about crafting your perfect itinerary.

Beyond the Horizon: Curated Shore Excursions

The magic of an Arctic cruise truly comes alive when you step ashore. Princess Cruises, in partnership with local experts, offers a portfolio of excursions designed to immerse you in the culture and nature of the region. These are not just tours; they are core memories in the making.

• Dog Sledding on a Glacier: Experience the exhilarating power and silence of a dog sled team as you glide across a vast expanse of ice, a truly iconic Arctic adventure.
• Visit a Sámi Camp: Meet the indigenous people of northern Scandinavia, listen to their stories and traditional joik songs, and learn about their deep connection to the land and their reindeer herds.
• Kayaking Among Icebergs: Paddle through a serene fjord, getting a water-level perspective of glittering ice formations and keeping an eye out for curious seals.
• North Cape Pilgrimage: Make the journey to the "top of Europe," a dramatic 1,000-foot cliff, and receive a certificate to commemorate your visit to this iconic landmark.
• Whale Watching & Puffin Seeking: Join expert marine biologists on a RIB boat to get thrillingly close to the gentle giants of the deep and the charming "clowns of the sea."

These experiences are just the beginning. The beauty of working with our agency is our ability to help you select and arrange the perfect excursions that match your interests and activity level. To start building a voyage that is uniquely yours, we invite you to Get a Custom Quote.

The Soul of the Arctic: What It Truly Feels Like

Beyond the itineraries and amenities, what is the essence of an Arctic journey? It’s the quality of the light—a soft, golden glow that lasts for 24 hours during the Midnight Sun, painting the glaciers in hues of pink and orange. It’s the profound, humbling silence of a place where nature is unequivocally in charge. It’s the thrill of seeing a puffin with its beak full of fish, a majestic reindeer silhouetted on a ridge, or the fluke of a great whale disappearing into the depths.

It’s a feeling of connection—to the planet in its purest form, to the resilient people who call this place home, and to your fellow travelers who share in the wonder. You will return home with more than photographs; you will return with a renewed sense of perspective and a deep appreciation for the wild, beautiful world we inhabit.

Your Arctic Dream, Made Effortless

A journey to the Arctic Circle is an investment in a lifetime of memories. Navigating the options, from the right ship and stateroom to the perfect combination of shore excursions, can be complex. That is where our expertise becomes your greatest asset. We handle the details so you can focus on the dream.

We have the knowledge and relationships to ensure your voyage is seamless, personalized, and exceeds every expectation. The top of the world is not as far as it seems, and the path to get there begins here.

The Arctic is calling. Let us help you answer. Inquire About This Sailing today and allow our team of dedicated cruise specialists to craft the voyage of a lifetime for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Your Arctic Cruise

When is the best time to cruise the Arctic?

The Arctic cruise season is during the Northern Hemisphere's summer, typically from May to September. This is the time of the Midnight Sun, when you'll experience long days (up to 24 hours of daylight), milder temperatures, and the best opportunities for wildlife viewing as the ice recedes.

What should I pack for an Arctic cruise?

Layering is key. Pack thermal underwear, fleece or wool mid-layers, and a waterproof and windproof outer jacket and pants. Don't forget a warm hat, gloves, wool socks, and waterproof boots for shore excursions. Onboard the ship, the dress code is smart casual, with optional formal nights.

Will I see the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are most visible during periods of darkness. Since most Arctic cruises operate during the summer's Midnight Sun, it is generally too light to see them. For aurora viewing, you would need to travel in the late autumn or winter months.

Is an Arctic cruise physically demanding?

It doesn't have to be. There are activities for all fitness levels. You can enjoy the scenery from the ship's deck or participate in gentle walking tours. More adventurous options like hiking or kayaking are available but are always optional. The cruise itself is very comfortable and relaxing.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

Wildlife sightings are a highlight but are never guaranteed. Common sightings include various species of whales (humpback, minke, orca), seals, reindeer, arctic foxes, and vast colonies of seabirds like puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. On itineraries that include Svalbard, there is a chance of spotting the magnificent polar bear.