Unlock the Arctic: A Luxury Expedition Cruise with Abercrombie & Kent

There are places on this earth that whisper to the soul, landscapes so vast and primordial they recalibrate your sense of wonder. The Arctic is one such place. It is a realm of crushing ice and ethereal light, of profound silence broken only by the crack of a calving glacier or the call of a seabird. For decades, this magnificent wilderness was the exclusive domain of hardened explorers. Today, it calls to a new kind of adventurer: one who seeks the thrill of discovery without sacrificing the pinnacle of comfort. This is the world of Abercrombie & Kent, and this is your invitation to unlock it.

An expedition to the High Arctic is not a vacation; it is a transformation. It’s the feeling of the polar wind on your face as you stand on the bow, watching for the tell-tale ivory shape of a polar bear against the snow. It’s the humbling scale of a Greenlandic iceberg, a floating mountain of sapphire and turquoise. It’s a journey to the top of the world, where luxury is not just about thread count, but about access, expertise, and the privilege of witnessing the planet at its most raw and beautiful.

The Allure of the Arctic: Beyond the Ordinary Vacation

Imagine a world painted in a thousand shades of white and blue, where the sun circles the horizon for 24 hours a day, casting an otherworldly glow upon an endless expanse of ice. This is the Arctic in summer. It’s a destination that defies easy description, a sensory experience that must be felt to be understood. It’s a departure from the predictable, a step into a living, breathing diorama of natural history.

Forget crowded beaches and tourist traps. Here, your companions are pods of curious beluga whales, colonies of walruses hauled out on remote shores, and the solitary majesty of the polar bear, the undisputed king of this icy domain. You will trade city noise for the deep, resonant silence of the tundra and exchange artificial light for the perpetual twilight of the midnight sun. This is travel that gets into your bones, a story you will tell for the rest of your life. If you're ready to explore what this profound journey entails, you can see a variety of itineraries and departure dates using the intuitive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page.

The Abercrombie & Kent Difference: Redefining Expedition Cruising

In the world of expedition travel, one name stands as a paragon of excellence: Abercrombie & Kent. For over 60 years, A&K has been pioneering luxury adventures to the world’s most remote corners. They did not simply join the expedition cruise market; they defined it. Their approach is a masterful blend of rugged exploration and uncompromising luxury, ensuring that your journey into the wild is as comfortable as it is exhilarating.

An Unmatched Expedition Team

The true heart of any A&K Arctic expedition is its team. This is not a group of tour guides; it is a hand-picked roster of accomplished experts. Your expedition vessel becomes a floating university, staffed with passionate biologists, ornithologists, geologists, historians, and professional photographers. These are the people who can spot a polar bear from a mile away, explain the complex geology of a fjord, and share captivating stories of the heroic age of polar exploration. Their knowledge enriches every moment, turning a beautiful view into a profound understanding of the Arctic ecosystem.

Intimate, All-Inclusive Luxury

A&K understands that luxury is freedom from worry. On their expedition cruises, nearly everything is included. This means all meals, of course, but also all drinks, from your morning cappuccino to a fine wine with dinner and a nightcap in the lounge. It includes all Zodiac excursions, gratuities for the ship’s crew and expedition staff, and even thoughtful touches like a custom expedition parka and boots to use on your journey. With a guest capacity capped at just 199, the experience is intimate and personal. The crew knows your name, the service is intuitive, and you’ll never feel lost in a crowd. Have a quick question about what's included? Our team is standing by—just click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner for an instant response.

A Legacy of Exploration

When you sail with A&K, you are sailing with pioneers. They have a deep-seated respect for the environments they visit and the cultures they encounter. Their long-standing relationships and meticulous planning grant you access to experiences others simply cannot offer. This legacy of excellence provides an unparalleled sense of security and confidence, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the adventure, knowing every detail has been flawlessly orchestrated.

Your Floating Sanctuary: Life Aboard an A&K Luxury Expedition Vessel

Abercrombie & Kent exclusively charters state-of-the-art, ice-class expedition ships, such as the elegant Le Boréal-class vessels. These are not hulking cruise liners; they are sophisticated, yacht-like sanctuaries designed to navigate polar waters with grace and stability while providing an environment of pure luxury.

Elegant Staterooms and Suites

Your private retreat after a day of awe-inspiring exploration is a beautifully appointed stateroom or suite. Every single accommodation features a private balcony, allowing you to witness a passing glacier or a breaching whale from the comfort of your room. Expect plush bedding, spacious marble bathrooms with high-end amenities, and attentive service. For the ultimate indulgence, suites include the dedicated attention of a private butler, ready to cater to your every whim.

Culinary Excellence at Sea

Forget any preconceived notions of cruise ship dining. A&K’s culinary program is a highlight of the journey. With menus designed by French culinary masters, you’ll enjoy exquisite gourmet meals in a variety of settings.

• The Main Restaurant: Elegant, yet relaxed, offering sophisticated international cuisine with a French touch.
• The Grill: A more casual, al fresco option for enjoying a buffet-style lunch or themed dinner on deck, weather permitting.
• 24-Hour Room Service: Enjoy a delicious meal in the privacy of your stateroom at any time of day or night.

Enrichment and Relaxation

The onboard experience is designed to be as engaging as the world outside. The state-of-the-art theater hosts daily lectures and recaps from the Expedition Team. The panoramic lounge offers breathtaking 270-degree views and is the social heart of the ship. For moments of quiet reflection, you can retreat to the well-stocked library. And for rejuvenation, a full-service spa offers massages and wellness treatments, while a fitness center helps you stay active at sea.

A Journey Forged in Ice: Unveiling the Arctic Itineraries

The Arctic is not a single destination, but a vast and varied tapestry of landscapes and cultures. A&K offers several distinct itineraries, each curated to showcase a unique facet of this incredible region. Choosing the right one can feel daunting, which is why our dedicated Arctic specialists are on hand to help. Give them a call at 1 (888) 883‑0460 for a personal consultation to match you with your perfect polar adventure.

The Realm of the Polar Bear: Svalbard

For many, the quintessential Arctic journey is a circumnavigation of Norway’s Svalbard archipelago. This is the world’s most accessible polar bear habitat, a dramatic landscape of pointed peaks (hence its name, "cold coasts"), vast glaciers, and pack ice. You’ll cruise through deep fjords, Zodiac past glittering icebergs, and watch for walruses, reindeer, Arctic foxes, and a dazzling array of seabirds. The primary mission here is wildlife, and the expert A&K team knows exactly where to look.

Greenland's Glacial Majesty and Inuit Culture

Greenland is an island of superlatives. Home to the world’s second-largest ice sheet, it is a land of colossal icebergs, some as large as city blocks, calved from mighty glaciers like the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But Greenland is more than just ice. It’s a journey into the heart of Inuit culture, where you can visit colorful coastal villages, learn about ancient traditions, and witness how modern life coexists with a deep connection to the land and sea.

The Legendary Northwest Passage: A Historic Quest

This is the ultimate expedition for the true explorer. For centuries, the search for a navigable sea route through the Canadian Arctic archipelago captivated and confounded the world’s greatest mariners. Following in the wake of legends like Franklin and Amundsen, this journey is a living history lesson. It combines stunning scenery and wildlife opportunities with visits to remote Inuit communities and poignant historical sites, offering a profound sense of accomplishment for those who complete this epic voyage. To see if this once-in-a-lifetime sailing aligns with your schedule, we invite you to Inquire About This Sailing.

Days of Discovery: Your Arctic Adventures Await

Life on an A&K expedition is a rhythm of thrilling discovery and relaxing luxury. Each day brings a new adventure, guided by the expertise of your Expedition Leader who adapts the plan to seize every opportunity that nature provides.

Your days will be filled with activities like:

• Zodiac Cruising: These sturdy inflatable boats are your ticket to up-close exploration. You’ll navigate through fields of brash ice, glide beneath towering bird cliffs, and approach the face of monumental glaciers, feeling the spray and hearing the thunderous crack of the ice.
• Wildlife Encounters: The thrill is in the chase. The entire ship becomes a community of spotters. A call from the bridge announces a polar bear sighting, and soon you are on deck, binoculars in hand, witnessing this magnificent predator in its natural element. You might see the fluke of a humpback whale, a pod of orcas, or the curious face of a bearded seal.
• Onshore Exploration: Step ashore for guided hikes across the vibrant tundra, carpeted in miniature summer flowers. You’ll walk in the footsteps of early explorers, visit remote research stations, and be welcomed into isolated communities to share a moment of cultural exchange.
• Expert Lectures: Each evening, you’ll gather in the theater to deepen your understanding of what you’ve witnessed. A marine biologist might discuss whale behavior, a historian might recount a dramatic tale of survival, and a photographer will share tips for capturing the perfect shot.

Preparing for the Ultimate Journey

Embarking on an Arctic expedition may seem complex, but with Abercrombie & Kent and our expert guidance, it is seamless. A&K provides a high-performance expedition parka for you to keep, as well as complimentary use of waterproof boots for the duration of your cruise. The physical demands are flexible; excursions are often tiered, offering everything from gentle Zodiac cruises to more strenuous hikes, ensuring everyone can participate at their own comfort level.

Booking through our agency provides an extra layer of service and peace of mind. We handle all the arrangements, from flights and pre-cruise accommodations to ensuring any special requests are communicated to the ship. We are your personal advocates, ensuring your journey to the top of the world is as flawless as it is unforgettable. Let us handle all the details. Get a Custom Quote, and we'll tailor your polar expedition to perfection.

Frequently Asked Questions about A&K Arctic Expeditions

What is included in an Abercrombie & Kent expedition cruise?

A&K offers a remarkably inclusive experience. Your cruise fare includes all onboard meals and 24-hour room service, an open bar with select wines, spirits, and beers, all Zodiac excursions and shore landings led by the Expedition Team, gratuities for all staff, Wi-Fi, and the use of expedition gear like parkas and boots.

What kind of wildlife will I see in the Arctic?

The Arctic is teeming with unique wildlife. The most sought-after sighting is the polar bear. You can also expect to see walruses, several species of seals (ringed, bearded, harp), reindeer, Arctic foxes, and whales, including humpback, minke, beluga, and occasionally orca or bowhead. The birdlife is also spectacular, with massive colonies of puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes.

What should I pack for a luxury Arctic cruise?

The key is layering. While A&K provides the essential outer parka and boots, you should bring thermal underwear, fleece or wool mid-layers, waterproof pants, warm socks, a hat, gloves, and a scarf or neck gaiter. Onboard, the dress code is relaxed and casual. Don't forget sunglasses (the glare off the ice is intense), sunscreen, binoculars, and of course, your camera.

How physically demanding are the excursions?

There are activities for a wide range of fitness levels. Zodiac cruising requires minimal physical effort. Shore landings may involve walking on uneven, rocky, or snowy terrain. The Expedition Team typically offers different hiking options, from short, gentle walks to more challenging, longer treks, allowing you to choose the activity that best suits your ability each day.

Why book my A&K cruise with a travel advisor?

Booking with an experienced travel advisor provides personalized service and expertise. We can help you navigate the different itineraries and stateroom categories to find the perfect fit. We coordinate all your travel components, including flights and insurance, act as your advocate, and often have access to special amenities or offers, ensuring you get the best possible value and a seamless travel experience from start to finish.

The Arctic is waiting. It’s a place that promises not just a journey, but an awakening. With Abercrombie & Kent, you can answer its call in unparalleled style and comfort. The silence, the scale, the raw, untamed beauty—it will change you. When you’re ready to begin your own story of exploration, we are here to make it happen. Explore your options on the Cruise Booking Toolbar above, call our specialists at 1 (888) 883‑0460, or for a detailed, personalized proposal, simply Get a Custom Quote today.