How to Travel More Meaningfully in Antarctica and the Arctic

Antarctica and the Arctic are vast, remote and unspoiled, with breathtaking scenery rarely seen on Earth, and taking an Aurora Adventure is an unparalleled way to get around. Dotted with huge glaciers, vast ice formations and fascinating wildlife, these destinations will find photo-worthy moments wherever you go. (After all, who wouldn’t want a selfie with a penguin?) But just scratch the surface and you’ll find more: a world that nourishes the imagination and soul, anywhere you’ve never been. All you need is the right guidance.

With over three decades of experience pioneering small-group sailing, Aurora Adventures leads the way with a spirit of adventure and exploration, encouraging passengers to take the time to truly learn about this inspiring natural paradise. The Aurora Expeditions team has unparalleled expertise and expert guides help guests learn about the area’s wildlife, geology, climate and history, taking them on landings 2-3 times a day (conditions permitting). During the Zodiac cruise, passengers can choose from an immersive and personalized activity program that includes kayaking, diving, skiing, camping, and more. Here’s how to dive into a one-of-a-kind polar expedition.

Learn from the Industry’s Top Teams

With education and enrichment at the heart of each Aurora Expedition, Aurora Expedition’s program is staffed by experts in exploration, conservation, science, photography, and history to enhance the guest experience through their own unique perspectives, research, and insights. With the help of an award-winning wildlife photographer, take the perfect photo of a polar bear or Papuan penguin. With a 1:8 ratio of passengers to passengers, expeditions search for fascinating wildlife on land and in zodiac groups. Attend regular lectures to learn more about the places you visit and gain a deeper understanding of the area that will stay with you for many years.

Give Back to Society by Participating in Citizen Science Programs

Aurora expeditions travel to some of the most unique and remote places on Earth, where spending time can be a challenge for scientists. Through citizen science programs, passengers can help the scientific community gather valuable observations and data while understanding pressing issues such as marine biodiversity and microplastics.

On most expeditions, citizen science coordinators will be present with expedition members to present projects being undertaken during the voyage. Spot seabirds for censuses, measure phytoplankton in the zodiac, and more to protect and preserve these precious environments.

Select an Immersive Activity

In addition to regularly offering Zodiac cruises and shore excursions to all passengers, purpose-built vessels enable Aurora Expeditions to offer a world-class integrated program of activities. Whether you’re planning kayaking, hiking, rock climbing, skiing, snorkeling, or diving, their guides have the expertise and knowledge to help you safely push the boundaries of your journey and share their love of adventure with you.

Spread out your sleeping bag and camp on the ice of the Antarctic Peninsula. When the nearby ice breaks, the call of penguins in the distance can be heard. Kayak between ice floes and enter hidden bays inaccessible to Arctic Zodiac. Embark on a thrilling ski or snowboard trip and even try the Shackleton Route through Georgia, Vietnam.

Embark on a New Journey

Dreaming of the Arctic? Explore Canada’s legendary Northwest Passage on a 17-day expedition. The area has been an attraction to early explorers for centuries, and now you can follow their journey into remote wilderness, meet local aborigines, and observe endemic wildlife.

Looking south and deep into the Antarctic Peninsula, you may be one of the first tourists to come to Antarctica for the new season. Taking place in late spring in Australia, this 15-day expedition is ideal for photographers seeking pristine environments. Active adventurers also have the opportunity to ski tours, snowshoeing, camping and kayaking.

Recently, Aurora Adventures released a new schedule for the 2024/2025 Antarctic season. Consisting of 25 sailings to the White Continent, voyages ranging from 9 to 23 days, and three brand new itineraries, it is the most comprehensive Antarctic itinerary to date. Book early to save up to 25% off because now is always a good time to plan your next adventure.