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Polar bear and cub out for a walk

Once-in-a-Lifetime Trips

Arctic Travel. Polar bears, icebergs, and the Northern Lights.

See polar bears on Hudson Bay, visit Spitsbergen under the midnight sun, or witness the Northern Lights in Lapland. Discover the Far North aboard small ships, from remote lodges, and on custom-planned trips. We’ll advise you on the region, the best time to travel, and the experiences that matter most to you.

Travel Calendar: Dates & Prices (opens in a new tab)View our favorite trips
  • Owner-operated since 2002
  • Aqua Lares guests / Balto guests
  • Customized Travel Planning
  • In person before, during, and after the trip

Dates & Prices

Your Arctic Travel Calendar.

Our Arctic tours are listed chronologically by departure date in the trip finder. Compare dates, itineraries, and prices, and choose the travel dates that work best for you.

Open the Travel Calendar

Regions & Routes

Arctic Travel: Regions & Experiences.

Polar bears on Hudson Bay, icebergs in Greenland, the midnight sun on Spitsbergen, or the Northern Lights over Lapland: Choose the experience that will take you to the North. Alaska, Iceland, and the British Isles round out our selection.

Dates & Prices in the Arctic Trip Finder

A polar bear walks across pack ice north of SpitsbergenThe Norwegian ArcticSvalbard Glaciers, bird cliffs, and pack ice. The midnight sun in June and July, plus opportunities to spot polar bears and walruses. (opens in a new tab)
Colorful wooden houses in the Inuit settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit on the mountainsideEast & West GreenlandGreenland To the east, the fjords of Scoresby Sund; to the west, icebergs and inhabited coastal towns. (opens in a new tab)
An inuksuk on a mountain in GreenlandCanada & GreenlandNorthwest Passage Inuit culture and the history of expeditions along the Northwest Passage. (opens in a new tab)
View of IlulissatWestern Greenland Disco Bay Greenland Icebergs, the Ilulissat Icefjord, and Greenlandic coastal towns. Explore the Disko Bay aboard the Ocean Albatros or the Ocean Victory. (opens in a new tab)
Expedition ship and two Zodiacs off icebergs in the fjordConnecting RegionsSvalbard, Greenland & Iceland Three destinations, connected by a crossing of the Greenland Sea. (opens in a new tab)
Northern Lights over the illuminated path through the resort near IvaloLapland Northern Lights Tours Experience the Northern Lights from a lodge, a glass igloo, or a private log cabin. Plus, enjoy winter days with husky, reindeer, or snowshoe tours—depending on the trip.
"North Pole 90°00'N" signpost in the snow at the geographic North Pole90° NorthGeographic North Pole Through the sea ice of the Arctic Ocean with Le Commandant Charcot. (opens in a new tab)

Northern Canada & Alaska

Hudson Bay, Polar Bear Tours & Alaska's Coastline.

You can also explore Canada’s North by land. Around Hudson Bay near Churchill, our polar bear tours take you to remote lodges and camps. Alaska rounds out the selection with coastal expeditions through the Inside Passage.

A polar bear stands in a lightly snow-covered landscape with light snowfall.Hudson Bay LandCanadian Arctic & Hudson Bay Continue your flight from Churchill to small, exclusive lodges located right in the polar bear habitat on Hudson Bay. (opens in a new tab)
Landscape with sea, wooded coastline, and snow-capped mountains in the background at duskGreater Region AlaskaAlaska Tours Humpback whales, brown bears, and glaciers in the Inside Passage. Aboard the Swell, with a maximum of twelve guests, you’ll travel through the islands and fjords of southeastern Alaska. (opens in a new tab)

Other Destinations in the North

Northern Norway & the North Atlantic.

The Norwegian coast around Tromsø is part of our Arctic selection. Iceland and the British Isles round out the program as additional expedition destinations in the North Atlantic.

Orca in the fjordNorthern NorwayNorwegian Coast Tromsø, islands, and fjords in the far north. In winter: Whales & Fjords aboard the Stockholm—departing from and returning to Alta, with only twelve guests.Whales & Fjords · Stockholm (opens in a new tab)All Northern Norway trips (opens in a new tab)
Close-up of the wide cascades of Goðafoss Waterfall in IcelandExpanded Region AtlanticIceland Westfjords, volcanic landscapes, and seabird colonies. Round-trip cruises, such as on the Sea Spirit, or as a complement to a trip to Greenland. (opens in a new tab)
The dramatic sheer cliffs of Hirta Island in the St. Kilda ArchipelagoExpanded Region AtlanticBritish Islands Scotland, the Hebrides, and the Orkney Islands: bird cliffs, monastic islands, and early history. On selected itineraries with Sylvia Earle or Douglas Mawson. (opens in a new tab)

Weather, ice conditions, and local regulations determine the course of the expedition. Landings, wildlife sightings, and the ability to reach specific destinations may vary.

The Far North

What is the Arctic—and where is it located?

The Arctic is the polar region surrounding the North Pole. At its center lies the Arctic Ocean, surrounded by the northern landmasses of North America, Europe, and Asia, as well as Greenland. The Arctic Circle at approximately 66.5° north serves as a geographical reference point; depending on the definition, climate and the tree line are also taken into account.

Sea ice, glaciers, and tundra; polar bears and walruses; and the alternation between the midnight sun and the polar night all define the region. At the same time, it is home to diverse ethnic groups and indigenous cultures. Our travel program expands on the Arctic to include subarctic destinations such as Hudson Bay and other regions in the North Atlantic.

Geographic Classification: NOAA

Arctic Trips with inventia

Where exactly would you like to take a closer look?

Which region best suits your interests? The key factors are the wildlife you want to see, the time of year, and whether you’d prefer to travel by boat or stay at a lodge.

Svalbard

Svalbard is ideal for travelers who want to experience pack ice, glaciers, and Arctic wildlife. Polar bears, walruses, and seabirds are among the animals you may spot. In June and July, the midnight sun will accompany you; ice conditions will determine the course of the expedition.

Greenland & Disko Bay

Greenland offers a wide variety of travel experiences depending on the coast: East Greenland with the Scoresbysund fjord system, West Greenland with its coastal towns, and Disko Bay near Ilulissat. The focus is on icebergs, hikes, and—depending on the route—insights into Inuit culture.

Northwest Passage

The Northwest Passage runs through the Canadian archipelago and includes several possible sea routes. Our voyages combine polar history and Inuit culture with expeditions along remote coastlines. Many departures explore sections of the route; a complete crossing is listed separately.

The Canadian Arctic & Hudson Bay

From Churchill, you’ll fly on to small, exclusive lodges on Hudson Bay. You’ll stay right in polar bear territory and go on guided excursions from the lodge. In the summer, you can combine polar bear viewing with beluga whale watching.

Northern Norway

Northern Norway is a region of fjords and islands dotted with small coastal towns. Tromsø and Alta serve as starting points for a variety of trips. Those interested in whale watching will find select winter tours—such as the “Whales & Fjords” tour aboard the Stockholm, departing from Alta.

Alaska

Alaska's Inside Passage rounds out our itinerary in the far north: small ships, sheltered waterways, and excursions along forested coastlines. Depending on the route and season, you may spot humpback whales and brown bears; glaciers and fjords dominate the landscape.

Iceland & the British Isles

Iceland and the British Isles are part of our expanded North Atlantic selection. Iceland offers volcanic landscapes and fjords, while the British Isles feature bird cliffs, island culture, and historic sites. They complement the actual Arctic travel destinations.

Northern Lights Tours & Lapland

When planning a trip to see the Northern Lights, we’ll work with you to choose your accommodations, region, and travel dates. In Lapland, you can choose from glass igloos, chalets, and small lodges; Northern Norway and Iceland combine nights of the Northern Lights with coastal and winter landscapes.

Bestsellers in the Arctic

Our bestsellers in the Arctic.

Our top recommendation: Svalbard aboard the Aqua Lares, with just 30 guests. Other favorites among our customers include cruises around Svalbard aboard the Ortelius or Plancius, the “Sailing & Hike” itinerary aboard the Rembrandt van Rijn, and expeditions aboard the Balto.

High-End & Luxury Classic Expedition Ships Micro-Expedition Ships Modern Polar Ships Canada · Hudson Bay

High-End & Luxury

Aqua Lares, Le Commandant Charcot, and Ultramarine: superyachts, polar icebreakers, and expeditions with on-board helicopters.

Classic Expedition Ships

Ortelius, Plancius, and Sea Spirit: Zodiac trips, shore excursions, and wildlife viewing are the main focus.

Micro-expedition ships

Cruise with a maximum of twelve guests: around Svalbard on the Balto or to see the whales of Northern Norway on the Stockholm.

Modern Polar Ships

Icebergs in Disko Bay or the archipelago of the Northwest Passage: Discover select voyages aboard the Ocean Albatros & Ocean Victory, Ocean Explorer, and Sylvia Earle.

Hudson Bay Travel Program

Hudson Bay: Living in Polar Bear Territory.

Churchill is your layover point. From there, you’ll fly on to the remote coast of Hudson Bay and spend several nights at a small, exclusive lodge located right in the polar bears’ natural habitat. Your starting point for wildlife viewing and guided excursions is thus right in the heart of the travel region.

Continue your flight from Churchill

The focus is on stays at remote lodges. From Churchill, you’ll fly on to your accommodations. One of our lodge safaris combines your stay with a tundra buggy tour near Churchill. On the summer trip to see polar bears and beluga whales, you’ll reach your coastal lodge by seaplane; on the polar bear photo safari, a private light aircraft will take you to your accommodations.

Small lodges right on Hudson Bay

Selected coastal lodges each have only eight guest rooms. You’ll stay in a secluded location within polar bear territory, with personalized service, shared meals, and time to observe the wildlife from the lodges’ protected areas.

With Guides in Polar Bear Territory

Experienced guides lead the excursions from the lodge. Depending on the tour and conditions, you’ll explore the surrounding area on foot or in specially equipped vehicles. In the summer, beluga whale watching is part of the program; in the fall, the focus is on polar bears and photography.

We'll work with you to plan your travel itinerary, lodging, and daily activities—tailored to your interests and photography goals.

All Hudson's Bay Tours

Haven't found the right Arctic trip yet?

In the Arctic Trip Finder, you’ll find our Arctic trips listed chronologically by departure date—including dates and prices. We’d be happy to advise you on which route and which ship are right for you.

View Dates and Prices
Request Travel Advice

The categories describe the style of travel and are not a star rating system. The number of guests, cabin type, and expedition program vary even within a single category. The price depends on the travel dates, cabin, and included services. You can find current dates and prices on the linked travel pages.

Arctic Land Tours Lights Tours

To see the Northern Lights at least once.

Northern Lights tours to Lapland, Northern Norway, and Iceland: featuring glass igloos, chalets, or private lodges, along with winter activities to match.

AuroraNorthern Lights ToursNights of the Northern Lights. Winter Days in Lapland. Glasiglus, Northern Lights Chalets, and Log Cabins—your home for winter days and nights under the Northern Lights. (opens in a new tab)

Our Best Sellers

Our Best-Selling Travel Packages

Includes the Aurora Chalet, full board, airport transfers, and winter activities.

View Best-Selling Packages & Services

Plan to stay for several nights: The Northern Lights require darkness and a sky that is as clear as possible. A sighting is not guaranteed.

Discover All Northern Lights Tours

Price Advantages for Your Expedition

Current offers for trips to the Arctic.

Choose from all our offers, last-minute deals, early-bird discounts, and other special promotions.

You can find all Arctic trips in the travel calendar—listed chronologically by departure date, with dates and prices.

To the Arctic Travel Calendar

Starting prices per person for the departures listed, subject to cabin or room availability. The current services and terms and conditions on the respective travel page apply.

Small Is Beautiful

Small ships, personally selected.

Our recommendations: Aqua Lares, which accommodates 30 guests, and Balto, which accommodates 12. Compare other ships by travel style or number of guests.

Superyacht accompanied by dinghy on the high seasOur RecommendationMicro-Expedition guests Aqua Lares30 guests and yacht-style comfort on Spitsbergen.Svalbard with the Aqua Lares  (opens in a new tab)
The MS Balto navigates through the drift ice with partially snow-capped mountains in the backgroundMicro-Expedition 12 guestsMS Balto12 guests atmosphere on board.About MS Balto  (opens in a new tab)

By Travel Style

High-End & Luxury
Aqua Lares30 passengersLe Commandant Charcot245 passengersUltramarine199 passengers · two helicoptersScenic Eclipse I & IIUp to 228 passengers eachScenic Ikon270 passengers · starting in 2028
Classic Expedition Ships
Ortelius108 passengersPlancius108 passengersHondius170 passengersQuest50 passengersSea Spirit114 passengersRembrandt van Rijn33 passengers
Micro-expedition ships
Balto12 passengersSjøveien12 PassengersStockholm12 passengers
Modern Polar Ships
Ocean Explorer138 passengersOcean Albatros & Ocean VictoryUp to 189 passengers · depending on the shipSylvia Earle130 passengersGreg Mortimer132 passengersDouglas Mawson130 in polar regions · 154 elsewhere

By Number of Guests

Up to 50 guests
Aqua Lares30 passengersBalto12 passengersStockholm12 passengersSjøveien12 PassengersRembrandt van Rijn33 passengersQuest50 passengers
51–100 guests
Ocean NovaUp to 72 passengersTerra Nova Adventurer98 passengers · starting in 2028

Arctic cruises aboard the Terra Nova Adventurer starting in 2028.

101–150 guests
Ortelius108 passengersPlancius108 passengersSea Spirit114 passengersSylvia Earle130 passengersDouglas Mawson130 in polar regions · 154 elsewhereGreg Mortimer132 passengersOcean Explorer138 passengers
151–200 guests
Hondius170 passengersOcean Albatros & Ocean VictoryUp to 189 passengers · depending on the shipUltramarine199 passengers · two helicopters

Helicopter flights on the Ultramarine are subject to the itinerary, weather, and permits.

Selected Larger Ships
Scenic Eclipse I & IIUp to 228 passengers eachLe Commandant Charcot245 passengersScenic Ikon270 passengers · starting in 2028

Passenger numbers are based on the ship's profile; occupancy may be lower depending on the cruise area. Scheduling is determined by the route and season. Click on the ship names to view cabin and deck plans.

We'll advise you on the route, cabin, and daily itinerary.

Find the Right Ship

Introduction to Travel

Which Arctic trip is right for you?

What would you like to see, and when can you travel? These two details will help narrow down your options. We’ll then work with you to determine which departure works best for you.

More Arctic trips, dates, and prices in the Trip Finder

Your First Orientation

Svalbard

For a first Arctic expedition focused on wildlife viewing, Spitsbergen is well worth considering. The route depends on the time of year and ice conditions.

View matching trips (opens in a new tab)Get advice on this type of trip (opens in a new tab)

Travel Time

How travel times change.

In June and July, the midnight sun defines travel in Spitsbergen: the sun remains above the horizon around the clock. In September, East Greenland offers fall colors and dark nights once again. We tailor the travel dates to your interests.

Early Season on Spitsbergen

Snow, pack ice, and the midnight sun.

  • In many places, snow and sea ice shape the landscape.
  • In June, you'll experience the midnight sun on Spitsbergen: You can even watch it from the deck late in the evening.
  • Ice conditions determine which coasts and fjords can be reached.

Arctic Summer

Coastal explorations and wildlife viewing.

  • In July, the midnight sun will accompany you on your Svalbard journey to glaciers, bird cliffs, and Arctic wildlife.
  • In Greenland, expeditions navigate through the fjords among the icebergs.
  • As summer progresses, additional sea routes will become navigable, depending on ice conditions.

Late Summer & Fall

Eastern Greenland in the autumn light.

  • The tundra is taking on autumn colors; the nights are getting longer.
  • On clear nights, the Northern Lights can be seen over the fjords.
  • Selected voyages also take travelers through the Northwest Passage; the ice conditions determine the route.

Greenland

Summer through early fall: Depending on the coast and route, icebergs, fjords, and coastal towns take center stage. In late summer and fall, darker nights once again make it possible to view the Northern Lights.

Northwest Passage & North Pole

The Northwest Passage has a late-summer travel window. North Pole expeditions take place during the Arctic summer. The navigable sea routes always depend on ice conditions.

Hudson Bay

In July and August, you can combine beluga whale and polar bear sightings. In the fall, our lodge tours focus on polar bears and photography.

Northern Norway & Lapland

In winter, you can choose from a selection of whale-watching trips in Northern Norway and lodge stays in Lapland. The long nights offer opportunities to see the Northern Lights, weather and solar activity permitting.

The season information above describes Svalbard. We check the specific departure dates for each destination. The Northern Lights require darkness; they are not visible during the midnight sun.

Do you already know when you'd like to travel?

Arctic Trip Finder: Dates & Prices by Date

Your Interests

Traveling alone, in a German-speaking country, or by kayak?

Deck 4 Superior Single Cabin on the MS Heritage Discoverer, featuring a bed, two armchairs, a desk, and a large windowsolo travelersAll by himself on expedition Shared cabin or private cabin: We'll explore the options for your dream trip.
Hiking group on a rocky plateau with a snow-covered mountain panoramaGerman-language toursGerman-speaking on the go Selected tours with a German-speaking guide. We'll explain the specific details to you.
A kayaker in front of an iceberg in Arctic watersActive ExpeditionsHiking & kayak We'll explain what activities your trip offers, what's included, and what experience you should have.

Personal Travel Advice

We'll also discuss the differences in detail.

How much time will we spend ashore? How do the Zodiac trips work? Is the kayaking option included in the tour price? For us, questions like these are just as important when choosing an expedition as the route and your cabin.

Our team will provide you with personalized advice. Upon request, we can also arrange flights, accommodations, and an extension before or after the expedition. We’ll remain your point of contact until your return.

Request a Consultation

inventia Journeys | Beyond Ordinary

Stephanie Gräf

Founder and Owner
, an owner-managed boutique tour operator since 2002

From the initial selection process through to your return, you'll have personal contacts at inventia.

+49 201 858 90 960
welcome@inventia.de

Our Guests' Experiences

1. Discuss travel plans

Your interests, travel dates, available time, and budget.

2. Select a trip

Itinerary, ship, and cabin—along with your preferred mode of travel.

3. Prepare for the expedition

Travel documents, equipment, and the requirements for your trip.

Things You Should Know

Questions about your trip to the Arctic.

Svalbard or Greenland: Which trip is right for me?

Svalbard combines wildlife viewing with glaciers, bird cliffs, and pack ice. June and July are ideal months for a trip under the midnight sun. In Greenland, depending on the coast, the focus is on fjord landscapes, icebergs, hikes, and encounters in coastal towns. We compare the itineraries based on your interests and the time you have available for travel.

Where can I see polar bears and beluga whales?

Svalbard and Hudson Bay offer different ways to observe polar bears: by expedition ship or from a lodge. Beluga whales are a highlight of our summer trips to Hudson Bay. The animals roam freely; specific sightings cannot be guaranteed.

When can you see the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights require sufficient darkness and a clear sky. Select trips to Greenland in late summer and fall may offer suitable conditions. In winter, shore excursions are the best option. A sighting cannot be guaranteed.

Is every Northwest Passage voyage a complete crossing?

Many trips explore selected sections of the Northwest Passage. A complete crossing is a distinct type of trip that requires a different amount of time. We’ll discuss the exact route and any possible ice-related changes based on your desired itinerary.

What are the physical requirements?

On many expeditions, boarding Zodiacs and going ashore on uneven terrain are part of the daily routine. Hikes and kayaking trips have their own requirements. We’ll discuss these with you and clarify the guidelines set by the respective partner.

How much time and what budget should I set aside?

That depends on the route, ship, cabin, and dates. Our Arctic Trip Finder provides an initial overview of trip duration, dates, and prices. When planning your trip individually, we also take into account flights, hotels, possible charter flights, and time buffers. You’ll receive a quote that includes the services relevant to your trip.

Can I travel alone or in a German-speaking group?

On select runs, both options are available. We’ll check the conditions for shared cabins or private use, as well as the type and scope of German-speaking guidance.

Can I stay longer before or after the expedition?

We'd be happy to add personalized stops to your trip, such as in Iceland, Norway, Greenland, or Canada. We'll tailor the itinerary to your flight connections, your schedule, and your interests.

What distinguishes an expedition from a traditional cruise?

On an Arctic expedition, the focus is on exploration away from the ship: Zodiac trips, shore excursions, and guided hikes, complemented by the expedition team’s expertise. The daily itinerary depends on the weather, ice conditions, and local circumstances. The activities included are listed in the details for each trip.

How fixed is the planned route?

An expedition itinerary outlines the planned route. The captain and expedition team may adjust it based on weather, ice, and local conditions. This may result in different landings or changes to the daily schedule. We will explain the specific details of your itinerary before you book.

What kind of clothes do I need—and how cold will it get?

Your destination and the time of year determine what gear you’ll need. Wearing several layers of clothing that can be combined, along with a windproof and waterproof outer layer, has proven to be effective. Wind can significantly lower the wind chill. Before departure, you’ll receive instructions for your expedition; we’ll also confirm the availability of rental boots or parkas for your trip.

What should I keep in mind if I get seasick?

Voyages on the open sea may differ from trips in sheltered fjords. We will discuss the planned sea routes with you, as well as possible alternatives, such as a lodge tour. For personal prevention of seasickness, please consult a doctor or a pharmacist for advice.

Ivory gulls at the edge of the pack ice off SpitsbergenWildlife SightingsSeabirds on the pack iceObservations from the deck are just as much a part of the expedition as Zodiac trips and landings.

Questions to Ask Before Booking

Would you like to book your trip to the Arctic?

Are you interested in booking one of our Arctic trips and still have questions about the route, dates, cabin, or itinerary? Write to us or give us a call. We’ll clarify any outstanding questions with you before you book.

inventia Journeys

Owner-operated since 2002 · Essen
+49 201 858 90 960
welcome@inventia.de

Red-and-white seaplaneTravel PlanningFrom the flight to the expedition Upon request, we can organize your trip from start to finish. (opens in a new tab)

About Your Dream Trip

What questions remain unanswered?

Please tell us your desired trip, the dates you'd like, and the number of people. Also, let us know if you have any questions you'd like to clarify before booking.

Ask Questions About Your Dream Trip

In the inquiry form, you can describe your desired trip and ask any questions you may have.

Here's how we prepare your reservation.

We'll answer your questions and check availability for your desired dates. We'll then work with you to finalize your accommodations or cabin and travel arrangements, and prepare a detailed travel proposal for you.

Would you prefer to discuss your questions over the phone?
+49 201 858 90 960

Send any questions by email before booking

Compare trips, dates, and prices using the Arktis Trip Finder.