Exploring Arctic Wildlife at the Top of the World

Polar Bears

We give these apex predators plenty of space to roam, watching for them from the comfort of our ship and allowing them to go about their daily explorations without intrusion. Spotting a male hunting on the pack ice or a female with cubs playing in the endless summer sunlight are among nature’s most special wildlife moments.

Seasonality: April-August

Photo: Ralph Lee Hopkins

Narwhals

Narwhals have earned the moniker “unicorn of the sea” for their epic “horn” and their near-mythic status. Because they can dive deeper than a mile and spend time far out at sea, these toothed whales are especially elusive, which makes any sighting incredibly momentous.

Seasonality: May-October

Reindeer

Reindeer roam freely in the Arctic where they have people outnumbered. These hearty animals are uniquely adapted to year-round life on the tundra. They have two layers of fur, short and stocky bodies that reduce exposure to the cold, and the ability to warm the air they breathe in.

Seasonality: April.-Mid October

Photo: Ralph Lee Hopkins

Arctic Terns

Marathon fliers, Arctic terns migrate approximately 91,000 miles annually from pole to pole in search of 24 hours of daylight. They arrive back to their Arctic breeding grounds still full of fight and energy, which is needed to protect their colonies from arctic foxes, polar bears, or large gulls.

Seasonality: June-October

Photo: Ralph Lee Hopkins

Musk Oxen

These herbivores have inhabited the Arctic tundra for many thousands of years. Weighing up to 800 pounds with horns and thick, shaggy coats, muskoxen appear intimidating, but they are still vulnerable to predation. Herds protect themselves from wolf attacks by gathering in circles with their young at the center.

Seasonality: June-September

Photo: Ralph Lee Hopkins