Polar Destinations

For many, Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. It's a place shrouded in mystery and brimming with otherworldly beauty that draws adventure seekers and nature lovers. Visiting Antarctica is unlike any experience I've ever had. It's the coldest, driest and windiest continent on Earth, yet there's an unexpected warmth to its vast, untouched landscapes. The penguins, ever curious and friendly, seem to greet you as you disembark your zodiac, welcoming you to their icy world. The ice itself is an ever-changing masterpiece. You can hear it gurgle as it shifts and moves! There's no shortage of incredible activities to take part in, from kayaking and hiking to zodiac rides and cross-country skiing. The wildlife — birds, seals, penguins and whales — is abundant, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable bucket-list experience.

There is something very magical about Earth's polar regions: sweeping, unspoiled landscapes, unique flora and fauna — and the thrill of discovering the world's most isolated areas. We are fortunate to live in a time when the adventurous traveler has a variety of choices for accessing these distant and stunning destinations in a respectful and safe way. Whether you are attracted to the Arctic's dramatic coastlines and native cultures or Antarctica's pristine icy wilderness, these cruises provide experiences that are unlike any other.

Seeing the Northern Lights has long been a bucket-list goal of mine, combining both natural wonder and personal aspiration. Being able to pair this experience with unique local culture and activities makes these destinations even more special. It's not just about ticking a box; it's also about fully experiencing each location in a meaningful way.

Every year there are more ways to visit Antarctica, and while there are a variety of options, a luxury expedition cruise is a wonderful splurge vacation. I recently spent 10 nights aboard Ponant’s L’Austral by myself to experience the White Continent, and I would highly recommend it to any clients looking for a high-end, educational and active escape.

Ancient glaciers frozen in time. Towering snow-clad mountains. Azure icebergs, sea and sky. Ferocious howling winds. Silence that takes your breath away. It's hard to grasp the pristine immensity of the 7th continent. But what made Antarctica truly unique for me was the exuberant wildlife, fearless and thriving here at the end of the world, from waddling penguins to playful fur seals to hungry humpbacks. Ready to plan? Here's everything you need to know.

This collection shares a glimpse into a trip I never expected to take — an 11-night journey to Antarctica that completely surprised me in the best possible way. I had never been on a cruise before, and truthfully, Antarctica wasn’t even high on my travel list. But what I found there was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced: wild landscapes, surreal moments with wildlife, and a deep sense of awe I didn’t see coming. From braving the Drake Passage to kayaking past elephant seals and witnessing a rare orca-humpback encounter, every day brought something unexpected. I learned things I never knew I was curious about, like how ancient ice forms or how unpredictable the weather can be at the bottom of the world. This isn’t a checklist kind of trip — it’s the kind that stays with you. I hope these reflections spark a little curiosity and maybe even inspire someone to consider an adventure they hadn’t thought about before. Because sometimes, the best experiences are the ones we never saw coming.

As I neared 65, I only had a few items left on my bucket list. One was to see polar bears in the wild. So in May 2024, I went on my first polar expedition aboard Quark's Ultramarine to Svalbard, Norway, an archipelago just 800 miles from the North Pole. Read on to see what we saw!

The Arctic is a breathtaking wonderland of fire, ice and color. My recent cruise with Abercrombie & Kent aboard Ponant’s Le Lyrial exceeded all expectations. From waking up to icebergs drifting by to unforgettable wildlife encounters and indulgent spa treatments, every moment felt like a dream. This once-in-a-lifetime journey combined adventure, luxury and impeccable service, and I can’t wait to help you plan your own Arctic adventure!