Embark on a small-ship experience with AE Expeditions (part of Aurora Expeditions). Embrace the unexpected in some of the world’s most remote and remarkable destinations, all from your exceptionally comfortable base camp.
From the unspoiled landscapes and endemic wildlife of Antarctica to the Arctic’s ice-laden waters, with potential for breathtaking encounters with the polar region’s present abundant opportunities for every kind of adventurer, regardless of age or ability.
Antarctica
A trip to Antarctica is a bucket list item for many adventurous travelers. A vast, captivating expanse that is one of the last truly wild places on the planet, it is difficult to comprehend the magnitude of the place until one experiences it firsthand.
Antarctic Peninsula
An epic wonderland full of penguins, whales, seals, birds, breathtaking ice formations and steep-sided mountains descending dramatically into the sea, the Antarctic Peninsula is the quintessential location to explore on an adventure to the region.
Embark on legendary journeys: crossing the Antarctic Circle and beyond
Travellers with more time or a thirst for even greater adventures may want to consider joining the privileged few who can say they have crossed the famed Antarctic Circle, or seen the tremendous tabular icebergs of the Weddell Sea, renowned for its heroic history and vast amounts of ice. In the remote and seldom-explored regions of East Antarctica and the Ross Sea, passengers can follow in the footsteps of legends like Scott, Shackleton, and Mawson, while witnessing the breathtaking majesty of Antarctic ice shelves and searching for elusive emperor penguins amidst the vast expanse of pack ice.
Wildlife enthusiasts and history buffs may like to consider the subantarctic island of South Georgia, best known for the perilous history of Sir Ernest Shackleton, beaches lined with elephant seals and Antarctic fur seals, or its enormous king penguin colonies – the largest in the world – which elicit emotion from even the most seasoned travelers.
When and how to explore Antarctica
The Antarctic travel season begins in late October and ends in early April, and there are dozens of immersive departures to choose from, ranging from nine days all the way to 24 days in length, with departures from convenient ports including Argentina, Chile, Australia, or New Zealand. Sail over the famed Drake Passage both ways, while others offer a flight in at least one direction. The beauty of a small-ship expedition to Antarctica is that there is no strict itinerary, allowing your highly skilled Expedition Team to choose the day’s adventures guided by prevailing weather conditions and the opportunities for connection with nature and wildlife.
Exploring the rugged landscapes of the Arctic
The great sweep of the Arctic encompasses the northernmost latitudes on earth, offering unparalleled encounters with the natural world at its most rugged and wild. This vast region contains eight different countries, mind-blowing landscapes, fascinating traditional cultures, iconic wildlife, and an array of options for adventure and exploration.
Greenland – the photographer’s dream
Greenland is a photographer’s dreamland: a land of ice and snow, iceberg-filled fjords, towering mountain peaks and magical night skies. A voyage to this remote country straddling Europe and North America, with its layers of Inuit culture and fascinating Viking history, reveals a land of superlatives: experience the world’s largest island, have the chance to witness the largest ice cap in the Northern Hemisphere, or visit some of the most remote settlements on earth, including Nuuk, the world’s northernmost capital.
Svalbard – the wildlife capital
Known as the wildlife capital of the Arctic, Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago home to two arctic giants that bring a thrill to all that see them – the majestic polar bear and the wallowing walrus. There are countless other creatures to look out for within this icy, fairytale-like realm, including beluga whales, arctic fox, reindeer, and bird species perched on cliffs in their thousands, such as guillemots, puffins, and kittiwakes.
The historic Northwest Passage
A destination for history buffs, those interested in connecting with local Inuit communities, or travellers seeking a genuine adventure led by the elements, the fabled Northwest Passage in Canada’s High Arctic offers a fascinating escape through ancient landscapes and a maze of waterways. This mysterious region captivated early explorers such as Franklin and Amundsen with its other-worldly vistas, stunning geology, and glacial valleys.
Iceland – the land of fire and ice
A voyage to the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’ reveals a place where stark beauty and dramatic landscapes capture the imagination, and where hot springs, calving glaciers, lava-strewn fields, and craggy volcanoes create unrivalled experiences for every kind of traveller. Witness breathtaking fjords rich in birdlife, enjoy a glacier hike, explore quaint towns, get to know the locals and their fascinating culture, and so much more.
When and how to travel to the Arctic
Voyages to the Arctic take place during the Northern Hemisphere’s summer months, beginning in May and ending in September. Itineraries can range from eight days through to epic 30-day adventures, with easily accessible departure points in Iceland, Norway, or Canada.
Life on board
When it comes to exploration, it’s not just what you see, but how you see it. AE Expeditions (part of Aurora Expeditions) has pioneered responsible expedition travel for 33 years. We are a Certified B Corporation™, and we are 100% carbon neutral. On our new, purpose-built small ships with on average 132 travelers, you can enjoy unparalleled encounters with nature, spend more time off ship, participate in thoughtful enrichment programs and travel with a positive impact.
Each voyage is accompanied by Aurora’s highly skilled Expedition Team, many of whom are leaders in their fields and share their wisdom during onboard lectures, Zodiac cruises, Citizen Science projects, landings and more.
Passengers are also spoilt for choice when it comes to activities that facilitate deeper exploration. There’s Zodiac cruising, hikes and walks for varying levels of fitness, photography with our onboard professionals, and optional add-ons such as sea kayaking, camping, alpine trekking, snorkeling, scuba diving and more.
Find out more
AE Expeditions offers an exceptional blend of adventure, and a deep respect for the natural world, specialising in voyages to the Arctic and Antarctic, where guests can experience the awe-inspiring beauty of these remote regions. From the cutting-edge vessels to the expert-led excursions, every aspect of the journey is crafted to provide an unforgettable experience.
Are you ready to set sail on an extraordinary adventure? Discover the pristine wilderness of the polar regions with AE Expeditions. For more information or to book your expedition, reach out to the Silver Travel Advisor team today on 0800 412 5678 and let us help you plan your ultimate polar journey!
