Arctic Expedition Micro Cruises

Bow of the ship, Vikingfjord in pack ice, Secret Atlas

Travellers are seeking experiences that go beyond traditional travel and Arctic Expedition Micro Cruises are surging in popularity.  They offer the perfect mix of exploration, adventure and comfort.  

Small ship voyages to the polar regions are the ideal choice for an Arctic Expedition Micro Cruises.

A solo person walking the ice with Vikingfjord ship in the distance

They suit solo travellers wanting to connect with like-minded guests, as well as families looking to inspire young minds.  Small ship voyages also of interest to intrepid explorers in search of new challenges. 

Pioneers

Secret Atlas, are pioneers of the Artic Expedition Micro Cruise. And they are already seeing strong interest in their 2025 Arctic voyages.

Launched in 2019 and run by Explorers for Explorers, Secret Atlas trips are curated for people that want to enjoy the spirit of exploration. They are for those seeking a part of an intimate experience rather than joining an overcrowded commercial cruise. Secret Atlas pioneering Artic Expedition Micro Cruises take just 12 guests.  They offer guests an authentic, unrivalled experience free from the crowds of larger vessels. 

Zodiac cruise in Svalbard with guests photographing a bird as it flies over, Secret Atlas

Here are a few reasons why Arctic Expedition Micro Cruises should be at the top of everyone’s travel hot list this year

Multi-generational family fun

Enjoy a transformative adventure for all the family on an Expedition Micro Yacht Charter to the Arctic. Families ranging from young teens up can experience the wonders of the north.  See glaciers, polar bears, giant icebergs and local cultures all while travelling in the comfort of a private expedition vessel.

Solo Travel Connections

Solo travellers can enjoy a friendly and inclusive atmosphere with a small, intimate group size of just 12 like-minded explorers.

Man looking at a map on the Bridge of a ship Secret Atlas

Accommodation options range from single cabins to sharing a cabin with travellers of the same gender at no extra cost.  That makes it the perfect opportunity to meet and connect with fellow travellers in a safe environment.

Intimate Exploration

Travelling on a small ship carrying 12 passengers, allows access to remote and less-visited destinations that larger ships can’t reach. This means a more exclusive and authentic travel experience for everyone onboard.

Lower Environmental Impact

Smaller ships generally have a lower environmental footprint compared to bigger vessels and create less disturbance to wildlife. With a strong commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism practices, Expedition Micro Cruise operators observe strict guidelines minimising their impact.

Flexible Itineraries

Micro cruises offer more flexibility in terms of itinerary changes and shore excursions.  This permits the following of wildlife and weather to get the most from the trip.

With a smaller group size, there is less time waiting to go ashore and more time spent exploring.

Personalised Experiences

Ships have a higher staff to guest ratio of one expedition leader to only six guests.  This allows the opportunity for a tailored and enriching experience.

Joining a micro cruise is a opportunity to interact with and gain first-hand expertise from expedition leaders, scientists and guides.

Closer to Nature

Travelling in such a small group allows more opportunities to see some of the most incredible wildlife on earth.  And experience awe-inspiring landscapes such as cathedral-size icebergs and towering glaciers. Due to their size, expedition ships can get closer to glaciers and create a more intimate experience.  That’s great for wildlife watching including polar bears, walruses and arctic foxes.

Northern Lights and Midnight Sun

Artic Expedition Micro Cruises travel to remote locations with minimal light pollution.  They have the flexibility to adjust routes in line with aurora forecasts. 

Northern lights in Greenland Secret Atlas

This means guests have a better chance of seeing this natural phenomenon. During the summer months, visitors can also experience the Arctic’s midnight sun where the sun doesn’t set for weeks.

Escape the Crowds

There are no queues, crowds or casinos on a Artic Expedition Micro Cruises. With minimum time spent waiting to go ashore for excursions guests really do get the most out of the expedition.  And be a part of an intimate experience rather than joining an overcrowded commercial cruise.

Photographer capturing an Arctic fox up close, Secret Atlas

Exploration in Comfort

Secret Atlas expedition ships offer guests a cosy and comfortable home away from home while exploring the Arctic. After a day on land or exploring in the zodiacs, guests can enjoy spacious en-suite cabins. Along with a large dining saloon bar with freshly cooked meals. They can even relax and warm up in the onboard sauna or hot tub providing guests with first class comforts.