Arctic 180 F O R R E S E R V A T I O N S C A L L U S O N 0845 130 6982 Summer in the northern hemisphere sees the start of the voyages in the Arctic regions. The Arctic consists of the Arctic Ocean, bordered by the northern parts of the mainland of North American and Eurasia, and their outlying islands such as Greenland, Baffin and Wrangel. It is a land of seasonal hibernation and these fascinating journeys explore wild regions where the only inhabitants are often the creatures which have adapted to such extreme conditions – among them Polar Bears, Caribou, Wolves, foxes, whales, seals, Snow Geese, Peregrine Falcons, Snowy Owls, and many other sea birds. Proper icebreakers can enter areas that are off limits to normal vessels; this means that you can explore the remote Northeast Passage, the northern coasts of Russia, Greenland and Canada, or even reach the North Pole itself! Expert expedition leaders will give lectures on all aspects of the areas you visit and lead excursions ashore. On many voyages you will also learn about the ancient communities which have settled in these regions, visit ancient Norse sites, former trapping communities and see and hear about the culture and history of the Inuit. Climate Arctic expeditions visit high latitudes where the ice never disappears. The northern regions have a polar climate which means that the mean temperature of the warmest month does not exceed 10° C/50° F. Sunny conditions are common and it may even feel quite warm at times, but they can change quickly to storms with cold winds and snow flurries so travellers must be prepared for rapid weather changes and should dress in layers. Wildlife Cruising / Arctic Stellar’s Sea Eagle S E E U S O N T H E W E B AT wildlifeworldwide.com 181 |