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With 800+ exceptional resorts and liveaboards to choose from, you can travel green while exploring the big blue.","Book your next scuba diving holiday",[149,152,155],{"linkUrl":150,"linkText":151},"\u002Fterms-conditions","Terms & Conditions",{"linkUrl":153,"linkText":154},"\u002Fterms-of-website-use","Terms of use",{"linkUrl":156,"linkText":157},"\u002Fprivacy-policy","Privacy Policy",{"destination":159,"customLandingPage":68,"odysseyDestinationInfo":439},{"type":160,"id":161,"url":162,"slug":163,"title":164,"code":165,"subtitle":166,"tagline":68,"overviewHighlight":27,"overviewText":27,"shortHighlight":167,"introduction":168,"banner":169,"cardPortrait":170,"status":171,"parent":172,"titleSeo":192,"pageTemplate":193,"illustration":68,"destinationSearchTypes":194,"speciesVisibility":195,"marketingBanners":243,"topTips":244,"gallery":245,"diving":261,"about":272,"summaryBestTime":288,"searchHighlights":289,"searchExtras":290,"featuredDestinations":291,"featuredResorts":352,"featuredLiveaboards":353,"featuredArticles":393,"seomatic":394,"desktopCover":437,"mobileCover":438},"destination","97967","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Farctic\u002Fnorway\u002Fsvalbard-jan-mayen-island","svalbard-jan-mayen-island","Svalbard and Jan Mayen Island","ARC_SVL","The icy islands of Svalbard and Jan Mayen are a paradise for polar explorers. These frozen frontiers feature stark yet stunning scenery and the Arctic’s most iconic wildlife, including polar bears.","\u003Cul>\u003Cli>Visit humanity’s northernmost permanent settlement\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>One of the best places to see polar bears in their natural habitat\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Spot Arctic foxes, reindeer, walruses, beluga whales, and more\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Activities including kayaking, diving, hiking, skiing, and more\u003C\u002Fli>\u003C\u002Ful>","Deep within the Arctic Circle and surrounded by icy open ocean, Svalbard and Jan Mayen are some of the most remote outposts imaginable. About as far north as society has dared to settle, these snow-covered islands are the perfect choice for Polar exploration. With just a few permanent human settlements, Svalbard and Jan Mayen remain under the command of nature, and offer some of the Arctic’s best wildlife encounters set to brutally beautiful backdrops. Watch walruses wallow in frigid waters, spot polar bears patrolling the ice, and embark on all manner of adventurous activities, including kayaking, scuba diving, hiking, and more.","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-banner.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-portrait.jpg","live",[173,180],{"type":174,"id":175,"url":176,"slug":177,"title":178,"code":27,"subtitle":68,"tagline":27,"overviewHighlight":27,"overviewText":27,"shortHighlight":27,"introduction":68,"banner":68,"cardPortrait":68,"status":179},"region","97964","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Farctic\u002Fnorway","norway","Norway","disabled",{"type":181,"id":182,"url":183,"slug":184,"title":185,"code":186,"subtitle":68,"tagline":187,"overviewHighlight":188,"overviewText":189,"shortHighlight":27,"introduction":68,"banner":190,"cardPortrait":191,"status":171},"country","97963","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Farctic","arctic","Arctic","AC","​The Arctic covers a vast area of sea, ice and land within the Arctic Circle - a frontier like no other, defined by the polar night and midnight sun. This spectacular region offers visitors the chance to experience unique landscapes and cultures, exciting outdoor adventure activities, and impressive wildlife, and enjoy perfect isolation.","\u003Cul>\u003Cli>One of the world’s most remote and rarely visited regions\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Home to isolated Inuit communities with traditional cultures\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Spot Arctic foxes, reindeer, muskox, and polar bears\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Sail through fjords, past glaciers, and between icebergs\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Dive among icebergs, ice floes and kelp forests\u003C\u002Fli>\u003C\u002Ful>","\u003Cp>The Arctic extends from the North Pole over sea ice and open ocean towards the northern fringes of Europe, Asia, and North America - a vast area defined by the polar night in winter, and midnight sun in summer. With the Arctic Ocean at its heart, the region also includes the surrounding frigid seas, and touches a total of eight countries – namely Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, and the United States. Unlike its southern counterpart, the Arctic has no central landmass of its own and is not considered a continent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cbr \u002F>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Arctic is a frontier wilderness like no other, with much of it left entirely to nature. For visitors, this guarantees unmatched adventure amongst pristine scenery and encounters with hardy species and seasonal wildlife, as well as the opportunity to visit the world’s northernmost communities. What’s more, experiences in the Arctic are remarkably diverse. Landscapes vary from black volcanic beaches to blue glaciers and pure-white tundra, inviting all sorts of activities including climbing, skiing, dog-sledding, kayaking, and even scuba diving. \u003C\u002Fp>","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FArctic-diving-banner.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FArctic-diving-portrait.jpg","Scuba diving in","default","resorts",[196,212,221,233],{"id":197,"title":198,"parent":199,"tags":200,"type_slug":203,"icon":204,"img":205,"type":206,"visibilityByMonth":208,"likelihood":211},"97497","Kelp forests","Wrecks",[201,202],"kelp_forests","c_wrecks","wrecks-caves","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FIcons\u002FKelp.png","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FSpecies\u002FKelp-Forest-Diving-Banner.jpg",[207],"diving",{"January":209,"February":209,"March":209,"April":209,"May":210,"June":210,"July":210,"August":210,"September":210,"October":209,"November":209,"December":209},-2,"10","From May to September",{"id":213,"title":214,"parent":199,"tags":215,"type_slug":203,"icon":217,"img":218,"type":219,"visibilityByMonth":220,"likelihood":211},"97521","Icebergs",[216,202],"icebergs","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FIcons\u002FIceberg.png","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FSpecies\u002FIce-Flow-Diving-Banner.jpg",[207],{"January":209,"February":209,"March":209,"April":209,"May":210,"June":210,"July":210,"August":210,"September":210,"October":209,"November":209,"December":209},{"id":222,"title":223,"parent":224,"tags":225,"type_slug":228,"icon":229,"img":230,"type":231,"visibilityByMonth":232,"likelihood":211},"35159","Seals & sea lions","Whales & dolphins",[226,227],"seals_sea_lions","c_whales_dolphins","marine-mammals","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FIcons\u002FZuBlu-Icons_Seal1.png","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FSpecies\u002Fspecies-sea-lion.jpg",[207],{"January":209,"February":209,"March":209,"April":209,"May":210,"June":210,"July":210,"August":210,"September":210,"October":209,"November":209,"December":209},{"id":234,"title":235,"parent":224,"tags":236,"type_slug":228,"icon":238,"img":239,"type":240,"visibilityByMonth":241,"likelihood":242},"477","Whales",[237,227],"whales","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FIcons\u002Fmain_selection_mammals.svg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FSpecies\u002Fspecies_humpback_whale.jpg",[207],{"January":209,"February":209,"March":209,"April":209,"May":209,"June":210,"July":210,"August":210,"September":210,"October":209,"November":209,"December":209},"From June to September",[],"\u003Cul>\u003Cli>Photographers should pack a good zoom lens along with a supply of memory cards and spare batteries since cold temperatures can reduce their lifespan.\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Expedition cruises departing from Norway, Iceland, or Scotland require extended ocean crossings, meaning visitors should consider taking sea-sickness medication. \u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Northwest Spitsbergen National Park is home to two hot springs along the edge of the Bockfjorden fjord. They are the northernmost documented hot springs on earth. \u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Kong Karls Land boasts Svalbard’s largest concentration of polar bears. As such, there is a ban on traffic to the island and a 500-metre exclusion zone for ships.\u003C\u002Fli>\u003C\u002Ful>",[246,247,248,249,250,251,252,253,254,255,256,257,258,259,260],"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-2.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-3.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-4.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-5.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-14.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-6.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-7.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-8.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-9.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-10.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-11.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-12.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-13.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FSvalbard-Jan-Mayen-Island\u002FSv-albard-Jan-Mayen-Island-15.jpg",[262],{"type":263,"tabTitle":264,"tabContent":265,"icon":68,"diveType":266,"diveLevel":267,"divingSeason":268,"depth":269,"visibility":270,"temperature":271,"speciesCalendar":207},"tab","Exploring Svalbard and Jan Mayen","\u003Cp>With the main island of Spitsbergen nicknamed the “wildlife capital of the Arctic”, it’s no surprise that the Svalbard Archipelago is one of the Arctic Circle’s most popular destinations. On land, the mountainous peaks and scree slopes are home to dozens of interesting bird species. Popular bird-watching spots include the towering basalt cliffs of Alkefjellet, located within the Hinlopen Strait, as well as the South-Spitsbergen National Park. Avian visitors to this island chain include little auks, puffins, Brunnich’s guillemots, black-legged kittiwakes, and three species of skuas. Arctic terns, northern fulmars and red-throated divers can also be seen, along with and both barnacle and pink-footed geese.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And it’s not just birds that frequent these islands. Other iconic wildlife sightings include Arctic foxes, reindeer, bearded seals, ring seals, walruses, beluga whales, and narwhals. But, for many, the real highlight is the chance of witnessing one of the planet’s most powerful predators – polar bears. These awe-inspiring animals can be spotted throughout the archipelago, as they roam the coast and the ice locked between islands. That said, coastal areas in the north and east of Spitsbergen often offer the most reliable sightings, as well as islands such as Edgeøya and Barentsøya.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Apart from wildlife watching, Svalbard’s incredible environments are the perfect backdrop for exciting activities and experiences, including zodiac cruises, polar plunges, kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, and more. The archipelago is also home to over 2,000 glaciers – including the beautiful blue-tinted Monaco Glacier in Liefdefjorden and the 16-kilometre long 14th of July Glacier in Haakon VII Land. It also boasts the vast Austfonna ice cap, which stretches for more than 100-kilometres out to sea making it one of the largest ice caps in the Arctic.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, humans have left their mark on the islands. Smeerenburg, or “blubber town”, is an old whaling station dating back to the 17th century where many relics of the era can still be seen. When ice conditions allow, it is also possible to venture to Svalbard’s easternmost island, Kvitøya, located within the Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve. It is here that the remnants of Solomon August Andrée’s ill-fated Arctic balloon expedition were found, more than 30 years after its disappearance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Scuba diving and snorkeling in Svalbard\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>As well as diving around icebergs and ice floes, Svalbard's scuba diving highlights include dense forests of kelp that can be found in relatively shallow waters. Climbing up from the algae-covered rocks below, these impressive ecosystems are host to numerous invertebrates and bivalves – such as mussels, shrimp, and crabs – which provide plenty of food for seals and walruses. And for fans of supermacro, the planktonic life is also incredible, featuring a vibrant variety of amphipods, jellies, sea angels, and more. \u003C\u002Fp>","Polar","Advanced, dry suit experience"," May to September","5 - 20m","5 - 15m","-1 – 8°C",[273,277,280,283,286],{"type":274,"tabTitle":275,"tabContent":276},"richtext","About Svalbard, Jan Mayen and Bear Islands","\u003Cp>The Svalbard archipelago is a group of Norwegian islands located deep inside the Arctic Circle, several hundred miles north of the mainland. Translating to “cold coast”, Svalbard is a fitting description of this unforgiving archipelago which is covered by the world’s third largest ice sheet, with well over half of its entire landmass permanently frozen. Despite its obvious austerity, Svalbard is home to a handful of permanent residents, including the world’s northernmost settlement.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The archipelago comprises four main islands – the largest, Spitsbergen, followed by Nordaustlandet, Edgeøya, and Barentsøya. Numerous small islets complete this archipelago, including Kvitøya in the far east and Bear Island in the far south. Meaning “pointed mountains” in Dutch, Spitsbergen is a wild contrast of peaks and tundra, creating some of the most spectacular scenery on earth and providing plenty of opportunities for icy- adventures.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jan Mayen is an active volcanic island located between Norway and Greenland, around a thousand kilometres southeast of Svalbard. Defined by the 2,277-metre tall Mt Beerenberg, this isolated island is renowned for its utterly abysmal weather, which can make landings difficult. But, should the skies clear and the sun shine, Jan Mayen’s exquisite beauty comes into full focus – with the fleeting nature of these opportunities only adding to the mystique.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":274,"tabTitle":278,"tabContent":279},"Getting there","\u003Cp>Located on the east side of Spitsbergen, the settlement of Longyearbyen is the archipelago’s only town, and is the main point of entry and departure. Daily flights operate between Longyearbyen and Oslo, the capital of Norway, taking around three-hours each way. And, as Oslo has great connections to Europe and North America, the Svalbard Archipelago is actually one of the most accessible destinations in the Arctic.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It is also possible to explore Svalbard aboard Arctic expedition cruises departing from Norway, Iceland, or Scotland. But, it’s worth noting that these trips inevitably require long crossings over areas of open-ocean, such as the notoriously bumpy Barents Sea.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":274,"tabTitle":281,"tabContent":282},"Where to stay","\u003Cp>Visitors to Svalbard can find a small selection of hotels centred around Spitsbergen’s main settlement, Longyearbyen. That said, an Arctic expedition vessel is essential if you want to see this archipelago in all its glory. Equipped with a fleet of convenient zodiacs and able to relocate overnight, these strengthened polar vessels allow visitors to traverse this island group with relative ease, exploring the extensive coastline and stopping at landing sites wherever possible. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":274,"tabTitle":284,"tabContent":285},"Seasons","\u003Cp>While certainly cold, Svalbard’s climate is less frigid than other areas of similar latitudes, thanks to the Northern Atlantic gulf stream. At the height of summer in July, average temperatures can climb to around 8°C, resulting in a brief period of ice thawing in certain areas. The summer sun shines brightly between April and August, setting for the last time in September, before rising above the horizon once again in February. During winter months, when the sun is absent, it is possible to have extended periods where temperatures drop well below -10°C, reaching lows of -20°C or more in places.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Almost all Arctic expedition cruises to Svalbard take place between the months of May to September. During this period, daylight dominates, the climate is at its most welcoming, and the sea ice recedes, making navigation and access easier. May and June are marked by thick flurries of snow, bringing a fresh coating to the islands, and polar bears have emerged with their cubs and can be seen exploring the ice. As the ice thaws in July and August, whale sightings increase and the land becomes more accessible for longer walks. Towards the end of the season, it is possible to spot ivory gull chicks, harp seals, and even female walruses with their cubs. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":274,"tabTitle":99,"tabContent":287},"\u003Cp>Often referred to as the “wildlife capital of the Arctic”, Svalbard is crucially important for a variety of animals. Following a history of unsustainable practices such as whaling and trapping, Svalbard now has seven national parks, 21 nature reserves, and one geotope protected area. Together, these designations safeguard around 65% of the land area and 84% of territorial waters. Natural permafrost, low humidity levels, and several other factors, also helped Svalbard become home to the Global Seed Vault which protects duplicates of more than a million seed samples, originating from almost every country in the world.\u003C\u002Fp>","Best May to September","\u003Cul>\u003Cli>One of the best places to see polar bears in their natural habitat\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Spot Arctic foxes, reindeer, walruses, beluga whales, and more\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Activities including kayaking, diving, hiking, skiing, and more\u003C\u002Fli>\u003C\u002Ful>",[],[292,310,338],{"type":160,"id":293,"url":294,"slug":295,"title":296,"code":297,"subtitle":298,"tagline":68,"overviewHighlight":27,"overviewText":27,"shortHighlight":299,"introduction":300,"banner":301,"cardPortrait":302,"status":171,"parent":303},"97968","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Farctic\u002Fdenmark\u002Fgreenland","greenland","Greenland","ARC_GRN","As the largest and most sparsely-populated island on the planet, Greenland guarantees remote adventure amongst a spectacularly rugged wilderness, where hardy Arctic animals reign supreme.","\u003Cul>\u003Cli>An expansive coastline studded with fjords and glaciers\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Explore the largest national park on the planet\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Spot seals, walruses, Arctic foxes, whales, and many bird species\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Witness male reindeer and muskox fighting for a mate\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Paddle through fjords in the birthplace of kayaking\u003C\u002Fli>\u003C\u002Ful>","Greeland is a vast, snow-capped destination, considered by many to be the highlight of polar exploration. From immense national parks and colossal fjord systems, this enormous island plays host to some of the world’s biggest and most beautiful natural attractions, making it a bucket-list destination like no other. And, the diverse and dramatic landscapes lend themselves to exciting outdoor activities of all kinds – including whale-watching, scuba diving, mountaineering and kayaking – while isolated Inuit communities provide an unparalleled insight into everyday life in such a challenging, yet beautiful, environment.","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FGreenland\u002FGreenland-banner.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArctic\u002FGreenland\u002FGreenland-portrait.jpg",[304,309],{"type":174,"id":305,"url":306,"slug":307,"title":308,"code":27,"subtitle":68,"tagline":27,"overviewHighlight":27,"overviewText":27,"shortHighlight":27,"introduction":68,"banner":68,"cardPortrait":68,"status":179},"97965","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Farctic\u002Fdenmark","denmark","Denmark",{"type":181,"id":182,"url":183,"slug":184,"title":185,"code":186,"subtitle":68,"tagline":187,"overviewHighlight":188,"overviewText":189,"shortHighlight":27,"introduction":68,"banner":190,"cardPortrait":191,"status":171},{"type":160,"id":311,"url":312,"slug":313,"title":314,"code":315,"subtitle":316,"tagline":68,"overviewHighlight":27,"overviewText":27,"shortHighlight":317,"introduction":318,"banner":319,"cardPortrait":320,"status":171,"parent":321},"97446","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fantarctic\u002Fantarctic-convergence\u002Fsouth-georgia-south-sandwich","south-georgia-south-sandwich","South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands","ANT_SOU","Far from the coast of Antarctica, the remote and rugged islands of South Georgia and South Sandwich offer visitors the chance to experience Antarctic historic, unparalleled adventure, and some of the largest colonies of wildlife on the planet.","\u003Cul>\u003Cli>Remote and rarely visited archipelagos in the Scotia Sea\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Witness some of the greatest gatherings of wildlife on the planet\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Spot different species of penguins, albatrosses and seals\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Activities including kayaking, snorkelling, diving, hiking, and more\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Walk in the footsteps of renowned explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton\u003C\u002Fli>\u003C\u002Ful>","Lying scattered around the edges of the Scotia Sea, far from the nearest landmass, the islands of South Georgia, South Sandwich and South Orkney are among the most isolated and awe-inspiring destinations on the planet. Their austere, uncompromising Antarctic environments are an explorer’s dream-come-true, providing unparalleled opportunities for adventure. Get ready to kayak past glaciers, scuba dive amongst swaying kelp and icebergs, and hike in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton. But, above all, prepare to be astonished by the breathtaking scenery and staggering density of wildlife in these rugged Antarctic oases.","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FAntarctic\u002FSouth-Georgia-and-South-Sandwich\u002FSouth-Georgia-Antarctic-banner.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FAntarctic\u002FSouth-Georgia-and-South-Sandwich\u002FSouth-Georgia-Antarctic-portrait.jpg",[322,327],{"type":174,"id":323,"url":324,"slug":325,"title":326,"code":27,"subtitle":68,"tagline":27,"overviewHighlight":27,"overviewText":27,"shortHighlight":27,"introduction":68,"banner":68,"cardPortrait":68,"status":179},"97444","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fantarctic\u002Fantarctic-convergence","antarctic-convergence","Antarctic Convergence",{"type":181,"id":328,"url":329,"slug":330,"title":331,"code":332,"subtitle":68,"tagline":333,"overviewHighlight":334,"overviewText":335,"shortHighlight":27,"introduction":68,"banner":336,"cardPortrait":337,"status":171},"97443","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fantarctic","antarctic","Antarctic","AT","The Antarctic represents one of the world's last truly wild frontiers, guaranteeing stark, untouched scenery, unique encounters with wildlife, and a genuine, unbridled sense of adventure.","\u003Cul>\u003Cli>One of the world’s last true frontiers, where few have been before\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Unique encounters with relaxed and curious wildlife\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Visit research stations and discover relics of historic expeditions\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Spot penguins, albatross, elephant seals, whales, and more\u003C\u002Fli>\u003C\u002Ful>","\u003Cp>The Antarctic is the planet’s southern polar region, which includes the continent of Antarctica and its surrounding islands – including South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, the South Orkney Islands, and the South Shetland Islands. Despite the immense size of this region, and theories of its existence dating back to Aristotle, the Antarctic’s remote location and hostile environment meant it was among the last corners of the world to be discovered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cbr \u002F>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Over the years, this wild frontier has seen many expeditions, many of which have left light yet lasting impressions that can still be observed. Of course, the intrigue around this mysterious destination still prevails. Countries from all over the world conduct important scientific research from remote outposts scattered throughout the region, while intrepid explorers venture ever further into the wilderness in search of adventure.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cbr \u002F>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>While conditions can be tough, the Antarctic’s unforgiving environment is juxtaposed by some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on the entire planet. Landscapes combine snow-capped mountains and bright blue bays, with rugged volcanic coastlines, glistening glaciers, and breathtaking fjords. What’s more, the Antarctic is an oasis for a unique assemblage of wildlife, from enormous penguin colonies and beaches filled with fur seals, to migrating whales and hunting leopard seals. \u003C\u002Fp>","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FAntarctic\u002FAntarctic-country-banner.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FAntarctic\u002FAntarctic-country-portrait.jpg",{"type":160,"id":339,"url":340,"slug":341,"title":342,"code":343,"subtitle":344,"tagline":68,"overviewHighlight":27,"overviewText":27,"shortHighlight":345,"introduction":346,"banner":347,"cardPortrait":348,"status":171,"parent":349},"97445","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fantarctic\u002Fantarctic-convergence\u002Fantarctica","antarctica","Antarctica","ANT_ANT","The Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands offer breathtakingly-beautiful scenery, world-class wildlife-watching, fascinating history and adventurous activities including scuba diving - the full polar expedition package. ","\u003Cul>\u003Cli>Set foot on the continent of Antarctica for a true polar experience \u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Spot many different seabird species and vast colonies of penguins\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Activities including kayaking, diving, hiking, skiing, and more\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Encounter marine mammals including seals and whales\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Land on Elephant Island, where Shackleton’s crew once sheltered\u003C\u002Fli>\u003C\u002Ful>","One of the most inhospitable and inaccessible destinations on earth, the wintery, ecological wonderland of Antarctica has been bewitching intrepid explorers for centuries. With its snow-covered mountains, ice-shelves, and hundreds of scattered islands, this remote region is as stark as it is beautiful - the ultimate backdrop for an adventure of a lifetime. Visitors can immerse themselves in Antarctica’s iconic experiences, from whale-watching, penguin-spotting, and watching glaciers calve, to ice diving, mountaineering, camping and more. Whether travelling lightly-trodden trails or pioneering new paths, Antarctica delivers the full polar expedition package.","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FAntarctic\u002FAntarctica\u002FAntarctica-expedition-voyages-banner.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FAntarctic\u002FAntarctica\u002FAntarctica-expedition-voyages-portrait.jpg",[350,351],{"type":174,"id":323,"url":324,"slug":325,"title":326,"code":27,"subtitle":68,"tagline":27,"overviewHighlight":27,"overviewText":27,"shortHighlight":27,"introduction":68,"banner":68,"cardPortrait":68,"status":179},{"type":181,"id":328,"url":329,"slug":330,"title":331,"code":332,"subtitle":68,"tagline":333,"overviewHighlight":334,"overviewText":335,"shortHighlight":27,"introduction":68,"banner":336,"cardPortrait":337,"status":171},[],[354,366,375,384],{"id":355,"title":356,"slug":357,"url":358,"entryType":359,"introduction":360,"supplier_thumbnail":361,"destination":362,"packageStartingPrice":363,"rating":364,"reviewImage":27,"reviewLink":27,"reviewName":27,"totalReview":365,"odysseyReview":-1},"98790","Balto","balto","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fliveaboard\u002Farctic\u002Fbalto","liveaboard","Blending serious adventure with sophisticated luxury, Balto is truly one-of-a-kind when it comes to small polar expedition ships. This stylish, sturdy vessel boasts a high ice-class rating and is well-geared towards demanding projects including professional photography and videography operations. And, discerning travellers will be pleased to know that Balto’s capabilities don’t come at the detriment of standards of comfort. In fact, despite the remote nature of these voyages, guests aboard this vessel are treated to some truly first-class creature comforts – including elegant interior design, cosy stove-warmed communal areas, and an inviting cedar-lined sauna. ","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FLiveaboards\u002FBalto\u002FBalto-thumb.jpg",{"title":185,"slug":184},969,"0.0","0",{"id":367,"title":368,"slug":369,"url":370,"entryType":359,"introduction":371,"supplier_thumbnail":372,"destination":373,"packageStartingPrice":374,"rating":364,"reviewImage":27,"reviewLink":27,"reviewName":27,"totalReview":365,"odysseyReview":-1},"98622","Sjøveien","sjoveien","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fliveaboard\u002Farctic\u002Fsjoveien","Sjøveien is an expedition cruise ship in the Svalbard Archipelago, a classic with a modern touch, delivering comfortable, contemporary amenities – including a wood-fired hot tub – in some of the world’s most remote and inhospitable regions. Accommodating just 12 guests, this small, ice-strengthened expedition vessel nurtures an incredibly intimate atmosphere on board as it navigates through some of the Arctic’s most isolated attractions. And, with just six guests per guide, you’re guaranteed to come home with plenty of personalised and truly unforgettable memories. ","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FLiveaboards\u002FSjøveien\u002FSjøveien-thumb.jpg",{"title":185,"slug":184},991,{"id":376,"title":377,"slug":378,"url":379,"entryType":359,"introduction":380,"supplier_thumbnail":381,"destination":382,"packageStartingPrice":383,"rating":364,"reviewImage":27,"reviewLink":27,"reviewName":27,"totalReview":365,"odysseyReview":-1},"98568","Stockholm","stockholm","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fliveaboard\u002Farctic\u002Fstockholm","Stockholm is a classically-styled expedition vessel that offers intimate, once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruises in the Arctic, with a total of just 12 guests on board. Complete with rich wooden panelling, brass furnishings, and even a crow’s nest, climbing aboard Stockholm is like stepping back in time – in the best possible way. Traversing the waters of Svalbard for the past 25 years, this charming vessel gives guests the chance to enjoy their polar adventure without big groups, focusing instead on more personal moments alongside a small handful of like-minded travellers. ","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FLiveaboards\u002FStockholm\u002FStockholm-thumb.jpg",{"title":185,"slug":184},727,{"id":385,"title":386,"slug":387,"url":388,"entryType":359,"introduction":389,"supplier_thumbnail":390,"destination":391,"packageStartingPrice":392,"rating":364,"reviewImage":27,"reviewLink":27,"reviewName":27,"totalReview":365,"odysseyReview":-1},"98506","Quest","quest","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fliveaboard\u002Farctic\u002Fquest","Quest is a highly-capable Arctic expedition vessel, updated to deliver plenty of modern comfort during remote voyages. Complete with inviting social spaces, a fleet of convenient zodiacs, and extensive views – both from inside and on deck – this impressive ice-class ship offers everything you could want from a polar expedition cruise. Plus, the passionate crew and minimal guest numbers help to create an intimate yet welcoming atmosphere on board, ensuring every moment is one to remember.  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