Arctic Travel & Cruise Guide

Accommodations Review

The National Geographic Explorer was awesome, our cabin was spacious and comfortable and the service was exceptional.

Meals Review

The quality and variety of the food was top notch. We really enjoyed getting to try local cuisine, the portions were just right and the desserts were delicious.

Crew & Guides Review

Both Michael and Leah did a wonderful job managing the expedition. The daily recaps were informative and interesting.  The naturalists truly enhanced our daily experiences.

Itinerary Review

Every day was unique and we enjoyed every stop and excursion. Highlights were Vigur Island learning about the Eider ducks and seeing lots of birds, especially the Puffins, Grimsey because of the opportunity to be in the Artic circle and the Vatnajokull icecap which was stunning. The flexibility of being able to stop the ship when we encountered whales on 2 occasions was greatly appreciated. We were also impressed by the variety of activities offered. 

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Taylor is exceptional. We can't thank her enough for all her assistance to make this trip happen.  She kept us informed, was always quick to answer our many questions and made sure we had everything we needed for the trip. We were extremely pleased with the customer service we received from Taylor.

We had originally booked a different trip for 2020 that included Norway, Greenland and Iceland that ended up being cancelled in 2020 and again in 2021. Taylor Cranney really worked hard to move us to the Circumnavigation of Iceland trip so we could travel this year.

Traveler Advice

I would suggest walking on a regular basis prior to going on the trip to be able to maximize your experience on the trip.

Accommodations Review

All accommodations were very nice.

Meals Review

The Fort Gary Hotel Breakfast Buffet and Welcome Dinner were
fabulous and way above our expectations.

Crew & Guides Review

Our trip leaders and guides were EXCELLENT....very knowledgeable and informative and extremely pleasant with a very good sense of humor. All the people we came in contact with at Natural Habitat were excellent.

Transportation Review

Transportation was excellent and the people who met us and got us to our destinations were EXCELLENT and very pleasant and accommodating.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

The trip preparation by AdventureSmith was excellent. We have used AdventureSmith a number of times and have been very satisfied with their service, and have recommended them to our family and friends.

Traveler Advice

Have a wonderful time....it was totally enjoyable.

Meals Review

Amazingly delicious food and excellent food and bar service.

Crew & Guides Review

The officers, crew, naturalists, and passengers were friendly and fun. Laura, the expedition leader, and captain could not have been more cordial and informative.

Itinerary Review

I liked every experience offered, including yoga every morning, visiting Tromso and the Loften Islands, walking to the Fjordnord glacier, seeing all the birds at Bear Island, and being in the Svalbard archipelago for about a week.

Meals Review

Like the hotels, the food in Winnipeg was excellent. The farewell dinner included a number of Canadian recipes I had never tried before. Breakfast at the Churchhill hotel was nice with hot eggs, bacon, potato and pancakes. Dinners in Churchill were at one of two restaurants with lots of local options like arctic char or bison. After dinner the restaurants transformed into local entertainment with a band or open mic night. Fun. 

Crew & Guides Review

Our guide was very knowledgeable about polar bears and arctic ecosystems. I learned a lot about polar bears that I didn't know before. Evening programs by locals in Churchill were a hoot. 

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

AdventureSmith answered all my questions, and I had a lot of questions. The pre-departure information was extensive and packing lists were spot on. The trip was seamless.  

Traveler Advice

You don't need to bring a jacket or boots as these are provided. The polar parka was very warm.

Accommodations Review

The Fort Garry Hotel is beautiful and centrally located in Winnipeg. The Chruchill Hotel was very basic, do not expect luxury. But it was clean and comfortable and warm.

Meals Review

The display of the main dishes at the entrance of the dining room helped with choosing and sped up ordering at dinner. Plenty of choice at every meal.

Crew & Guides Review

Woody’s team were amazing. Such professional people, nothing was too much trouble and their enthusiasm was infectious. Abbie, our Kayak leader, kept us well informed about plans, safety and made it all fun. We did not realize that her husband had had to leave the ship for medical reasons, until she was able to tell us all was well. Her anxiety for him never showed, that was super professional.

Transportation Review

I booked flights to and from Uk no problem. Loved Oslo. I recommend everyone to take some time there especially the Fram museum prior to a trip.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

All questions answered promptly.

Traveler Advice

Don’t expect masses of wildlife, it is a huge wilderness which is an honor to visit not a tv program. Savor the quiet of the ice and glaciers and realize the respect the Arctic deserves. Mindfulness.