| The Arctic differs from the southern polar region geologically, biologically and politically. They are, pun intended, polar opposites. |
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The simple definition of the Arctic - an ocean defined by the northern regions of North America, Eurasia and their outlying islands - does not capture the
mythic appeal of the the High Northern Latitudes.
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For centuries humans searched for the Northwest Passage, the elusive route to the Orient. Many died trying. For five hundred years, the Northeast Passage,
from Russia's Far East to Scandinavia, drew adventurers from safe harbors into the great unknown, in search of fortune and fame.
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The quest to reach the North Pole was equally as tragic and prolonged as the quests for northern trade routes. The controversial feat was accomplished less
than a hundred years ago. Reaching the top of the world is still a relatively rare occurrence in the 21st century.
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Wildlife spotting has mythic elements in the Arctic. It is said that the single-tusked narwhal inspired the legend of the unicorn. The polar bear continues
to be an Arctic icon, as does the walrus. Many, then, are drawn to the Arctic to encounter the region's unique wildlife in their natural habitat.
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Many visitors explore the Arctic by ship. They gather at staging points such as Ottawa, Canada or Anchorage, Alaska. Some make their way North alone,
boarding ships in out-of-the-way ports like Resolute in Canada's Far North or Murmansk in northern Russia.
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Getting to the Arctic can be as simple or as complicated as you choose. Some expeditions include the flight from a well connected city to the community
where the ship is at anchor. Others give travelers the option to purchase a pre-arranged flight or make their own arrangements. Read the description of
your expedition carefully to determine if air transportation is included.
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