Why Choose Us?

1.        Natural Beauty

Experience natural beauty as you never have before. This is a world of extremes and contrasts and we discover these with you as we travel the globe from pole to pole each year. Just imagine – the pristine landscapes and abundant wildlife of the Antarctic, deserted beaches of the Macaronesia Islands, lava landscapes of the Azores, stone cairns of UK and Ireland in fields of spring wildflowers, the dramatic fjords of Norway and the home of the Polar Bear, the Arctic! We believe that the M/V Polar Star is the best vessel to explore the world on, with large on-deck viewing areas and a panoramic observation lounge providing spectacular views of beautiful vistas and opportunities for spotting wildlife such as whales, dolphins and seabirds.

2.        Wilderness

Witness nature as it once was, at home in its own natural habitat. Join us for the privileged opportunity to explore the far corners of the globe not easily reached by any other mode of transport. Our itineraries are made up of remote destinations where wilderness reigns supreme and you will have unique opportunities to see amazing species of wildlife up close and in their natural environments. From the penguin rookeries, basking seals and cruising whales of the Antarctic, along with whales, seals and seabirds of the oceans worldwide, to the Polar Bears, walrus and other Arctic animals – it is a world of wonder.

3.        History & Culture

To understand today, we need to know about the origins and past of today’s civilization and people. A voyage on the Polar Star is a journey back through time with unique opportunities to visit remote archeological sites, follow in the footsteps of Antarctic explorers, learn about early civilizations including the Inuit and Vikings and experience island culture steeped in history. Through lectures by specialists and shore excursions we gain an insight into what creates the weaves of the fabric of different societies.

4.        Adventure

In the spirit of adventure, we offer some of the finest expedition cruises to our travelers and provide an opportunity to embrace and experience nature and discovery first hand. Each day, your experienced Expedition Leader will decide the day’s exact itinerary based on things like weather, wildlife, ice conditions etc. We provide you with a daily itinerary prior to departure but we like to let Mother Nature play a role in exactly what will happen so you can get the most out of your expedition. We look at it as providing the opportunity for our passengers to be like explorers, not knowing exactly what each day will bring.

5.        Knowledge

Polar Star Expeditions is owned and operated by Karlsen Shipping, which has worked in the marine industry and in Polar Regions since the 1800’s. We bring to our current operations, over a century of experience and a culture that is deeply ingrained in everything we do. The expertise extends throughout all aspects of our operation. For each expedition, we carefully select our onboard team to include experts who are passionate and knowledgeable about the areas you are exploring.  

6.        Unique programs

The M/V Polar Star is one of the world’s best expedition ice-class vessels on the seas today – of a size that combined with our ice capability and Zodiac landing craft, allows access to places that others can only sail past. Your experiences ashore are enhanced by our education programs that include lectures, films and daily recaps. You will return home with a unique knowledge and understanding of the wonderful areas you have visited.

7.        Environmentally Responsible

Whether sailing onboard M/V Polar Star, making one of our Zodiac landings or on shore excursions, we act in an environmentally sensitive way with respect to the fragile habitats we visit. Polar Star Expeditions is a member of IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators) and AECO (Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators). We are committed to following the mandates set by these valuable associations to ensure the protection of these fragile environments.

8.        Seasoned Staff

Our team is made up of individuals who share the same vision and passion for Polar Star Expeditions. In the head office, our experienced reservation staff can bring the Polar Star experience alive for you by sharing their knowledge of life onboard and our unique destinations. Once onboard, you will be surrounded by an eclectic expedition team, made up of experts in biology, ornithology, history, culture, music and more, supported by a highly experienced Captain and crew who will transport you with safety and efficiency.

9.        Comfort

Many of our passengers simply fall in love with our ex-icebreaker and return many times over for a new adventure. Feel at home in our informal and relaxed ambiance. She is large enough to voyage to remote areas in comfort and small enough to enter out of the way destinations. She is a home away from home with one of the best standard cabins in the industry, a panoramic observation lounge, cozy library, mini-gym and inviting bar to meet with new friends. Our large on-deck viewing areas are first rate and our open bridge policy provides a unique opportunity to see the daily operations of an expedition vessel up close.

10.      Safety