Summer in the high Arctic is a time of transformation where the midnight sun creates endless days, providing ample opportunity to explore an awakening landscape. From the incredible wildlife to the traditions of the indigenous communities, it is a region full of life that shows its full force during the summer months. EYOS works with a fleet of expedition yachts purpose-built for the polar regions – contact us at [email protected] to begin your own Arctic summer adventure.
- The Sounds and Colors of the Summer Tundra in Greenland
For most of the year, Greenland’s tundra lies under a blanket of snow and ice, quite literally frozen in time. But as the summer sun begins its ascent in the Arctic sky, a remarkable transformation takes place. The tundra awakens, bursting with life in an explosion of color and activity. Despite typically harsh conditions, the tundra blooms with an array of colorful wildflowers during the summer months. From purple saxifrage to vibrant Arctic poppies, these hardy plants have adapted to thrive in the short growing season, carpeting the landscape in a stunning display of color. The tundra also serves as a crucial breeding ground for a variety of migratory bird species. Arctic terns, snow buntings, and dozens of other species travel thousands of miles to raise their young in this remote wilderness, filling the crisp air with mating calls.
- Polar Bears in Svalbard
For centuries, Svalbard has served as a vital sanctuary for polar bears, providing ample hunting grounds amidst the shifting sea ice. Every year, as winter loosens its grip and the Arctic summer approaches, the archipelago becomes a bustling hub of activity as polar bears emerge from their dens and set out in search of food. An estimated 3,000 polar bears reside in the archipelago, outnumbering the human residents. The unique combination of food availability, sea ice, and remoteness has made the small island chain the “polar bear capital of the world” and a must-visit for any wildlife enthusiast.
- Kayaking in the Norwegian Fjords
Norwegian fjords are unlike any other landscape on Earth. Carved by ancient glaciers over millions of years, these deep, U-shaped valleys are a testament to the raw power of nature. Sailing through these tranquil waters instills an immediate sense of wonder at the sheer magnitude of the fjords and the extraordinary geological history. But what’s even better is paddling a kayak here to truly take in the silence and the scale.
- Sailing the Northwest Passage
The Northwest Passage is the stuff of legend. After hundreds of years of attempts defined by adversity, and tragedy, the first successful navigation of the route finally came in 1906, when Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen completed the journey. Even today, only around 300 vessels have successfully completed the entire passage. EYOS has unmatched expertise in this region, successfully delivering complex projects for multiple yachts. Today’s voyages follow in the footsteps of those brave early pioneers, exploring the same waters and experiencing the thrill of a modern-day Northwest Passage expedition. The summer months are the perfect (and only) time to sail through these waters as the sea ice breaks up and opens routes from ocean to ocean.