Penguins or Polar Bears? Comparing the Arctic and Antarctica

The Arctic and Antarctica have many things in common - they are both cold, icy, and home to wildlife and landscapes not found elsewhere on the planet. But that is where the similarities end! Read on to discover the differences between these majestic destinations.

Arctic fast facts:

Location: North
Animals: Polar bears, arctic foxes, musk ox, reindeer, caribou, arctic hares, wolves, lemmings, voles, whales, arctic birds, walrus
Summer solstice (longest day): June 21
Winter solstice (shortest day): December 21

The Arctic

This polar region located at the northernmost part of the Earth is an ocean surrounded by islands and land masses belonging to eight countries: Canada, Denmark (Greenland), Finland, Iceland, Norway (Svalbard), Russia, Sweden, and the United States (Alaska). To give you an idea of its size, the arctic spans one-sixth of the earth’s area.

In contrast to Antarctica, humans have lived in the Arctic for thousands of years. The Inuits of North America, the Sami of Northern Europe and the Yakuts at the edge of Siberia have long inhabited this vast territory. Today, there are more than 2 million people living north of 60°N, many in modern settlements.

When it comes to wildlife, the Arctic is known as the realm of the polar bear, and is also home to other impressive animals including reindeer, arctic foxes, musk ox, and more.

From a full circumnavigation of Svalbard to crossing the Northwest Passage, Silversea covers most of this stunning region. Marvel at the massive fjords, colorful tundra, and Northern Lights in Greenland, and learn about the Inuit culture of Baffin Island, Canada. Whichever itinerary speaks to you, Silversea offers all-inclusive luxury, comfort, and unrivalled expedition knowledge for your trip!

All-Inclusive Arctic Package*:

Antarctica

Antarctica Fast Facts:

Location: South
Animals: Penguins, seals, krill, seabirds, whales
Summer solstice (longest day): December 21
Winter solstice (shortest day): June 21

Moving south, Antarctica is a landmass surrounded by ocean at the southernmost extreme of the Southern Hemisphere. This ice-covered continent is surrounded by the Southern Ocean and isolated from the rest of the planet. Just slightly smaller than the Arctic, Antarctica is roughly twice the size of Australia.

While it has no permanent human population, research stations house thousands of scientists, researchers, and station support staff each year.

The Arctic and Antarctica are the 2 coldest places on Earth, but the coldest temperature ever recorded on Earth was in Antarctica at -93.3°C in 2013. However, travel to both regions occurs during the pleasant summer months!

While the Arctic is known for polar bears, Antarctica is home to penguins. In fact, 8 of the world’s 18 penguin species live in Antarctica and on subantarctic islands!

One amazing continent, two amazing ways to get there. Silversea allows you to choose to fly straight into the heart of Antarctica in just 2 hours with Antarctica Bridge, or sail the iconic Drake Passage for an unforgettable experience.

All-Inclusive Antarctica Package*:

All-Inclusive Antarctica Bridge Package*:

ships sailing to the Arctic and Antarctica:

**NEW! Silverer Endeavour (Antarctica): The newest addition to the fleet (the most luxurious to date), Silver Endeavour revolutionizes the brand’s expedition voyages. Built to PC6 Polar Class specifications – one of the highest Polar Class classifications there is - the design allows guests to travel deeper to some of the planet’s farthest flung coasts. It also offers industry-leading crew-to-guest (200 guests to 200 crew!), zodiac-to-guest and expert-to-guest ratios, as well as cutting-edge navigation and exploration technology.

Silver Cloud (Arctic & Antarctica) - With 20-brand new Zodiacs, four mouthwatering restaurants, and a pole to pole expedition itinerary, Silver Cloud really does break the ice between expedition and luxury.

Silver Wind (Arctic & Antarctica) - Silver Wind is a perfect illustration of how complete a small-sized ship can be. With just 274-guests, beautiful suites and spacious public areas, Silver Wind is one of the cosiest and most intimate ships afloat today.

Feeling the pull of the poles?
To learn more Silversea Expeditions, get in touch with your Cadence travel advisor or fill out the form below and we will connect you!

*Terms and conditions may differ per voyage, and vary between type of all-inclusive fare chosen.