Epic Adventures in the Polar Regions
Discover curated glacier expeditions, bespoke Arctic and Antarctic journeys, and expert itinerary planning with Montreal's premier polar travel agency. Your one-of-a-kind adventure to the world's last truly wild frontiers begins here.
Glacier Expeditions: Explore the Blue Giants
Experience guided glacier tours that unveil the awe-inspiring beauty, geology, and dynamics of the world's most iconic frozen landscapes.
Our glacier expeditions are meticulously designed for adventure seekers and curious learners who crave close-up encounters with stunning ice formations, deep crevasses, and pristine glacial ecosystems. Walk on ancient ice, explore ice caves carved by millennia of water flow, and witness the breathtaking blue hues that emerge from compressed glacial ice.
Each expedition blends scientific discovery with exhilarating exploration. Our expert guides are trained glaciologists and mountaineers who share insights into ice dynamics, climate patterns, and the critical role glaciers play in our planet's ecosystem. Whether you're navigating the massive Vatnajökull in Iceland, trekking across Patagonia's Perito Moreno, or exploring Alaska's Columbia Glacier, every journey offers transformative encounters with Earth's frozen giants.
- Expert-led glacier trekking with safety equipment provided
- Ice cave exploration and crevasse viewing
- Educational insights into glaciology and climate science
- Photography workshops in stunning ice landscapes
- Small group sizes ensuring personalized attention
Unforgettable Arctic & Antarctic Voyages
Set sail on our signature Arctic and Antarctic voyages, featuring expertly guided wildlife encounters, small-group expeditions, and immersive polar cruising experiences.
Arctic Expeditions
Navigate the legendary Northwest Passage, explore Svalbard's dramatic fjords, or witness the midnight sun in Greenland. Our Arctic voyages provide access to remote polar bear habitats, walrus colonies, and spectacular Arctic fox territories. Experience Zodiac landings on pristine shores, kayak among icebergs, and visit indigenous communities preserving ancient traditions in Earth's high north.
Antarctic Journeys
Embark on the ultimate voyage to the White Continent. Cross the Drake Passage to reach Antarctica's spectacular Peninsula, witness massive penguin colonies numbering in the hundreds of thousands, and observe humpback whales feeding in nutrient-rich waters. Our Antarctic expeditions include visits to scientific research stations, historic expedition sites, and opportunities to set foot on the seventh continent amid towering icebergs and pristine wilderness.
Sustainable Polar Cruising
All our voyages prioritize sustainability and comfort. We partner with expedition vessels featuring advanced stabilization technology, ice-strengthened hulls, and environmentally responsible operations. Enjoy comfortable cabins, expert naturalist presentations, and rich educational programming while maintaining the highest standards of environmental protection. Small group sizes ensure minimal impact and maximum wildlife viewing opportunities.
Custom Polar & Frost-Themed Itineraries
Unlock tailor-made travel with our custom itinerary planning. Each journey is crafted to fit your unique interests and travel style.
Whether you're seeking support for scientific research expeditions, planning an extraordinary family adventure, or desiring exclusive luxury experiences in the polar regions, our expert planners create seamless, personalized journeys that exceed expectations.
Our custom itinerary service provides access to both iconic polar destinations and hidden gems known only to experienced polar travelers. We handle every detail—from specialized equipment arrangements to private guide services, from boutique accommodation selection to complex logistics in remote locations.
Recent custom expeditions include a photography-focused journey to capture Aurora Borealis over Arctic landscapes, a multi-generational family adventure combining wildlife viewing with cultural immersion in Greenland, and a luxury expedition featuring helicopter access to remote glacier systems in Antarctica.
Design Your Expedition
Adventure Travel Consulting: Plan Your Ultimate Expedition
Gain expert guidance on every aspect of adventure travel to the polar regions with our comprehensive consulting services.
Risk Management
Our consultants provide thorough risk assessment and management strategies for polar expeditions. We evaluate weather patterns, ice conditions, wildlife risks, and medical considerations to ensure your journey is both thrilling and secure.
Equipment Selection
Navigate the complex world of polar gear with expert advice. From appropriate layering systems and extreme cold weather clothing to specialized photography equipment and safety gear, we guide you through selecting the right equipment for your specific expedition.
Fitness Requirements
Understand and prepare for the physical demands of polar travel. Our fitness consultations include customized training programs, endurance recommendations, and pre-trip conditioning advice tailored to your chosen expedition's specific requirements.
Travel Logistics
Master the intricate logistics of polar travel. We handle visa requirements, travel insurance recommendations, vaccination protocols, emergency evacuation planning, and coordination of complex multi-leg journeys to ensure seamless expedition execution.
Comprehensive Pre-Departure Support
Every consulting client receives our detailed pre-departure guide, including packing checklists, cultural briefings, wildlife behavior guidelines, and 24/7 emergency support contacts. Our consultants remain available throughout your journey to provide real-time guidance and support as conditions evolve.
Polar Wildlife Immersion: Life on the Edge
Join journeys focused on wildlife viewing in their natural polar habitats—experiences that emphasize ethical viewing, photography, and conservation education.
The polar regions host some of Earth's most remarkable wildlife, perfectly adapted to survive in the planet's harshest environments. Our wildlife immersion packages provide unparalleled opportunities to observe polar bears hunting on pack ice, massive emperor penguin colonies caring for their young, humpback whales breaching in frigid waters, Arctic foxes in their winter coats, and countless species of seabirds nesting on dramatic cliff faces.
Every wildlife expedition is led by expert naturalists and wildlife biologists who share deep knowledge about animal behavior, ecological relationships, and conservation challenges. We maintain strict ethical viewing distances and practices that prioritize animal welfare while ensuring spectacular photographic opportunities.
Polar Bear Expeditions
Travel to Svalbard, Churchill, or the Russian Arctic to witness the world's largest land carnivores. Observe their hunting strategies, maternal care, and remarkable adaptations to Arctic life. Our expeditions coincide with peak viewing seasons for the highest encounter probability.
Penguin Colonies
Experience massive penguin colonies in Antarctica and sub-Antarctic islands. Observe Emperor, King, Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie penguins in their natural environment. Watch feeding behaviors, courtship rituals, and the endearing interactions of penguin families.
Marine Mammal Viewing
Encounter humpback whales, orcas, beluga whales, narwhals, walruses, and various seal species. Our marine mammal expeditions provide zodiac-based viewing, underwater hydrophone experiences, and expert commentary on marine ecosystem dynamics.
Icebreaker Cruises & Remote Area Access
Board advanced icebreaker vessels to access territories unreachable by traditional means. These extraordinary expeditions offer exclusive access to the heart of the polar ice, enabling safe passage to rare, untouched landscapes and giving travelers the genuine thrill of real exploration.
Icebreaker vessels are engineering marvels designed to cut through multi-year pack ice up to three meters thick. Feel the power as the ship's reinforced bow rises onto the ice and breaks through with tremendous force. Witness landscapes few humans have ever seen—the geographic North Pole, Franz Josef Land, the Weddell Sea, and remote Arctic archipelagos.
These premium expeditions include helicopter excursions to remote ice floes, opportunities to swim at the North Pole, visits to isolated research stations, and encounters with wildlife in their most protected habitats. Limited passenger capacity ensures intimate experiences and unprecedented access to polar environments.
- Nuclear and diesel-powered icebreaker options
- Geographic North Pole expeditions
- Remote Russian Arctic archipelagos
- Helicopter scenic flights and landings
- Expert polar historians and scientists onboard
Eco-Conscious Polar Travel & Climate Education
Travel responsibly with Boreal Routes—our sustainable polar tours utilize eco-focused ships, minimize environmental impact, and offer educational insights into climate change and conservation efforts.
Our Commitment to Polar Preservation
The polar regions are at the forefront of climate change, experiencing warming at twice the global average rate. As polar travel specialists, we recognize our responsibility to minimize impact and maximize conservation awareness.
All Boreal Routes expeditions partner exclusively with operators adhering to strict environmental protocols. Our vessels utilize advanced wastewater treatment, low-emission engines, and strict no-discharge policies. We follow IAATO guidelines for Antarctic travel and AECO standards for Arctic expeditions.
Every journey includes climate education programming led by glaciologists, marine biologists, and climate scientists. Witness firsthand the impacts of climate change—retreating glaciers, changing wildlife patterns, and melting sea ice—while learning about global conservation efforts and how individual actions contribute to polar preservation.
Carbon Offset Programs
All Boreal Routes expeditions include carbon offset contributions supporting renewable energy projects in Arctic communities and reforestation initiatives, mitigating the environmental impact of polar travel.
Citizen Science
Participate in meaningful research by contributing to citizen science projects during your expedition. Collect data on wildlife populations, ice conditions, and marine ecosystems that support ongoing conservation research.
Conservation Education
Comprehensive onboard programming includes lectures on climate science, conservation challenges, and the critical importance of polar regions to global climate systems, empowering travelers as polar ambassadors.
Luxury & Intimate Micro-Group Expeditions
Indulge in boutique, small-group journeys with personalized service, luxurious accommodations, and exclusive experiences.
Perfect for discerning travelers seeking privacy, comfort, and unique opportunities, our luxury micro-expeditions limit group sizes to 12-20 guests, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility in itinerary execution.
Enjoy premium staterooms with private balconies, gourmet dining featuring regional specialties and fine wines, dedicated expedition guides for your small group, and exclusive experiences unavailable on larger vessels. Imagine soaking in a hot tub while surrounded by pack ice, private wildlife encounters without crowds, or helicopter transfers to remote glaciers for champagne receptions.
Our luxury expeditions partner with the world's finest small expedition vessels—ships featuring spa facilities, observation lounges, libraries, and the highest ice-class ratings for safe, comfortable polar exploration.
Explore Luxury Options
Traveller Stories & Expert Testimonials
Read first-hand accounts from explorers who have trusted Boreal Routes for their polar adventures.
"Our Antarctic expedition with Boreal Routes exceeded every expectation. The expert guides, comfortable ship, and incredible wildlife encounters—especially a pod of orcas hunting near our zodiac—created memories we'll treasure forever. The attention to environmental responsibility made us feel good about the journey."
"As a photographer, the custom glacier expedition Boreal Routes designed for me was perfect. They arranged access to remote locations at optimal lighting times, provided expert guidance on ice safety, and their glacier knowledge enhanced my understanding of these incredible formations. The resulting portfolio launched my career."
"The Arctic wildlife viewing expedition was a dream come true. We saw polar bears, Arctic foxes, walruses, and countless seabirds. The naturalist guides' knowledge was extraordinary, and the small group size meant we never felt rushed. Boreal Routes' commitment to ethical wildlife viewing impressed us deeply."
"Our multigenerational family trip to Greenland was flawlessly executed. Boreal Routes handled every detail—from our teenagers' adventure activities to comfortable accommodations for grandparents. The cultural immersion experiences and glacier hiking were highlights. Everyone found something to love."
"The icebreaker expedition to the North Pole was the adventure of a lifetime. Standing at 90 degrees north, surrounded by polar ice, was profoundly moving. The ship was comfortable, the crew professional, and Boreal Routes' logistics planning made this complex journey seamless."
"The luxury Antarctic expedition was absolutely stunning. Premium accommodations, exceptional cuisine, and exclusive experiences like zodiac cruising among penguins with just eight people made this feel extraordinarily special. Boreal Routes delivers genuine five-star polar travel."
Our Polar Travel Team & Industry Credentials
Meet the Boreal Routes team—veterans in polar exploration, certified adventure consultants, and sustainability advocates.
Expertise That Makes the Difference
Founded by veteran polar explorers and adventure travel specialists, Boreal Routes brings over 15 years of combined polar experience to every expedition we design. Our team includes former expedition leaders, certified polar guides, marine biologists, and adventure travel consultants who have collectively led hundreds of successful polar journeys.
We maintain professional affiliations with the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), and the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA). Our guides hold certifications in wilderness first aid, polar bear safety, zodiac operations, and specialized training in cold-water survival.
What sets our team apart is not just technical expertise, but genuine passion for the polar regions. We're dedicated to sharing these extraordinary environments responsibly while supporting conservation efforts and scientific research that protect these fragile ecosystems for future generations.
Catherine Beaumont
15+ years polar expedition experience, IAATO certified, specialized in custom itinerary design
Dr. Marcus Olesson
Marine biologist, polar wildlife specialist, published researcher on Arctic ecosystems
Amélie Tremblay
Logistics expert, risk management certified, 20+ successful polar expeditions coordinated
Thomas Mackenzie
Former expedition leader, wilderness first responder, specialized in Arctic travel
Start Planning Your Polar Journey
Connect with our Montreal headquarters to receive a personalized consultation and start planning your next Arctic or Antarctic adventure.
Contact Information
3450 Rue Peel, Suite 101
Montreal, Quebec H3A 3C8
Canada
(514) 798-2345
[email protected]
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM EST
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM EST
Sunday: Closed