Need an antidote to the hectic pace and numbing news cycles of modern life? Sailing north into some of the world’s most serene and remote frontiers is a uniquely soothing remedy. Here, five of the most beautiful and least traveled cruising spots on the far reaches of the globe.
Christopher Scholey
One of the most remote itineraries in this group, cruising over the majestic icebergs and glacier-clad plateaus of Greenland with alpine hollows and tundra wildflowers features a landscape that hasn’t changed in centuries. Areas like Ilulissat offer kayaking near the ice cap, while further kayaking exploration awaits at Eternity Fjord, with its towering mountains and hanging glaciers. Redesigned last year, Nansen Explorer is the only yacht in this group that sells single cabins – seven cabins sleeping up to 12 people – with simple Scandinavian styling and luxury features including floor-to-ceiling windows, two heads and large staterooms. From $16,500 per person via EYOS Expeditions.
Courtesy of Pelorus
This classic 113-foot yacht will moor in Desolation Sound, with its dramatic mountain backdrop, and explore other pristine areas of British Columbia. Made up of calm coves, wide bays and scattered islands, Canada’s west coast is wilderness at its finest, and the yacht’s restored log cabin-style interior with nautical accents complements the northern terrain. -western Pacific. Off-yacht adventures include kayaking on secluded lagoons and maybe even paddling with killer whales. You can also go ashore to harvest clams and oysters. The yacht is loaded with toys, including an inflatable trampoline and slide, as well as a six-person hot tub. From around $137,480 per week through Pelorus.
Slipstream—Scotland and Scandinavia
Courtesy of Burgess Yachts
Calling all whiskey connoisseurs: a summer of fun sailing the distillery-filled Scottish coastline is planned aboard a 197ft yacht Slipstream. The exotic Winch-designed interior features hand-carved totem poles, while her karaoke facilities, smoke blower and bubble machine are sure to be put to good use after whiskey tastings. The boat will also travel to Norway, between Stavanger and Bergen, for those who want to enjoy the fjords and the midnight sun. Slipstream has an owner’s suite with a private observation lounge and direct access to the foredeck as well as a sky lounge that converts into a cinema. From around $373,000 (rising to around $404,257 per week during peak summer season) via Burgess.
Halo-Norway
Courtesy of Edmiston
Built by Feadship and suitable for wellness charters, the 188ft Halo is ready to transport guests to the Norwegian fjords for a summer of pampering. On a cruise Into Andenes, the northernmost settlement on the island of Andøya, the yacht’s sundeck pool is the best place to watch sea eagles, seals, minke whales and humpback whales. A specialized team includes two personal trainers, a massage therapist and a yoga instructor. The ultimate onboard experience? Practice on the foredeck with the fjords as a backdrop. HaloThe six-cabin layout of the features an owner’s suite and four convertible king cabins on the main deck, with substantial VIP accommodation on the bridge deck. From around $498,000 per week via Edmiston.
Commander Charcot-North Pole
Gilles Trillard
If you’ve always dreamed of walking in the snowshoes of the most famous polar explorers, Ponant Commander Charcot offers this opportunity in July, with an unmissable expedition to the Magnetic North Pole. The trip includes navigating through the core of the pack ice, then crossing the pack ice when it is thinnest in order to reach the destination. Along with experiencing glaciers, mountains, ever-changing ice packs, polar bears and reindeer, other off-ship activities include sea kayaking, snowshoeing and hiking. Meanwhile, life aboard the 123-suite ship presents few challenges, with two restaurants, a spa to explore, and even the chance to witness scientific research being conducted on the ship. From $40,730 per person via Ponant.
