Alaska Land Program:
Polar Bear Snapshots in the Wild

A Photographer’s Dream

As a guest of the Soaring Peaks voyage, departing July 24, 2024, you have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to embark on our new Pre-cruise Land Program, Polar Bear Snapshots in the Wild. This unique 8-night tour offers tundra-inspired cuisine, eco-friendly accommodations and, of course, the chance to view an assortment of arctic wildlife – a photographer’s dream.

This optional Land Program was designed with a strong focus on providing an unparalleled opportunity for capturing images of the incredible wildlife of this less-traveled region. Snap photos of polar bears in their natural habitats as close as humanly possible and trek into the tundra to view other iconic Arctic animals such as moose, fox, black bears, wolves, seabirds, and beluga whales, while relaxing at a rustic yet well-appointed eco-lodge between photo safaris. Plus, set out to witness beluga whales near the mouth of the Seal River estuary, where they congregate by the thousands in the summer months.

Land Program Highlights

From Winnipeg, your expedition begins with an aerial flight over the winding Hudson Bay coast en route to the Seal River Heritage Lodge, your cozy home base. Each day, you’ll set off on guided hikes across the tundra to view polar bears and other Arctic wildlife or go on a whale-watching adventure by boat.

Then, upon your return to the Lodge, you can relax in the cozy lounge while still watching for wildlife through expansive picture windows. You can also attend educational evening presentations by local experts about the Arctic ecosystems, landscape and lifestyle. Best of all, delight in tundra-inspired cuisine complemented by select Canadian wines.

As your Land Program winds down, enjoy an evening in Vancouver before embarking aboard Seven Seas Explorer® for a luxurious Alaska voyage. The flight between Winnipeg and Vancouver is included.

Read the complete description here.

Polar Bear Capital

Manitoba, Canada, is known as the "Polar Bear Capital of the World." The area is renowned for its significant polar bear population and has become a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The town of Churchill has developed a unique relationship with these polar bears and is the gateway to observing them in their natural habitat. In Churchill, initiatives are in place to promote responsible wildlife viewing and conservation. The town also raises awareness about the challenges facing polar bears due to climate change and the importance of preserving their habitat.

Leading our Pre-cruise Land Program is the ecotourism operator Churchill Wild. The team provides invaluable insight into the bears' behavior, ecology, and the broader Arctic ecosystem.

What Makes Polar Bears Unique

Polar bears are incredible creatures who have adapted to life in the Arctic. They are powerful swimmers and expert hunters, relying on sea ice to hunt seals, their primary prey. Climate change and the reduction of sea ice pose significant threats to polar bears, making conservation efforts crucial to their survival.

Polar bears are not classified as endangered at present, but that doesn’t mean their populations aren’t vulnerable. There are around 22,000 polar bears left in the wild.

Spot Polar Bears with Regent

Regent Seven Seas Cruises® has consistently delivered unmatched luxury cruises with the very best value for over thirty years. Aboard The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet^®, enjoy unrivaled onboard space, unforgettable shoreside excursions, incomparable culinary experiences, and exceptional personalized service.