Zodiac Cruising in the Arctic

Zodiacs are the workhorses of Arctic expedition cruising. These large, heavy-duty inflatable boats are also known as a rubber inflatable boats (RIBs). Up to a dozen passengers, plus a driver, can be seated in one and they are used for transferring guests to and from the ship.

Zodiacs are agile, swift and sturdy, making them the perfect vessels for polar environments. Their minimal draft allows them to reach secluded spots or remote shorelines, while their low centre of gravity ensures passenger stability and simple handling for their drivers. They represent the ultimate tool for navigating through ice-choked waters safely.

Internally, zodiacs have six air-filled internal compartments of very hard rubber for flotation. These are connected by valves to regulate pressure, allowing the craft to maintain buoyancy even if one compartment should become deflated. They’re a very safe and reliable form of transport.

Zodiac cruises can offer some truly wonderful wildlife encounters. As well as being an ideal platform from which to experience some of the vast numbers of migratory birds who flock to the Arctic during the summer, look out for reindeer grazing the tundra and Arctic fox foraging around the base of bird cliffs. 

These nimble boats let you navigate the ice edge to find bearded seals resting on floes, or witness the huddling mass of a walrus haul-out, hearing their grunts (and experiencing their odour) from a safe distance. 

While a fervent wildlife dream might be spotting a polar bear prowling the edge of an ice floe from your zodiac, realistically given the minimum distances which need to be maintained and the limitations of viewing from water level, the best bear sightings are almost always from your ship’s upper decks.

It’s normal for travellers to head North with polar bears in mind but return haunted by the staggering, crystalline beauty of the Arctic ice. Many of these profound moments occur while bobbing in the water on a Zodiac excursion.

Zodiacs are the perfect craft for scouting rugged shorelines unreachable by ship, weaving through the deep fjords of Svalbard or Greenland. The ice here is spectacularly diverse: crackling brash ice, vast flat floes where seals might be hauled out, and large icebergs that have run aground, their ancient blue faces carved into surreal shapes by the elements.

The nimble nature of a zodiac allows for total spontaneity during your outing, enabling your expedition guide to change course instantly for a distant blow of a whale or pause to capture the perfect light on a spectacular chunk of ice.

Your ship's expedition crew are also expert zodiac pilots, ensuring every excursion is led by a biologist, photographer or polar historian. They apply their specialised expertise to interpret everything you encounter – transforming onboard lectures into live field observations that enrich your Arctic journey.

Zodiacs serve as vital hubs for various citizen science initiatives. Something as simple as lowering a Secchi disk to measure water clarity can be a deeply impactful experience, evolving you from an observer into a contributing researcher, and potentially reshaping your entire understanding of the fragile Arctic environment.

High-quality waterproof and windproof gear is vital for every zodiac excursion. You will receive a detailed packing guide well before your departure to ensure you're fully prepared.

Wearing multiple layers is arguably more critical for cruising than for shore landings. Since you remain stationary in the boat, your body temperature can drop surprisingly quickly; when undecided, always add an extra fleece. Given that Arctic weather shifts in an instant, it is wise to dress for the most challenging conditions possible.

Expect some splashing from ocean spray and waves during your excursions. Beyond your own clothing, prioritise protecting your gear – always pack a sturdy dry bag for your belongings, plus specialised waterproof covers for both your camera and phone.

First-timers are often daunted by their initial zodiac boarding, yet they quickly adapt with the confidence of a seasoned mariner. Guests of all ages are welcome, provided they possess a baseline level of physical mobility and balance.

Lifejackets are mandatory for every excursion. When moving between the ship and the boat, the expedition crew provides a steady hand to help you step safely across. Once underway, you’ll simply sit along the inflated pontoons.

Operations only proceed in stable conditions; cruises are cancelled if winds or swells become excessive. Should the weather shift mid-trip, your pilot will prioritise a swift, safe return to the vessel. Rest assured that even in choppy seas, the boat's wide, low design makes it exceptionally stable and nearly impossible to capsize.

The stable design of zodiacs makes them fantastic platforms for photography. Your expedition guides will strive to ensure you have every chance to capture the Arctic’s highlights from the water; many are passionate photographers who instinctively position the boat for the perfect light and angle.

When the craft is stationary in calm conditions, your guide may permit you to stand for a better vantage point. For safety, you must only do so when explicitly invited and remain seated whenever the zodiac is in motion.

Since you are exposed to salt spray and wind, swapping lenses is not recommended during the cruise. Bringing specialised waterproof protection for your camera is vital, especially to shield your gear from splashes while traveling between locations.