Arctic Cruise Checklist: Matt R. Coben lists 5 Activities to Explore While on an Arctic Cruise

Matt R. Coben stays chill when he travels. Literally.

Sure, the Florida transplant does love some fun in the sun. When he isn’t juggling responsibilities as the Taproom Manager at Funky Buddha Brewery, Matt R. Coben can’t wait to get outdoors. Between golf, tennis, and pickleball, he tries to soak up as many rays as he can.

Yet, as much as he appreciates the warm Florida weather, his true escape is the cool destinations of an Arctic cruise.

Yet it isn’t all snowcapped icebergs and icy terrain. Despite these common misconceptions, the Arctic stretches across multiple countries and regions. Matt R. Coben knows that there are countless opportunities to explore.

While there are endless possibilities to make some lasting memories, Matt R. Coben coasts through five of the hottest activities to try while on an Arctic cruise.

Wildlife Watching

Wildlife is the main attraction for tourists when they visit the Arctic. In fact, most excursions are designed specifically to get guests as close as possible. While whales, walrus, and polar bears are the marquee draw, the region is also littered with foxes, reindeer, oxen, and birds.

But, as Matt Coben points out, the variety of wildlife you see is dependent on location and time of year. Plan your cruise accordingly.

Kayaking

If you desire to be even closer to the action, hop in a kayak. Virtually any cruise will offer this activity as an option. Here, you can navigate small inlets and more isolated areas.

You might even be able to paddle up alongside a harem of unique birds distinctive to the region. For Matt Coben, this is an absolute must. Nothing else provides this level of connectedness and serenity with nature.

Dog Sledding

Dog sledding in the Arctic borders on cliche. But it is a one-of-a-kind experience. While it’s a sport in many areas, it is also still a vital form of transportation for colder locales. Enjoying the frozen tundra with a couple of canine companions can be a great way to bark up an authentic experience.

Scuba Diving

Don’t settle for what’s on the surface. Dive a little deeper and take the plunge. Beneath the chilly waters is an entire kingdom of coral and colorful fish. Scuba diving requires a little more planning than most other activities.

Not only should you book ahead so that a guide can be with you, but you should also have the proper diving certification. If this may be too intense, Matt Coben encourages you to try swimming instead as an alternative. This way, you can still enjoy the waterways.

Seeing the Northern Lights

While you’re already in the Arctic, check an item off your bucket list. Describing the Northern Lights as “magical” is an understatement. The idyllic, natural dancing lights will leave you breathless.

Yet to capture this moment for yourself requires some coordination. Viewing is best when it’s darker. That’s why Matt Coben recommends visiting in the winter. He also lists Norway or Svalbard as the best spots. Here, the skies are much clearer.