Selling Arctic: Expert tips from Pierre Thomas, Business Development Manager at Silversea

Photo from Pierre's personal Archive

How many times have you’ve been to the Arctic and which specific regions?

I have been about 10 times in the Arctic over the past few years discovering new places and guiding in Svalbard (Spitzbergen) where I have been 5 times. I have also been to Iceland 5 times as well as visiting the remote communities and dramatic fjord systems of Greenland and the rugged and spectacular Canadian Arctic. Last July, I felt very privileged to land on the remote North Atlantic volcanic island Jan Mayen. The Geology, flora, Fauna and glaciology of Svalbard are fascinating. Sailing all the way to the pack ice north of Svalbard or scenic cruising through the Prince Christian Sound Fjord system in southern Greenland are unique experiences every time.

Do you have a favourite Arctic destination and why?

Kayaking in Svalbard with Silversea @Silversea

I always love to go back to Svalbard because of the huge variety of landscapes, geology, wildlife, flora, historical sites and glaciers. There are also great possibilities for excursions including zodiac cruises, kayaking, longer hikes and shore walks. Svalbard offers something for everyone’s interest. Each island of the Svalbard archipelago has it’s own character and together with our Captain, Officers, Expedition Leader and expedition team we are continuously on the look out for wildlife, especially Polar bears that roam along the shore and cetaceans in the ocean. The northeast Greenland National Park is spectacular as well and there the Geology and Wild nature are absolutely breath-taking.

What was your favourite time during the season and why?

Atlantic Puffin in Iceland @Silversea

Last season I went to Svalbard again and had some spectacular weather and fantastic wildlife observations including polar bears, walrus and humpback whales. It was a group of Spanish citizens I was hosting during our Svalbard, Jan Mayen and Iceland Exploration in July. We were so lucky to be able observe a lot of flowering plants and plenty of seabird activity along the dramatic cliffs where they nest. During the months of June and July Seabird activity is at it’s peak and the productivity of the Ocean around Svalbard is booming as a result of the 24 hours of sunlight during this time of the year.

What is your favourite thing to do or a favourite place to visit in the Arctic?

I love our zodiac cruises and more specifically when we are able to turn off the engine and to simply soak in sounds and smells of nature around us. I often remind our guests to put their cameras and phones away for a couple of minutes and remind them how fortunate we are to be able to witness those spectacular scenes in complete comfort.

Gently drifting on a Zodiac silently observing glacial landscapes, listening to the air bubbles trapped in the ice and the spout of a distant whale is simply magical and relaxing.

The most memorable moment you’ve worked/travelled to the Arctic

Actually there are many, like for example observing Humpback whales during a Zodiac cruise in a bay with spectacular glaciers all around. When going to the Arctic, all of us, including our guests have one big wish, and this is to spot a Polar Bear. On many occasions I was lucky to see several Polar Bears during a Svalbard Expedition. No matter the distance or the situation, when a Polar bear is spotted, our Expedition leader will make sure everyone on board gets to see it.

Top Tips for travel advisors

Silver Endeavour in Baffin Island @Silversea

The Arctic is an ocean surrounded by continents! When selling an Arctic Expedition Cruise, highlight the unique and immersive experience your clients will get. Emphasize the chance to explore untouched wilderness and remote communities that aren’t accessible on traditional cruise ships.

Arctic Expeditions are rare and exclusive, offering guests the chance to visit areas few people ever will witness.

Highlight wildlife encounters of key species such as Polar Bears, Whales, Walruses and seabirds in their natural habitat, keeping in mind that Wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

Expedition cruises to the Arctic with Silversea have all activities included such as Hiking, Zodiac excursions, kayaking, the polar plunge and expert led talks on the region’s history , wildlife and environment.

To learn more about Silversea and the Arctic, head to our Expedition Cruise Academy.