Climate change is having a devastating effect on the formation of sea ice in the Arctic. The hunting grounds of the polar bear are receding. These climatic changes are also affecting tourism in the region, as seasons become less predictable and areas once cut off due to thick ice are now accessible.
Despite this, polar bears are still frequently being seen by our clients travelling to the Arctic. Bears are seen swimming in the sea in search of sea ice, or can often be seen roaming on land, looking for food. If travelling on an expedition cruise, the ship’s expedition leader will look to access areas where the sea ice is still intact to look for bears hunting for seals. As the future of the High Arctic grows less certain, sightings of polar bears in the wild have never been more poignant. The plight of Nanuq, King of the North has come to symbolise the plight of animals under threat all over the world.