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PONANT PHOTOGRAPHY CRUISES-Italy

PONANT PHOTOGRAPHY CRUISES

Capture the world's most extraordinary destinations from a different perspective

CAPTURE THE WORLD FROM A NEW PERSPECTIVE

For many travellers, a cruise is an opportunity to see extraordinary places. For photographers, it can be an opportunity to capture them.

A PONANT photography cruise combines luxury small-ship travel with access to remote landscapes, wildlife and cultural environments that can provide extraordinary photographic opportunities. From Antarctic icebergs and penguin colonies to Arctic wildlife, Kimberley waterfalls and dramatic coastlines, each destination offers its own visual story.

You do not have to be a professional photographer to enjoy a photography-focused cruise.

Whether you use a professional camera, mirrorless system, compact camera or smartphone, the most important thing is being in the right place at the right time.

So, which PONANT photography experience is right for you?

The answer depends on what you love photographing, where you want to travel, how much time you want to spend ashore, and whether your priority is wildlife, landscapes, culture, people or a combination of all of them.

This guide will help you compare PONANT photography experiences and choose the destination, itinerary and expedition style that best matches your photography interests.

👉 CHOOSE YOUR NEXT EXPERIENCE 
👉 FIND YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY CRUISE DESTINATION

At a Glance

Factor Photography Cruise Guide
Best For Travellers who want to combine luxury cruising with photography and exploration
Top Photography Destinations Antarctica, Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, Kimberley, Alaska and South Pacific
Photography Highlights Wildlife, icebergs, glaciers, landscapes, waterfalls, coastlines, culture and remote communities
Best Cruise Style Expedition cruising
Typical Activities Zodiac excursions, shore landings, wildlife observation, scenic cruising, photography and expert-led exploration
Best For Wildlife Photography Antarctica, Arctic and Alaska
Best For Landscape Photography Antarctica, Greenland, Iceland, Arctic and Kimberley
Best For Cultural Photography Arctic, Greenland, Asia, Europe and selected South Pacific itineraries
Important Consideration Weather, light, wildlife behaviour and landing conditions can change photographic opportunities
Key Decision Choose what you most want to photograph, then match the destination, season, itinerary and ship

WHY CHOOSE A PHOTOGRAPHY CRUISE?

Turn the journey into a photographic adventure

photograph the world differently

Photography and expedition cruising naturally complement each other.

A small expedition ship can take you to remote environments that are difficult to reach by conventional tourism. Zodiac excursions can bring you closer to coastlines, islands and wildlife, while shore landings can provide opportunities to photograph landscapes from perspectives that are impossible to capture from the ship.

The journey itself can also become part of your photographic story.

An iceberg appearing through morning mist.

A whale surfacing beside the ship.

Penguins gathering along an Antarctic shoreline.

Sunlight illuminating a Kimberley waterfall.

A remote Arctic settlement surrounded by mountains and sea.

These are the moments that make expedition photography so rewarding.

PONANT's expedition concept combines expert-led exploration with activities such as Zodiac outings, shore excursions, wildlife observation and guided discovery, creating numerous opportunities to photograph the environments you visit.

WHAT MAKES EXPEDITION CRUISING GOOD FOR PHOTOGRAPHY?

More perspectives. More subjects. More opportunities.

A conventional sightseeing holiday often limits you to roads, viewpoints and established attractions.

An expedition cruise can provide a much wider range of perspectives.

You might photograph a glacier from the ship in the morning, explore a coastline by Zodiac later that day and then capture the changing colours of the landscape during scenic cruising.

Your photographic opportunities can come from:

  • The ship
  • Zodiac excursions
  • Shore landings
  • Wildlife encounters
  • Scenic cruising
  • Guided walks
  • Cultural visits
  • Remote landscapes
  • Expert-led excursions

The flexibility of expedition travel is particularly valuable for photographers because conditions can change quickly. And sometimes, the unexpected moment produces the best photograph.

👉 Learn more about PONANT Photography Cruises

START WITH WHAT YOU WANT TO PHOTOGRAPH

Your favourite subject can help determine your destination

The easiest way to choose a photography cruise is to start with your favourite subject. Are you fascinated by wildlife?

Do you prefer dramatic landscapes? Are icebergs and glaciers on your bucket list? Would you rather photograph people, culture and architecture?

Or do you want a voyage that gives you a little bit of everything?

Your answer can help determine which destination is most suitable.

PONANT PHOTOGRAPHY DESTINATIONS

Destination Photography Highlights Best For
Antarctica Icebergs, penguins, glaciers, mountains, whales and dramatic seascapes Wildlife and landscape photographers
Arctic Polar bears, glaciers, sea ice, tundra, fjords and remote communities Wildlife, landscape and cultural photography
Greenland Icebergs, fjords, glaciers, mountains and Inuit communities Landscape and cultural photography
Iceland Waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, coastlines, mountains and wildlife Landscape and nature photography
Kimberley Waterfalls, red cliffs, crocodiles, wildlife, rivers and Aboriginal culture Australian wildlife and landscape photography
Alaska Whales, bears, glaciers, forests, mountains and eagles Wildlife and landscape photography
South Pacific Lagoons, islands, marine life, tropical landscapes and local culture Travel and tropical photography
Subantarctic Islands Penguins, seabirds, remote islands and dramatic coastlines Wildlife and bird photography

ANTARCTICA: A PHOTOGRAPHER'S DREAM

Icebergs, wildlife and landscapes on an extraordinary scale

Antarctica is one of the world's most spectacular photography destinations.

The combination of enormous icebergs, snow-covered mountains, glaciers, penguin colonies and dramatic Southern Ocean landscapes provides seemingly endless subjects.

The light can be just as captivating as the scenery.

Low-angle sunlight, changing weather, mist, reflections and cloud formations can transform the appearance of an iceberg or mountain within minutes.

For wildlife photographers, Antarctica can be particularly rewarding.

Depending on your itinerary and conditions, you may have opportunities to photograph:

  • Gentoo penguins
  • Chinstrap penguins
  • Adélie penguins
  • Leopard seals
  • Weddell seals
  • Antarctic fur seals
  • Humpback whales
  • Minke whales
  • Orcas
  • Seabirds

Choose Antarctica if you want to photograph:

✓ Penguins

✓ Icebergs

✓ Glaciers

✓ Whales and seals

✓ Snow-covered mountains

✓ Dramatic polar landscapes

✓ Wildlife in pristine environments

👉 Learn more about PONANT Antarctica Cruises 

👉 Check out exclusive PONANT Antarctica Cruise Deals 

ARCTIC: POLAR BEARS, ICE AND CULTURE

Photograph the landscapes and wildlife of the Far North

The Arctic provides an entirely different visual experience.

Rather than the predominantly ice-covered wilderness associated with Antarctica, the Arctic can combine glaciers and sea ice with tundra, mountains, fjords, islands and inhabited communities.

For wildlife photographers, polar bears are an obvious attraction.

Depending on your destination and itinerary, other potential subjects can include:

  • Polar bears
  • Walruses
  • Seals
  • Whales
  • Arctic foxes
  • Reindeer
  • Seabirds
  • Local wildlife

The Arctic can also provide opportunities to photograph Indigenous and local communities, traditional ways of life, colourful settlements and historic sites.

Choose the Arctic if you want to photograph:

✓ Polar bears

✓ Walruses

✓ Arctic wildlife

✓ Glaciers and sea ice

✓ Fjords and tundra

✓ Remote communities

✓ Arctic culture

👉 Learn more about PONANT Arctic Cruises 

👉 Check out exclusive PONANT Arctic Cruise Deals 

GREENLAND: ICEBERGS AND EPIC LANDSCAPES

A spectacular destination for landscape photographers

Greenland is particularly compelling for photographers who love dramatic landscapes.

Huge icebergs, deep fjords, glaciers and rugged mountains create constantly changing compositions.

The relationship between ice, water, sky and mountains provides endless opportunities for wide-angle landscape photography, while smaller details in the ice can offer compelling abstract images.

Greenland can also add a cultural dimension to your photography.

Depending on the itinerary, you may have opportunities to photograph local communities, colourful settlements and traditional ways of life.

Choose Greenland if you want:

✓ Huge icebergs

✓ Glaciers and fjords

✓ Dramatic Arctic landscapes

✓ Remote communities

✓ Cultural photography

✓ Abstract ice photography

👉 Learn more about PONANT Greenland Cruises 

👉 Check out exclusive PONANT Cruise Deals 

ICELAND: WATERFALLS, VOLCANIC LANDSCAPES AND LIGHT

Photograph a land shaped by fire and water

Iceland provides a very different photography experience from Antarctica and the Arctic.

Instead of focusing primarily on ice and polar wildlife, Iceland offers a dramatic combination of waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, rugged coastlines, mountains and unusual geological formations.

The changing weather and distinctive northern light can create especially atmospheric conditions.

Iceland can be a good choice for photographers who want variety.

Choose Iceland if you want:

✓ Waterfalls

✓ Volcanic landscapes

✓ Rugged coastlines

✓ Mountains

✓ Dramatic weather

✓ Nature and landscape photography

👉 Learn more about PONANT Iceland Cruises 

👉 Check out exclusive PONANT Iceland Cruise Deals 

KIMBERLEY: RED ROCKS, WATERFALLS AND WILDLIFE

Capture the colours of Australia's remote northwest

The Kimberley offers one of the most visually distinctive photography experiences available on an expedition cruise.

Instead of polar landscapes, you encounter deep red sandstone cliffs, tropical rivers, waterfalls, mangroves, dramatic coastlines and powerful tidal movements.

The contrast between the red earth, blue water and green vegetation can produce striking images.

Wildlife adds another dimension.

Depending on the itinerary and conditions, photographers may encounter:

  • Saltwater crocodiles
  • Sea turtles
  • Dolphins
  • Whales
  • Sea eagles
  • Shorebirds
  • Other native wildlife

The Kimberley also provides opportunities to learn about Aboriginal culture and photograph significant landscapes and cultural sites respectfully.

Choose the Kimberley if you want:

✓ Australian wildlife

✓ Saltwater crocodiles

✓ Waterfalls

✓ Red sandstone landscapes

✓ Tropical wilderness

✓ Aboriginal culture

✓ Dramatic coastal photography

👉 Learn more about PONANT Kimberley Cruises 

👉 Check out exclusive PONANT Kimberley Cruise Deals 

ALASKA: WHALES, BEARS AND GLACIERS

Combine wildlife with dramatic North American landscapes

Alaska is an excellent choice for photographers who want to combine wildlife with mountains, forests, glaciers and coastal scenery.

Depending on the itinerary, potential subjects can include:

  • Humpback whales
  • Orcas
  • Bears
  • Bald eagles
  • Sea lions
  • Seals
  • Sea otters
  • Glaciers
  • Mountains
  • Forests

For wildlife photographers, Alaska offers the possibility of combining marine and terrestrial wildlife within a single expedition.

Choose Alaska if you want:

✓ Whales and orcas

✓ Bears

✓ Bald eagles

✓ Glaciers

✓ Mountains and forests

✓ Coastal landscapes

✓ Wildlife photography

👉 Learn more about PONANT Alaska Cruises 

👉 Check out exclusive PONANT Alaska Cruise Deals 

SUBANTARCTIC ISLANDS: RARE BIRDS AND REMOTE LANDSCAPES

A special opportunity for wildlife and bird photographers

The Subantarctic Islands can be particularly appealing to photographers who enjoy birdlife and remote environments.

These isolated islands support important populations of seabirds, penguins and other wildlife.

The landscapes are also compelling, with rugged coastlines, windswept vegetation and dramatic skies.

For photographers who prefer less conventional destinations, a Subantarctic expedition can offer a very different portfolio from the more familiar Antarctic Peninsula experience.

Choose the Subantarctic Islands if you want:

✓ Rare seabirds

✓ Penguins

✓ Remote landscapes

✓ Bird photography

✓ Wildlife colonies

✓ Less-visited destinations

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DESTINATION

Compare the photographic opportunities across popular PONANT destinations.

Photography Subject Antarctica Arctic Kimberley Alaska
Wildlife ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★★
Landscapes ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★
Icebergs ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★
Glaciers ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★
Penguins ★★★★★
Polar Bears ★★★★★
Whales ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★ ★★★★★
Bears ★★★★ ★★★★★
Waterfalls ★★ ★★ ★★★★★ ★★★
Cultural Photography ★★ ★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★
Birdlife ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★
Best For Polar wildlife and ice Polar wildlife and culture Australian landscapes and wildlife Wildlife and mountain landscapes

Important: These ratings are general comparisons intended to help with planning. Actual photography opportunities vary according to destination, season, weather, wildlife behaviour, sea conditions and itinerary.

WHAT WILL YOU PHOTOGRAPH?

Think beyond the obvious subjects

A photography cruise is not only about the biggest or most famous subjects.

Some of the most memorable photographs may be small details.

Wildlife Photography

Capture animals behaving naturally in their environment.

Landscape Photography

Photograph mountains, glaciers, coastlines, waterfalls, fjords and remote wilderness.

Seascape Photography

Use the ocean, reflections, waves, ice and changing weather to create dramatic compositions.

Cultural Photography

Document architecture, communities, traditions and everyday life respectfully.

Abstract Photography

Ice formations, rock textures, water patterns and natural details can create fascinating abstract images.

Travel Photography

Build a complete visual story of your journey—from the ship and expedition team to the landscapes and people you encounter.

THE IMPORTANCE OF LIGHT

The destination changes, but light is always a photographer's friend

Good photography is often about light rather than simply location.

Polar destinations can provide particularly interesting lighting conditions because of their high latitudes and seasonal daylight.

In Antarctica and the Arctic, long periods of daylight during the cruise season can provide more opportunities to photograph landscapes and wildlife.

The Kimberley provides a very different visual palette, with strong sunlight illuminating red sandstone, waterfalls and tropical landscapes.

Iceland's rapidly changing weather can create dramatic skies and atmospheric conditions.

Instead of asking only:

"What will I see?"

Photographers should also ask:

"What will the light look like?"

WHY ZODIAC EXCURSIONS MATTER FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

Get closer to the landscape

Zodiac excursions can be particularly valuable for photography.

From a Zodiac, you can experience the environment at water level rather than viewing everything from the main ship.

This can provide:

  • Different perspectives
  • Lower shooting angles
  • Closer views of coastlines
  • Access to remote shorelines
  • Opportunities for wildlife observation
  • Greater flexibility for compositions

In Antarctica, this could mean photographing an iceberg from the water.

In the Kimberley, it could mean approaching a waterfall or navigating a narrow river.

In the Arctic, you may explore a coastline or search for wildlife from the Zodiac.

The expedition team will determine appropriate routes and distances based on conditions, safety and wildlife considerations.

PHOTOGRAPHY FROM THE SHIP

Some of your best photographs may never require a landing

It is easy to assume that the best photographs happen ashore.

Not always.

The ship itself can provide excellent photographic opportunities.

Scenic cruising can allow you to photograph:

  • Icebergs
  • Glaciers
  • Fjords
  • Mountains
  • Coastlines
  • Wildlife
  • Sunrises and sunsets
  • Changing weather
  • Reflections

One advantage of small-ship expedition cruising is that spectacular scenery can remain part of your experience even when weather or conditions prevent a landing.

Sometimes the view from the ship is the photograph you remember most.

THE BEST TIME FOR A PHOTOGRAPHY CRUISE

Season can influence light, wildlife and landscapes

There is no universal "best time" to take a photography cruise.

The ideal departure depends on what you want to photograph.

If wildlife is your priority, consider seasonal behaviour.

If landscapes are your focus, think about light, snow, ice and weather.

If cultural photography is important, consider the destinations and communities included in your itinerary.

Photography and the Antarctic Season

Antarctica's cruise season generally falls during the Southern Hemisphere's summer.

Different parts of the season can provide different visual experiences, from early-season ice and snow conditions to later-season wildlife activity and changing landscapes.

Photography and the Arctic Season

The Arctic cruising season generally takes place during the Northern Hemisphere's warmer months.

Sea ice, wildlife activity, daylight and weather can all influence your photography.

Photography and the Kimberley Season

The Kimberley cruise season is generally centred around the region's drier months.

This can provide access to dramatic waterfalls, rivers, coastal landscapes and wildlife.

Photography and Alaska

Alaska's cruise season generally runs through the warmer months, when wildlife activity, long daylight hours and accessible coastal environments can create excellent opportunities for photography.

Always check the specific PONANT departure rather than relying solely on a general seasonal guide.

Destination General Cruise Season Photography Considerations
Antarctica Generally October–March Ice, wildlife, long daylight and changing weather
Arctic Generally May–September Polar wildlife, sea ice, tundra and long daylight
Greenland Seasonal Arctic cruising period Icebergs, glaciers, fjords and Arctic landscapes
Iceland Seasonal, itinerary dependent Waterfalls, volcanic scenery, coastlines and changing weather
Kimberley Generally April–September Red cliffs, waterfalls, wildlife and tropical landscapes
Alaska Generally May–September Wildlife, glaciers, mountains and long daylight
Subantarctic Islands Seasonal, itinerary dependent Seabirds, penguins, remote landscapes and dramatic weather

WHAT CAMERA EQUIPMENT SHOULD YOU TAKE?

Pack for the photography you actually plan to do

You do not need an enormous amount of equipment to enjoy a photography cruise.

The right kit depends on your photography style.

For Wildlife Photography

A telephoto or long-zoom lens can be particularly useful.

It allows you to photograph animals from an appropriate distance without disturbing them.

For Landscape Photography

A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing:

  • Icebergs
  • Mountains
  • Glaciers
  • Fjords
  • Waterfalls
  • Wide coastal scenes

For General Travel Photography

A versatile zoom lens can reduce the amount of equipment you need to carry while still providing flexibility.

Other Useful Equipment

Consider bringing:

  • Spare batteries
  • Extra memory cards
  • Lens cleaning cloths
  • Weather protection
  • A camera bag suitable for excursions
  • A sturdy but compact tripod where appropriate
  • Waterproof protection for equipment
  • Extra storage or backup options

For Zodiac excursions, protecting your equipment from spray and changing weather is particularly important.

SMARTPHONE PHOTOGRAPHY

You do not need a professional camera to capture extraordinary memories

Modern smartphones can produce excellent travel photographs.

They are particularly useful for:

  • Landscapes
  • Scenic details
  • Architecture
  • Food
  • People
  • Behind-the-scenes moments
  • Wide-angle compositions

A smartphone also has one major advantage:

You always have it with you.

For travellers who do not want to carry professional equipment, a smartphone can be an excellent way to document a PONANT expedition.

PHOTOGRAPHY AND WILDLIFE ETHICS

The photograph should never come before the animal

One of the most important principles of wildlife photography is respecting the subject.

Wild animals should never be chased, cornered or disturbed simply to obtain a photograph.

On expedition cruises, your expedition team will provide guidance about appropriate distances, landing behaviour and wildlife interactions.

Follow those instructions carefully.

A photograph is never worth disrupting an animal or damaging its environment.

The best wildlife photograph is one that captures an authentic moment while allowing the animal to remain undisturbed.

👉 Learn more about PONANT Wildlife Cruises

THE ROLE OF THE EXPEDITION TEAM

Local knowledge can improve your photographic experience

Photography is partly about technical skill.

But it is also about being in the right place at the right time.

Experienced expedition teams can help identify interesting wildlife behaviour, changing conditions and compelling landscapes.

PONANT's expedition teams can include specialists such as naturalists, ornithologists, marine mammal experts, glaciologists and ethnologists.

Their knowledge can help you understand not only what you are photographing, but why it matters.

That can transform a photograph from a beautiful image into a meaningful visual story.

👉 Learn more about PONANT Expedition Cruises 

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PONANT PHOTOGRAPHY CRUISE

Your camera should not be the starting point

Choosing a photography cruise is less about the equipment you own and more about the subjects you want to capture.

1. Identify your favourite subject

Wildlife? Landscapes? Culture? Birds? Ice? Architecture?

2. Choose the destination

Match your subject with the environment where you are most likely to encounter it.

3. Consider the season

Light, wildlife behaviour, weather and accessibility can all change throughout the year.

4. Look at the itinerary

Check the destinations, landing sites, excursion opportunities and number of days at sea.

5. Consider expedition activities

Zodiac excursions and shore landings can provide different photographic perspectives.

6. Choose the right ship

Consider the ship's size, expedition capabilities, outdoor areas and suitability for your destination.

7. Consider your photography style

A wildlife photographer may have different requirements from someone focused on landscapes or cultural photography.

WHICH PHOTOGRAPHY CRUISE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Match your photography goals with the destination

If You Want To Photograph... Consider...
Penguins Antarctica
Icebergs Antarctica or Greenland
Polar bears Arctic
Whales and orcas Antarctica, Arctic or Alaska
Glaciers Antarctica, Arctic, Greenland or Alaska
Waterfalls Kimberley or Iceland
Saltwater crocodiles Kimberley
Bears Alaska
Arctic communities Arctic or Greenland
Dramatic red-rock landscapes Kimberley
Rare seabirds Subantarctic Islands
Fjords Greenland, Arctic, Iceland or Alaska
Volcanic landscapes Iceland
Tropical islands South Pacific
A combination of wildlife and landscapes Antarctica, Arctic or Alaska

PHOTOGRAPHY CRUISE VS ORDINARY SIGHTSEEING

Why the expedition format can make a difference

A conventional cruise can provide beautiful views and shore excursions.

But an expedition cruise is specifically designed around discovery.

This can make a significant difference for photographers.

Instead of simply visiting a major port, an expedition may take you to a remote island, glacier, coastline or wildlife-rich environment.

Instead of observing everything from a fixed excursion route, Zodiac exploration can provide different perspectives.

And instead of travelling with thousands of other passengers, a small-ship environment can create a more intimate experience.

For photographers, that can mean more opportunities to slow down, observe and create.

💡 BlueSun Insight

Choose Your Photographic Story

Don't choose a destination just because it looks beautiful. Choose it for the wildlife, landscapes, culture and experiences you want to capture.

Antarctica offers penguins and icebergs, the Arctic brings polar bears and glaciers, while the Kimberley combines dramatic landscapes, wildlife and Aboriginal culture. Alaska and Iceland offer even more variety.

The best photography cruise is the one that matches what you are passionate about photographing.

And remember: experience the destination first, then capture the moments that matter.

PHOTOGRAPHY CRUISES: THE BOTTOM LINE

Find the destination that matches your photographic vision

There is no single best PONANT photography cruise. The right voyage depends on the story you want to tell.

Choose Antarctica if your priority is:

❖ Penguins

❖ Icebergs

❖ Glaciers

❖ Whales and seals

❖ Dramatic polar landscapes

❖ Wildlife photography

👉 Explore PONANT Antarctica Cruises

Choose the Arctic if your priority is:

❖ Polar bears

❖ Arctic wildlife

❖ Glaciers and sea ice

❖ Fjords and tundra

❖ Indigenous and local communities

❖ Wildlife and cultural photography

👉 Explore PONANT Arctic Cruises

Choose Greenland if your priority is:

❖ Icebergs

❖ Fjords

❖ Glaciers

❖ Arctic landscapes

❖ Cultural photography

👉 Explore PONANT Greenland Cruises

Choose the Kimberley if your priority is:

❖ Waterfalls

❖ Red sandstone cliffs

❖ Saltwater crocodiles

❖ Australian wildlife

❖ Aboriginal culture

👉 Explore PONANT Kimberley Cruises

Choose Alaska if your priority is:

❖ Whales

❖ Bears

❖ Eagles

❖ Glaciers

❖ Forests and mountains

👉 Explore PONANT Alaska Cruises

Choose Iceland if your priority is:

❖ Waterfalls

❖ Volcanoes

❖ Dramatic coastlines

❖ Mountains

❖ Atmospheric landscapes

👉 Explore PONANT Iceland Cruises

The best photography destination is ultimately the one that makes you want to pick up your camera.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQs – PONANT Photography Cruises

A photography cruise can be an exciting way to combine your passion for photography with luxury expedition travel. Here are some of the questions travellers commonly ask when choosing a PONANT photography experience.

Have a read of some of these FAQs, but reach out to us any time: 1300 799 758

There is no single best photography cruise. Antarctica is particularly compelling for ice, penguins and wildlife, while the Arctic offers polar bears, glaciers and cultural subjects. The Kimberley, Alaska, Greenland and Iceland provide very different photographic opportunities.

No. Photography cruises can appeal to everyone from beginners using smartphones to experienced photographers carrying professional camera systems.

Antarctica, the Arctic and Alaska are particularly strong choices. Antarctica is renowned for penguins, seals and whales, the Arctic for polar bears and other Arctic wildlife, and Alaska for whales, bears and marine wildlife.

Antarctica, Greenland, Iceland, the Arctic, Alaska and the Kimberley all offer exceptional landscape photography, but they provide very different visual styles.

It is possible, particularly during open-ocean passages, but sea conditions vary greatly by destination and itinerary. If you are prone to seasickness, discuss your concerns before booking.

Yes. The Arctic can be particularly rewarding for photographers interested in polar bears, glaciers, sea ice, tundra, fjords and Arctic communities.

A telephoto or long-zoom lens can be useful for wildlife because it allows you to photograph animals from an appropriate distance. A wide-angle lens is also useful for landscapes and large-scale scenery.

Yes. Zodiac excursions can provide unique perspectives on wildlife and landscapes. However, your expedition team will determine appropriate routes and distances based on safety, regulations and wildlife behaviour.

A tripod may be useful for certain photography situations, but its practicality depends on the activity, ship and excursion. A compact or travel tripod may be easier to manage than a large professional tripod.

Bring the camera system you are comfortable using. A smartphone, compact camera, mirrorless system or DSLR can all produce excellent photographs. Your subject matter should determine the equipment you choose.

EXPLORE MORE PONANT CRUISE PLANNING GUIDES

Click on the links below to explore our top cruise experiences

Your ideal voyage may combine photography with several other experiences.

Wildlife Cruises

Photograph animals in their natural environments, from penguins and whales to polar bears and Australian wildlife.

Expedition Cruises

Explore remote environments with expert expedition teams and immersive shore experiences.

Adventure Cruises

Combine photography with active exploration and Zodiac excursions.

Cultural Cruises

Photograph historic sites, architecture, communities and local traditions.

Polar Cruises

Experience some of the world's most dramatic photographic environments in Antarctica and the Arctic.

Luxury Expedition Cruises

Combine immersive exploration with the comfort and service of luxury small-ship cruising.

EXPLORE MORE PONANT PHOTOGRAPHY DESTINATIONS

Find your next photographic adventure

Antarctica Cruises
Photograph penguins, icebergs, glaciers, whales and spectacular polar landscapes.

Arctic Cruises
Search for polar bears while capturing glaciers, sea ice, fjords and Arctic communities.

Greenland Cruises
Discover enormous icebergs, dramatic fjords, glaciers and remote communities.

Kimberley Cruises
Capture red sandstone landscapes, waterfalls, crocodiles, wildlife and Aboriginal culture.

Alaska Cruises
Photograph whales, bears, glaciers, forests, mountains and coastal landscapes.

Iceland Cruises
Discover waterfalls, volcanoes, rugged coastlines and atmospheric landscapes.

Subantarctic Islands Cruises
Photograph rare seabirds, penguins and remote island environments.

READY TO CHOOSE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY ADVENTURE?

We think you are! Talk to our PONANT Expedition Cruise specialists at BlueSun Travel

CALL THE PONANT EXPERTS NOW

1300 799 758

Start With the Photograph You Dream of Taking

The best photography cruise starts with the image you want to capture.

Whether it’s a penguin against an Antarctic iceberg, a polar bear on Arctic sea ice, a breaching whale, a Kimberley waterfall or a glowing Greenland iceberg, your photographic goal can guide your choice.

BlueSun Travel can help you compare the destination, season, ship and itinerary that best match your interests.

You don’t need to know which PONANT cruise to choose. Tell us what you want to photograph, when you want to travel and who you’re travelling with, and we’ll help find the right expedition.

Contact BlueSun Travel Today

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👉Speak with a BlueSun Expedition Cruise Specialist - 1300 799 758

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