Alberta, Canada - Minimal Impact Cruises has opened early bookings for its suite of Arctic expeditions in 2026 aboard the innovative Captain Arctic - the first modern near-zero carbon emission polar expedition ship powered by nature. Limited to just 36 guests per departure, the Captain Arctic delivers a deeply responsive and responsible way to experience the world's most beautiful and sensitive environments.

Purpose-built for polar expedition travel, the Captain Arctic offers a considered, elevated onboard experience that balances environmental responsibility with refined hospitality. Solar sail technology and electric propulsion allow the ship to navigate pristine environments silently without vibration and its zero-waste operations ensure a light footprint. Designed with a focus on wellness, guests can unwind in the WiFi-free panoramic lounge designed for quiet exploration and uninterrupted views of the Arctic wilderness, relax in a traditional Nordic sauna, take a plunge in the cold Norwegian bath, or recharge in the fitness room. A curated library, cosy bar, and open bridge policy encourages connection between fellow passengers and with the crew.

Minimal Impact Cruises will begin sailing in November 2026 by navigating through the dramatic fusion of jagged mountains, snow-dusted fjords, and silent, ice-cold seas of Northern Norway while Northern Lights dance overhead. In the summer of 2027, two voyages will take guests past the towering, snowcapped peaks and through massive scenic fjords of the wildlife-rich Svalbard archipelago. In September 2027, guests are invited to venture deep into the remote Arctic wonderland in the fjords of Greenland's east coast, where towering glaciers meet pristine waters and ancient icebergs drift silently through cathedral-like passages carved by a millennia of ice and wind. Each voyage aboard the Captain Arctic is shaped by seasonal conditions, wildlife patterns, and polar phenomena.

Minimal Impact Cruises' expedition team of six expert guides, certified by the Polar Tourism Guides Association, bring decades of Arctic experience, guaranteeing both safety and a profound connection to this extraordinary landscape. Their intimate expeditions allows for a uniquely immersive experience as the ship glides silently through otherworldly landscapes, offering regular opportunities to explore outside whether it be land-based hikes or time on the water in kayaks. Dining is similarly thoughtful, with responsibly sourced ingredients at the heart of a menu that celebrates flavour, seasonality and craftsmanship.

“We've created something that goes beyond luxury, a new vision of travel rooted in purpose, protection and presence,” says Heather Thorkelson, founder of Minimal Impact Cruises. “For us, the future of travel is conscious, connected and carbon-considered.”

Curious-minded travelers who bring a deep appreciation for the natural world and understand the profound responsibility of visiting one of Earth's most pristine and sensitive regions can book their expedition now at www.minimalimpactcruises.com. Early booking ensures access to preferred cabin categories and departure dates for these exclusive small-group expeditions.

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www.minimalimpactcruises.com

About Minimal Impact Cruises:

With growing awareness around the fragility of our polar ecosystems, Minimal Impact Cruises was founded to champion a new standard of low-impact travel that protects the places we explore. A division of Polar Tracks Expeditions, an award-winning female-founded polar travel agency, Minimal Impact Cruises builds on decades of experience. Staffed entirely by current and former expedition guides, both companies are recognised as leaders in polar exploration, known for their deep expertise and unparalleled insider knowledge of the region.

About The Captain Arctic

Engineered from the keel up with sustainability at its core, the Captain Arctic is the maritime industry's most advanced response to the environmental impact of expedition cruising. Designed specifically for polar regions, it features:

• Solar sail technology: Five 35-metre aluminium sails embedded with 2,000m² of solar panels rotate for optimal wind and solar energy capture.
• Hydro-generating propulsion: Dual propellers that generate clean electricity while in motion.
• Autonomous water production: Reverse osmosis systems convert seawater to freshwater.
• Zero-waste operations: Onboard organic waste digesters, grey water treatment, and pellet-based heating from recycled wood materials. These integrated systems enable emission reductions of up to 90% compared to conventional expedition ships, while delivering the safety, comfort, and sophistication today's travellers expect.