Shilpi Madan
17-Dec-2025
Craig Upshall of Polar Latitudes makes cruising to the White Continent gain a dynamic dimension in 2026.
Craig Upshall, Director of Retail Sales (UK, India, Middle East and Australasia), Polar Latitudes, is shaping exciting new journeys to Antarctica for explorers and travel enthusiasts as part of his cool work profile.
Established in 2010, Polar Latitudes is a boutique expedition cruise company specialising exclusively in Antarctica cruises. Committed to creating planet-forward Antarctica travel expeditions, with education and adventure forming focal points, Polar Latitudes brings in small-ship experiences, personalised service, and a deep respect for the fragile polar environment. With itineraries spanning the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands.
(Craig Upshall, Director of Retail Sales, Polar Latitudes)
Excerpts from a conversation:
1. Would you agree that the journey to Antarctica begins long before you even set foot on the ice?
Absolutely! The journey to Antarctica begins long before anyone touches the ice. In fact, many of our guests begin planning years in advance, inspired by documentaries, a lifelong dream to reach the Seventh Continent, or simply powered by their innate desire for a deep and meaningful adventure. As a B2B operator, we work very closely with our partners to ensure that travellers are well informed and are selecting the voyage and ship that suits them best.
Once a guest is booked, the preparation itself becomes part of the experience. We guide them through what to expect, what to pack and even issue sizes for their complimentary polar jackets, and loan boots.
2. Has there been a growth in Indian travellers to the Arctic and Antarctic regions in recent years?
There has been a tremendous growth in numbers: India is our fastest-growing market globally this year, with over 400 per cent year-on-year growth. A significant part of this is due to growing awareness and a buzz that has been steadily building through trade shows, roadshows, and, perhaps most importantly, word-of-mouth.
When someone returns from a polar voyage, they share their experience within their circles — and in India, those circles are influential. The recommendation from a friend, colleague, or family member is extremely powerful. As more Indians return with stories of pristine landscapes, wildlife encounters and personal transformation, curiosity, and aspiration, among others, continue to rise.
3. What is the most common concern of Asian travellers?
We often hear questions about weather conditions and the Drake Passage. People wonder how rough the seas may be, or if they are “fit enough” for such a journey. We work closely with our partners to ensure they have the tools to reassure travellers. Expedition cruising is designed for all abilities, and guests can participate as much or as little as they wish. The key lies in giving travellers confidence: if you have the will and curiosity, you can do this.
4. Food is incredibly important to Indians. How do you cater to our specific tastes on board?
Food is an intrinsic part of the experience, and we respect that. Over time, we have learned that preferences can vary significantly across region to region within India. We are fully equipped to cater to vegetarian and Indian food requirements, and most dietary needs.
Recognising how special food is to this market, we now also offer the option for groups to bring their own Indian chefs on board. This ensures comfort, familiarity, and a sense of home even at the edge of the world.
5. What elements comply with the needs of vegetarian guests?
Our culinary teams are experienced in preparing varied and flavourful menus – for vegetarians and vegans as well. Our guests never feel they are compromising on food simply because they are in a remote region.
6. If you were to pick three unmissable experiences, each in Antarctica and the Arctic…
For Antarctica:
• Camping on Ice (November–December): Sleeping under the open sky on the White Continent is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. It brings in just you, with silence, and the occasional penguin.
• South Georgia Extension: For wildlife lovers, this is incomparable! With thousands of King Penguins and Elephant Seals in spectacular colonies. These voyages run 19–23 days, including the Peninsula and Falkland Islands.
• Bow Platforms on Ocean Albatross; Ocean Victory: Our unique hydraulic platforms sit just five decks above the sea, offering an extraordinary perspective while breaking ice or spotting wildlife.
For the Arctic:
• Searching for Polar Bears in Svalbard and East Greenland: The anticipation and thrill are unlike anything else.
• West Greenland Community Interactions: Sharing tea, music, and daily life with remote Greenlandic families is deeply enriching.
• Ilulissat Icefjord and Late-Season Northern Lights: Watching glaciers calve into the sea and later witnessing the Aurora Borealis in clear Arctic skies is unforgettable.
7. Share with us special inclusions that make the Polar Latitudes experience truly unique.
We pioneered the Citizen Science Programme over 15 years ago, and it remains something we are deeply proud of. Guests can take part in real scientific research, such as whale identification and ocean data sampling. This brings a powerful layer of purpose to the journey, understanding climate shifts and wildlife movements firsthand. Most importantly, it is included at no additional cost.
8. What is the demographic engagement?
Our minimum age is 8 years, strictly for safety reasons. But there is no upper age limit. If the spirit and curiosity are there, we will do everything to make the journey comfortable and memorable.
9. Three misconceptions about travelling to the polar regions.
• “I’m not fit enough.”
You can do as much or as little as you choose. We accommodate all abilities.
• “It’s dangerous.”
Safety is at the core of everything; our ships are purpose-built for polar waters, and the industry is highly regulated.
• “It’s too cold.”
We operate during the polar summer with long daylight hours and temperatures often between 0°C and 10°C, with proper polar jackets and boots.
10. What is your biggest challenge?
Navigating regulatory changes across regions, policies shift often. We are continually working on improving sustainability, including research into lower-emission fuel options, to ensure operations remain responsible and future-ready.
11. What’s next for Polar Latitudes?
We are currently focused on integrating two leading polar operations into one exceptional, future-ready product and are also enhancing onboard inclusions such as Wi-Fi and expanding our science and sustainability programmes. Watch this space!
