A recent Wall Street Journal article stated, "Enjoying an ocean cruise and breaking a sweat aren't concepts that traditionally go together. Indeed, the indolence that many people crave from such vacations is the very thing that keeps others away from them."

However, this is changing as there has been an increase ofcruise options …

On a recent voyage of the Plancius, passengers were able to witness an incredible sight. While looking outat the edge of the sea ice between Northeast Greenland and Spitsbergen, they counted between 80-100 Bowhead Whales! That number of these great creatures, which grow up to 60 feet long, congregating in the same area is impressive enough. …

The Kapitan Khlebnikov is back in action! This renowned ice breaker vessel is able to reach remote polar regions that are inaccessible to most other passenger expedition ships. This means access to places rarely explored by tourists. Perhaps it will provide the perfect way for you to explore the Arctic.

An Adventure Life partner, One Ocean Expeditions, was invited by The Canadian Government on the Parks Canada led "Victoria Strait Expedition." The purpose of this was to finally find the fabled ships that were lost during Captain Sir John Franklin's expedition in 1845. Learn about this exciting event and the mysteries that surround it.

Small ship cruising has often been characterized by rugged, expedition-style vessels. Operators have recognized their ability to offer creature comforts and luxury while still providing the same adventures as expedition trips. Discover how you can have the best of both worlds on a luxury small ship cruise!

That's right -- one of the only passenger icebreakers in operation -- the Kapitan Khelbnikov -- has announced it will end its career as an expedition vessel in March 2012. The Kapitan Khelbnikov was built in Finland in 1981, and was originally designed for the rigors of northern Siberia. The ship has sailed to extremely remote corners of the globe …