How to Take the Polar Plunge Challenge

Only 600 miles or so from the Arctic Circle in an otherworldly landscape of snow-capped mountains, an intrepid group of explorers step out of their robes, one by one, and then 3, 2, 1….make a splash in the icy waters! Whether you’re one of the brave few to jump or you’re cheering them on from the ship’s bow, the energy of the plunge is infectious. Watch and see why it’s one of the most joyous—and memorable—moments of any polar adventure. Get Inspired By Photos, Videos, Webinars, Stories, And Exclusive Offers. Sign Up

Inspired to take the plunge? Jumping into ice-cold water in the Arctic or Antarctica is your badge of honor—and soon you can wear it on your sleeve! Our new polar plunge patches are in the works and will be available in the Global Gallery on National Geographic Orion and National Geographic Explorer beginning January 2019. Once you warm up and dry off, stop by the shop to purchase one of these beautifully embroidered keepsakes—sew it wherever you want your courage displayed.

Artist renderings of how the final patches will look:

Take the leap on one of our polar expeditions. Explore all of our Arctic itineraries. Or head south for Antarctic adventures.