You can take a cruise around the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard, high above the Arctic Circle, north of and belonging to Norway when the bears are concentrated onto the land by the melting of the sea ice in the summer months.
Description
Polar Bears by Ship: Shrinking sea ice concentrates polar bears on Svalbard so in the summer there are more bears than there are people. Cruises are usually either semi or full circumnavigations of Spitsbergen, the largest island. Polar bear sightings are not guaranteed and can be at some distance, though you can expect to see them clearly, the last time I went, we averaged more than one bear sighting per day. There is plenty to see other than the bears, wildlife, historical relics, glaciers, icebergs and spectacular scenery that changes daily. Excursions and hikes ashore are arranged on a daily basis or more frequently. Polar bears are a feature of Svalbard cruises, but not the main focus and there are many other things to see.
Polar Bears on Land: The summer months are a lean time for polar bears, sea ice allows them to hunt seals, their preferred prey. In anticipation of the forming sea ice, polar bears begin to assemble in the vicinity of the Canadian town of Churchill in October and November each year. A "Tundra Lodge" provides accommodation amongst the bears themselves, elevated for safety and with viewing platforms for a full immersion experience. There are other excursions available at extra cost such as dog sledding and helicopter trips. Polar bears are very much the main focus of such trips.
While polar bears can be seen in other places in the Arctic, these two areas offer the most reliable viewing opportunities