Introduction to Spitsbergen - Fjords, Glaciers and Wildlife
10 Days - World Explorer
The Introduction to Spitsbergen: Fjords, Glaciers and Wildlife of Svalbard itinerary gives you a taste of everything this region has to offer, beginning in Longyearbyen, the island’s largest settlement. Geared toward optimum wildlife viewing, this expedition provides plenty of opportunities to witness polar bears, walrus and reindeer, and the occasions to capture some amazing photographs in the continuous daylight are as bountiful as the landscape itself. While exploring the remarkable scenery and colorful tundra, you’ll also learn about the history and geology of Spitsbergen.
Encounter iconic arctic wildlife, such as polar bears, walrus and reindeer
Take advantage of continuous daylight
Hike the tundra and polar desert
Cruise in a Zodiac to explore glaciers, fjords, icebergs and more
Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Arctic with optional kayaking adventures
Itinerary in Brief:
Day 1: Arrive in Oslo, Norway
Day 2: Embarkation day in Longyearbyen, Svalbard
Day 3-9: Exploring Spitsbergen
Day 10: Disembark in Longyearbyen & fly to Oslo
Day 1: Arrive in Oslo, Norway
Your arctic voyage begins in Oslo, Norway’s vibrant capital city. If you arrive early, there are many museums, restaurants and green spaces to keep you busy before retiring at your included airport hotel.
Day 2: Embarkation day in Longyearbyen, Svalbard
This morning, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s largest settlement, where you’ll have some time to explore before embarkation. As your ship sets sail, enjoy your first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from icy waters.
Day 3 - 9: Exploring Spitsbergen
You’ll cruise around this magical island on a constant search for wildlife. Your expedition will cover western Spitsbergen as well as stunning fjords and outlying islands to the north. From polar flora to immense glaciers, the natural landscape here is just as varied as the wildlife.Each expedition presents new opportunities and different weather and ice, so there is no fixed itinerary; however, some of the places we may visit include the 14th of July Glacier, Smeerenburg, Alkefjellet and the Hinlopen Strait. The destinations visited will be selected for optimum wildlife viewing with an appreciation of the history and geology of Spitsbergen.
The island offers multiple opportunities for wildlife photography. Spotting polar bears is more likely here than almost anywhere else, as the Svalbard archipelago is one of their preferred hunting areas. The towering cliffs of Alkefjellet provide homes to thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots (thick-billed murres). Coming across a walrus haul-out is a moment you won’t soon forget. These giant pinnipeds of the Arctic create quite a noisy scene as each walrus vies for a choice spot of coastline.If you’re itching to experience a more intimate view from the water, you can book the sea kayaking or paddling excursion adventure options.
In Spitsbergen, there is no shortage of natural beauty. The tundra can be surprisingly colorful in summer, with wildflowers bursting for a taste of sunshine. Each day, you’ll see something interesting, whether it is unique arctic wildlife a polar bear resting between hunts, or abandoned sites from centuries ago.
Day 10: Disembark in Longyearbyen & Fly to Oslo
The time to say goodbye to your Expedition Team and shipmates has come. Your adventure ends as it began, in the historic frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your return group charter flight to Oslo.
22.5m², located on deck 6, 1 double or 2 single beds, 5m² walk-out balcony, separate seating area, sofa bed, private bathroom, bathroom amenities, shower, refrigerator, TV.
Triple Cabin
Infinity Suite
25m², located on deck 5 and 6, 1 double or 2 single beds, floor-to-ceiling glass balcony,
seating area, private bathroom, bathroom amenities, shower, refrigerator, TV.
Infinity Suite
Verandah Suite
20m², located on deck 5 and 6, 1 double or 2 single beds, walk-out balcony, separate seating area, private bathroom, bathroom amenities, shower, refrigerator, TV.
Verandah Suite
Superior Suite
26m², located on deck 5 and 6, 1 double or 2 single beds, walk-out balcony, separate seating area, private bathroom, bathroom amenities, shower, refrigerator, TV.
Superior Suite
Deluxe Suite
31m², located on deck 5, 1 double or 2 single beds, walk-out balcony, separate seating area, private bathroom, double wash basins, bathroom amenities, shower, refrigerator, TV.
Deluxe Suite
Owner's Suite
33m², located on deck 5 and 6, 1 double or 2 single beds, walk-out balcony, separate seating area, private bathroom, double wash basins, bathroom amenities, shower, bathtub, refrigerator, TV.
