This 11 or 12-day active adventure begins and ends in Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen, one of Norway’s Arctic islands in the Svalbard archipelago. The aim of this expedition is to explore the coastline of the largest island in the group, Spitsbergen. The exact course depends on local weather and ice conditions. We expect to explore magnificent fjords, cruise in Zodiacs past towering sea cliffs and encounter polar bears and walrus in their natural habitat. Optional kayaking is available.

This small community of 1,000 souls is the largest community in the Svalbard islands. Please arrive in the morning as embarkation is in the early afternoon.

This expedition’s goal is to explore the largest island in the archipelago, Spitsbergen, but we may visit some lesser islands if conditions permit. We’ll be sailing in a clockwise direction, hoisting our Zodiacs over the side for cruising or shore explorations from time to time

Lying on the west coast of Spitsbergen, this magnificent ice cliff with the unusual name will be explored by Zodiacs cruising in the waters at its base. We’ll also visit Ny Alesund an international Arctic research station with a population of about 80 scientists and support staff. Birders should have their binoculars handy as this is known habitat for Arctic Terns, Arctic Skua, Purple Sandpipers, Common Eiders, Barnacle Geese and Snow Buntings.

On the northwest coast of Spitsbergen is Smeerenburg, once known as Blubber Town. Dutch whalers established the community in the 17th century. Blubber ovens, whalebones, and other remains of the whaling industry are still visible.

The temperature drops as we sail northward, crossing 80N, 965km (600 miles) from the North Pole. Moffen Island is a walrus sanctuary that we plan to visit on this expedition. On previous visits we have spotted polar bear and Sabine Gulls, in addition to walrus!

There are so many islands in Svalbard that certain areas are known as Seven Islands and Thousand Islands. As we explore, you can expect to hike through geological formations five hundred million to a billion years old. Our Expedition Team will relate engrossing tales of Arctic exploration. We’ll be on the alert for beluga whales near Bourbonhamna. The “white whales” are the only whales able to nod and turn their heads sideways.

Disembarkation will be in Longyearbyen.

Map of Voyage