Set Out on an Epic 19-Day Arctic Cruise, Where Wilderness, Wildlife, and Ancient History Converge in the Remote Reaches of the Polar North.
Your Arctic cruise with Svalbard Experts launches into an extraordinary journey across pristine landscapes, from the dynamic waters of the North Sea to the ice-laden shores of Spitsbergen.
Your Arctic cruise begins in Vlissingen before cruising to Aberdeen, Scotland’s historic Granite City. The nutrient-rich waters of the North Sea host an abundance of marine life – watch for playful pods of white-beaked dolphins surfing the bow wave, harbor porpoises breaking the surface in their characteristically shy manner, and the distinctive blows of minke whales announcing their presence across the waves.
Your cruise to Spitsbergen includes fascinating stops that blend human history with natural splendor. Explore Fair Isle, where generations of skilled artisans have created world-renowned knitwear. Witness the raw power of nature at Jan Mayen, where the towering volcanic peak rises dramatically from the sea, surrounded by waters rich in marine life from graceful blue whales to acrobatic orcas.
Navigate through the mesmerizing pack ice to discover Raudfjord’s magnificent glaciers, where you’ll find vibrant seabird colonies and rich vegetation. Stay alert for the majestic polar bear – the undisputed monarch of the Arctic along with Ringed and Bearded Seals
From intimate encounters with Arctic wildlife to exploring remote cultural outposts and standing in awe before Spitsbergen’s dramatic fjords, each moment of this Arctic journey writes a new chapter in your story of polar exploration.
Set sail into the untamed Arctic, where Spitsbergen’s majestic wilderness and remarkable adventures await your discovery.
As your journey unfolds from the historic waters of Vlissingen to the pristine Arctic archipelago of Svalbard, this extraordinary expedition weaves through diverse landscapes and rich marine habitats. Navigate from Scotland’s rugged Aberdeen coast to the cultural treasures of Fair Isle, the volcanic wonders of Jan Mayen, and finally to Spitsbergen’s dramatic ice edge, where whales breach, seabirds soar, and Arctic wildlife thrives in their untouched polar realm.
Our seasoned expedition guides, each with years of Arctic field experience, share their profound knowledge of Arctic bird species throughout your voyage. From exhilarating deck observations during prime feeding hours to engaging evening lectures illuminating the intricate behaviors and survival strategies of these remarkable creatures, you’ll develop a deep appreciation for the aerial inhabitants of this polar realm.
Your Arctic journey begins as you step aboard our expedition vessel in Vlissingen, setting course for the distant reaches of the polar north.
As we traverse the North Sea past Doggersbank, watch for the graceful leaps of white-beaked dolphins, the subtle surfacing of harbor porpoises, and the majestic appearances of minke whales and orcas.
Your first excursion takes you from Aberdeen to the remarkable Fowlsheugh cliffs, where over 100,000 pairs of seabirds create a spectacular aerial display against the coastal backdrop. For those seeking a different perspective, explore the wildlife-rich Ythan Estuary, where harbor and grey seals bask on pristine beaches while coastal birds patrol the shoreline. Both of these enriching experiences are included in your voyage.
Our Arctic cruise pauses at Fair Isle, a remote Shetland gem where just seventy inhabitants preserve their renowned tradition of intricate knitwear craftsmanship. Here, you’ll discover easily accessible seabird colonies along the rugged coast, while grey seals often make appearances in the surrounding waters.
Your journey continues northward to Jan Mayen, Norway’s remote outpost lying 300 nautical miles northeast of Iceland. These two days at sea offer constant opportunities for marine life encounters – watch for the distinctive spouts of minke, fin, orca, and the mighty blue whales breaking the Arctic waters.
Rising dramatically from the Arctic waters, Jan Mayen stands as a testament to nature’s raw power, dominated by the snow-crowned Mt. Beerenberg. This towering volcano reaches 2,300 meters (7,545 feet) skyward while fractured glaciers cascade from its flanks into the frigid seas below. Your exploration includes a visit to the Norwegian weather station (pending authorization) and a walk through history to discover the preserved remnants of a 17th-century Dutch whaling outpost, nestled among verdant moss beds in this volcanic wilderness.
Under the endless Arctic daylight, we navigate northward along the sea ice frontier, where bowhead whales glide beneath the surface, harp seals rest on floating ice, polar bears prowl, and seabirds wheel overhead. At approximately 79° north, our course shifts westward toward West Spitsbergen’s continental shelf, where fin whales feed in the nutrient-rich waters and minke whales surface near the yawning mouths of glacier-carved fjords.
The pristine waters of Forlandsundet, nestled between Spitsbergen’s main island and the slender Prins Karls Forland, offer a sanctuary of Arctic splendor where walruses frequently emerge to rest on pristine shores. Our journey might alternatively lead us through the dramatic St. Johns Fjord or southward to Alkhornet at Isfjorden’s entrance. Here, bustling seabird colonies cling to towering cliffs while Arctic foxes patrol below for fallen prey, and hardy reindeer forage among the tundra vegetation.
Arriving in Longyearbyen, the vibrant heart of Spitsbergen and Svalbard’s administrative hub, you’ll discover a remarkable Arctic community rich in polar history. Wander through this transformed mining settlement, where the historic parish church and engaging Svalbard Museum reveal fascinating stories of Arctic life. Despite its seemingly harsh environment, the surrounding tundra harbors over a hundred resilient plant species. As we depart through Isfjorden in the evening light, keep watch for minke whales gliding through these productive waters.
These six days represent the pinnacle of your Svalbard Arctic cruise, offering in-depth exploration of North Spitsbergen’s most spectacular locations:
This expansive fjord system showcases the raw beauty of the Arctic. Massive glaciers calve into pristine waters where ringed and bearded seals pursue Arctic cod beneath the surface. The surrounding cliffs support thriving colonies of seabirds, while the coastal plains burst with surprisingly colorful vegetation during the brief summer season. We aim to land at Alicehamna or Buchananhalvøya.
If the sea ice and weather conditions are favorable, we may have the opportunity to sail into the stunning Liefdefjorden and go ashore at Texas Bar. From there, we can cruise along the face of the awe-inspiring Monaco Glacier, which stretches for an impressive 5 kilometers (3.1 miles). The frigid waters right in front of this steep glacier wall attract thousands of kittiwakes that congregate to feed. The Monaco Glacier is also known to be prime hunting territory for polar bears that prowl along the base of the ice. In the event that ice blocks our passage into Liefdefjorden early in the season, an alternate route may take us along the west coast of Spitsbergen instead, where other Arctic wonders await.
Hinlopen Strait beckons with its bearded seals, ringed seals, polar bears, and the possibility of blue whales at the entrance. We’ll cruise in Zodiacs among Lomfjord’s ice floes and gaze at the thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots nesting on Alkefjellet’s cliffs. A landing on Nordaustlandet may yield sightings of reindeer, pink-footed geese, and walruses. If ice blocks Hinlopen, an alternate route ensures our Arctic adventure continues.
The Seven Islands, north of Nordaustlandet, may be our voyage’s northernmost point. We could reach 80° north at Chermsideøya or Phippsøya, just 870 km (540 miles) from the North Pole. As polar bears inhabit this region, the ship may linger in the pack ice for several hours to spot them before turning west again.
As we turn westward, scan the horizon for prowling polar bears and the distinctive profiles of Greenland whales (bowhead whales) breaking the surface. Approximately 40 nautical miles from Spitsbergen’s coast, we navigate the continental shelf’s edge, where summer upwellings create rich feeding grounds as cold, nutrient-dense waters rise from the depths. Here, fin whales gather to feast in these productive waters, while the entrance to Kongsfjorden often rewards us with close encounters of graceful minke whales.
In the sheltered waters of Forlandsundet, we often find walruses hauled out along the shores of Sarstangen or Poolepynten. If conditions favor, we may instead explore the dramatic St. Johns Fjord or venture south to Alkhornet at Isfjorden’s entrance. Here, towering cliffs host thriving seabird colonies, while opportunistic Arctic foxes patrol below for fallen prey, and hardy reindeer find sustenance in the resilient tundra vegetation.
As our remarkable Arctic journey draws to a close, we return to Longyearbyen in the crisp morning light. Your seamless transfer to the airport awaits, carrying with you memories of an extraordinary polar adventure.
Mandatory Insurance: Travelers are required to secure comprehensive insurance that encompasses medical expenses, accident coverage, and provisions for potential repatriation or emergency evacuation.
Recommended Insurance: We strongly advise obtaining cancellation insurance to provide an additional layer of financial protection and peace of mind during your travels.
Prohibited: Drone operation is categorically forbidden throughout the entire expedition without exception.
Welcome aboard our pioneering Polar Class 6 expedition vessel, setting new benchmarks in Arctic exploration. Built to exceed Lloyd’s Register’s most stringent standards for ice-strengthened ships and surpassing International Maritime Organization’s Polar Code requirements, this state-of-the-art vessel combines unparalleled safety with the flexibility to navigate the world’s most challenging polar waters.
Passenger Capacity and Comfort:
Engineering Excellence:
Environmentally Friendly Design:
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Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to explore the majestic Arctic aboard our advanced expedition vessel. Whether you’re drawn to stunning landscapes, passionate about wildlife photography, or seeking the adventure of a lifetime, this 19-day cruise to the Arctic delivers unforgettable experiences.
The optimal season for Arctic cruises runs from May through September, offering continuous daylight and prime wildlife viewing opportunities.
Our Svalbard Arctic cruise explores numerous locations, including Raudfjord, Monaco Glacier, and the Seven Islands. Each destination offers unique wildlife encounters and spectacular landscapes.
To get the most up-to-date details on which routes are planned and the most spectacular landing locations, reach out to our knowledgeable team at Svalbard Experts.
Be sure to include a weatherproof jacket and trousers, multiple thermal base layers, UV-blocking glasses, well-insulated gloves, a cozy cap, and thermal socks. Prior to departure, you’ll receive a comprehensive inventory of suggested items to pack.
If you’re looking to extend your stay in Svalbard, book a local hotel and make the most of your time with these activities:
These activities will perfectly complement your Arctic cruise adventure.
Yes, early booking is strongly recommended for Arctic cruises due to limited capacity and high demand. This ensures optimal cabin selection and activity availability.
Keep an eye out for polar bears, walruses, Arctic foxes, seals, various whale species (like minke, blue, and orcas), as well as seabirds such as puffins and guillemots.
Our cruises adhere to stringent environmental standards. Our vessels are equipped with sustainable technologies, such as LED lighting, efficient power systems, and biodegradable materials, to reduce environmental impact.
A moderate fitness level is advised. Optional activities such as Zodiac excursions and guided hikes are available, and the crew ensures accessibility for everyone.
Of course, we assist with travel arrangements! We can help with booking hotels, transfers, and pre- or post-cruise activities to ensure your trip is hassle-free.
