Arctic Circle Cruise –
North Svalbard Explorer

Venture Into the Wild on a North Svalbard Cruise

Launch into an 8-day Arctic Circle cruise with Svalbard Experts and journey through the spectacular landscapes of North Svalbard.

Explore pristine fjords, sail alongside towering glaciers, and witness the ever-changing sea ice. With unparalleled opportunities to observe polar bears, walruses, whales, and seabirds, this Svalbard Arctic cruise is an adventure into one of the most untouched regions on Earth.

Arctic Circle Cruise

Highlights of Your Arctic Circle Cruise

Fuglesang Spitsbergen

Experience North Svalbard’s Remote Wilderness

Cruise into majestic Arctic terrain, from vast glacial valleys to rugged coastlines shaped by the forces of nature. This North Svalbard cruise offers panoramic views of towering ice formations and remote Arctic shores, creating the ultimate polar experience.

Encounter the Arctic’s Iconic Wildlife

Spot polar bears patrolling the ice, walruses resting on the shores, and whales gliding through icy waters. Throughout your Svalbard cruise, expert guides will lead you to prime locations for Arctic wildlife viewing, whether from the ship or during Zodiac excursions.

Zodiac cruising
Polar expedition cruises

Sail to the Edge of the Arctic Ice

Navigate toward the Arctic’s frozen frontier, where vast sea ice stretches endlessly into the horizon. Witness this incredible natural phenomenon and observe how Arctic species thrive in this extreme environment during your cruise to Svalbard.

Day by Day Svalbard Arctic Cruise

This Arctic Circle cruise takes you through the diverse and impressive landscapes of North Svalbard, where vast sea ice meets dramatic coastlines. Experience the thrill of exploring remote fjords, towering glaciers, and wildlife-rich shores, with opportunities for adventurous landings and shoreline hikes.

Your journey starts in Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in Svalbard. Explore this fascinating Arctic town, home to the Svalbard Museum, local shops, and awe-inspiring mountain backdrops. Later, depart for the open sea, where your cruise to Svalbard begins. Keep an eye out for minke whales as you sail through Isfjorden.

During your Arctic Circle cruise, you’ll explore a range of spectacular locations, including:

  • Raudfjord – A breathtaking fjord surrounded by glaciers, home to seabird colonies, bearded seals, and polar bears.
  • Monaco Glacier – Venture into the stunning Liefdefjorden, where thousands of kittiwakes feed along the towering ice front of Monaco Glacier, a prime hunting ground for polar bears.
  • Hinlopen Strait & Alkefjellet Cliffs – A hotspot for ringed and bearded seals, with possible sightings of blue whales. The cliffs of Alkefjellet are home to thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots, making for an extraordinary birdwatching experience.
  • The Seven Islands – Reaching 80° North – The northernmost point of the Svalbard cruise, where we may reach 80° North, just 870 km (540 miles) from the North Pole. This remote wilderness is prime polar bear territory.
  • Sailing the Continental Shelf – As we head back, watch for Greenland (bowhead) and fin whales drawn to the nutrient-rich waters along the Svalbard continental shelf.
  • Forlandsundet, St. Johns Fjord, or Alkhornet – Depending on conditions, we may visit walrus haul-outs, Arctic fox habitats, or the seabird cliffs of Alkhornet, where reindeer roam.

After an unforgettable expedition, the vessel arrives back in Longyearbyen in the early morning. A transfer to the airport marks the conclusion of your Svalbard Arctic cruise.

Things to Know Before Your Arctic Circle Cruise

Included In This Arctic Voyage

  • Journey on the specified vessel as outlined in the itinerary.
  • All meals during the voyage on the ship, including snacks, coffee, and tea.
  • Excursions and activities onshore during the voyage by Zodiac.
  • A series of lectures by renowned naturalists, along with guidance from experienced expedition staff.
  • Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes.
  • Transfers and baggage handling between the airport, hotels, and ship only for those passengers on a selection of flights (advised by Oceanwide) from Longyearbyen.
  • All additional service taxes and port fees throughout the program.
  • AECO fees and governmental taxes.
  • Comprehensive pre-departure material.

Excluded From This Arctic Voyage

  • Any airfare, whether for scheduled or charter flights.
  • Optional pre- and post-land arrangements.
  • Passport and visa expenses.
  • Government arrival and departure taxes.
  • Meals ashore.
  • Baggage, cancellation, and personal insurance (highly recommended).
  • Additional charges for extra luggage and personal items, such as laundry, drinks, and phone or internet fees.
  • The customary gratuity for stewards and other service personnel aboard will be at the end of the voyages (guidelines will be provided).

Insurance Requirements

Mandatory Insurance: All travelers must have insurance covering medical expenses, accidents, and repatriation/evacuation.

Recommended Insurance: It is highly advisable to include cancellation insurance for extra protection.

Drone Usage Policy

Prohibited: The use of drones is strictly prohibited during the expedition.

Expedition-Ready

A Versatile Ice-Strengthened Vessel for Arctic Circle Cruises

Originally built as an oceanographic research vessel, this ice-class expedition ship has been fully transformed into a modern passenger vessel designed for Svalbard Arctic and Arctic Circle cruises. With its Lloyd’s Register classification and compliance with SOLAS safety standards, this ship offers a perfect balance of comfort, stability, and exploratory capabilities.

Key Features:

 Passenger Capacity & Comfort

  • Accommodates 108 guests in 50 well-appointed cabins, all featuring private facilities.
  • An international crew of 40, along with 8 expert guides and an onboard doctor, ensures a safe and immersive experience.

 Engineering & Ice Navigation

  • Ice-strengthened hull (Ice Class 1D) for safe travel through polar waters.
  • Diesel-electric propulsion system reduces noise and vibration, ensuring a smoother cruise experience.
  • Average cruising speed of 10.5 knots, designed for optimal fuel efficiency and maneuverability.

Designed for Exploration

  • Spacious observation lounge with panoramic windows for wildlife spotting.
  • Large open deck spaces with full walk-around access for uninterrupted Arctic views.
  • 10 Mark V Zodiacs with powerful 40 HP engines and dual gangways, ensuring swift and efficient shore landings.

An Immersive Polar Experience

  • A dedicated lecture room and restaurant for educational programming and group gatherings.
  • The ship’s expedition-focused design prioritizes time spent exploring the Arctic wilderness rather than luxury.
Read more.. 

Cruise into the Ultimate Arctic Circle Adventure

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the untouched beauty of North Svalbard on an unforgettable Arctic Circle cruise with Svalbard Experts. From towering glaciers and vast sea ice to incredible wildlife encounters with polar bears, walruses, and whales, this expedition offers the ultimate Arctic experience.

Whether you’re drawn to cinematic landscapes, eager for thrilling Zodiac excursions, or simply seeking a true Svalbard Arctic cruise adventure, this journey has it all. Book your voyage with Svalbard Experts today and embark on an expedition that will stay with you forever.

Book your Arctic cruise today!

Prepare for an adventure that showcases the best of the High North’s natural splendor.

Svalbard Arctic Circle Cruise FAQ

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:

  • ATV Tours: Navigate the rugged Arctic terrain with a guided ATV adventure.
  • Husky Sledding: Feel the rush of mushing with a team of huskies.
  • Ice Caving: Marvel at stunning ice formations inside Svalbard’s glaciers.
  • Seasonal Northern Lights Tours: Pursue the enchanting Aurora Borealis for an unforgettable Arctic adventure.
  • Visits to Pyramiden or Barentsburg: Explore the unique history and culture of these remote settlements.

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.

Get in touch!

Leave your details here, and let’s start planning your adventure together!

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