Cruise Around Svalbard – In the Realm of Polar Bear & Ice

Explore the Untamed Arctic on a Cruise to Svalbard

Set out on an unforgettable cruise around Svalbard with Svalbard Experts, where breathtaking landscapes, dramatic glaciers, and diverse Arctic wildlife await.

This Svalbard Arctic cruise offers a rare opportunity to sail through the icy waters of the Arctic Ocean, encountering polar bears, walruses, whales, Arctic foxes, and reindeer along the way.

Cruise around Svalbard

Highlights of Your Cruise Around Svalbard

North Spitsbergen cruise

Circumnavigate Svalbard’s Largest Island

Experience the thrill of a complete Svalbard cruise, navigating through glacial fjords, rugged coastlines, and ice-laden waters while discovering the stunning natural beauty of the Arctic.

Encounter Arctic Wildlife in Its Natural Habitat

Spot polar bears hunting on the ice, walruses resting on the shores, and whales breaching in the open waters. This cruise to Svalbard offers unbeatable wildlife-viewing opportunities in the untouched Arctic wilderness.

Zodiac cruising
Svalbard expedition

Sail Through Historic and Remote Arctic Landscapes

From the monumental Monaco Glacier to the historic whaling sites of Sorgfjord, immerse yourself in the fascinating history and geography of this remote Arctic region.

Day-by-Day Cruise Around Svalbard

Take a cruise around Svalbard and explore the icy waters of the North Atlantic with dramatic landscapes and untouched Arctic wilderness. This expedition offers incredible opportunities for wildlife encounters and breathtaking views of glaciers, fjords, and remote coastlines.

Begin your journey in Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in Svalbard. Take time to explore the town’s historic sites, including the Svalbard Museum, before setting off into the Arctic wilderness. In the evening, your vessel departs through Isfjorden, where you may spot your first minke whale of the journey.

Your cruise around Svalbard takes you to some of the most marvelous locations in the Arctic:

  • Krossfjorden & Ny-Ålesund – Experience spectacular glacier views in Krossfjorden before heading to Ny-Ålesund, the world’s northernmost research settlement. Visit sites of historic polar exploration and observe Arctic terns, barnacle geese, and pink-footed geese in their natural habitat.
  • Monaco Glacier & Liefdefjorden – Sail into Liefdefjorden and witness the massive Monaco Glacier, where thousands of kittiwakes feed and polar bears prowl the icy shoreline.
  • The Seven Islands – Reaching 80° North – Travel to Chermsideøya and Phippsøya, the northernmost point of your voyage, just 870 km (540 miles) from the North Pole. This remote region is a prime polar bear territory, offering incredible Arctic scenery.
  • Hinlopen Strait & Alkefjellet Cliffs – Navigate through Hinlopen Strait, a vital habitat for bearded and ringed seals, with the chance of spotting blue whales. Zodiac excursions take you close to the dramatic bird cliffs of Alkefjellet, home to thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots.
  • Sailing Through Storfjorden – Explore the straits between Barentsøya and Edgeøya, home to walrus haul-outs, Arctic foxes, and reindeer. Stop at historic whaling sites and admire mighty glacier fronts in this remote Arctic region.
  • Hornsund – Land of the Pointed Mountains – Cruise past the jagged peaks of Hornsund, where 14 active glaciers calve into the sea. This is an excellent location for spotting seals, beluga whales, and polar bears.
  • Bellsund – Arctic Wildlife and History – Visit Ahlstrandhalvøya, where the haunting remains of 19th-century beluga hunting serve as a reminder of the Arctic’s past. Today, pods of beluga whales can still be seen in these waters. Nearby tundra areas are home to reindeer and vast seabird colonies.

As your Svalbard Arctic cruise comes to an end, the ship arrives back in Longyearbyen. Reflect on your Arctic adventure before heading home with unforgettable memories of ice-covered fjords, majestic wildlife, and cinematic landscapes.

Things to Know Before Your Cruise Around Svalbard

Included In This Arctic Cruise

  • Voyage aboard the designated vessel as per the itinerary.
  • All meals on board, including snacks, coffee, and tea.
  • Shore excursions and activities throughout the journey by Zodiac.
  • Engaging lectures by expert naturalists and guidance from an experienced expedition team.
  • Complimentary 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 applicable service taxes and port charges included throughout the program.
  • AECO fees and governmental taxes.
  • Comprehensive pre-departure material.

Excluded From This Arctic Cruise

  • Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights.
  • Optional pre- and post-land arrangements.
  • Passport and visa fees.
  • Government arrival and departure taxes.
  • Meals taken ashore.
  • Travel insurance, including baggage, cancellation, and personal coverage (highly recommended).
  • Excess baggage fees and personal expenses such as laundry, bar and beverage charges, and telecommunications.
  • 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.. 

Secure Your Spot on a Cruise to Svalbard

Don’t miss the chance to experience an extraordinary cruise around Svalbard with Svalbard Experts, where polar bears roam, glaciers shine, and Arctic history comes to life. Book your voyage today and set sail on the ultimate Arctic adventure!

Book your cruise around svalbard today!

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

Svalbard Cruises 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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