Polar Expedition Cruise: Svalbard – Northeast Greenland

Venture into the Arctic on a Svalbard-Greenland Cruise

Set out on an extraordinary polar expedition cruise with Svalbard Experts, navigating the untouched wilderness of the Arctic’s most remote regions.

This Svalbard-Greenland cruise offers striking landscapes, encounters with Arctic wildlife, and the chance to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis in one of the most pristine corners of the world.

Svalbard - Greenland cruise

Highlights of the Svalbard-Greenland Cruise

Cruise to Spitsbergen

Explore Svalbard’s Dramatic Coastlines

Begin your journey in Longyearbyen, the heart of the Svalbard cruise experience. Sail past glacier-carved fjords, towering ice cliffs, and rugged Arctic shores, where breathtaking scenery and remote wilderness define the landscape.

Travel through Greenland’s Vast Arctic Wilderness

Journey into Northeast Greenland National Park, the largest protected area in the world. Experience endless ice fields, impressive mountain ranges, and untouched Arctic terrain, offering a glimpse into one of the most isolated and pristine places on the planet.

Greenland Cruise
Northern Lights Winter in Svalbard

Experience the Magic of the Northern Lights

As night falls, watch the Aurora Borealis illuminate the Arctic sky. This polar expedition cruise offers a unique opportunity to witness this natural spectacle from the pristine landscapes of Greenland and Svalbard.

Discover the Arctic on Extended Guided Hikes

For adventure seekers, this Svalbard-Greenland cruise offers long guided hikes across tundra-covered valleys, glacial moraines, and Arctic plateaus. Trek through the untouched wilderness, experiencing the silence and vastness of the High Arctic.

Svalbard whale watching

Encounter the Arctic’s Iconic Wildlife

Throughout the journey, keep an eye out for polar bears navigating the ice, walruses resting along the shores, and seabirds soaring above dramatic cliffs. In Greenland’s wilderness, spot musk oxen and Arctic foxes, perfectly adapted to this extreme environment.

Day-by-Day Polar Expedition Cruise

This polar expedition cruise offers an unforgettable journey through the Arctic’s most remote and awe-inspiring landscapes. From the glacier-carved fjords of Svalbard to the ice-laden wilderness of Northeast Greenland, each day presents new opportunities for exploration. Witness majestic coastlines, towering icebergs, and diverse wildlife while experiencing the raw beauty of the High Arctic, both from the ship and during guided excursions.

For those seeking adventure, this Svalbard-Greenland cruise offers long guided hikes for up to 24 passengers, led by experienced expedition staff. Walk at least 15 km (9 miles) across tundra, river crossings, and semi-rough terrain, while a Zodiac patrols ahead for polar bears. Travelers who opt out of long hikes can still enjoy morning and afternoon landings at scenic Arctic locations.

Arrive in Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in Svalbard. Explore the town’s historic sites, Svalbard Museum, and scenic landscapes before setting sail through Isfjorden, where minke whales may be spotted.

Sail north toward Raudfjorden, an ice-filled fjord with thriving seabird colonies, ringed and bearded seals, and potential polar bear sightings along its rugged shoreline.

As you journey across the Greenland Sea, keep watch for whales and migrating seabirds. Depending on conditions, the jagged edge of the East Greenland sea ice may appear on the horizon.

Sail into Foster Bay, where the tundra is home to musk oxen and Arctic foxes. Navigate through the stunning Kaiser Franz Josef Fjord or Sofia Sound, passing towering mountains and massive icebergs.

*Optional Long Hike: Walk from Myggbukta station through Badlanddal, following the coastline to Kap Bennet. A Zodiac patrols ahead for safety.

Visit Teufelschloss (Devil’s Castle) and sail through Antarctic Sound, home to the islands of Ruth, Maria, and Ella. If conditions allow, Maria Island will be the day’s landing site.

Hike along the stunning Berzelius Mountains, where ancient sedimentary formations reveal Arctic geological history. Later, sail into Alpefjord, surrounded by jagged peaks, and embark on a Zodiac cruise near Gully Glacier.

Explore Antarctic Havn, a vast valley with musk oxen grazing on fiery-colored tundra, signaling the onset of Arctic autumn.

Sail past the glaciated Boons Kyst and Vikingebugt’s basalt cliffs, then navigate among giant icebergs near Milne Land. If conditions allow, hike to Charcot Glacier and sail into Øfjord for a possible landing.

Take a Zodiac cruise near Sorte Ø, where massive blue-white icebergs contrast against the surrounding sediment slopes. Later, sail into Røde Fjord and Harefjord, with opportunities to spot musk oxen.

Navigate through Hall Bredning, where 100-meter-high icebergs drift across the fjord. Land at Sydkap that offers a good chance to see Arctic hares.

*Optional Long Hike: Trek from Sydkap to Nordøstbugt, passing Thule summer house ruins and whale bones scattered along the coast.

Make a tundra landing in Liverpool Land, followed by a stop in Ittoqqortoormiit, the largest settlement in Scoresbysund. Visit the local post office, sled dogs, and traditional drying skins before sailing past the Blosseville Coast.

A full sea day allows time for whale and seabird watching before a final night under the Northern Lights.

Arrive in Akureyri, Iceland, where the journey ends. On request, passengers can take a chartered bus to Reykjavík (must be booked in advance).

Things to Know Before Your Polar Expedition Cruise

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.

Exploration Redefined

A Polar-Class Expedition Vessel for Sustainable Adventure

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 surpass 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.

Key Features:

Passenger Capacity and Comfort:

  • Intimate atmosphere with just 170 guests spread across 80 elegantly designed cabins, offering both privacy and social spaces.
  • Dedicated team of 57 crew members, complemented by 15 polar specialists and an onboard physician, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Engineering Excellence:

  • Advanced Polar Class 6 rating (matching 1A-Super specifications), delivering superior performance in extreme polar environments.
  • Powerful twin ABC engines generating 4,200 kW of combined thrust, mastering Arctic waters at speeds reaching 15 knots.

Environmentally Friendly Design:

  • State-of-the-art environmental systems featuring LED illumination, efficient steam heating, eco-friendly materials, and smart power management for reduced emissions.
  • Industry-leading green initiatives balancing adventurous exploration with environmental stewardship.

Exploratory Capabilities:

  • Purpose-engineered for polar discovery, offering privileged access to the Arctic’s most remote landscapes and wildlife encounters.

Onboard Amenities:

  • Thoughtfully designed accommodation and gathering spaces create your perfect blend of private retreat and social connection.
  • Enriching onboard programs combine entertainment with expert insights into your polar surroundings.
Read more.. 

Start Your Polar Expedition Cruise with Svalbard Experts

This Svalbard cruise is the perfect blend of adventure, nature, and exploration, offering a front-row seat to some of the most unforgettable Arctic landscapes. Join Svalbard Experts today and journey into the heart of the Arctic!

Book your Polar Expedition Cruise 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!

This site is registered on wpml.org as a development site. Switch to a production site key to remove this banner.