Small Ship
Longyearbyen - Longyearbyen
Jul 10 - Jul 19 2025
9 Nights
Price from per person
£7,145
Price from per person
Price from per person
Price from per person
Price from per person
Price from per person
Price from per person
Embark on an enthralling journey that captures the essence of Spitsbergen, the crown jewel of the Svalbard archipelago, starting from its largest settlement, Longyearbyen. Known as the Arctic's wildlife capital, this adventure promises to unveil the rich diversity of life in this frozen wilderness. Over ten days, we'll seek out the area's wildlife, from walruses and reindeer to the majestic polar bear, all thriving under the midnight sun's endless glow. Dive into the heart of the Arctic as we explore its natural wonders, unique landscapes, and countless glaciers, and hike the vibrant tundra. Led by a team of expert guides, uncover the history and geology of this secluded haven and venture into a distant land of unforgettable beauty with daily shore landings by Zodiac.Â
For your ease and comfort, this expedition includes a return flight between Helsinki and Longyearbyen, where you will embark on the ship.Â
This small ship cruise offers the possibility to explore Svalbard with a group of 134 like-minded guests in intimacy on the latest expedition cruise ship, the Ocean Explorer.
Start your Arctic journey in Helsinki, a city celebrated for its remarkable architecture and fascinating blend of Eastern and Western cultural influences. Should you arrive ahead of schedule, take the opportunity to discover the array of museums, art galleries, and dining spots, unwind in a traditional Finnish sauna, or stroll through the lively Design District. Your stay at an included hotel will ensure a restful night before the adventure.
This morning, we'll head to the airport and catch our private charter flight to Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in Spitsbergen. As we embark on our ship and begin our voyage, take in the breathtaking first sights of the island's imposing, glacier-crowned mountains ascending dramatically from the icy waters.
As we navigate the enchanting island of Spitsbergen, we'll be continuously on the lookout for its diverse wildlife. Our journey will explore the western parts of Spitsbergen and its breathtaking northern fjords. The landscape is as diverse as its inhabitants, ranging from delicate polar vegetation to majestic glaciers.
Since each voyage has conditions and potential discoveries, our route remains flexible. Possible journey highlights include marvelling at the 14th of July Glacier, exploring the historical remnants of Smeerenburg, admiring the bird cliffs of Alkefjellet, or navigating the icy waters of the Hinlopen Strait. Our selection of destinations will focus on maximizing wildlife encounters while honouring Spitsbergen's rich history and unique geological features.
This island is a paradise for wildlife photographers, offering unparalleled opportunities to capture images of polar bears in their natural habitat, set against the breathtaking landscapes of mountains and ice. Svalbard's pristine ecosystem, largely untouched and rigorously protected, serves as a sanctuary for these majestic creatures.
The sheer cliffs of Alkefjellet are alive with the calls of thousands of Brünnich's guillemots, creating a bustling atmosphere that is a sight to behold.
Encountering a walrus colony as they gather on the shore is an unforgettable experience, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of these magnificent marine mammals.
Sea kayaking and paddle excursions are available for those eager to dive deeper into Spitsbergen's serene beauty. These provide a closer and more personal connection with the water.
The natural splendour of Spitsbergen is endless. The tundra comes alive in the summertime with vibrant wildflowers, each vying momentarily in the sun. Day by day, you'll be greeted with nature's artistry, from the ever-evolving beauty of icebergs and the quiet grace of a polar bear to relics of human history that whisper tales of the past.
The moment has arrived to bid farewell to your Expedition Team and fellow travellers. Your journey concludes where it all started, in the charming, historic town of Longyearbyen. We'll provide transportation to the airport for your group's return charter flight to Helsinki, which is included in your transfer package.
Zodiac inflatable boats are integral to every expedition and perfect for exploring the polar wilderness. Zodiacs are used to ferry you to the shore and mini explorations amidst icebergs, whales, and seabirds. Throughout your expedition, they enable you to reach secluded spots only accessible by these sturdy watercraft.
Driven by our expert team of knowledgeable polar guides, we will explore the Zodiac daily as part of your expedition.
Immerse yourself in the thrill of hiking across the polar wilderness, led by our seasoned polar guides. Wander the vast tundra, marvel at the majestic glaciers, and come face-to-face with the land's inhabitants, including reindeer and Arctic foxes, in their natural habitat. It's an adventure that brings you into the heart of the Arctic's untamed beauty.
During each voyage, we carve out a special moment for the Polar Plunge, a thrilling dive into the icy waters, scheduled just once for those daring enough to leap. Our Expedition Leader and Captain are always on the lookout, assessing the weather and sea conditions to pick the perfect spot and moment for this exhilarating experience. Whether it's from the shore, off the gangway, or the edge of a Zodiac, participants, clad in tethered harnesses for safety, leap into the chilly embrace of the polar sea amid the cheers and encouragement of their fellow adventurers and the Expedition Team.
Safety is our top priority during the Polar Plunge. The onboard physician is always present to oversee the event, ensuring everyone's well-being. Additionally, our guides, suited in survival gear, patrol the waters in Zodiacs, ready to assist as guests make their splash into the frigid waters, whether it's a bold jump or an adventurous cannonball.
Experience the beauty of the polar regions from the intimacy of a sea kayak. The onboard Sea Kayak Program gathers adventurers with a shared passion to explore the stunning landscapes of fjords, glacial fronts, or intricate sea ice formations together.
This program welcomes both novices and experienced kayakers to discover the polar regions from a distinctive vantage point. Depending on weather and operational conditions, the goal is to get kayaking as frequently as possible. Sea kayaking adventures typically begin with a Zodiac boat transferring participants from the ship to an optimal launch site. After exploring the waters, kayakers are brought back to the ship via Zodiac.Â
For safety, a Zodiac operated by a dedicated driver remains close at hand to provide help if needed. These kayak trips usually last from one and a half to three hours, blending adventure with unparalleled natural beauty.
*An extra cost is applicable. Please enquire about costs and availability at the time of reservation. Please note places on sea kayaking do sell out in advance, so forward booking is essential.
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