Fjords and Glaciers of Spitsbergen

Longyearbyen is the capital of Norway's Svalbard archipelago and it is located on the main island. It is considered the northernmost territorial capital on Earth. Despite harsh winter temperatures that can drop below -40°C, the scenery of this mining town is awe-inspiring. The glaciers glisten, the mountains sprawl endlessly, and the untouched wilderness surrounds you, making you feel like you're exploring uncharted realms.

Embarkation: from 16:00 to 17:00

Hornsund, a fjord located on the southwestern coast of the island of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago, is a haven of pristine Arctic beauty. As one of the largest fjord systems in Svalbard, Hornsund stretches over 30 miles inland, flanked by towering cliffs and dramatic peaks rising abruptly from the icy waters below.

Exploring Bellsund reveals a diverse array of habitats, from rugged coastlines and rocky shores to tranquil bays and sheltered inlets. The fjord is a haven for Arctic wildlife, with polar bears, Arctic foxes, and Svalbard reindeer frequently spotted along its shores. Birdwatchers will delight in the sight of seabirds such as Arctic terns, fulmars, and guillemots soaring overhead or nesting on the cliffs.

In addition to its natural beauty, Bellsund is steeped in history, with remnants of past human activity scattered throughout the landscape. Explorers and whalers once frequented these waters, leaving behind traces of their presence in the form of abandoned settlements and mining operations.

Your skilled captain will navigate the vessel right to the brink of the ice.  Weather permitting and with favorable ice conditions, you'll have the chance to embark on a memorable journey aboard a zodiac dinghy, immersing yourself in the midst of these floating ice slabs.

As you glide through the maze of ice, marveling at their jagged edges and vivid blue hues, some reaching heights of over 2 meters, you'll also have the opportunity to encounter a unique array of wildlife. From seabirds to seals and even the majestic polar bear, these creatures depend entirely on the ice floe for their habitat, adding an extra layer of wonder to your expedition.

Despite its somewhat curious name, Texas Bar isn't situated in Texas, nor is it a watering hole. Instead, it's a rather unique spot nestled within the remote reaches of the High Arctic. Once serving as a refuge for trappers on the hunt for Arctic foxes and polar bears, this humble shelter still stands today, offering a glimpse into the region's past with its modest interior, complete with bunk beds and rustic kitchen utensils.

Perched at the entrance of Liefdefjorden, aptly named the "fjord of love," Texas Bar finds itself amidst a serene landscape characterized by rolling hills adorned with vibrant moss, lichen, and delicate blooms. The cliffs, adorned with ever-changing hues and teeming with birdlife, contribute to the area's picturesque charm.

For those eager to explore, a short hike up the slopes presents a breathtaking vista of the Monaco Glacier, located further south, providing a splendid finale to your visit to Texas Bar.

Monaco Glacier, a majestic marvel of nature nestled within the Arctic wilderness, captivates with its awe-inspiring grandeur. Towering ice walls, glistening in shades of blue and white, cascade down from the high peaks, carving a path through the rugged landscape below. 

As one of the largest glaciers in the region, its dynamic presence is a testament to the relentless forces of nature, as it slowly but steadily advances and retreats with the ebb and flow of time. Cracks and crevasses mar its surface, offering a glimpse into the glacier's ancient history and the ever-changing nature of the Arctic environment.

Raudfjorden, located in the northwestern region of Spitsbergen within the Svalbard archipelago, is a picturesque fjord renowned for its rugged beauty and rich wildlife. Translating to "Red Fjord" in English, Raudfjorden derives its name from the striking red-hued cliffs that line its shores, adding to the dramatic landscape.

The fjord itself stretches inland, providing a sheltered haven for wildlife and serving as a vital feeding ground for marine mammals and seabirds.

Smeerenburg, meaning "Blubber Town" in Dutch, is a historic site located on the northwest coast of Spitsbergen. This remote outpost holds significant historical importance as one of the earliest known whaling stations in the Arctic.

Today, Smeerenburg stands as a testament to the Arctic's rich maritime history, with scattered remnants of its past scattered across the windswept landscape. Visitors to the site can explore the remains of the whaling station, including the crumbling foundations of buildings and the rusting remnants of equipment, providing a glimpse into the harsh realities of life in the Arctic during the age of exploration and

Ny-Ålesund, nestled on the remote and rugged coastline of Spitsbergen, stands as a beacon of scientific research and Arctic exploration. This small and remote settlement holds the distinction of being one of the world's northernmost permanently inhabited communities.

This quaint town served as the launching pad for numerous Arctic expeditions, including those led by the renowned explorer Roald Amundsen.

The 14th of July Glacier is a breathtaking testament to the raw power and beauty of nature. Named after Bastille Day, the French national holiday, this glacier commands attention with its towering ice walls and expansive ice fields.

As one of the many glaciers that grace the landscape of Svalbard, the 14th of July Glacier stands out for its sheer size and majesty.Polar bears, Arctic foxes, and seabirds are among the creatures that call this remote corner of the world home, adding to the allure of the glacier's surroundings.

Disembarkation in Longyearbyen marks the transition from the remote wilderness of the Arctic back to civilization. 

Upon arrival in Longyearbyen, travellers are greeted by the sight of colourful wooden buildings nestled amidst snow-covered mountains, a familiar sight for those returning from their Arctic voyage.The end of an expedition in Longyearbyen marks the conclusion of a journey filled with discovery, wonder, and unforgettable experiences.

Disembarkation: 8am