svalbard cruise ships

Svalbard Cruises

Book early for 2025 /2026 sailings to Svalbard and save up to 25% with the HX Price Promise*.

Reasons to explore Svalbard with us

Sprawling glaciers, jagged mountain formations and scenic fjords – Svalbard showcases Arctic beauty in all its rugged, pristine splendour. As Svalbard travel experts, we’ll show you the must-see highlights but also the lesser-known gems. Find out about our itineraries, activities and offers.

Book early for 2025/2026 and save

Explore Svalbard in 2025/2026 on our small, well-equipped expedition ships, where safety and sustainability come first. Sail in style and comfort so you’re relaxed, rested, and ready for adventure.

PLUS with our Price Promise, if you find the same cabin available for a lower price after you've booked, let us know and we'll give you back the difference.

Activities on Svalbard

Your cruise to Svalbard comes with included and optional activities to help you make the most out of your adventure in the archipelago.

Our Expedition Team will guide you through the in-depth history and science of what makes Svalbard such a fascinating place.   

Wildlife on Svalbard

Sailing on an expedition cruise in summer increases your chances of possibly spotting polar bears along the shores or across the ice.

Spectacular landscapes

Explore jagged mountains, labyrinthine fjords, national parks, total wilderness and calving glaciers.

Cruises to Svalbard

In the Realm of the Polar Bear | Circumnavigating Spitsbergen

Departure Dates

29 Jun 24, 30 Jun 24 + 2 more departures

Price from £7,240

MS Fram MS Spitsbergen

Circumnavigating Svalbard | The Ultimate Expedition

8 Jul 24, 12 Aug 24 + 2 more departures

Price from £8,319

Book early for 2025 / 2026 and save up to 25%

off adventures to Svalbard, with the HX Price Promise. Book before 30th June 2024.

Immersive activities

On a trip to Svalbard feel completely at one with nature as you hike in the Arctic tundra, kayak through deep fjords or collect samples for global Citizen Science projects.

Activities in Svalbard

Svalbard is one of Europe’s last great wildernesses, beckoning intrepid explorers for centuries. Your expedition cruise comes with included and optional activities to help you make the most out of your adventure in the archipelago. Here are several ways you can immerse yourself in Svalbard’s natural splendour.

Explore Torshavn (Walking Tour)

Explore the history and heritage of the Faroe Islands’ capital.

* Please note that these are optional activities; an additional cost may apply.

Majestic wildlife

See iconic Arctic wildlife in their natural habitat.

Svalbard wildlife

Svalbard is a unique habitat for birdlife and mammals, including Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, whales, and polar bears at the top of the food chain. Our Expedition Team will guide you on how you can safely observe the wildlife you might encounter with the least amount of impact on their fragile ecosystem.

Hardscrabble history

Follow the trail of Arctic pioneers from the Age of Discovery to the 20th century mining rush.

Expedition Team Svalbard

Featuring guest lecturers and scientists, your Expedition Team will enhance your knowledge with specialist lectures as part of your Svalbard expedition. Topics may include Svalbard’s flora and fauna, climate, cultural artefacts, geology and exploration history. Informal talks and impromptu guiding may also take place out on deck or ashore.

Expedition Ships

Our expedition ships are your stylish and comfortable havens at sea, bringing you safely on authentic adventures. These are the expedition ships taking you to and around Svalbard.

A favourite within our fleet, MS Fram is a purpose-built expedition ship named in honour of the Original FRAM - the world's greatest exploration ship between 1893 to 1912 and has been captained by both Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen during her years at sea. With 119 cabins, she is one of the smallest ships in the fleet and spends her time between the Arctic in the summer (May-August), before heading south to Antarctica for the winter (November-March). Her small size, allows her to bring you closer to nature - and with key expedition features such as smaller expedition boats and Science Center, she is perfect for creating an unforgettable expedition experience.

MS Spitsbergen

MS Spitsbergen is named after the crown jewel of Arctic Norway – the Svalbard archipelago and its biggest island, Spitsbergen. Hurtigruten has a long history of traveling to Spitsbergen, beginning in 1896 with the 'Sports Route'.

Helping nature and communities

Help us give back by supporting local businesses and join beach cleans and environmental research projects.

Stories from Svalbard

Travel Guide to Svalbard

The population of Svalbard is approximately 2500. Longyearbyen is the largest settlement in the islands and is also the seat of the governor. It's a colourful modern town with first-class facilities, like excellent hotels and restaurants, regular flight connections to mainland Norway, as well as an impressive range of activities to suit every traveller.

Wildlife in Svalbard

Svalbard’s vast landscapes of rock, ice and sea provide a home for a remarkably diverse batch of inspiring creatures.

Svalbard: Inspiration

How to get to Svalbard and what to do there.

Plan your Svalbard holiday: things to see and do

If you decide to make a trip to Svalbard and Spitsbergen part of your Norway trip, keep these interesting possibilities of the location in mind.

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Explore the rugged beauty of an Arctic island chain

Embark on an Arctic cruise to Svalbard

Offering majestic fjords, astounding ice formations, and some of the densest populations of polar bears on the planet, Svalbard stands out among all Arctic cruise destinations.

Svalbard was once called Spitsbergen, meaning “pointed mountains” in Dutch, and was discovered in 1596 by Dutch explorer Willem Barentsz. But unlike the arduous voyages made to Svalbard in the early years of its discovery, our Arctic cruises to Svalbard are safe and comfortable – though not at all lacking in polar adventure.

Svalbard expedition: what to expect?

Svalbard is part of Norway, and its principal island, Spitsbergen, is the largest and only permanently populated island of the chain. Svalbard cruises tend to focus on animal sightings, as the area is known for its seabirds (kittiwakes, guillemots, and many more), seals, walruses, whales, and of course, polar bears.

Taking a cruise to Svalbard means experiencing snow-swept peaks, rolling tundra, and dramatically cut coastlines. It means loads of opportunities for hiking, snowshoeing, and many other outdoor activities. It means getting the chance to see truly exotic wildlife in its natural habitat.

In a word, a Svalbard cruise means adventure.

Join us on an expedition cruise to Svalbard cruise and enjoy some of the most awe-inspiring scenery and wildlife the world has to offer.

Cruises to Svalbard

16 Days Extended North & East Spitsbergen & Bear Island

OTL04d24 Why take just one polar voyage when you can combine two into an activity-filled, wildlife-focused adventure? We’ve joined our East Spitsbergen cruise (emphasizing polar bears and pack ice) with our North Spitsbergen Basecamp cruise (multiple free activities)...

m/v Ortelius

Cruise date:

25 Jun - 10 Jul, 2024

Berths start from:

Around Spitsbergen, In the realm of Polar Bear & Ice

Full Spitsbergen Circumnavigation

HDS06-24 Take a cruise around Spitsbergen and explore the icy waters of the North Atlantic. This special expedition offers you the chance to catch sight of whales, reindeer, Arctic foxes, walruses, seals, and the star attraction, the polar bear.

m/v Hondius

3 Jul - 12 Jul, 2024

23 Days Extensive Spitsbergen - Northeast Greenland - Aurora Borealis

HDS10c25 A full circumnavigation of Spitsbergen combined with a voyage into northeast Greenland, this expansive expedition cruise explores some of the best spots in the high Arctic - including a visit to Scoresby Sund, Earth's largest fjord, along with exhilarating...

14 Aug - 5 Sep, 2025

15 Days Extended North & East Spitsbergen - Summer Solstice

PLA03d24 We’ve linked two of our most exploratory Spitsbergen trips, one of which cruises the island’s northern shores for pack ice and polar bears, and the other that ventures into the scenic eastern shorelines during the summer solstice. The result is this...

m/v Plancius

13 Jun - 27 Jun, 2024

23 Days Extended Around Spitsbergen & Northeast Greenland - Aurora Borealis

PLA10d24 When you join two outstanding Arctic cruises into one, you get powerhouse polar adventures like this. After edging the pack ice of the planet’s most stunning polar bear habitat, you head to scenically surreal northeast Greenland for views of the magical...

9 Aug - 31 Aug, 2024

We have a total of 65 cruises

Svalbard cruise video

Latest blog and customer story.

What’s so Special about East Spitsbergen?

Though eastern Svalbard does not differ dramatically from the rest of the island group, the itineraries we follow there give you a different experience than our other Svalbard options.

Read more All posts

Around Spitsbergen, in the Realm of the Polar Bear & Ice

There are journeys and there are journeys. This trip is one that falls in the latter category. I look back on a fantastic experience, during which the awareness of human behavior on this vulnerable planet (and especially the Arctic) became very clear to me.

Read more Share a story

Latest highlight and wildlife

See the highlights you may experience:

• — Zodiac Cruising & Shore Program
• — Diving in Spitsbergen
• — Hiking Spitsbergen
• — Polar plunge

More highlights

• — Arctic Fox
• — Arctic Tern
• — Barnacle Goose
• — Beluga Whale

More wildlife

Map of Svalbard

Svalbard cruise photos.

Svalbard cruise reviews

Wonderful experience.

a wonderful journey

Around Spitsbergen - Kvitoya, In the realm of Polar Bear & Ice

Best expedition ever, paradise on earth, faq's about svalbard cruises, where do we go on svalbard.

Svalbard is one of our core Arctic locations, a great place for enjoying wildlife, activities, and scenery. For this reason, there are too many areas we visit to list here. For details on intended routes and landing sites, see the Svalbard page at our website.

What is the best time to travel to Spitsbergen?

This depends on what you want to experience at Spitsbergen. In case you want to experience the Polar night or the Aurora Borealis, November to February is the best time to travel to Spitsbergen. Do you want to see the midnight sun and enjoy boat trips, kayaking or hiking? Then the best time to visit Spitsbergen is around May until September. This is the summer period of Spitsbergen.

When is the winter season in Spitsbergen?

The sun sets for the last time in Spitsbergen in mid-September and rises above the horizon again in mid-February. The winter landscape and temperatures prevail until May.   

What is the temperature and weather like in Svalbard?

The weather in Spitsbergen differs per area and location. Although snow can occur throughout the year in Svalbard, the North Atlantic Current helps provide Svalbard with warmer temperatures than many other areas within similar latitudes. However, strong winter breezes, low pressure and the combination of wet sea air and cold polar air can lead to rapidly changing weather conditions, especially during the winter months. During the winter season, the temperature in Spitsbergen can can drop to -16 to -12 degrees Celsius (3 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit). Adding in the wind chill factor means the weather can feel much colder. July is the warmest month of the year with an average temperature between 3 and 8 degrees Celsius (37 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit).  We therefore recommend that you bring a variety of warm clothes for your Spitsbergen cruise. 

Where can I see polar bears during a Svalbard voyage?

As polar bears can travel great distances in a day, it is impossible to say where and when we will spot them. Sea ice is the best place to look, so we tend to focus our efforts there. Though you will have a good chance of seeing polar bears in Svalbard, nature makes the decisions. Sightings cannot be guaranteed.

What wildlife can I see in Spitsbergen?

Your cruise to Spitsbergen will come with an enormous amount of opportunity to spot wildlife. Polar bears are obviously the main attraction regarding wildlife. There are six national parks throughout Spitsbergen, and Svalbard alone is known to contain, Polar bears, reindeer, Arctic fox, numerous birds (such as guillemots and little auks) and several high Arctic seal species inhcluding the iconic Walrus. You might also encounter a variety of whales including the largest of them all: the Blue whale. 

Photo gallery

73 photos of the Svalbard in the gallery »

About Svalbard cruises

Weather during svalbard cruises.

Svalbard lies within the high Arctic and is technically a desert, with the eastern regions being particularly dry. You may encounter snow, however, especially in the west. Depending on when and where you take your Svalbard cruise, you can expect temperatures around 6°C (42°F) in summer.

Fun facts about Svalbard

• The name “Svalbard” is from Svalbarði, meaning “cold edge”.
• Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s only true town, was founded by an American in 1906 and has around 2,000 permanent residents.
• Almost 65% of Svalbard is a protected nature reserve or a national park.
• Svalbard is an archipelago (chain of islands) off the north coast of Norway.
• Svalbard has the world’s third biggest ice sheet, coming behind only Antarctica and Greenland.
• Svalbard is made up of four main islands and almost 150 smaller islands.
• Nobody gets buried on Svalbard but are instead shipped to Norway for burial.

Take a Svalbard cruise

An expedition cruise to Svalbard lets you experience one of Earth’s northernmost wildernesses, a beautifully stark landscape of glaciers and snow-capped mountains.

But that’s not all. During your Svalbard cruise, you can learn about the region’s fascinating history, enjoy invigorating kayak outings or hikes, and encounter more exotic wildlife than just about any other Arctic location can offer.

Embark on one of our many cruises to Svalbard and enter an unimaginable Arctic wonderland! If you have any questions about our Svalbard expedition, please feel free to contact us.

Polar bear video by Vedat Mihmat

Svalbard Cruises

ALL ABOUT SVALBARD

Poseidon Expeditions - your polar cruise operator

At Poseidon Expeditions, we offer various breathtaking polar cruises for every taste. However, Svalbard, with its gorgeous views and wildlife, is one of the most spectacular locations to visit.

Discover Breathtaking Svalbard Cruises

If you are eager to discover the beauty of polar terrain this year or have a vacation planned for 2023, we offer numerous Svalbard tours to choose from, such as Spitsbergen, Greenland, Polar Ice Edge, and more.

Spitsbergen is the largest and most beautiful island of the Svalbard archipelago, which consists of two smaller islands, Nordaustlandet and Edgeøya. Mostly, the cruises depart from the administrative center of this area named Longyearbyen.

There are many attractions for travelers when choosing a Svalbard cruise. Dive into the world of icy landscapes, arctic climate, and raw nature. Take a chance to see polar ice caps, wild animals, and northern lights in person. All of it is available with any of our Svalbard tours.

As for activities, each voyage becomes truly memorable due to an inspiring photography experience, exciting sea kayaking adventure, and breathtaking views during a challenging hiking trip.

What Can You See in Svalbard?

Svalbard has a lot of sightseeing to offer travelers. As a former no man’s land, it is a gorgeous northern terrain with rich wildlife and breathtaking views. It is easy to meet polar bears and walruses when you go on a Svalbard expedition cruise.

However, Svalbard archipelago islands are not only famous for wild animals. The following locations are well-known landmarks of the islands and, without a doubt, worth attention during a trip.

Why travel with Poseidon Expeditions?

M/V Sea Spirit – Tiny but Mighty

With a maximum capacity of just 114 passengers, we usually operate with 100 guests off the ship. It maximizes our travelers' time ashore because there is no need for splitting passengers into groups for landing rotations as required on larger ships.

A real polar expedition

Experience active exploration of the polar regions through a variety of activities. Weather permitting, we schedule up to 3 excursions per day and offer optional kayaking and, in Antarctica, camping. Enrich your polar knowledge in an engaging and interactive way through Poseidon’s edutainment program.

25 years of polar cruising

Polar cruising is our passion and expertise and over the past 24 years, we’ve gained tremendous experience building a strong team of enthusiastic polar professionals who are all experts in their field. Each cruise is a thoughtfully crafted expedition voyage.

Longyearbyen

An administrative center located on Spitsbergen island, this northernmost town forms the heart of the Svalbard archipelago. Mostly, expeditions to Svalbard that take travelers to explore the Arctic depart from here.

The place is a lively center offering various entertainment options, such as museums, galleries, pubs, sports-recreation facilities, etc. Take an excursion to the North Pole Museum to learn exciting facts about the Arctic.

Smeerenburg

The Longyearbyen cruise can take you to Smeerenburg, a former whaling station with a rich history. Get a glimpse of massive blubber remains carefully preserved since the 17th century. Take a boat trip to feel the spirit of the past and enjoy the beautiful views, including fjords, glaciers, and mountains.

The expedition ship will take you to the most remarkable glaciers of Svalbard, Monaco Glacier, and 14th of July Glacier.

Monaco Glacier, located in Liefdefjorden and named after its discoverer, Prince Alber I of Monaco, is famous for the large surface and blue tint. The beauties of this 7km wide glacier also include polar bears and other wildlife.

14th of July Glacier, in the extent of 16 km, is located in Haakon VII Land and delivers gorgeous views and unique wildlife, such as arctic terns, barnacle geese, and others.

Those spots are worth adding to the itinerary to get the best of the cruise.

US$ 8 921

US$ 7 796

US$ 5 132

US$ 7 561

US$ 8 581

US$ 5 776

About Svalbard

Geographical Facts

Svalbard is a northern archipelago that forms part of Norway. It is situated in the waters of the Arctic Ocean above the Arctic Circle.

There are nine islands in the archipelago; however, Spitsbergen is the largest one and serves as an important location in polar tours. In most cases, all arctic expeditions in the area depart from Longyearbyen, a developed administrative center.

Historical Background

Svalbard means “cold coast” in translation from Old Norse.

It is believed that it was discovered back in 1194. Although it only became widely known after rediscovering in 1596 by Willem Barents and Jacob van Heemskerck.

From 1611 many European whalers arrived in Svalbard and began to argue over whaling rights. All issues were settled by the decline of whaling only in 1800.

That led to a focus shift from whaling to coal, which also caused quarrels over export rights between European, Russian and American companies. Nowadays, only Norway and Russia are authorized to extract coal on the Svalbard territory.

Northern Landscape

Over half of the territory is covered with snowfields and glaciers that extend as far as the sea. Besides, there are many fjords on the northwestern coast of Spitsbergen.

Also, the packed ice around Spitsbergen accumulates quickly, which complicates access to the territory.

Abundant wildlife

The raw nature of the Svalbard archipelago is the perfect habitat for iconic wildlife. Most of the territory is inaccessible to people, which gives animals the unique opportunity to flourish. Summer features the beautiful blooming Arctic tundra with arctic foxes and the Svalbard reindeer. This is also the best time for spotting polar bears, walruses, ringed seals and beluga whales. Bird lovers will enjoy the abundance of species, such as the Arctic skua, black-legged kittiwake, common eider, red-throated diver, barnacle goose and the snow bunting. Cruising aboard small expedition ships is the best way to spot wildlife in the most remote areas. On your Svalbard voyage, you’ll have the best chance of experiencing polar bear sightings. The midnight sun will provide plenty of time to explore, observe and take the best photos.

Svalbard expedition enables tourists to exclusively observe different Arctic animals and sea mammals in their natural habitat. Prepare to meet polar bears, blue and white arctic foxes, reindeer, seals, walruses, and whales. Such excursions make dreams come true.

Top Things to See

A ghost town named Pyramiden grants the mysterious impression of visiting the Soviet Union.

Isfjord is one of the largest and most beautiful fjords in the area, where you can meet polar bears, enjoy glacier views, or join a snowmobile safari.

Barentsburg, the second-largest settlement in Svalbard, is an interesting place to visit for beautiful views, historical sightseeing, and wildlife.

The uninhabited Edge island is the third-largest in Svalbard, where you can meet polar bears, walruses, and other animals and capture the most stunning views.

The Svalbard Museum will help you learn more about the history and culture of the area.

The North Pole Expedition Museum tells the amazing story of airships exploring the north.

Svalbard snowmobile safari, ice cave visiting, dog-sledding with a husky, and many other activities and places are available.

Plan Your Svalbard Tour

How to Get to Svalbard

Poseidon Expeditions offers Svalbard cruise packages and will help you get to the location where your Svalbard cruise begins. Cruises to Svalbard (Norway) in 2023/24 depart from Longyearbyen. However, we can easily arrange your transfer to Spitsbergen cruises from any location at a low cost.

For an unforgettable cruise to Svalbard, we’ll provide you with all the information you need for flights, bookings and accommodations. Onboard information is included – so you’ll be safe and ready for polar travel.

Each Svalbard expedition is always thoroughly supported by our team. On top of onboard entertainment, we help the travelers to learn about the peculiarities of polar vacation and explain precaution measures.

Visa Control

If you plan to visit Svalbard this year or in 2022, you should remember about the visa control. Sometimes trips to Spitsbergen might require a special visa.

Our company will provide you a piece of expert advice on the necessity of getting a visa in your particular case. We will also assist you in applying to the consulate or embassy and preparing the set of needed documents.

Svalbard Ships

We deliver only a high-class fleet for each Svalbard cruise. We rely on our small but advantageous ship:

The deluxe expedition ship  Sea Spirit  is very maneuverable and contains 114 passengers. Comfortable accommodation on board and an additional fleet of Zodiacs make this vessel very attractive.

On our ship, we offer many different onboard entertaining options: restaurants, bars, game lounge, gym, shops, swimming pool, etc. You will never get bored. Besides, due to low passenger groups going ashore during stops is very pleasant.

Facts About Svalbard

The total area of the land: 61022 km²

Svalbard population as of 2022: 2552 people

Spitsbergen administrative center: Longyearbyen

Currency: Norwegian Krone

What Clothes Should You Take with You to Svalbard?

Remember that for visiting Svalbard, you will need arctic-quality, multi-layer clothes that can be easily changed in case of weather changes.

How Cold Is Svalbard?

Usually, the average temperature is above +6°C in summer and -15°C in winter.

What Money Do I Take and How Much?

The currency in Svalbard is the Norwegian Krone. But the sum can only be calculated depending on your habits and preferences. Some people do not require much money on top of the tour cost. Others consider the vacation cheap and can afford to spend a lot more.

What’s Not Included in the Tour?

The tour covers all necessary services: transfer, accommodation, catering, entertainment, and excursions. However, all your extra expenses are to be covered additionally.

Is Svalbard easy to visit?

While it’s not quite as difficult as visiting the North Pole, Svalbard is remote. It is easy to reach the capital of Longyearbyen by plane and then continue via cruise ship. The best way to visit the most remote places on the archipelago is aboard an expedition ship, and we even offer a cruise circumnavigating Spitsbergen and Nordaustlandet!

How long does it take to sail to Svalbard?

It all depends on where your journey begins. We have various cruises starting in Edinburgh and Longyearbyen. From Edinburgh, we sail north through the Norwegian and Greenland Sea. On our 12-day British Isles cruise, we reach Svalbard on day 9, stopping on the Faroe Islands and Jan Mayen en-route.

When is the best time to see polar bears?

The best time and way to sea polar bears is on a summer Svalbard cruise. You get prime views from the deck and during Zodiac cruising, while keeping a safe distance from wildlife.

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is always advised for any trip. So to diminish the risks, we suggest you get it even though it is not obligatory.

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Svalbard Cruises

Pristine wilderness between norway and the north pole, information about svalbard.

Polar expedition cruises in Svalbard offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the remote and pristine Arctic wilderness. Located between mainland Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard is home to breathtaking glaciers, fjords, and an abundance of wildlife, including polar bears, walruses, and whales. These cruises typically range from 8 to 15 days and offer a range of activities such as kayaking, snowshoeing, and wildlife watching. With the help of experienced guides, travelers can experience the raw beauty of the Arctic and learn about its unique ecosystem and history. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a unique vacation experience, a Polar expedition cruise in Svalbard is an unforgettable experience.

Interesting facts about undefined

Svalbard is located between mainland Norway and the North Pole, making it a prime location for polar expeditions.

The region is home to an abundance of wildlife, including polar bears, walruses, and whales, making it a popular destination for wildlife watching.

Polar expedition cruises in Svalbard offer a range of activities, including kayaking, snowshoeing, and camping, allowing travelers to experience the raw beauty of the Arctic in a variety of ways.

The region is also rich in history and cultural significance, with early explorers such as Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen having made expeditions to Svalbard. Today, travelers can learn about the history and ecology of the region through guided tours and educational presentations.

Pictures of Svalbard

Destinations you will visit in Svalbard

Svalbard Isfjorden

Svalbard- East & North

Svalbard- NW

Svalbard- SE

Svalbard- SW

Svalbard- Hinlopen Strait

Highlights in svalbard.

Historical site on SW side of Hornsund with the remains from the days of whaling and overwintering Russian and Norwegian trappers.

Gåshamna was also the site of the Swedish/Russian Arc of Meridian Expedition from 1898 to 1902, one of the first international research expeditions in the Arctic. In addition to the cultural remains, there is beautiful tundra with the Arctic flora.

Remains of a gypsum mine below spectacular and beautiful cliffs. In addition to the cultural remains, including parts of a railway and a barge, it has an interesting flora due to the ‘mild’ location, deep inside Isfjorden.

Nearby cliffs, which go right down to the sea, are eroded into impressive shapes, and can be a great place to explore offshore in a Zodiac, the chance to see various seabirds that breed on the cliffs, with kittiwakes and four auk species including Puffins. It is a popular site for a combined landing and Zodiac cruise, and a ‘sail’ past on boats out from Longyearbyen that are visiting Pyramiden.

Located on the NW corner of Edgeøya at the entrance to Freemansundet, Kapp Lee is the location of a Walrus haul out that is also a good location for Reindeer, the chance of Arctic Fox, and great tundra vegetation.

It is also a site of cultural significance with the foundations of a Pomor dwelling and several hunters cabin including a hexagonal shaped hut that is right next to the Walrus haul out. Just above the shoreline on nearby beach are the remains of a Bow Head Whale where the carcass must have drifted ashore long ago. Now, with isostatic rebound (the land slowly rising up after being pushed down under the weight when the whole of Svalbard was under an ice sheet) the bones are a short distance above the shoreline.

Raudfjorden

Further around the Northwest coast of Spitsbergen, further to the east, this fjord is often blocked off by the pack ice in the early season before, but is the first area to become free as the pack ice retreats from the NW corner of Spitsbergen.

The mountains in this area are rugged and the coast here may have been the land that Barents saw when he came up with the name of Spitsbergen. The name, ‘red fjord’ comes from the red sandstone in the south and east areas of the fjord. There is a hunter’s wooden cabin at Bruceneset and a cairn for a pioneer that died of scurvy whilst overwintering in 1907/08. The name is for the explorer William S. Bruce, the area named by Prince Albert I of Monaco on the Princesse Alice on his oceanographic expeditions to Svalbard from 1898 to 1907.

Hinlopenstretet

The sound between Spitsbergen and Nordaustlandet in the high Arctic, in contrast to the milder coast of western Spitsbergen. Early in the season it is locked in ice that slowly clears from the south.

The northern end can be blocked by the pack for a while, varying from season to season. Once open, it enables circumnavigation of Spitsbergen, although ice can still drift in on strong currents and block Hinlopenstretet. When Hinlopenstretet is open, but the northern end is still blocked, ships will come into the area, typically sailing along Freemansundet between Edgeøya and Barentsøya, then return.

The area is superb for Zodiac cruises and landings, and can be superb even as a ship cruise. There are plenty of seabirds, the sound can be good for whales, there are various fjords to explore, like the surprisingly arid and desert-like Wahlenbergfjorden, various island groups to explore, like Wahlbergøya, and the chance to experience what is described as the polar desert. Three locations stand out as highlights in whole of Svalbard, the ice cliff Bråsvellbreen, the Walrus Haul out at Torellneset , and the bird cliff at Alkefjellet.

Smeerenburgfjorden

This extensive fjord system has impressive scenery and numerous glaciers that is great to explore by ship whilst being on the watch out for bears. It is also an area with lots of history.

Smeerenburg was the base for the Dutch whalers that was known as ‘blubber town’, with the remains of the blubber ovens for those that get ashore. There is also a Walrus haul out that can be observed from the shore, or from a Zodiac if there is a bear nearby (quite often the case here in the NW). Close by is Virgohamna, the site where Andrée set off his ill-fated trip to the North Pole by balloon in 1897, and where Wellman attempted to fly to the pole in the early 1900’s. Today there are the scattered remains of the balloon shed and the aircraft hangar. Special permission is required to land but the remains can be seen from a Zodiac offshore. Smeerenberg was also the location where the Fram appeared after drifting across the Arctic Ocean, stuck in the ice for three years!

Kongsvegen and Kongsbreen

The inner part of Kongsfjorden is popular for ship cruising and especially Zodiac cruising with the mountain scenery, some impressive glacier fronts, and the chance to explore the ice floes looking for wildlife, and the chance of a bear.

Also keep a look out for Long tailed Jaegers, one of the few places they breed in Svlbard is on the island of Ny London in the middle of Kongsford. A number of lakes and pools in the region can attract a range of waterbirds.

Austfonna and Bråsvellbreen

The ice cliff here is so impressive it features in the opening credits of The Frozen Planet. It is where the massive ice cap of Austfonna, covering 58% of Nordaustlandet, meets the sea, and the third largest ice cap in the World.

The ice cliff is about 180km long, apart from few rocky out¬crops, and roughly 24m high, with a series of waterfalls along the length when it is warmer. The ice cliff is routinely referred to as Bråsvellbreen, but it is the huge glacier streaming out of Austfonna. It often surges forward and is known as the Sudden Swell Glacier. The section at the southern end of Hinlopenstretet is the most accessible, often as a combined ship cruise and a Zodiac cruise, and it is simply breath taking, a bit like the ice wall in the Game of Thrones!

There is also the chance to check out wildlife on the ice floes and the bergy bits.

The largest glacier on Spitsbergen that flows into the NW sector of Storfjorden with the longest front to any glacier in Svalbard where it reaches the sea.

With numerous carvings it is almost impossible for a ship to get close for a ship to get close, apart from the northern end, but it makes for a stunning Zodiac cruise with the ice cliffs, the icebergs, and the brash ice. As well as looking out for wildlife the area is known for its stunningly beautiful blue icebergs.

Fjortende Julibukta

The 14th of July bay and glacier, named by Prince Albert I of Monaco on the Princesse Alice on his oceanographic expeditions to Svalbard from 1898 to 1907.

It is one of the highlights in Krossfjorden, often combining a landing with a Zodiac cruise. Cruising along the impressive glacier front, there are regular calvings with bergs in the bay that attracts birds like kittiwakes. And nearby there are bird cliffs with a colony of Thick-billed Murres (Brünnich’s Guillemot) that also includes Atlantic Puffins. Options for landing (being careful of potential Tsunami waves from calvings) include one of the best spots in the whole of Svalbard for flowers, and even the chance to walk on the side of the glacier.

The World’s northernmost year-round community and a site of cultural importance with layers of history. Originally it was a remote coal mining town, known as Kings Bay, until a serious accident in 1962.

The location meant King’s Bay was the starting point of various historical attempts to reach the North Pole, and the mast for Nobile’s airships can still be seen. Today it is a centre for international Arctic research, with traditional houses of when it was King’s Bay alongside modern bases for various countries. It is great to walk around the town and tourism also plays a role and ships can come alongside at the dock (one of the few docks apart from Longyearbyen and Barentsburg in Svalbard). There are shops, a museum, and the most northerly post office in the World. It is also great for birds, including Barnacle Geese (perhaps the most well studied wild geese in the World), Red-throated Loons on the lake, and the chance of an Ivory Gull by the dog kennels.

Magdalenefjorden

One of the most spectacular and most photographed fjords in Svalbard, and with all the pointed peaks it can be understood how Spitsbergen got its name. Very popular for the landing at Gravneset, with the whaler’s graveyard it is named after, with the remains of the blubber ovens from the whaling days.

The tundra is also great for plants and wildlife, from geese to Arctic Terns. Zodiac cruising is a great way to explore the rest of the fjord and to look out for wildlife that includes a huge Little Auk colony in the scree on the northern side (some quite close to the shore), and to look out for seals. As well as Ringed Seals and Bearded Seals there is a spot with Harbour Seals (the most northerly in the World?), and a site where Walrus haul on a sandy beach at the entrance of the fjord to the west of Gravneset. The Waggonwaybreen glacier has been retreating and ships can get quite close to witness carvings, a floating platform on the part of the open fjord that was covered by the glacier just a few years ago. Staff will always be on the lookout for bears that can turn up here.

Nordfjorden

There are several deep fjords along the north coast of Isfjorden with glaciers coming down to the bay. These can be popular for Zodiac cruises along the glacial fronts, discover wildlife, and in some places, even to get ashore to walk on a glacier.

North coast - Nordaustlandet

With most of the island under the icecaps of Austfonna and Vestfonna, this rugged coastline is not covered by the ice cap, including Kapp Platten, but few ships visit this remote coast, preferring to explore Sjuøyane.

Vårsolbukta

On the NW side of Bellsund, this is a huge Little Auk colony amongst the extensive scree on the side of the mountain ridges above the landing beach.

It can be a challenge to get to, and to scout, in case of bears, but it is a stunning wildlife spectacle with thousands of Little Auks wheeling around and calling (sounding like little trolls!). The activity also attracts Arctic Foxes and the tundra, with all the nutrients leaching down, is superb for plants, and to look out for geese and Reindeer.

Along the shore there is the chance of Beluga.

Torrelneset

The highlight here is the large Walrus haul out on the beach, one of the best in Svalbard.

It is also a great location to land, one of the few locations on Nordaustlandet, and experience the polar desert, and to walk up a series of raised beaches to a viewpoint overlooking Hinlopenstretet.

A long narrow island of hard bedrock at the entrance to Van Mijentfjorden, the northern fjord arm of Bellsund. It is popular for a Zodiac cruise around the island and through the narrow Mariasundet, with the strong currents that attract seabirds.

There is the chance of landing to explore the geology, but with lots of scouting first to make sure there is not a hidden bear. The surrounding mountains provide some spectacular scenery and some impressive geology. But few cruise ships go further into this deep fjord, preferring to do landings in Bellsund, and to ship cruise into Hornsund.

Isbjørnhamna

Site of a Polish research base on NW side of Hornsund. A few cruises get the chance to visit the base and to go up to the Little Auk colony.

Ahlstrandodden and Bamsebu

These two sites are at the entrance to the southern arm of Bellsund - Van Keulenfjorden. Both sites, and the area between them, are scattered with remains from the Beluga, the white whale, that was hunted for the blubber and skin. There are piles of bleached bones and upturned wooden boats that were left when the area was abandoned in the 1930’s.

Beluga can be seen along the shore here. If you are lucky to encounter them it is poignant with their bleached bones on the shore.

It is popular site for a landing and to walk across the tundra between the two sites, looking for Arctic flowers, Reindeer, Arctic Foxes, and check out some hunter’s cabins and the remains of fox traps.

Also look out for Purple Sandpipers and Red Phalaropes feeding along the shoreline.

Barentsburg

An active Russian mining town on the hillside of Grønfjorden, that has fallen on hard times, and it can look bleak and stark.

But it is a great place to walk around with the Soviet architecture. There is a hotel, a souvenir shop, a museum, and recently, with more investment, a brewery. Most of the cruises do not visit, but it is easy to see on a clear day sailing in or out of Isfjorden. It is a popular day trip from Longyearbyen, and you could even stay overnight.

This island is off the NE coast of Nordaustlandet and there is a very large Walrus colony, with lots of mothers with young.

Although it is almost impossible to get ashore with the restrictions and all the Walrus, the terrain, and the chances of bears, it is popular for a Zodiac cruise for ships doing a circumnavigation of the whole archipelago.

Poolepynten

This location is outside Isfjorden on the long island of Prins Karls Foreland, but is within the reach of day trips from Longyearbyen, on a long boat ride.

It is known for the Walrus haul out, one of the few relatively close to Longyearbyen, and is popular as a landing for cruise ships. It is a great location to experience a haul out, and they are so used to people, individuals swimming along the shore sometimes come for a closer look! The beaches are covered in logs that have drifted all the way across the Arctic Ocean from Siberia, just watch out for Arctic Terns. The lagoon to the rear can be great for Purple Sandpipers, Red Phalaropes, and Red Throated Loons.

Woodfjorden

This large fjord, and the associated Bockfjorden and Liefdefjorden in northern Spitsbergen, becomes accessible as the pack retreats. It is great for ship cruising, enjoying the scenery, and to look out for bears along the extensive coastline.

Flexibility is key with the chance of bears and changing weather conditions, but with plenty of choices in this large fjord complex. Zodiac cruises are popular, including Monacobreen glacier at the end of Liefdelfjorden, and the islands of Andøyane, a great area for a range of birds, including King Eider. There are also options for landings. The large and impressive wooden hut at Mushamna on the NE side of Woodfjorden. The small hunter’s cabin known as the Texas Bar in Liefdefjorden. The ‘thermal spring’ at Jotunkjeldane in Bockfjorden.

Bjørnøya (Bear Island)

Bear Island is considered Svalbard’s southernmost island, roughly half way between Spitsbergen and Norway’s North Cape. Although the last polar bears were seen in 2004, the name goes back to Dutch explorer Willem Barentsz and his visit in 1596.

The island has been used to hunt walrus, for whaling, and even coal mining has taken place. The strategic location on the border of the Norwegian Sea and the Barents Sea has led to a meteorological station being set up by Norway near Gravodden on Bear Island’s north coast. Some two thirds of the island is a relatively flat plain with shallow freshwater lakes and Ramsar Wetland, while the entire island and the surrounding waters are a Nature Reserve.

Bear Island has also been designated an Import Bird Area as it is a staging area for Pink-footed and Barnacle Geese and the steep cliffs south of Sørhamna are home to thousands of breeding seabirds,the area of most interest for a ship cruise, and even a Zodiac cruise on the few occasions the seas is calm.

This island, and the associated smaller islands, is off the NW coast of Nordaustlandet. Lågøya means ‘low island’, and it is the site of a Walrus haul out and is great for bird life, with the chance of Sabine’s Gulls that are attracted to the lagoons on the island.

Part of the island is sea¬so¬nal¬ly pro¬tec-ted and off limits and landings are often thwarted by the presence of a bear, or bears. It is an area where there can be loose pack ice when the pack, further to the east, is still too compact to sail though. It means this location very popular for Zodiac cruising with the wildlife that can be encountered. There is at least one old hunter’s cabin on the island, but conditions were particularly harsh on Lågøya, some perishing on the island, making hunters reticent of over wintering here.

Whale Watching

The shallow seas off South West Svalbard and the drop-off into deeper waters are probably the best places for whale watching in Svalbard.

In addition to the Humpback Whale, Fin Whale, and Blue Whale, the SW is a good area to see White-beaked Dolphins (more elusive to the NW), whilst heading further out to deeper waters, there is the chance of spotting Sperm Whales and the Northern Bottlenose Whale.

Across the bay from Pyramiden, surrounded by some impressive mountains and geology, with a small group of houses and remains of a railway.

These were constructed in 1919 by William Spiers Bruce, the Scottish oceanographer and polar scientist, with the Scottish Spitsbergen Syndicate Ltd. It is a great example of attempts to mine at the start of the 20th century.

Krossfjorden

The two split fjords that form the inner part of Krossfjorden are popular for ship cruising and Zodiac cruising to enjoy the scenery, the glacier fronts, and to look out for wildlife and the chance of a bear.

There are also several options for landings including Möllerhamna, with a hunter’s cabin painted orange that is known the ‘Lloyds Hotel’. Many cruise ships have visited the site for over 100 years, leaving behind mementoes like signs, graffiti (no longer allowed), and a bar. Sigenhamna is another location where there was a German weather station in World War II.

Festningen and Russekeila

There is some great tundra to explore along the flat coast on the SW side of Isfjorden, to the east of Kapp Linne.

Festningen, quite close to Barentsburg, is well known for the fossils, including the footprint of a dinosaur in sediments that have been forced by the Earth’s forces into a vertical position. Russekeila is a cultural site from the time the Russian Pomors carried out trapping in this area.

Freemansundet

This is the sound between Edgeøya and Barentsøya, flat topped islands compared to Spitsbergen, with tundra flats and slopes below higher cliffs of hexagonal pillars.

This is the preferred route to Hinlopenstretet, although the eastern end is usually blocked off by ice in the early season. Whatever the conditions, it is a great place to look out for bears from the high vantage of the ship. Bears often rest on the tundra on either shore, just be aware there are plenty of reindeer that the inexperienced can mistake for a bear in the early season with their whitish coats. It is also an area where whale and seal carcasses can drift ashore, attracting bears. With the tundra there is still the slight influence of the gulf stream. But once through the eastern end the ship is in the high Arctic and a very different landscape, dominated by the polar desert and ice caps.

Storfjorden

The large bay/sea between SE Spitsbergen and the islands of Edgeøya and Barentsøya that can be a good location for whale watching.

The bays along the coast of SE Spitsbergen can often be good ‘fast ice’ to the land that can attract a lot of bears as areas of fast ice start to reduce.

Haleysundet

This is the sound between Spitsbergen and Barentsøya and a second way to reach Hinlopenstretet instead of Freemansundet.

However, with the extremely strong currents few captains go this way, and usually later in the season, when there is less chance of ice floes hurtling through on the current, and at the right stage of the tide. It is a spectacular ship cruise, often with lots of feeding seabirds. There is a nearby passage that is far too narrow to sail through, but there is the option to go through this narrow passage by Zodiac whilst the ship goes through the main channel and picks up the Zodiacs on the other side. A really exciting and fun Zodiac cruise!

This location is on the island of Blomstrandhalvøya that is in Kongsfjorden and just across the bay from Ny Ålesund. It is the site of an ill-fated attempt to extract the marble deposits by the Northern Exploration Company and the adventurer Ernest Mansfield.

A lot of money and effort was put into the project, but it turned out the marble would shatter as it warmed up! Today there are the remains of the marble quarry and debris from the mine, including wooden huts, and various bits of machinery, including a crane and a rusting steam engine. As well as the cultural remains it is a good place for wildlife, including the elegant Long-tailed Skuas that breed here that are very rare elsewhere in Svalbard, with the Arctic Skua being far more abundant.

The fjords in the inner part of Hornsund is superb to explore by ship with the spectacular rugged scenery, including the distinctive and towering peak known as Hornsundtind. The geology is impressive, and make sure to look out for birds, seals, and even Polar bears.

Deeper in the Fjord, there is the impressive and long glacial front of Hornbreen, and there are glacial fronts in Burgerbutka to the north, and Samarinvågen to the south. These locations are also excellent for Zodiac cruising to get close to the glacial fronts (at a safe distance) and look for wildlife.

Amongst the ice floes is a great place to look for Ringed Seals, Bearded Seals, and the Ivory Gull.

Alkefjellet

The bird cliff here is so impressive it features in the opening credits of The Frozen Planet.

Situated in Hinlopenstretet on the NE side of Spitsbergen, the cliffs are home to around 60,000 pairs of Brünnich’s guillemots, numerous kittiwakes, and Glaucous Gulls and kittiwakes. It is not only the site and sound of the birds, but the cliffs themselves, the geology is stunning with a series of sheer ramparts, some set back (a great place for Arctic Foxes), others going straight down into the sea. It is an outstanding Zodiac cruise, and since ships can get quite close, there is often an additional ships cruise past the cliffs with different angle from the higher vantage point.

Fuglesongen

The views of NW Spitsbergen, the land of the pointed peaks, is impressive from this area, once it is free of ice. Fuglesongen means ‘bird song’ and thousands of Little Auks breed here, flying around in huge ‘wheels’ of birds and sounding like little trolls!

A few determined groups make a landing here, but it needs calm conditions, sticking out on the NW tip of Spitsbergen. But is still an impressive site to witness for ships that sail between Fuglesongen and Klovningen. There is no land to the north, towards the pole, the area often covered in the pack ice at the start of the season.

Translating as ‘White Island’, located in the extreme NE of Svalbard it is both a bleak and a beautiful location with most of the island covered by an ice cap, with one rocky peninsula at the eastern end.

Few cruise ships get here, and there are years when it remains in the grip of the pack ice the whole season. It is also the location where the remains of Andrée and his two companions were found, along with the journal, and a tin box containing photographic films. They set off on their ill-fate balloon expedition to the North Pole in 1897, then disappeared, a mystery for decades until their remains were found on Kvitøya, 33 years later in 1930, an indication of the remoteness of the island and the scarcity of vessels that sailed through the area or landed. With a memorial to the expedition, and just to step ashore, it is a unique landing. But this is often unlikely with changing weather conditions, where the fog can come in quickly, and the fact that that bears are often found here. It is still a great location for a Zodiac cruise, weather permitting, to explore the rocky eastern end, look out for Walrus and bears, and pause to think of the fate of Andrée.

A series of hard granite islands that translates as seven islands, islands that are to the north of Nordaustlandet. Being the furthest north in the whole of Svalbard, the islands can remain in the pack ice for much of the year.

Walrus can be seen throughout the area, with at least one popular landing at a haul out. There are plenty of seabirds, and the chance of a bear resting somewhere on one of the islands, sometimes several bears, understandable with the location. With the myriad of islands it is very popular to explore by Zodiac and the area also has important ties to polar exploration. Many of the locations were named after the English North Pole expeditions led by Phipps (1773) and Parry (1827), including Neslonøya, after a certain young midshipman! Not that long ago the whole area could be trapped in ice throughout the year and just to the east was the area where Nobile’ airship, the Italia, crashed onto the ice, with a huge rescue effort.

On the west coast of Edgeøya, Diskobukta is a narrow canyon, set in the steep hillside, with a large colony of Black-legged Kittiwakes, of over 100,000 birds.

It is quite a challenge to get ashore with the shallow seas just offshore, that makes it even more worthwhile to get here. With so many birds Arctic Foxes often patrol the base of the cliffs.

On the SW coast of Edgeøya, the name means Russian’s Bay from when Pomor hunters were in the area.

This is an area of boggy tundra with numerous lakes that is a great location for a wide range of Svalbard birds and Reindeer in the Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve.

Animals in Svalbard

Antarctic Tern

Arctic Tern

Atlantic Puffin

Barnacle Goose

Bearded Seal

Black Guillemot

Black-legged Kittiwake

Bowhead Whale

Common Eider

Our trips to Svalbard

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Svalbard (Spitsbergen)

Since 1999, we have taken adventurous travellers on once-in-a-lifetime trips to Svalbard. From May to September our three small expedition ships, carrying a maximum of only 12 and 50 passengers, explore this magnificent Arctic archipelago. Unpredictability and flexibility are the main keywords when you travel through Svalbard’s untamed wilderness with PolarQuest as the exact route depends on weather, ice conditions and wildlife encounters. Sometimes you might be woken up in the middle of the bright night if a polar bear has been spotted on the ice. Sustainability is at the heart of what we do, we measure all our emissions and invest in climate projects that effectively reduce emissions.

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East Svalbard and the legendary Kvitøya 2024

Midsummer adventure in Svalbard 2024

Expedition Svalbard with Doug Allan 2024

Svalbard Adventure 2024

Abenteuer Spitzbergen 2024

Expedition Svalbard 2024

Expedition Svalbard with Rick Tomlinson 2024

Expedition Spitzbergen 2024

Expedition Kvitøya 2024

The Norwegian fjords, Bear Island & Svalbard 2025

Expedition Svalbard with Mattias Klum 2025

Springtime in Svalbard with Doug Allan 2025

Springtime in Svalbard 2025

Svalbard Adventure 2025

Expedition Svalbard 2025

Abenteuer Spitzbergen 2025

Expedition Spitzbergen 2025

Experience our trips to svalbard (spitsbergen).

Svalbard is an archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, located between 76° and 81° North. It lies directly north of North Cape on the Norwegian mainland. Spitsbergen is the largest island and occupies more than half of the area. Some of the other islands are Nordaustlandet, Edgeøya, Barentsøya, Prins Karls Forland, Kong Karls Land, Kvitøya/ White Island, and Bjørnøya/Bear Island. The total area is approximately 62,160 sqkm, roughly equivalent to the size of Ireland.

The name Svalbard is first mentioned in the Icelandic archives from the year 1194, "Svalbardr fundr" – Svalbard is found. It is uncertain, however, whether it was the land or the ice edge that had been discovered, since Svalbard can be interpreted as "cold coast" or "cold edge". It would take another several hundred years before any of the major nations in Europe discovered Svalbard. In 1596 two Dutch ships sailed north to round the tip of Norway, hoping to find a shortcut to China and India. On board one of the ships was the pilot Willem Barents, who is officially regarded as the discoverer of Svalbard. The Dutch were impressed by Svalbard's dramatic and mountainous landscape, and named the land Spitsbergen.

Svalbard soon became a natural starting point for several more or less successful attempts to reach the North Pole. Ice-free waters cannot be found this far north anywhere else on Earth. Nordenskiöld, Amundsen and Andrée are some well-known Arctic explorers who have attempted to reach the North Pole.  

Wildlife and nature

To most visitors, Svalbard is a life changing experience. It is a truly magic world with midnight sun and pack ice, glittering glaciers and exceptional wildlife – not far from the North Pole. The exact number of polar bears is hard to measure since the bears move across huge areas. During an expedition cruise, however, there are great chances to encounter some of them. The ice plays a central role in the Arctic ecosystem, which is both unique and vulnerable. In many ways, the mammals are Svalbard’s very soul. Half of the 22 species of mammal that live on land and ice and in the sea around Svalbard are whales. Svalbard reindeer and Arctic fox are the only mammals that live entirely on land.

Svalbard has a rich bird life, particularly sea birds that nest in large colonies. More than 200 bird species have been observed in Svalbard and its surrounding waters, but only a few species nest here. Four species account for 95% of Svalbard’s abundant bird life: Brünnich’s guillemot, the northern fulmar, the little auk and the black-legged kittiwake. Nowhere else on earth do you find birds in such impressive numbers this far north.

Glaciers and pack ice

Svalbard is still in the ice age. Glaciers cover 60% of the land and the ice can be up to 600 metres thick. There are more than 2,100 glaciers in Svalbard. Some of the mightiest and most well known include Monacobreen, Lilliehöökbreen and Bråsvellbreen. Austfonna on Nordaustlandet in the northeast part of the archipelago is an ice cap that is one of the largest in the World. Its ice front reaching into the sea is more than 130 kilometres long.

Anyone who is interested in geology will find Svalbard very exciting. The archipelago was formed on the northeast coast of Greenland a long, long time ago, and has since moved via continental drift to the other side of the equator where it turned and headed north. Just wait another 50 million years, and Svalbard will probably be at the North Pole!

Svalbard is not exactly a hothouse, the fact is that plants can only live on some 7% of the land area. There are approximately 164 species of native plants growing on Svalbard, plus at least 6-7 species that were introduced by man.

Seasons in Svalbard

During the winter, the Svalbard archipelago is covered in ice and snow. The midnight sun shines brightly between mid-April until the end of August. The average temperature in July is +6°C. Simply put, you can divide the year in Svalbard into two parts: The dark and the light season. In mid-February the first rays of the sun appear over the mountain peaks, and the midnight sun period in Longyearbyen is between 20 April and 22 August. The daylight completely disappears again in early November. The number of snowmobiles parked everywhere in Longyearbyen testify that the bare ground of the summer is only a brief interruption in an otherwise long winter landscape.

May and the beginning of June are characterised by a lot of snow and a wonderful purity. It is still spring in the Arctic. This year’s polar bear cubs are still small and sometimes can both bears and seals be seen on the fjord ice in front of the glaciers.

Summer arrives in late June. The ice thaws around the islands and this makes it possible to get further east. Whales are more frequently seen in the waters and more and more snow-free areas become accessible for longer walks. Colourful flowers are in bloom.

Autumn arrives in late August and it is now that the snow free landscape is most visible. The tundra is shifting in autumn colours and the midnight sun is getting closer and closer to the horizon, which offers wonderful red and pink skies at sunset, as well as a warm and soft light, perfect for anyone interested in photography. From mid-August you may be able to see the Ivory Gulls’ chicks, while some birds are preparing to migrate. Harp seals can be seen and female walruses with cubs are not an uncommon sight.

AECO – Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators – was founded in 2003 and has since become an important organization representing the concerns and views of arctic expedition cruise operators. AECO is dedicated to managing responsible, environmentally friendly and safe tourism in the Arctic and strive to set the highest possible operating standards.

The association’s   geographical range is considered to encompass the Arctic area north of 60 degrees north latitude. The core areas are Svalbard, Jan Mayen, Greenland, Arctic Canada and the national park “Russian Arctic”.

Read more:  www.aeco.no

Our ships in Svalbard (Spitsbergen)

A small and comfortable expedition ship with excellent service and a relaxed atmosphere. From the panorama lounge and the spacious observation decks you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. All cabins have windows and private facilities.

M/S Sjøveien

M/S Sjøveien (meaning the Seaway) was built in Bergen in 1964 for the Norwegian Government and she worked for them in various capacities. She is a true beauty with wooden decks and vintage details. There is a spacious outer deck from where you can enjoy the beautiful vistas.

M/S Stockholm

The M/S Stockholm is a classic vessel built in 1953 for the Swedish National Maritime Administration. She is a marvellous piece of maritime history with beautiful brass details and pine decks. With a maximum of only 12 passengers on board, this is like travelling on a private yacht.

Adrian Nordenborg

Adrian has spent most of his life adventuring in over 100 countries around the world. As expedition leader and guide, he has done almost everything – from leading treasure hunting in Morocco and skiing in Iran to walks in Turkey to kayaking outside Manhattan. Adrian has a great love for nature and wildlife.

Christian Engelke

Christian was born in Germany, but ever since his first vacation in Norway he has suffered severely from a “Scandinavia fever”. He has curiously explored the mountain and coastal regions of Norway, Sweden and Greenland. Since 2009 he works as a fulltime guide in the Arctic and Antarctic.

Elke Lindner

Always fascinated by cold and snow, Elke soon discovered the Polar Regions. This German scientist has spent extended periods of time in Svalbard and shorter periods of time in Greenland and in Antarctica as a student, field biologist and naturalist, working on various expedition-cruise ships.

Hannah Lawson

Hannah studied Zoology at the University of Liverpool and gained a Masters in Natural History Illustration from the Royal College of Art, London. After studying the parasites of mountain gorillas, she changed direction and worked as an artist and mural painter at Chester Zoo and in East Africa.

Malenthe Teunis

Malenthe has always had a fascination for the polar areas, thus when the University of Groningen offered classes about the Arctic she quickly signed up. Since then her love for the Arctic has only grown. She is a Master student in Marine Biology with a focus on the Arctic regions and new technologies.

Manda Lundström

In December 2015 Manda joined her first expedition as a team member off the west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. She loves to travel and has spent several years abroad both working and studying. One of her biggest passions is marine mammals, which led her to Iceland to study marine biology.

Martin Berg

Martin’s passionate interest in birds and mammals has brought him all over the globe. He has always been drawn to adventures and has participated in several expeditions, for example to the Amazon rainforest, Caucasus and the Himalayas to study rare and endangered bird species.

Mia Lundqvist

In 2010 Mia started working at PolarQuest and she now works as Staff Manager, putting the guide teams on the ships together. The same year she visited Svalbard for the first time, and as for most visitors, it was love at first sight. Today she is splitting her time between the PolarQuest office, the Arctic and the Antarctic.

Nikita Ovsyanikov

Nikita has spent much longer time in the Arctic and around polar bears than most people on the planet. He is the Deputy Director for science and senior research scientist of Wrangel Island State Nature Reserve. On Wrangel Island, Nikita has in particular studied the polar bear population for decades.

Thérèse Horntrich

Thérèse is Swiss and grew up close to the Alps. She has a master degree in media and communication but her life changed direction when she visited Svalbard for the first time in 2010. Already the next summer she returned to Svalbard and worked as a trekking guide. In 2012 she left Switzerland and moved to Longyearbyen.

Zet Freiburghaus

Zet is a former successful member of the Swedish national kayak team who after his active career gained a Master's degree in Molecular Biology. He has also travelled around the world. His sharp eyes and great experience in nature implies he rarely misses an animal.

Åsa Lindgren

Normally Åsa's work consists of planning and conducting research expeditions to the Polar Regions; Antarctica, Svalbard and the Canadian and Russian Arctic. She previously worked for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in Nairobi, with projects focusing on ecotourism.

Gunilla Lindh

Nilla started her career as a guide as her love for the white, remote and pristine places of the polar regions became too strong to materialise into anything but a lifelong passionate career as a polar guide. When not guiding expeditions, she is fond of skiing and photographing wildlife.

Beau Pruneau

Growing up in a log house in the Canadian wilderness in Northern Ontario, Beau understood at an early age to appreciate the great outdoors while learning wilderness skills such as survival, navigation, tracking, and firearms marksmanship. He is happiest out on deck searching for polar bears.

Johan Carlsson Tjernström

To become a Polar guide and walk in both his father's and grandfather's footsteps was an easy choice for Johan. On a trip with PolarQuest onboard M/S Stockholm he truly fell in love with the arctic wilderness of Svalbard.

Margherita Lucadello

Margherita fell in love with the Arctic while living at the Czech Research Station "Petuniabukta" in Svalbard for two months. She has also been living in Tromsø in Northern Norway and in the Maldives. Margherita has a master's degree in Marine Biology.

Future departures to Svalbard (Spitsbergen)

EXPLORING A POLAR WILDERNESS ABOARD A LUXURY EXPEDITION SHIP

Svalbard odyssey.

From $12,695

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

• 10% off all cabins on 2024 departures
• 15% off all cabins on 2025 departures

Arrive: Longyearbyen, Norway

Depart: Longyearbyen, Norway

• Venture close to 80° north looking for polar bears on the pack ice
• Chance to discover other arctic wildlife including walrus, guillemots, puffins, seals, reindeer, arctic fox, seabirds, and whales
• Zodiac past blue glaciers and through stunning fjords
• Enjoy hikes surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful scenery

Note: This trip is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as an agent in booking your reservation with the operator. Please download the Rate Sheet in the Dates & Pricing section to see the full pricing details and contact our Cruise Collection Specialists to check availability.

Dates & Pricing

Payment & cancel schedule.

At time of reservation: $2,500 100 days prior to departure: Balance Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Minimum fee: $2,500 per person 90 days or less: 100% of trip cost

Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

• Arrival transfer to hotel on Day 1 and ship to airport transfer on day of disembarkation
• One night hotel accommodation in Longyearbyen including breakfast
• Welcome reception and pre-embarkation briefing
• Sightseeing tour of Longyearbyen on Day 2 prior to embarkation
• 10 or 13 night's accommodation onboard including daily cabin service
• All shore excursions and zodiac cruises
• Educational lectures and guiding services provided by the Expedition team
• All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during the voyage
• Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner
• Comprehensive pre-departure information
• Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult)
• Waterproof, polar expedition jacket
• Use of muck boots during the voyage
• Port charges, permits and landing fees

Not Included

• International and domestic airfare
• Transfers on days other than arrival/departure dates
• Hotels en route to and from the trip
• Optional excursions and optional activity charges
• Optional travel insurance
• Passport and visa fees
• Other expenses of a personal nature (laundry, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks outside of dinners, Wi-fi, phone or email charges, etc.).
• Gratuities for ship's crew

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Greg Mortimer

Days 1-11 (11 nights)

Sylvia Earle

What the trip is like.

This trip is rated Level 1+, Easy . For most activities, a relatively moderate level of exertion is required. You will need to climb in and out of Zodiacs for excursions ashore and walk one to three miles over sometimes rough terrain such as uneven, rocky beaches.

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Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

• Photo Tours
• Private Charters
• Destinations
• Dates and Rates
• Get In Touch

Svalbard Encounter Micro Cruise

Svalbard Encounter Expedition Micro Cruise

From €10,150

This shorter length Svalbard summer cruise takes place on our newest vessel, Vikingfjord with just 12 guests. The focus on this expedition is to spend a week exploring the wilderness, glaciers and wild nature in the north of Spitsbergen. Expect 24 hours of daylight, witness an array of Arctic wildlife in its natural home and undertake some short hikes ashore. All this with 2 expert guides and just 12 guests.

Whilst there is a chance of seeing polar bears on this expedition, due to its shorter length, we recommend our longer expeditions for those looking to encounter wildlife. Consider our 10-Day Natural Wonders of Svalbard or our 14-day Svalbard Pioneer Micro Cruis e for an increased chance in seeing polar bears.

Day 1 Welcome aboard! Embarkation in  Longyearbyen  at 16:00

Day 2 Prins Karls Forland

Day 3 Exploring north west coast

Day 4 Exploring north west coast

Day 5 Exploring north west coast

Day 6 Exploring north west coast

Day 7  Exploring north west coast

Day 8  Disembarkation in Longyearbyen at 09:00

* We always recommend to arrive in Svalbard at least 24 hours before departure.

Svalbard Cruise Day by Day

Longyearbyen

Your expedition begins in the most Northerly town in the world, Longyearbyen. In the afternoon we embark our expedition vessel at the port of Longyearbyen. After an introduction from our expedition leader and a safety briefing from the Captain, we set sail out through the majestic Adventfjord. As Longyearbyen disappears astern, we wave goodbye to civilisation for the next 8 days. As we sail out through the Isfjord we will spend time on deck watching for the whales that frequent the waters.

Prins Karls Foreland

Days 3 – 5

Exploring the North-West Coast

Days 6 & 7

Lilliehook Fjord & Kongsfjorden

In the morning we arrive back at the port of Longyearbyen. After breakfast we say our goodbyes after making new friends and sharing a wonderful adventure together.

Inside This Svalbard Cruise

Amazing Wildlife

We will visit areas where walruses haul out, encounter reindeer and Arctic foxes on land, observe whales and other marine life and explore coasts where polar bears are known to roam.

Stunning Scenery

We will encounter mighty glaciers, cruise tranquil steep-sided fjords and spend time outside exploring the beautiful untouched wilderness.

Climate Compensated

We’re serious about the environment and wildlife, which is why we’re proud to be a member of 1% for the Planet —an organisation dedicated to supporting impactful global projects that give back to our planet.

Expedition Leader and Guide

An aspect of our journeys is to learn about the place you are visiting. Our onboard guides are the core of what we do and will share their passion and knowledge of Svalbard throughout the trip. We offer the best guide to guest ratio available.

Zodiac landing craft for shore landings

Shore landings are the essence of every expedition and your guides will take you exploring on a daily basis. The vessel is equipped with landing craft that can be used to reach remote beaches so you can experience the wilderness firsthand.

Expedition Vessel With 12 Guests

We believe the best way to experience an environmentally sensitive place such as the Arctic is with a small group of travelers. New expedition cruise ships now take up to 350 passengers, we believe smaller is better.

Your Ship - MV Vikingfjord

Step aboard mv vikingfjord a modern expedition vessel built for adventure.

Introducing our newest ship MV Vikingfjord, a rugged ice-strengthened expedition vessel for 12 guests. New energy efficient engine and NOX cleaning fitted in 2023 offering the best environmental on a small ship with up to a 95% reduction in NOX emissions. 

Expect cruise ship comfort on a small ship with 9 ensuite cabins, an open plan saloon with rear facing windows, and on on deck hot tub and sauna.

• Rebuilt in 2023 as a high-end expedition vessel
• Large open plan observation lounge and dining area at the stern
• Small group size of 12 guests ensures an intimate experience
• Ice strengthened 1B hull for maximum exploration in the polar regions
• Refurbished to a high standard with warm, comfortable cabins
• On deck hot tub and sauna
• Large en-suite cabins with suites, doubles, twins and singles.
• Equipped with 2 x zodiacs for shore landings
• Large open deck space and raised areas for photography
• Expert team of crew and guides
• Full safety gear

Svalbard Cruise Dates and Prices

If you have any questions about this svalbard cruise please get in touch, useful information.

How To Get To Svalbard

Svalbard is easily accessible from daily flights from Oslo in Norway. To find out more see our guide.

New To Expedition Micro Cruises?

Find out all about the experience of travelling on an expedition vessel with 12 guests and how it compares to other cruises.

Longyearbyen Travel Guide

All the information you need to plan your trip including how to get to Longyearbyen, arrival information, places to stay, and activities to do before your cruise.

Svalbard Cruises FAQ

We offer payment via the following methods:

• Credit card
• Payment by bank transfer

Please let us know at the time of booking your preferred method.

You have the option to pay in full at time of booking or pay in the following instalments:

30% deposit is taken at the time of booking

30% 6 months before departure

40%  90 days prior to departure

It is mandatory you take out comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking that also covers cancellation.

Solo travellers are welcome on all our voyages. We often host solo travellers, particularly on our photo voyages so the chances are you won’t be the only one. We offer the following accommodation options:

• Option to share a twin cabin with another traveller of the same gender.
• Option to have your own cabin for an additional supplement. Please contact us for this option as the price varies depending on trip and availability.

This trip is operated by Secret Atlas and is subject to the Secret Atlas terms and conditions of travel. You can read the full booking terms here .

What Our Customers Say

On each Svalbard cruise we welcome customers from all corner of the globe, with a variety of different ages and backgrounds all united in their passion to experience what the Arctic has to offer

Pan – Business Executive from Italy

‘This is the closest you can come to a real expedition. We saw glaciers seals, whales, walruses and polar bears’

From an early age Pan dreamed of visiting the Arctic. At the age of 42 he made that dream come true by joining Secret Atlas on an expedition micro cruise.

Annie – Interior Designer from the USA

‘The micro cruise experience felt like being on your own private boat. The crew were fantastic’’

Annie had always wanted to go an expedition in Svalbard and joined us as a solo traveler..

See All Our Svalbard Cruises

• 9 - 10 Days
• May → Sep

• 12- 14 Days
• July & August

• May → June

• May → September

• April & May

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise Ports
• Arctic - Antarctica Cruise Ports

Svalbard Islands (Arctic Norway)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Arctic - Antarctica

Local Time 2024-06-08 10:26

Port Svalbard Islands cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Svalbard Islands, Arctic Norway. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Svalbard (formerly Spitsbergen) is a Norwegian archipelago (island group) in the Arctic Ocean. Svalbard is located north of mainland Europe, about midway between North Pole and mainland Norway. Svalbard has land area approx 61000 km2 (23560 mi2) and is dominated by Spitsbergen Island (over half of the Archipelago's land), followed by Nordaustlandet and Edgeoya .

All settlements are on Spitsbergen, except the two meteo outposts on Bjornoya and Hopen. The Archipelago's total population is ~3000 (including 439 Russians and Ukrainian, 10 Polish, 322 other/non-Norwegians). Longyearbyen is Svalbard's administrative center and largest settlement.

Administratively, Svalbard is not a part of any Norwegian county. However, it forms an unincorporated region administered by a Governor appointed by Norway's Government. Since 2002, Svalbard's main settlement (Longyearbyen) has a local government, similarly to mainland Norwegian municipalities. Svalbard is the world's northernmost settlement with a permanent civilian population. Other settlements located farther north are populated only by groups of rotating scientists/researchers.

Next map of the Svalbard Islands shows all cruise ports/destinations in the Archipelago.

The Archipelago has an Arctic climate, though with higher temperatures than other regions at the same latitude. Its flora takes advantage of the midnight sun to compensate for polar nights. Svalbard is the breeding ground for plenty of seabirds, and also features reindeer, Arctic fox, polar bears, and certain marine mammals. 23 nature reserves and 7 national parks cover 2/3 of the Archipelago, protecting the untouched, natural environment. Nearly 60% of the Svalbard Archipelago is covered with glaciers. The islands feature many fjords and mountains. No roads connect Svalbard's settlements. Snowmobiles, boats and aircraft serve inter-community transport. Longyear, Svalbard Airport, serves as Archipelago's main gateway.

Jan Mayen Island and Svalbard are assigned ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 country code SJ. These areas are administered by Norway, even though they are separated by over 500 nautical miles distance (950 km / 600 mi) and have different administrative structures.

The cruising season runs from late-April through late-September. For season 2019, Svalbard was visited by cruise ships ~300 times, with nearly 20,000 tourists. Most vessels are smaller-sized expedition ships, among which MS Expedition (G-Adventures), MS Fram , MS Spitsbergen and MS Fridtjof Nansen ( Hurtigruten ), L'Austral and Le Boreal ( Ponant ), Scenic Eclipse ( Scenic ), Hanseatic Nature ( Hapag-Lloyd ), Silver Cloud and Silver Explorer ( Silversea ). Season's largest liner was MSC Preziosa (at Longyearbyen on June 23, port stay 8 am-10 pm). For Longyearbyen is planned the construction of a new floating pier.

Effective January 1, 2020, NMA (Norwegian Maritime Authority) has new rules for passenger shipping in Svalbard. The regulations require all vessels to comply with IMO's Polar Code (January 2017-enforced, for polar water shipping) which is mandatory under both SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and MARPOL (Prevention of Pollution from Ships) maritime conventions. NMA's new rules apply to both Norway- and foreign- flagged vessels navigating in Svalbard's waters. Ships without SOLAS-issued "Passenger Ship Safety Certificate" were granted a 5-year period for the shipowner companies to schedule drydock refits for necessary vessel conversions and machinery modifications.

• In 2020, due to the global Coronavirus crisis, Norway implemented border closure (March 15 through August 20). The policy effectively canceled most Arctic cruise expeditions, also banning international tourists from entering the Svalbard Archipelago which season runs in June-July-August. For domestic tourism, Svalbard was reopened on June 1 (for domestic tourists) and June 15 (Baltic countries residents). Following Svalbard's reopening for cruising, Norway's Government announced new regulations for expedition cruise ship operations. The new rules include ships carrying 50% of their max passenger capacity , employing additional med staff and requiring health certificates from all travelers. Each cruise shipping company was required to develop and apply infection control plans approved by Svalbard's Governor.
• In 2021, Norway banned cruise ships from offering helicopter tours and mini-submarine tours in Svalbard, due to concern about how tourism affects the fragile arctic environment. The Norwegian government also proposed to limit the visiting ships' max passenger capacity to 200, as well as to limit the number of disembarking people to 42 per landing. According to the new rules, the required minimum distance from polar bears is 500 m (1640 ft). The use of camera drones is prohibited in some areas. Out of consideration for polar bears and seals, in spring and summer, motorized shipping on sea ice is forbidden. During the Arctic breeding season, a 5-KN speed limit (9 kph / 6 mph) is set for navigation close to bird colonies.

Statistics show that the Svalbard Islands are visited by more and more cruisers. In 2008, 28x boats brought ~29,000 tourists. In 2018, 15x boats brought ~46,000 tourists. Smaller-sized expedition ships in 2008 were 24x (with ~10,000 tourists) and in 2018 - 59x (with 21,000 tourists).

According to the Norwegian Environment Agency, the number of Svalbard visiting tourists had surged from 29,600 (1996) to 124,000 (2019).

Norskoya Island

Ytre Norskoya Island (Outer Norway Island) is located off Spitsbergen's northwestern coast. On Norskoya's southern coast are the remains of a whaling station, rivaling in size Smeerenburg (on Amsterdam Island) . Ytre Norskoya was Europe's northernmost outpost (until early-19th-century) and the world's northernmost permanent settlement (until the 1950s).

The buildings on Norskoya Island were used by workers. Further west there is a cemetery with 165 graves. The station belonged to Noordsche Compagnie (Dutch whaling trade company). It was built in early-17th-century as the Amsterdam -owned Smeerenburg didn't allow Dutch whaling ships at Smeerenburg. Zeeusche Uytkyk (high look-out point on Norskoya) was used by the Dutch to monitor the surrounding waters for Bowhead whales. This station was abandoned in 1670.

Kvitoya Island

Kvitoya Island is located approx 98 km (61 mi) from Victoria Island (Russian Arctic territory, part of Franz Josef Land ). The Russian island is closer than Svalbard (Nordaustlandet, to the west of Kvitoya). The Norwegian island has total area approx 682 km2 (263 mi2). It is uninhabited and part of Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve.

Kvitoya is Norway's easternmost part. On the east coast is the rarely visited Kraemerpynten. Due to the many polar bears on Kvitoya, land tours are not offered/forbidden. Instead, cruise tourists enjoy wildlife viewing via zodiacs (large motorized RIB boats used for landings). Herds of walrus can also be seen.

Kvitoya is almost completely covered by the ice cap Kvitoyjokulen - with land area 705 km2 (272 mi2) and an hourglass-shaped dome. The ice-free land areas are barren and rocky, only a few km2 large. The largest one (Andreeneset) is on the southwestern corner. Andreeneset is one of these spits where Salomon August Andree's balloon expedition to the North Pole in 1897 came to a tragic end. The Andree's (1854-1897) balloon was launched in 1897 and was airborne for 60 hours before it crashed.

Kvitoya was discovered in 1707 by Cornelis Giles (1675-1722, Dutch navigator and cartographer) and showed on maps (under the name "Giles Land") in different sizes, shapes and positions throughout the following centuries. The island received its current name in 1876, by Johan Kjeldsen (a whaler from Tromso ).

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21 luxury cruise facts that might surprise you

Posted: 7 November 2023 | Last updated: 6 December 2023

Sumptuous escapes at sea

Some Oceania Cruises suites have walk-in closets and grand pianos

No expense has been spared when it comes to suite decor on luxury ships. For ultimate opulence, opt for the Owner’s suites which you’ll find on Oceania Cruises ' ships. These cover 1,991 square feet (185sqm), have two walk-in closets and entrance foyers with a grand piano and a mahogany bar. A 15-day Svalbard & Arctic Passage cruise with accommodation in the Grand Owner’s suite costs from £18,669 ($23,044) per person.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Explorer had a big design budget

We’re increasingly seeing bigger budgets for ships’ decor. Huge amounts of cash are being splashed on sprucing up interiors, and one example of this decadence is Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' Seven Seas Explorer, which has 473 Swedish-designed chandeliers, 45,876 square feet (4,262sqm) of marble, Versace-designed dinnerware, crystal glasses from Eastern Europe and a £10 million art collection which includes several Picassos.

Orient Express is set to launch a seriously luxurious ship

After launching the world’s most luxurious train 140 years ago, Orient Express will launch an opulent ship to match. Orient Express Silenseas, which will take to the waves in 2026, will have 54 suites (including a 15,231-square-foot/1,415sqm Presidential Suite), two swimming pools, two restaurants and a speakeasy bar. Oh, and a recording studio. Prices are to be confirmed (but will inevitably be eye-watering).

Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend offers themed suites

Sail on Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend and you can book a suite inspired by exotic destinations and hotels. We recommend the suite inspired by the Sea Island resort in Georgia. Expect ocean-inspired colourways and plenty of sea-glass green. A Treasures of the Greek Isles cruise with Windstar starts from £3,036 ($3,745) per person.

Now discover amazing facts about cruise ships you might not know

There are butlers onboard with a Silversea cruise

Book a sailing with  Silversea  and you’re guaranteed your own butler. They'll be on hand to help with everything from the unpacking of luggage to the opening of the Champagne bottles. They’re not just any butlers, either – they’ve undertaken a 108-point training programme created for the cruise line by the London-based School for Butlers. An 11-day Mediterranean Cruise in 2024 costs from £6,553 ($8,092) per person.

You can go beneath the ocean's surface with Scenic Cruises

An abundance of onboard kit means that luxury ships don’t just help passengers get to the world’s most remote places – they help them get below the waves and into the skies too. Take Scenic Cruises – their Scenic Eclipse ship recently became the first vessel to offer both helicopter flights and submarine dives in the Canadian Arctic. An Antarctica in Depth cruise costs from £13,210 ($16,310) per person.

Seven Seas Grandeur has in-suite spas

Love a session in the spa but value your personal space? Book Regent Seven Seas Cruises ’ Regent Suite, which you’ll find on Seven Seas Grandeur, due to launch in November 2023. Highlights include the two enormous bedrooms and the whirlpool bath on the balcony, although the pièce de resistance is the suite’s very own spa retreat.

North America's best river cruises and steamboat journeys

You can sleep under the stars with the SeaDream Yacht Club

Set sail on one of SeaDream Yacht Club ’s yacht-style vessels and you’ll be able to spend a night under the stars. At night, staff transform the upper deck’s huge Balinese day beds by adding luxurious bed linens and fluffy pillows, allowing you to drift off to the sound of the ocean. Expect to pay around £3,000 ($3,700) for a seven-day cruise.

SeaDream Yacht Club has one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios at sea

Some cruise lines offer boats on boats

Zodiacs – small, fast boats carried on ships – make it easy to explore different landscapes, whether it’s the frozen tundra or the Galapagos’ wildlife-dotted islands. Special mentions go to Quark , which uses environmentally friendly four-stroke engine zodiacs; Silversea , famous for its expert-led zodiac excursions, and AE Expeditions – the line’s new expedition ship Sylvia Earle has 15 zodiacs. A seven-day Spitsbergen sailing with Quark costs from £4,500 ($5,547).

Aurora Expeditions and AE Expeditions ships have science laboratories onboard

If peering at distant shorelines through binoculars doesn’t cut it, sign up for a sailing with Aurora Expeditions or AE Expeditions . AE Expeditions ships have tech-filled laboratories and lecture theatres, making it easy to gain new perspectives on the destinations in question. Guests can contribute to a wide range of research projects, including ones relating to micro-plastics and sea life. A 15-day Svalbard In Depth sailing starts from £9,836 ($12,137) per person.

Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Flora has a stargazing platform

Celebrity Cruises ’ Celebrity Flora, which has space for just 100 passengers and is based permanently in the Galapagos Islands, is a pint-sized ship that can effortlessly access the areas other vessels can’t reach. But our favourite feature is the stargazing platform. Head here for stargazing sessions led by the ship’s onboard astronomer. You’ll pay from £6,313 ($7,796) for a Galapagos Inner Loop sailing on Celebrity Flora.

The naming ceremonies are often spectacular

Simply swinging a bottle against the side of a ship is so passé. In January 2023 Viking christened new luxury ship Viking Neptune. The ship’s godmother Nicole Stott (a retired NASA astronaut) used a traditional Viking broad axe to cut the rope, which sent a bottle smashing into the ship. A 13-day Mediterranean Odyssey cruise with Viking costs £4,790 ($5,911).

Your Abercrombie & Kent guide might be a famous explorer

Abercrombie & Kent Luxury Expedition Cruises – previously known as Crystal Cruises – are famous for their onboard experts. The cruise line’s expedition leaders include explorer James McClintock, recipient of the Antarctica Service Medal, and former Royal Marine Commando Russ Manning, who served as base commander in the South Orkneys and earned the Polar Medal. A 14-night Arctic Cruise Adventure with Abercrombie & Kent costs from £14,515 ($17,922).

You can ride on a magic carpet with Celebrity Cruises

Okay, not the type ridden by Aladdin. We’re talking about Celebrity Cruises’ Magic Carpet – a cantilevered platform which appears to float in thin air, and which glides up and down the side of Celebrity Edge, one of the cruise line’s most luxurious ships. Depending on what level it stops at, the Magic Carpet can become a restaurant, bar or nightclub, although the one constant is breathtaking views.

There are luxury ships you can live on

Dread disembarkation day? Why not simply stay onboard? No, we’re not suggesting claiming squatters’ rights at the end of your cruise, but splashing out on a cabin on  The World , described by its owners as a luxury private residence at sea. There are 165 residences available for purchase and the ship sails around the planet – in 2023 it will visit South Asia, the Middle East, the Iberian Peninsula, Greenland, South America and Antarctica. Some residents live on the ship full-time, while others visit throughout the year, and residences start at around £1m ($1.2m).

Luxury cruise lines can be fully all-inclusive too

You can feast on cuisine prepared by Michelin-starred chefs

You can learn firsthand about the Polar regions

Luxury cruise lines are going all out to provide fascinating insights into the explorers who first mapped these regions. In 2024, Scenic launches several East Antarctic cruises focusing on the routes taken by explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. If you sail through the Arctic on Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot (the world’s only luxury ice breaker), a team of 23 polar experts will help you gain a whole new perspective on these remote regions.

There’s designer decor on Oceania Cruises’ Vista ship

You need to book well in advance

If you’re planning on a bucket list-worthy sailing on one of the more luxurious ships, you’ll need to bag your spot early on. Take  Azamara’s World Voyage , a 155-night, 37-country sailing which takes place in 2024 and is currently sold out (there’s a waiting list of passengers hoping for cancellations). Luckily, spots on the 2025 World Voyage are still available – if you’ve got a minimum of £34,500 ($42,622) to spare.

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Explore the mystifying arctic and antarctica with aurora expeditions.

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People are profoundly impacted by visiting the Arctic.

Exploring some of the most isolated corners of the world often leaves an indelible impression on travelers who develop a connection and care for these places, and it’s rare that people return without their perspectives altered. As a part of their journey to the Arctic and Antarctica with Aurora Expeditions , travelers can give back to the area they’re visiting with Aurora’s Citizen Science Program where they can share new discoveries while deepening their connection to the natural world. By taking part, travelers can provide invaluable data to the scientific community, becoming ambassadors of the planet when returning home by sharing what they’ve learned.

Howard Whelan, Expeditions Leader for Aurora Expeditions, recently offered a detailed summary of the two emotive tours.

Aurora’s Antarctic season is October to March.

What are some highlights of the Arctic and Antarctica tours?

• Aurora Expeditions is known for its adventurous itineraries to some of the most remote corners of the world, and for truly immersing travelers in these unique regions on our purpose-built small ships, which serve as our comfortable base camps for adventure. A love of place, sense of curiosity and a desire to explore have been Aurora Expeditions’ guiding principles from the start. Now, our small, purpose-built ships provide comfortable base camps deep in the heart of nature.
• During the Arctic season, June through September, we visit Iceland, a fantastic land of volcanos, puffins and whales. Svalbard, Norway’s high-latitude archipelago is home to walrus, arctic fox, reindeer and polar bears. Greenland, where the world’s second-largest ice cap sheds incomprehensible amounts of ice daily including the planet’s most beautiful icebergs, and tundra alive with musk ox, reindeer, arctic fox and hare. We visit local Inuit communities from the most remote on the east coast to the world’s northernmost capital, Nuuk, on the west coast. Our Northwest Passage trip traverses the Canadian Arctic. We’ll Zodiac-cruise below vast sea cliffs buzzing with thousands of seabirds and will constantly keep watch for polar bears. As the season winds up and night-time returns, we hope to encounter Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights.
• Aurora’s Antarctic season, October to March, is summer when the pack ice breaks out, wildlife returns to breed and feed and the days are the longest. Aurora offers trips that range from nine to 23 days, visiting spectacular regions including the Antarctic Peninsula. Its west coast features wildlife-rich islands against a backdrop of glaciated peaks. On the east side is the Weddell Sea, a world of ice-free landscapes and massive tabular icebergs. Our Antarctic Circle trips take you below 66° 33’ South where we enjoy the midnight sun shining on ice and land few have seen.
• The sub-Antarctic islands we visit include South Georgia and the Falkland (Malvinas) Islands. The former is renowned for its whaling stations. More recently, a successful pest eradication has brought back endemic birds including a pipit and pintail, as well as king penguin colonies half-a-million strong. The latter is a surprisingly rich wildlife haven where the Falkland War was fought. Today the waters surrounding South Georgia and the Falklands are feeding grounds for humpback, orca, fin and blue whales and dolphins.
• Aurora recently announced its return to East Antarctica and the Ross Sea, south of Australia, during its 2025-26 season. Comparing these regions to the Antarctic Peninsula is like comparing the Swiss Alps to the Australian outback. While one is a chocolate box pretty, the other is vast and powerful. Both offer the thrill of landing on the Seventh Continent, and both are worth visiting.
• Travelers hoping to experience our destinations in unique ways can choose from a variety of optional activities, including sea kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, camping on the ice and more.
• With an average of 132 passengers, our small size means we can go where larger ships cannot. We also have greater flexibility to change plans based on conditions or chance wildlife encounters, and passengers can enjoy more time exploring, whether on land or water.

Antartica remains a vast unexplored, pristine region.

Are there any physical demands that people need to be aware of when traveling to these isolated locations?

• Expedition cruising guarantees an adventure quite different from that of traditional cruise ships. The latter is typically associated with strict itineraries, plenty of time to rest and onboard activities that amuse. Expedition cruising, especially in the Arctic and Antarctica, is about embracing the unexpected and building deeper connections with the places we visit. For most people in reasonable physical condition, the demands should be well within their ability. All expeditions to these remote areas do involve moderate hiking and walking, meaning that some mobility is needed for most daily activities, however we generally offer hiking options with three levels of difficulty. For those who would prefer to opt-out of walks, we also offer plenty of scenic Zodiac-cruising excursions. Activities that require extensive activity like kayaking, paddling, snorkeling, scuba diving, etc. are optional add-ons and the level of fitness requires varies according to the activity chosen.

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Svalbard Small Ship Cruises

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Svalbard Encounter Expedition Micro Cruise

• Visit the stunning Longyearbyen
• Discover Prins Karls Foreland
• Explore north west of Spitsbergen
• See Lilliehöök Glacier on Svalbard

Svalbard Odyssey

• Explore Longyearbyen
• Experience Camp Barentz
• Visit Svalbard Museum
• Look out for birdlife

Norway's Fjords and Arctic Svalbard (Northbound)

• Explore the rare northern fjords
• Paddle in a deep fjord
• Explore Lofoten Islands
• Visit the famous building in Tromso

North Spitsbergen Explorer – Polar Bears , Bowhead Whales & more

• Explore North Spitsbergen
• Visit the Monaco Glacier
• See polar bears at Hinlopen Strait
• Visit St. Johns Fjord

Spitsbergen Highlights: Expedition in Brief

• Enjoy all the adventures
• Kayak surrounded by icebergs
• Hike the arctic tundra
• Look for arctic wildlife

Spitsbergen Explorer: Wildlife Capital of the Arctic

• View iconic arctic wildlife
• Immerse in the icy realm of Arctic
• Cruise in Zodiac to explore Arctic
• Hike the tundra and polar desert

Introduction to Spitsbergen: Fjords, Glaciers, and Wildlife of Svalbard

• Cruise in a Zodiac
• Encounter arctic wildlife
• Immerse in the Arctic realm
• Hike the polar desert

Svalbard and the Northern Fjords

• Make for the wilder wilds
• Discover the islands and fjords
• Actively explore the scenery
• Explore the coves and inlets

Norway's Fjords and Arctic Svalbard

Svalbard in depth.

• Sail to Spitsbergen’s coastline
• Spot Arctic wildlife
• Enjoy lovely tundra hikes

Around Spitsbergen, In the Realm of Polar Bear & Ice

• Discover unspoiled wilderness
• Spot iconic arctic wildlife
• Explore the arctic's landscapes
• Watch for the elusive beluga whale

North Spitsbergen Explorer - Versatile Landscapes, Sea Ice & Wildlife - Birding, Summer Solstice

• Search for the King of the Arctic
• Enjoy excursions in Zodiacs
• Watch for Greenland and minke whale
• Navigate through pack ice
• Spot lots of wildlife
• Photograph Arctic tundra flowers
• Seek out Arctic wildlife
• Experience Arctic
• Discover Svalbard

Svalbard Adventure

• Discover the Northwest Corner
• Search for unique wildlife
• Explore Monaco glacier
• Hike through Svalbard

Around Spitsbergen, In the realm of Polar Bear & Ice

• Spot minke whale
• Catch Arctic fox and bearded seal
• Discover Monaco Glacier
• See polar bears at Seven Islands
• Enjoy Bell Sund's flora and fauna

East Spitsbergen, Home of the Polar Bear - Summer Solstice, Including Long Hikes

• Explore the home of the polar bear
• Experience the authentic Arctic
• Explore East Spitsbergen
• Witness wildlife

Alpine Peaks of Spitsbergen, Ski & Sail

• Watch for polar bears and walrus
• Visit Kongsfjorden and Isfjord
• Ski the snowy Arctic terrain
• Enjoy zodiac cruising and hiking

Top Svalbard Travel Destinations

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