Highlights

This journey offers the most extensive exploration of Spitsbergen in the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, including the opportunity to witness iconic Arctic wildlife like walrus, reindeer and polar bears, a glimpse into 16th-century maritime culture at secluded landing sites, and the rare chance to appreciate breathtaking views at the birdwatching utopias 14th of July Glacier and Alkefjellet. If conditions allow, we will also attempt a full circumnavigation of the archipelago during this memorable voyage, including a visit to the remote, uninhabited Arctic desert of Nordaustlandet.

Spot iconic Arctic wildlife, such as polar bears, walrus and reindeer
View numerous Arctic bird species, like puffins, Arctic terns and purple sandpipers
Anticipate a full circumnavigation of Spitsbergen
Explore glaciers, fjords, icebergs and more with included Zodiac cruising
Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Arctic with optional kayaking adventures
Hike the tundra and polar desert

Map/Itinerary

Day 1Arrive in Helsinski, Finland

Your Arctic adventure begins in Helsinki, renowned for its extraordinary architecture and intriguing mix of eastern and western influences. If you arrive early, explore the many museums, galleries and restaurants, relax at a Finnish sauna or wander the vibrant Design District before retiring at your included hotel.

Day 2Fly to Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Embark

This morning, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s largest settlement, where you’ll have some time to explore before embarkation. As your ship sets sail, enjoy your first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from frigid waters.

Day 3-13Exploring Spitsbergen

Expect a new adventure every day as we begin our journey by heading north and around the island of Spitsbergen, exploring smaller, outlying islands. We plan to circumnavigate Spitsbergen, but if conditions are favorable, we will also attempt a larger circumnavigation of the archipelago, including many of the outer islands in the Svalbard archipelago. Every expedition will be different, depending on the weather and ice, but some of the places we may visit include the 14th of July Glacier, Ny-London, Phippsøya, Alkefjellet and the seldom-visited Kvitøya.

Day 14Disembark in Longyearbyen and Fly to Helsinki

Your adventure ends in the frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your return group charter flight to Helsinki, included in the transfer package.

Day 15Onward Flight Home

After breakfast, you can make your way to the airport for your onward flight home, or stay to explore Finland’s culturally-rich capital on your own if you’ve made prior arrangements.

Inclusions/Exclusions

This expedition includes:

Mandatory Transfer Package Included (Flight-Hotel & Trasfer)

Leadership throughout the voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders.
All Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program.
Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping.
All shore landings per the daily program.
All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals).
Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock.
Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and special guests as scheduled.
A photographic journal documenting the expedition.
A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions.
Official Expedition Parka to keep
Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin.
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program.
All luggage handling aboard the ship.
Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person.
Transfers between Longyearbyen town center and port on embarkation and disembarkation day.

This expedition excludes

Passport and visa expenses.
Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above.
Meals ashore unless otherwise specified.
Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended.
Excess-baggage fees on international flights.
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned.
Laundry, bar and other personal charges unless specified.
Phone and Internet charges (connectivity may vary by location).
Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew.
Additional overnight accommodation.
Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities.

Prices

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