Expedition Voyage

Svalbard Adventure Mini-Cruise

There are very few words that describe how beautiful and unique the Svalbard archipelago is - perhaps the only way to understand is to visit this remarkable place for yourself.

Travel to the most northerly habited town of Longyearbyen on the island Spitsbergen, and step aboard a mini cruise for an unforgettable adventure along the west coast. With two itineraries available, immerse yourself in the arctic wilderness with breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife and rich history of this unique destination.

With expert guides leading the way, ensuring a safe and informative experience, you’ll get the chance to take part in onshore expeditions using small boats, trekking and wildlife spotting with possible sightings of seals, reindeer, polar bears and walruses, as well as onboard lectures and informal gatherings to explain the adventures ahead.

The tour starts with an overnight stay in Longyearbyen, followed by a visit to the Svalbard Museum and wilderness camp before joining the MS Serenissima for either a 3 night or 4 night mini cruise visiting the main attractions along the coastal route through the stunning fjords and icy waters.

The different seasons offer their own unique experiences, so it may be difficult deciding on when to travel. If you wish to experience an Arctic winter setting then May and June are the perfect months - the fjords are partially covered in sea ice and the mountains glisten with snow under the midnight sun. The months of July and August bring 24 hours of daylight with milder temperatures, green tundra and blooming fauna, as well as wildlife thriving and an abundance of bird life filling the skies. Then towards the end of August the endless daylight begins to fade, bringing a golden light period creating beautiful contrasts between the landscape and sky, a fantastic chance to capture the Arctic beauty on camera.

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

Day 1:

On arrival in Longyearbyen, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay. You then have time at leisure to explore the town and in the evening enjoy a 2-course dinner at the hotel. The hotel is based on the Radisson Blu Polar hotel, but an upgrade is possible.

Staying at: Radisson Blu Polar Hotel



Day 2:

After breakfast and some free time to explore the town further, you have a two-course lunch at your hotel before joining a guided tour that visits the Svalbard Museum and wilderness Camp Barentz. The tour ends at the port where you’ll board MS Serenissima and begin the voyage through the icy waters of Isfjorden, a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and abound with dramatic landscapes, passing the settlements of Grumant and Barentsburg.

Staying at: MS Serenissima

Day 3:

The voyage continues along the coast to Magdalenefjorden, known for its spectacular alpine-like scenery and its historical significance. Here, there are remains of a 17th century whaling station, offering a glimpse into the harsh life of early Arctic explorers. The area is also home to important breeding grounds for many bird species, adding to the fjord’s vibrant natural atmosphere. The sailing takes you further up the North West Corner of Spitsbergen. Potential landing expeditions are considered at every opportunity during the trip, but they depend on weather and ice conditions, with safety the main priority.

Day 4:

The further north you sail, the more diverse the landscape gets. Continuing towards 80° North latitude, you’ll head to Moffen Island, a renowned location for its walrus population, quite often found lounging on the shores. Then on to Woodfjorden and Liefdefjorden, a land of contrasts - the region is home to a variety of Arctic fauna and flora, and as you explore this rugged terrain, you’ll be captivated by the serenity of the Arctic wilderness. Please note that icy conditions in the early season may prevent access to some areas.

Day 5:

Heading south, the voyage takes you to the scenic Kongsfjorden where you’ll get the chance to hike on the tundra and visit the research centre in Ny-Ålesund. Once a bustling coal mining settlement, it now hosts scientists from around the world. The ship is able to dock here, and you’ll have the opportunity to walk around this small community, learning about Arctic exploration and the chance to send a postcard from the most northerly post office in the world.

Day 6:

In the morning you will arrive back at Longyearbyen, where a transfer is waiting to take you back to the Radisson Blu Hotel. Here, you can leave your baggage before taking the transfer to the airport for your onward flight. You may wish to spend additional nights in Svalbard and explore further the arctic wilderness.

Please note, this itinerary is for the 5 night tour, which begins on a Wednesday and includes the sailing from Thursday to Monday. It is a guide for the day to day programme, but weather conditions may have an effect on the final route taken.

There is also a shorter voyage, beginning on Sunday, sailing from Monday to Thursday. It follows the same route as the longer version, but does not include the section into Woodfjorden and Liefdefjorden. It also includes a last night in Longyearbyen, giving you more time to explore this arctic town, including a dinner at the hotel.

The hotel included in Longyearbyen is either at the Radisson Blu Polar Hotel or Funken Lodge, depending on the Cabin category chosen for the mini cruise. However, it is also possible to upgrade to Funken Lodge for an additional charge, subject to availability.

The mini-cruise operates from May to September.

BUDGET

From £1,692 per person for the 3 night cruise and £1,862 for the 4 night cruise (excluding flights), based on two sharing the standard cabin and Radisson Blu Polar Hotel, with meals included as described.

This roughly converts to: 1,946 EUR | 2,217 USD

Remember that each trip we craft is unique, and you'll receive a personalised trip proposal based on your travel dates and preferences, and in the currency of your choice (GBP, USD, or EUR).

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Additional Info

This trip has weekly set arrival and departure days on: Wed, Sun

Between May and September

Many of trips can be tailored to your requirements and departure dates. Please get in touch with us for a tailored quotation and details of availability for your preferred travel dates. All trips and departures are subject to availability.

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Winter Spring Summer Autumn

IDEAL TRIP LENGTH:

5 nights

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