DAY 1: ARRIVAL TO SVALBARD

Having made your way to Longyearbyen, you will be met by a local representative and transferred to the group hotel and receive further information about your forthcoming expedition. The remainder of your time in Longyearbyen is at leisure. Explore our recommendations for places to visit and eat in this northernmost settlement. All meals today are at your own expense.

DAY 2: LONGYEARBYEN, EMBARKATION

This morning, your luggage will be collected from your hotel and transferred directly to the port for sanitisation, clearance and delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. Enjoy breakfast in the hotel before joining your fellow expeditioners on a guided city tour of Longyearbyen.

On the drive to Camp Barentz, located in Advent Valley, your guide will give you an introduction to Longyearbyen’s fascinating history. Once at Camp Barentz you’ll enjoy a presentation in the large ‘lavvo’ - a traditional building common in northern Norway. You will also have the opportunity to meet the friendly huskies and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. A visit to the Svalbard Museum is included back in town before embarking the vessel in the late afternoon.

After the tour, you will be transferred directly to the pier to embark in the late afternoon. Settle into your cabin before attending important safety briefings and enjoy the thrill of departure as the crew ‘throw the lines’ and set sail.

This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners and the friendly Expedition Team and crew at the Captain’s Welcome Dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure.

Sail out of the beautiful Isfjorden, escorted by gliding fulmars and perhaps the occasional puffin. Find a spot in one of the observation areas on board the ship to watch seabirds, including graceful ivory gulls, kittiwakes and guillemots. They rise and fall skilfully, using the air currents created by the ship to gain momentum.