Circumnavigating Svalbard The Ultimate Expedition
Highlights
- Sail beyond 80°N to the shifting ice edge, where seals, walruses and polar bears roam the drifting Arctic pack ice.
- Explore the pristine fjords and dramatic tundra of Northwest Spitsbergen National Park by kayak, RIB and on foot
- Head east to remote isles and vast glaciers like Bråsvellbreen, striving to circumnavigate Svalbard in true expedition style.
Your 14-day High Arctic adventure begins in Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost frontier town, before setting sail into the spellbinding wilderness of Svalbard. From the scientific outpost of Ny-Ålesund—once the launch site of Roald Amundsen’s historic airship—to the glacier-laced fjords of Krossfjord and Kongsfjord, this voyage traces the footsteps of legendary explorers while immersing you in landscapes few ever witness. In the protected realms of Northwest Spitsbergen National Park, jagged peaks, offshore islands and vast tundra set the stage for sightings of whales, walruses, Arctic foxes and the iconic polar bear.
As summer advances from May through August, the ice loosens its grip and wildflowers begin to bloom across the tundra, bringing bursts of color to this stark polar desert. With extended daylight under the Midnight Sun, you’ll have long, golden hours to scan the horizon for wildlife and marvel at sculpted glaciers plunging into icy seas. If conditions allow, you’ll push north past the 80th parallel to the shifting ice edge itself—an ethereal boundary of pack ice and open water alive with seals and seabirds. Few travelers venture this far into the High Arctic, and the attempt alone is a thrilling testament to the spirit of expedition.
Heading east, you’ll aim to explore the rarely visited reaches of northeast Svalbard, cruising by immense glacier fronts and remote islands such as Kvitøya, with the ambition of circumnavigating the archipelago. Each day is shaped by the elements, lending a sense of authenticity and discovery as you hike across tundra, kayak in serene fjords, join beach cleanups, or board small expedition boats for close encounters with towering ice formations. In the south, Hornsund and Bellsund reveal dramatic mountain backdrops, seabird colonies and traces of early trappers and whalers, connecting you to the resilient human history of this polar frontier.
On board, expert Expedition Team memb...
Standard Activities
About the Circumnavigating Svalbard The Ultimate Expedition
Your 14-day High Arctic adventure begins in Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost frontier town, before setting sail into the spellbinding wilderness of Svalbard. From the scientific outpost of Ny-Ålesund—once the launch site of Roald Amundsen’s historic airship—to the glacier-laced fjords of Krossfjord and Kongsfjord, this voyage traces the footsteps of legendary explorers while immersing you in landscapes few ever witness. In the protected realms of Northwest Spitsbergen National Park, jagged peaks, offshore islands and vast tundra set the stage for sightings of whales, walruses, Arctic foxes and the iconic polar bear.
As summer advances from May through August, the ice loosens its grip and wildflowers begin to bloom across the tundra, bringing bursts of color to this stark polar desert. With extended daylight under the Midnight Sun, you’ll have long, golden hours to scan the horizon for wildlife and marvel at sculpted glaciers plunging into icy seas. If conditions allow, you’ll push north past the 80th parallel to the shifting ice edge itself—an ethereal boundary of pack ice and open water alive with seals and seabirds. Few travelers venture this far into the High Arctic, and the attempt alone is a thrilling testament to the spirit of expedition.
Heading east, you’ll aim to explore the rarely visited reaches of northeast Svalbard, cruising by immense glacier fronts and remote islands such as Kvitøya, with the ambition of circumnavigating the archipelago. Each day is shaped by the elements, lending a sense of authenticity and discovery as you hike across tundra, kayak in serene fjords, join beach cleanups, or board small expedition boats for close encounters with towering ice formations. In the south, Hornsund and Bellsund reveal dramatic mountain backdrops, seabird colonies and traces of early trappers and whalers, connecting you to the resilient human history of this polar frontier.
On board, expert Expedition Team members enrich your journey with insights into Arctic wildlife, climate science and exploration heritage, deepening your understanding of this fragile environment. Off ship, every landing feels like stepping into another world—silent, vast and humbling.
By voyage’s end, you’ll return to Longyearbyen not only having sailed to the top of the world, but having attempted feats few achieve: crossing 80° north, reaching for the ice edge, and possibly circumnavigating Svalbard itself. You’ll feel exhilarated, awakened and profoundly connected to the raw power of nature. This itinerary is ideal for adventurous spirits, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and seasoned travelers who crave flexibility, authenticity and the rare privilege of exploring one of the planet’s last great wildernesses.
Itinerary
Arrive in Longyearbyen
From Oslo to the town at the top of the world
After a flight from Oslo, your adventure begins with an overnight stay in the world’s northernmost town, Longyearbyen.
A colorful frontier settlement where people are outnumbered by snowmobiles, Longyearbyen is a unique place on the edge of the Arctic wilderness. If you have time, head out to explore this special town, before enjoying a relaxing evening at your leisure.
Longyearbyen adventures
Peaceful Ny-Alesund
Northwest Spitsbergen National Park
Ice edge attempt
Exploring the east
Hornsund and Bellesund
Return to Longyearbyen
Sale now on: Up to $4,000 off
For a limited time only save up to $4,000 on all-inclusive expeditions to Antarctica, Arctic and Svalbard.
Sale now on: Up to $4,000 off
For a limited time only save up to $4,000 on all-inclusive expeditions to Antarctica, Arctic and Svalbard.
Terms & Conditions
- — Discount applies to bookings made from 04 December 2025 to 23 March 2026 (inclusive) for selected departures from 23 December 2025 to 31 March 2028(inclusive). Bookings outside of these periods do not qualify.
- — Offer does not apply to optional excursions, pre/post tours, insurance, additional hotel accommodation, transfers, international arrival and departure flights, arrival and departure packages and group bookings.
- — Applies to new bookings only and will not be applied to any existing or held bookings.
- — Bookings are subject to availability and the discount may be limited, amended or withdrawn at any time without prior notice.
- — Single supplements and other restrictions may apply.
There’s truly no better way to feel the scale, silence, and raw beauty of this landscape than from the seat of a kayak. Guided by seasoned experts, you’ll glide across the water with your fellow adventurers, experiencing your surroundings in a uniquely intimate and peacefully immersive way.
Note: Only bookable onboard
Unlike our guided sea kayaking adventure, this experience lets you paddle at your own pace (within a defined perimeter). There’s no fixed route – just time to soak up the stunning scenery, glide along glacier-carved coastlines, listen to the subtle sounds of cracking ice, and watch for wildlife along the way.
Note: Only bookable onboard
What's Included
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Flights in economy class between Oslo and Longyearbyen.
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All transfers in Longyearbyen include an excursion with lunch before the expedition cruise.
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Overnight in Longyearbyen before your expedition cruise, including a light dinner and breakfast.
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Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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Wine, beer, and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws; excludes premium drinks).
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All day coffee, tea, and soft drinks.
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Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests.
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A complimentary Ocean Bottle water bottle to refill on board and take home.
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A wind and waterproof expedition jacket.
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Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer.
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Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported.
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Use of sauna, hot tubs, fitness room, lounges, and more.
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Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated.
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Range of included activities.
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In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by our knowledgeable Expedition Team
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Use of Science Center, including the library and advanced biological and geological equipment
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Citizen Science Program allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
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Expedition photographer on hand to assist you
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Necessary equipment for activities, such as trekking poles, will be provided on board on loan. In Antarctica and Svalbard muck boots are mandatory for all land activities and will be distributed onboard free of charge.
What's Excluded
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Mandatory insurance.
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International flights.
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Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings.
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Luggage handling.
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Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Tea.
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