Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard and the Northern Fjords (Northbound)
Highlights
- Explore Sørøya and Senja Islands: Hike the rugged terrains of Norway’s northernmost reaches, capturing sweeping panoramas alongside a certified photo instructor, and kayak through serene waters surrounded by mountains
- Witness the Arctic’s iconic wildlife: Scan the icy fjords and waters for sightings of polar bears, walruses, Arctic foxes, and whales—fin, beluga, and minke—on exhilarating excursions and from the ship’s bridge.
- Discover the remote Bear Island: Experience the birdwatcher’s paradise at Bear Island, home to dramatic cliffs teeming with fulmars, kittiwakes, and guillemots as you cruise the southernmost reaches of the Svalbard archipelago.
Embark on an unforgettable Arctic adventure, exploring the wild and pristine islands of Norway and the dramatic landscapes of Svalbard. This expedition takes you from Tromsø, Norway’s “Gateway to the Arctic,” to the untouched wilderness of Sørøya and Senja Islands, renowned for their rugged beauty and exceptional hiking opportunities. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in the raw, unspoiled landscapes, capturing breathtaking vistas with the guidance of an expert photo instructor, and paddling among icebergs on tranquil kayaking excursions.
From the heart of Norway’s northernmost coast, journey to Bear Island—an isolated sanctuary for seabirds like fulmars, kittiwakes, and guillemots. Experience the thrill of exploring this remote outpost by zodiac, capturing stunning photographs of bird cliffs and icy shores. As you venture further north to Svalbard, you’ll enter a true Arctic wonderland where nature reigns supreme.
The ice-class expedition ship lets you probe deep into the polar region, with sightings of polar bears, walruses, reindeer, and seals thrilling both novice and seasoned explorers alike. The sheer vastness of the landscape and the magnificence of the wildlife make every day a new discovery, as you sail into hidden fjords, cruise alongside glaciers, and observe the natural world from the ship or during your intimate, guided excursions.
This voyage, taking place during the Arctic summer, offers extended daylight, allowing for optimal wildlife viewing and exploration, all while providing a unique perspective on the shifting ice and fjords. You’ll return home with more than just stunning photographs—this expedition will leave you with a profound connection to one of the planet’s most extraordinary and remote environments.
Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a curious first-timer, this itinerary is perfect for those with a sense of adventure, a love for wildlife, and a deep desire to explore one of Earth’...
Standard Activities
About the Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard and the Northern Fjords (Northbound)
Embark on an unforgettable Arctic adventure, exploring the wild and pristine islands of Norway and the dramatic landscapes of Svalbard. This expedition takes you from Tromsø, Norway’s “Gateway to the Arctic,” to the untouched wilderness of Sørøya and Senja Islands, renowned for their rugged beauty and exceptional hiking opportunities. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in the raw, unspoiled landscapes, capturing breathtaking vistas with the guidance of an expert photo instructor, and paddling among icebergs on tranquil kayaking excursions.
From the heart of Norway’s northernmost coast, journey to Bear Island—an isolated sanctuary for seabirds like fulmars, kittiwakes, and guillemots. Experience the thrill of exploring this remote outpost by zodiac, capturing stunning photographs of bird cliffs and icy shores. As you venture further north to Svalbard, you’ll enter a true Arctic wonderland where nature reigns supreme.
The ice-class expedition ship lets you probe deep into the polar region, with sightings of polar bears, walruses, reindeer, and seals thrilling both novice and seasoned explorers alike. The sheer vastness of the landscape and the magnificence of the wildlife make every day a new discovery, as you sail into hidden fjords, cruise alongside glaciers, and observe the natural world from the ship or during your intimate, guided excursions.
This voyage, taking place during the Arctic summer, offers extended daylight, allowing for optimal wildlife viewing and exploration, all while providing a unique perspective on the shifting ice and fjords. You’ll return home with more than just stunning photographs—this expedition will leave you with a profound connection to one of the planet’s most extraordinary and remote environments.
Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a curious first-timer, this itinerary is perfect for those with a sense of adventure, a love for wildlife, and a deep desire to explore one of Earth’s final frontiers offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the Arctic’s wild beauty and the incredible wildlife that calls it home.
Itinerary Day to Day
Tromsø,Norway / Embark Ship
Arrive in Tromsø, known as the “gateway to the Arctic” due to the large number of Arctic expeditions that originated here. Transfer to the meeting place in the city and spend the day at your own pace exploring the sights, sounds and tastes of this Arctic capital. Check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.
Meals Included: Dinner
Sørøya and Senja Islands
Bear Island
Exploring Svalbard
Longyearbyen / Disembark Ship / Oslo
Oslo / Home
Route Map
What's Included
-
All accommodations aboard ship or in hotels per itinerary.
-
All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore; beer, wine, cocktails, liquors and spirits aboard the ship (except certain premium brands which are available for purchase)
-
Hors d’oeuvres, 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water.
-
Excursions and airport transfers to and from recommended flights, as indicated in the itinerary.
-
Crew gratuities.
-
Exploration tools curated to destination, such as Zodiacs, kayaks, guidance and company of our leading expedition staff.
-
Assistance by the National Geographic Photographer and Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor.
-
Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker.
-
Presentations by expedition staff and expert guest speakers.
-
Complimentary parka or jacket, complimentary reusable water bottle.
-
Onboard physician consultations.
-
Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment.
-
24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library, and other shared spaces.
-
Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes.
-
Unused services or items included in our programs are non-refundable.
What's Excluded
-
Airfare (except flights* when indicated as included).
-
Pre- and post-expedition extensions.
-
Additional hotel nights (except when indicated as included.
-
Private transfers.
-
Laundry, spa treatments, Wi-Fi, and phone services (except when indicated as included).
-
Travel protection plans; and passport, visa, and immigration fees.
-
*Recommended flight costs include flight(s) that take place during the date range of your trip to transport travelers from one itinerary destination to another. This cost also includes ground transportation, luggage transfer, and airport assistance. If you prefer to arrange your own flights privately, have alternate means of transport, or wish to modify at a later time, please contact an Expedition Specialist
-
Additional costs associated with medical services outside onboard physician consultation.
Northwest Passage: Greenland To Alaska (Eastbound)
Northwest Passage: Greenland To Alaska (Westbound)
Arctic Odyssey: Iceland, Greenland & Canada
Svalbard - Last Stop Before North Pole
Svalbard Circumnavigation
Spitsbergen: Realm of the Ice Bear
Svalbard: In Search Of Iconic Arctic Wildlife