When to go
June
Price
From £10,050 pp (excluding flights)
Flight time
2hrs 46mins
Introduction
Discover the best that the Spitsbergen arctic has to offer on a private cruise ship. Sail the fresh, crystal-clear waters as you marvel at the surrounding arctic scenery, watch polar bears hunt for food, and marvel at the abandoned settlements that have been lost to time. With so much to see and do, there will never be a dull moment on your journey.
At a Glance
Duration
12 days & 11 nights
Guide price
Group: £10,050pp (excluding flights)
Cities/Destinations (in order)
Helsinki – Longyearbyen, Svalbard – Spitsbergen – Svalbard Archipelago – Longyearbyen – Helsinki
Tour Type
Experienced local tour manager and guided sightseeing
Tour Theme
Group Tour
Activity Level
1 out of 7 - Leisurely
Age Range
18+
Star Rating of Tour
Superior
Accommodation
Private ship
Board Basis
Varied - please see the sample itinerary for details
Min|Max Group Size
199 people
Start/Finish
Helsinki – Helsinki
Extensions
Highlights
Sail Beyond the Arctic Circle
The Arctic Circle is the northernmost region of the Earth and has a line of latitude that is around 66.5° north of the Equator. During your boat cruise, you will travel beyond the Arctic Circle and explore the island above.
Explore the Svalbard Archipelago in 24-Hour Daylight
In June, the Svalbard Archipelago enters the ‘polar day’ season, where you will experience 24 hours of daylight and even the midnight sun. There is minimal rainfall, and the temperature tips over zero degrees, which makes for a calm and pleasant boating experience. The extra sunlight also helps to keep your energy levels high, enabling you to make the most out of each day.
Amazing Land, Bird, and Marine Wildlife
While you are sure to encounter the iconic polar bears during your travels, that is not all you will see. You may also see walruses splashing in the ocean, reindeer wandering through the nearby hills, and ringed seal scouting the ocean waters. In the higher altitudes you may also encounter arctic foxes and, due to the lack of trees and bushes, birds nesting on nearby cliffs.
Recommended Hotels
Private ship
Sample Itinerary
Spitsbergen Wildlife Explorer
Whether you are a nature or wildlife lover, the Spitsbergen Wildlife Explorer itinerary has something for everyone. On your memorable boat cruise, you will traverse the cold, delicate arctic waters, in search of land, marine, and bird wildlife. You will also encounter several local landmarks, such as the towering cliffs of the Alkerfjellet and the colorful tundra.
Day 1: Helsinki, Finland
Start your arctic adventure in Helsinki, a confidently modern city that has some of the most distinct architecture in the world. If you arrive early, you are free to explore the city and, if desired, relax at a Finnish sauna. Stay overnight at your chosen hotel.
(N)
Day 2: Longyearbyen, Svalbard
In the morning, depart Helsinki and travel to the airport. Take a private charter to Longyearbyen. Upon arrival, you may have time to explore the area before you embark on your boat trip.
(D)
Days 3 – 11: Spitsbergen and Svalbard Archipelago
With no particular itinerary in mind, you will spend the next several days on a comfortable and modern private boat.
You will travel around each side of Spitsbergen Island, marveling at the sparse polar deserts and stunning glaciers. Not to mention the many local landmarks on offer, including the 14th of July Glacier, which is approximately 127 square kilometers in size; the Hinlopen Strait, which is comprised of near-horizontal layers of sediments; and the Alkhornet, a large mountain on the west coast of Spitsbergen.
There are also plenty of chances to take photographs of the native wildlife. You will likely encounter several instances of polar bears, walruses, arctic foxes, and birds perching among the high-altitude cliffs. Hearing the piercing cry of the walruses is a particularly memorable moment, as you will witness them trying to secure a spot on the coastline.
(B, L, D)
Day 12: Longyearbyen – Helsinki
Depart your private boat and say goodbye to the Expedition Team and your fellow travelers. Return to Longyearbyen and take a flight back to Helsinki. Here your trip officially ends.
(B)
