North Spitsbergen Explorer - Diverse Landscapes, Sea Ice, and Wildlife - Summer Solstice

This Arctic journey places the focus on the striking landscapes of North Spitsbergen, its diverse wildlife and the characteristic sea-ice scenery around the time of the summer solstice. The midnight sun bathes both land and wildlife in a unique light, while optional activities such as walks ashore and kayaking offer additional perspectives. Longyearbyen on Spitsbergen (Svalbard) serves as both the starting and ending point of the voyage. From here, you venture into the wide and rugged Arctic wilderness and, with a little luck, may observe animals such as walruses, reindeer, seabirds, whales or even polar bears in their natural habitat.
 

Itinerary: Discover Northern Svalbard - Diverse Landscapes, Sea Ice, and Wildlife - Summer Solstice

 
Day 1: The largest city on the largest island
You arrive in Longyearbyen, the administrative centre of the Svalbard archipelago, located on the island of Spitsbergen, the largest island in the group. This former mining town combines Arctic history with a distinctive natural setting. Take time for a stroll through the settlement, visit the parish church or explore the Svalbard Museum, which offers engaging insights into the culture and natural history of the region. Despite the harsh conditions, the area supports a surprisingly varied Arctic vegetation, with more than one hundred recorded plant species. In the early evening, the ship leaves Isfjorden. With favourable conditions, the first whales, such as minke whales, may already be spotted along the way, providing an atmospheric start to the voyage.

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Day 2-7: Northern Svalbard's natural beauties, wildlife, and pack ice
Over the following days, you explore the remote coasts and fjords of North Spitsbergen. Depending on ice and weather conditions, as well as wildlife sightings, the route may vary. The expedition leader adjusts the programme flexibly to ensure both safety and rewarding experiences. Possible destinations include the scenic Raudfjorden with its glaciers and bird cliffs, Monacobreen (Monaco Glacier), the Hinlopen Strait with its steep basalt formations and rich wildlife, the remote island group of Sjuøyane (Seven Islands) as the northernmost points of Spitsbergen, the sheltered Forlandsundet, St. Jonsfjorden and the distinctive cliffs of Alkhornet with their breeding seabird colonies. Sailing along drifting ice or, if conditions allow, into denser pack ice may also be part of the journey. Each landing offers new perspectives on the Arctic environment. With a little luck, you may encounter walruses resting along the shores, reindeer on the tundra, Arctic foxes or polar bears in their natural habitat. Various whale species, including minke whales and fin whales, and occasionally other large whales, may also be observed. All wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions and can never be guaranteed.
 
Day 8: Return to Longyearbyen
In the early morning, the ship returns to Longyearbyen and your expedition comes to an end. A scheduled coach transfer takes you comfortably to the airport. During the journey, there is time to take in the Arctic landscape once more and reflect on the experiences of the past days.
Accommodation: On board your expedition vessel, you stay in comfortable and stylish cabins specifically designed for voyages in polar regions. All cabins feature private facilities, modern amenities and cosy seating areas. Windows or portholes provide views of the passing scenery and offer a pleasant place to relax after active days ashore.
 
Further information: The planned itinerary is intended as a guideline and may vary due to ice, weather and wildlife conditions. Landings are subject to availability and permits in accordance with AECO regulations. The expedition leader has full authority to determine the final schedule, which is why flexibility is essential on any expedition cruise.
 
Experience the remarkable landscapes and diverse wildlife of Spitsbergen during the summer solstice – a distinctive journey to one of the most impressive regions of the Arctic.
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