South Spitsbergen, Bear Island, Norway

This short expedition cruise starts in Longyearbyen and first sails out through Isfjord, then continues south into the Hornsund region with its side fjords, glaciers and distinctive mountain forms. The waters are rich in seals and whales, and polar bear sightings are possible depending on conditions and animal movements. MS Plancius then heads for remote Bear Island, where the high cliffs at the island’s southeastern end and possible landings at Kvalrossbukta or in a low valley such as Rendalen are planned. During the southbound passage toward Norway the focus remains on observation at sea, with chances to see whales and, when night returns, the Aurora Borealis. The journey ends in Tromsø, from where onward travel is individual.

South Spitsbergen Bear Island Norway: The itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Longyearbyen and embarkation
You arrive in Longyearbyen, the administrative centre of Spitsbergen on the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago. Before embarkation there is time to explore the former mining town independently. The parish church and the Svalbard Museum provide useful context on local history and natural conditions. The surroundings are also notable, as more than one hundred plant species have been recorded here despite the landscape’s sparse appearance. In the early evening MS Plancius departs Isfjord and sets course toward the southern waters of Spitsbergen. Even on this first stretch, observation is part of the routine, and with some luck you may see the first minke whale of the voyage. The evening on board is primarily for settling in and getting used to the expedition schedule.

Day 2: Hornsund with side fjords, glaciers and coastal scenery
The day begins with a calm cruise through the side fjords of the Hornsund area in southern Spitsbergen. The scenery is dominated by steep mountain peaks, including Hornsundtind rising to about 1,431 metres. The summit of Bautaen illustrates why early Dutch explorers used the name Spitsbergen, referring to pointed mountains as a defining feature. Fourteen major glaciers are found in this region, and their fronts and valleys shape the fjord landscape. There are also chances to see seals, and polar bears are possible in this area, so wildlife conditions are monitored continuously. At this time of year the bird cliffs are generally quieter, as many species have already fledged, apart from some first year northern fulmars. Even so, the day remains defined by glacier scenery, coastal forms and the possibility of marine mammal sightings within the fjords.

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Day 3: Bear Island with cliffs, Perleporten and possible landings
Today you reach Bear Island and approach the southeastern end, a good area to view the high cliff walls and the feature known as Perleporten from the ship. The island lies isolated between Spitsbergen and mainland Norway and is primarily characterised by its sea cliffs and exposed maritime setting. Farther north, a landing at Kvalrossbukta may be possible, where you can visit the remains of a whaling station from the early part of the previous century. Another option is a landing in a low valley such as Rendalen, depending on conditions and the expedition team’s decision. The day is therefore focused on coastal landscapes and historical traces of human activity, while observation from the ship continues throughout.

Day 4: Sea day toward Norway with wildlife watching and northern lights window
As the ship sails south, Norway draws closer and the day is planned as a sea passage with an emphasis on observation. Whales are often seen in the surrounding waters, so opportunities may arise to watch animals from deck during the transit. Where possible, route and speed can be adjusted in response to sightings without changing the overall character of the crossing. Once darkness returns, there are also opportunities to look for the Aurora Borealis, depending on cloud cover and activity. The day remains calm and shaped by open sea conditions, with changing light and weather typical for these latitudes.

Day 5: Continuing toward Tromsø, focus on sea and sky
MS Plancius continues toward Tromsø. The focus remains on the sea, as whale sightings can still occur along this route and seabirds may accompany the ship. As you approach the Norwegian coast, the horizon and the structure of the seascape gradually change, marking the transition into Northern Norwegian waters. If darkness and weather conditions allow, there may again be an opportunity to watch for the Aurora Borealis. The day also supports practical preparation for arrival, with information on board about disembarkation procedures and onward travel. You spend the final night on board before reaching Tromsø the next morning.

Day 6: Arrival in Tromsø and disembarkation
You arrive in Tromsø, Norway. The package ends after breakfast on board with disembarkation. Tromsø has long been an important departure point for Arctic expeditions, and from here there are flights to Oslo and beyond. You then continue your onward journey independently.

Included South Spitsbergen, Bear Island, Norway

- Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes
- Complimentary Wi-Fi: each guest receives 1.5 GB of data per day, renewed every 24 hours
- Complimentary Dopper water bottle for use during and after your expedition
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