from
per person
Take a cruise around Spitsbergen and explore the icy waters of the North Atlantic. This special expedition offers you the chance to catch sight of whales, reindeer, Arctic foxes, walruses, seals, and the star attraction, the polar bear.
Zodiac Cruising & Shore Program
By Zodiac you will explore the polar world, getting up close to icebergs, glaciers, and iconic wildlife
The Bird Cliffs of Alkefjellet
Svalbard’s most famous bird-watching site, Alkefjellet is alive with guillemots, gulls, and kittiwakes
Hornsund
Part of the South Spitsbergen National Park, the Hornsund is a fjord found on the west side of Spitsbergen, on the southern tip of the island.
Monacobreen
Formerly known as Glacier de Monaco and Liefde Bay-bræ, Monacobreen is a glacier that reaches down into Liefdefjorden in Spitsbergen.
Diskobukta
Located close to Disko Bay, this remote settlement holds important historical relevance for the Inuit of Greenland
Sjuøyane
The Seven Islands are part of the Northeast Svalbard Reserve and are full of wildlife and Arctic flora
Isfjord
The second longest fjord in Svalbard, Isfjord lies on the west side of the principal island of Spitsbergen
You touch down in Longyearbyen, the administrative center of Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago. Enjoy strolling around this former mining town, whose parish church and Svalbard Museum make for fascinating attractions. Though the countryside appears stark, more than a hundred species of plant have been recorded in it. In the early evening the ship sails out of Isfjorden, where you might spot the first minke whale of your voyage.
Sailing to Raudfjorden, on the north coast of Spitsbergen, you take in an expansive fjord spilling with glaciers – and maybe even visited by ringed and bearded seals. The cliffs and shoreline of this fjord also support thriving seabird colonies, rich vegetation, and the possibility of polar bears.
Sailing to southwest on the East Greenland Current along the edge of the sea ice you may eventually see the coast of Northeast Greenland. Keep watch for polar bears, seals and whales and migrating seabirds. Depending on the sea-ice conditions we may already land at the end of day 5 at the mouth of Davy Sound.
The first half of the day we plan to spend in Antarctic Havn, a natural harbour for the old historic ship Antarctic. To the southwest is an extensive valley where we can spot groups of musk oxen. Later we may land at the head of one of the fjords south of it, like the east side of Nathorst Fjord. It is all ice dependent.
Today you reach Scoresby Sund, sailing along the glaciated Boons Kyst. You may also enjoy a Zodiac cruise past one of the glacier fronts, along with a visit to the basalt columns and ice formations of Vikingebugt.
In the afternoon, we plan to sail by the east coast of Milne Land among a multitude of giant icebergs. We will then continue by Bjørneør and sail into Øfjord.
The goal is a Zodiac cruise near Sorte Ø, surrounded by icebergs. Their austere blue-white contrasts sharply with the sediment slopes nearby. The afternoon plan is to sail through the northern parts of Røde Fjord and into Harefjord, with the chance to see musk oxen and warm autumnal foliage.
In the morning you encounter colossal icebergs, some over 100 meters (328 feet) high and more than a kilometer (.62 mile) long. Most of them are grounded, as the fjord is only about 400 meters deep (1,312 feet). You then land near Sydkap, with fine views of Hall Bredning and a good shot of seeing Arctic hares.
Today’s long walk goes from Sydkap to Nordøstbugt (12 km, 7.5 miles to the northeast), where the river coming from Holger Danskes Briller flows into the sea. We plan to walk south along the shore to Satakajik, seeing whale vertebrae and the remains of Thule summer houses. Passengers who opt out of the long walking group will join us at this location for their second excursion of the day.
Today you make a tundra landing on Liverpool Land, in Hurry Inlet. The afternoon stop is Ittoqqortoormiit, the largest settlement in Scoresbysund at about five hundred inhabitants. At the post office you can buy stamps for your postcards, or just stroll around to see the sled dogs and drying skins of seals and musk oxen. In the afternoon you sail south, passing the picturesque landscapes of the Blosseville Coast.
The island of Stewart Ø is an important hunting station for the people of Scoresby Sund and also a good area to spot polar bears, narwals, and the beautiful remains of Thule houses.
Rømer Fjord grant you the opportunity to sail far inland, as it has no glacier front at the head and is not clogged with ice. In this location, you may get the opportunity to spot narwhals. At the western shore about half way to the head of the fjord are hot springs.
One of the most beautiful fjords in East Greenland, with good landing opportunities, surrounded by glacier fronts and rich in wildlife with seals of different kind and often narwals.
We plan to sail into De Reste Bugt and d’ Aunay Bugt large fjords named by the Frenchman De Blosseville in 1833, when he made extensive discoveries at this now called Blosseville Coast. Chances to find bears, narwals and seals in these fjords are pretty good.
A sea day grants you the opportunity to spot whales and seabirds when rounding Northwest Iceland.
Every adventure, no matter how grand, must eventually come to an end. You disembark in Akureyri, where on request you can transfer by chartered bus (a six-hour drive that you must book in advance) to the bus stop Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre at Austurbakki, Reykjavík, taking home memories that will accompany you wherever your next adventure lies.
Polar Journey with MS Hondius
Discover the ultimate in polar exploration aboard MS Hondius, the world’s first-registered Polar Class 6 passenger vessel. Built for adventure, this cutting-edge ship is one of the most structurally fortified and technologically advanced in the polar regions. Designed for safe and eco-conscious travel, Hondius meets the highest environmental standards, featuring sustainable technologies like LED lighting, biodegradable paints, and fuel-efficient systems that reduce CO₂ emissions.
With a capacity of just 170 guests, Hondius offers intimate yet luxurious accommodations, from grand suites with balconies to cozy cabins with stunning views. Her small size and agile design allow for swift, nimble exploration in the Arctic and Antarctic, ensuring close-up wildlife encounters and unforgettable experiences.
Equipped with Zodiacs, multiple gangways, and specialized indoor boarding areas, Hondius is your gateway to seamless shore landings and immersive outdoor activities, including kayaking. Whether you’re exploring icy landscapes, engaging in multi-language lectures, or enjoying personalized service from 70 crew members, Hondius delivers an unparalleled, sustainable polar adventure.
Voyage aboard the indicated vessel as indicated in the itinerary
All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea.
All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac.
Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff.
Complimentary use of waterproof neoprene expedition muck boots and snowshoes.
Transfers and baggage handling between the airport, hotels and ship only for those passengers on a selection of flights (advised by Oceanwide) to and from Longyearbyen.
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the programme.
AECO fees and governmental taxes.
Comprehensive pre-departure material.
Complimentary Wi-Fi connectivity. All guests receive 1.5 GB of data usage per day, which resets every 24 hours.
Complimentary Dopper water bottle for use during and after your expedition.
Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights
Pre- and post- land arrangements.
Transfers to / from the vessel outside Spitsbergen.
Passport and visa expenses.
Government arrival and departure taxes.
Meals ashore.
Baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (which is strongly recommended).
Excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges.
The customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be provided).
The best time to visit Svalbard is between May and September, when the Arctic ice has melted enough to allow ship access. Each part of the season offers something unique:
May – Early Season: Pristine snow-covered landscapes and the chance to see polar bears on sea ice.
June & July – Midnight Sun: 24-hour daylight, active wildlife, and the best time for birdwatching.
August & September – Late Season: Stunning autumn colors, peak whale watching, and increased access to fjords.
Svalbard is one of the best places to see Arctic wildlife, including:
Polar Bears – The king of the Arctic, often spotted hunting on the ice.
Walruses – Large herds resting on ice floes and beaches.
Whales – Beluga, Humpback, Blue, and Minke Whales.
Seals – Bearded, Ringed, and Harp Seals.
Arctic Foxes & Reindeer – Unique to Svalbard’s tundra.
Seabirds – Thousands of Puffins, Arctic Terns, and Guillemots nest on cliffs.
Svalbard is part of Norway, but it has a unique visa policy.
Most travelers do NOT need a visa for Svalbard, but if you transit through Oslo or Tromsø, you may need a Norwegian Schengen visa depending on your nationality.
Schengen residents must carry a valid passport, as other forms of ID (such as national ID cards) are not sufficient for entry into Svalbard.
Oceanwide Expeditions will provide necessary permits for landing in protected areas.
Svalbard’s Arctic climate is cool but variable, with temperatures ranging from:
May - June: -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)
July - August: 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F)
September: 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F)
Despite the cold, summer in Svalbard can feel mild, especially with proper clothing.
Packing properly for your Svalbard expedition is key to staying warm, dry, and comfortable in the Arctic environment. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Clothing & Footwear
Layering is essential – opt for wool, silk, or synthetic fabrics rather than cotton.
Waterproof & Windproof Outerwear – a warm winter jacket and wind/water-resistant trousers or ski pants (some cruises require waterproof pants for landings and Zodiac excursions).
Thermal Base Layers – long-sleeved tops and leggings made of wool or synthetic materials.
Warm Mid-Layers – wool jumpers and fleece jackets for insulation.
Gloves & Mittens – a combination of fleece and wool for maximum warmth
Warm Hat or Headband – protects against Arctic winds.
Scarf or Fleece Tube – for extra warmth around the neck.
Warm Socks – wool socks to keep your feet insulated.
Regular Indoor Shoes – for comfort while onboard.
Sturdy Hiking Shoes – for exploring on land.
Sunglasses with UV Protection – essential for the Midnight Sun.
Sleeping Mask – to block out 24-hour daylight and help with sleep.
Expedition Gear & Accessories
Small Waterproof Backpack – useful for landings and carrying essentials.
A Good Pair of Binoculars – great for wildlife viewing (ask the Cruise Norway team if they are included in your cabin).
Camera & Extra Memory Cards – the Arctic landscapes and wildlife are breathtaking.
Extra Batteries & Power Banks – cold temperatures can reduce battery life.
Chargers, Electrical Adapters & Converters – check your travel documents for ship-specific requirements.
Sea Sickness Medication – the Arctic waters can sometimes be rough.
Personal Care & Essentials
Your Passport & a Copy of It
Cash in the Applicable Currency – check your travel documents for information about onboard payments.
Sun Protection – high-SPF sunscreen and UV lip balm to protect against intense Arctic sunlight.
Moisturizer – cold, dry air can be harsh on the skin.
Enough Medication & Essentials – bring extra in case of unforeseen delays.
While Arctic waters are generally calmer than the Drake Passage, conditions can vary. Some areas, like the Barents Sea, can be choppy. Seasickness medication is recommended for those prone to motion sickness.
No, the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are only visible in Svalbard between October and March, when the region experiences polar night. Cruises operate during the summer (May - September), when the Midnight Sun keeps the skies bright 24/7.
For an Arctic Northern Lights experience, consider visiting Svalbard in winter on a land-based tour.
Svalbard is home to an estimated 3,000 polar bears, and while sightings are not guaranteed, Swan Hellenic’s expert expedition guides maximize your chances of spotting them in their natural habitat.
Polar bears are often seen hunting on sea ice, resting on shorelines, or swimming in Arctic waters. Your guides will ensure safe and responsible viewing from Zodiacs and onboard observation decks.
The Midnight Sun is a natural phenomenon where the sun never sets, providing 24-hour daylight from late April to late August in Svalbard.
This extended daylight allows for longer excursions, wildlife spotting at any hour, and breathtaking Arctic scenery under golden light.
Arctic weather is unpredictable, and landings are always subject to conditions. If a scheduled landing isn’t possible, the expedition team will:
Adjust the itinerary to find an alternative landing site.
Offer an extended Zodiac cruise in sheltered areas
Provide enrichment lectures, photography sessions, or wildlife viewing from the ship.
Oceanwide Expeditions’ small expedition ships allow for maximum flexibility, ensuring a full experience despite changing conditions.
DISCLAIMER: Rates are per person, subject to availability and can change at any time
Subscribe to our free newsletter
Receive exclusive offers and updates directly to your inbox
Head Office
CRUISE NORWAY
373 Broadway, Suite C1
New York, NY 10013, USA
Cruise Norway International
Tallinn, Estonia
Contact us
U.S. & Canada Toll Free: 1-888-538-8652
Europe & Global: +372 5299 832 / WhatsApp
Germany: +49 156 7820 3775 / WhatsApp
Australia: +61 7 537 95922 / WhatsApp
India: +91 98300 53005 / WhatsApp
