Spitsbergen Explorer: Wildlife Capital of the Arctic (2024), Operated by Quark
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a thrilling 12-day Arctic adventure, starting from the vibrant city of Helsinki and journeying to the remote wilderness of Spitsbergen, located above the Arctic Circle. This multi-day tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning fjords and outlying islands of western Spitsbergen, with its diverse wildlife and breathtaking natural landscapes. From spotting Polar bears in their preferred hunting areas to witnessing the noisy spectacle of a walrus haul-out, this tour is a wildlife enthusiast's dream. The expedition also includes visits to historical sites and an appreciation of Spitsbergen's unique geology. The tour concludes with a return to civilization in the frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. Get ready for an unforgettable Arctic expedition that combines the thrill of wildlife viewing with the serene beauty of the Arctic landscape.
Included
All meals while on the ship included. Typical Meals The ships galley offers good quality service and cuisine throughout, with excellent chefs preparing international menus including vegetarian dishes, accompanied by a wide variety of drinks from around the world on sale. Breakfast: Buffet style – unlimited tea and coffee, a selection of fruit juices, hot options including bacon and eggs or omelettes, a selection of bread and toast and jam/honey/marmalade, fruit and cereal. Lunch: Three course set meal or buffet, or the occasional BBQ. Dinner: Three or four courses with a starter of soup and/or salad, a choice of mains with at least one vegetarian option and a dessert, with tea and coffee. Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered for on this holiday - please do inform us before departure of any special dietary requests so that our local team can be well prepared.
During the expedition, you will visit remote and isolated sites that are accessible only by Zodiac landing craft. Designed for expedition work, these large and heavy-duty inflatable vessels are extremely safe.
The Spitsbergen Explorer: Wildlife Capital of the Arctic voyage is offered on the Ocean Adventurer, the Ocean Explorer and the Ultramarine which are Polar Adventure Ships. One night in a standard hotel in Helsinki included. Full board accommodation on the ship, generally on a twin share basis in a variety of cabin types, all with en suite facilities. Please visit the Polar Fleet page for Ship Information and Deck Plans.
Polar Adventure Ships
These are small ice rated vessels well qualified for Polar waters. Intimate adventures are always more enjoyable with like-minded passengers and staff, so these voyages are for people who like flexible itineraries and plenty to keep them busy. Activities include frequent Zodiac excursions, trekking, kayaking and many hours on deck in areas that other ships only dream about accessing. Food and staff are superb and every guest benefits from the technical advances of this superb fleet. Rest assured our Polar Adventure Ships enable any traveller to maximize their experience sensitively in the Poles.
berth-cabin: 11 night(s);
The Exodus group forms part of the ship’s complement (max of approx. 100), enjoying the relaxed, intimate and informal atmosphere, which breaks into smaller groups to facilitate the frequent excursions. We offer these cruises in conjunction with our partners, Quark Expeditions, and Exodus participants will join an international group, not all of whom have booked through Exodus. Occasionally some of these may be younger than 18 years old, the Exodus' stated minimum age for this trip. We work with many fine Expedition Leaders and Polar Experts, bringing a diversity of interests including zoology, Polar history, geology, ornithology and ocean sciences. The ship’s operating have many years of experience in Polar Regions and are committed to ensuring a safe and memorable journey. Each day your cabin will be serviced by the housekeeping crew, and your meals served by the friendly and attentive restaurant staff. There is also a resident medical officer.
Sail beyond the Arctic Circle to 80° north
Zodiac and shore excursions to discover the icy wilderness
Arctic fox, whales, walrus and huge 200,000 strong colonies of Little auk
Polar bears often seen hunting on ice floes
Travel in a small expedition vessel
Accompanied by extremely qualified Expedition Staff
Map
Attractions
Design MuseumDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Helsinki
- Helsinki - Arrival day
- More
- Design Museum
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Begin your Arctic adventure in the bustling city of Helsinki, known for its unique blend of eastern and western influences and extraordinary architecture. If you arrive early, take the opportunity to explore the city's numerous museums and galleries, relax in a traditional Finnish sauna, or wander through the vibrant Design District. Your accommodation for the night will be in a comfortable hotel in the city.
Day 2 – Day 2: Helsinki to Longyearbyen
- Longyearbyen
- Helsinki
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In the morning, you'll transfer to the airport and board a private charter flight to Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in Spitsbergen. Upon arrival, you'll have some time to explore this unique Arctic town before embarking on your ship. As the ship sets sail, enjoy your first glimpse of Spitsbergen's rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from the icy waters.
Day 3 – Day 3: Exploring Spitsbergen
Day 3: Exploring Spitsbergen
Spend the day exploring the western part of Spitsbergen and its stunning fjords and outlying islands. The natural landscape here is incredibly diverse, ranging from polar deserts to immense glaciers. The Expedition Team will be on the lookout for wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot Polar bears, walruses, and Brünnich’s guillemots. You may also visit historical sites and appreciate the unique geology of Spitsbergen. The day's itinerary will be flexible to ensure optimum wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Day 4 – Day 4: More of Spitsbergen
Day 4: More of Spitsbergen
Continue your exploration of western Spitsbergen, with its stunning fjords and outlying islands. The Expedition Team will be on the lookout for wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot Polar bears, walruses, and Brünnich’s guillemots. You may also visit historical sites and appreciate the unique geology of Spitsbergen. The day's itinerary will be flexible to ensure optimum wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Day 5 – Day 5: Spitsbergen Exploration Continues
Day 5: Spitsbergen Exploration Continues
Spend another day exploring the western part of Spitsbergen and its stunning fjords and outlying islands. The natural landscape here is incredibly diverse, ranging from polar deserts to immense glaciers. The Expedition Team will be on the lookout for wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot Polar bears, walruses, and Brünnich’s guillemots. You may also visit historical sites and appreciate the unique geology of Spitsbergen. The day's itinerary will be flexible to ensure optimum wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Day 6 – Day 6: More of Spitsbergen
Day 6: More of Spitsbergen
Continue your exploration of western Spitsbergen, with its stunning fjords and outlying islands. The Expedition Team will be on the lookout for wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot Polar bears, walruses, and Brünnich’s guillemots. You may also visit historical sites and appreciate the unique geology of Spitsbergen. The day's itinerary will be flexible to ensure optimum wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Day 7 – Day 7: Spitsbergen Exploration Continues
Day 7: Spitsbergen Exploration Continues
Spend another day exploring the western part of Spitsbergen and its stunning fjords and outlying islands. The natural landscape here is incredibly diverse, ranging from polar deserts to immense glaciers. The Expedition Team will be on the lookout for wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot Polar bears, walruses, and Brünnich’s guillemots. You may also visit historical sites and appreciate the unique geology of Spitsbergen. The day's itinerary will be flexible to ensure optimum wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Day 8 – Day 8: More of Spitsbergen
Day 8: More of Spitsbergen
Continue your exploration of western Spitsbergen, with its stunning fjords and outlying islands. The Expedition Team will be on the lookout for wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot Polar bears, walruses, and Brünnich’s guillemots. You may also visit historical sites and appreciate the unique geology of Spitsbergen. The day's itinerary will be flexible to ensure optimum wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Day 9 – Day 9: Spitsbergen Exploration Continues
Day 9: Spitsbergen Exploration Continues
Spend another day exploring the western part of Spitsbergen and its stunning fjords and outlying islands. The natural landscape here is incredibly diverse, ranging from polar deserts to immense glaciers. The Expedition Team will be on the lookout for wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot Polar bears, walruses, and Brünnich’s guillemots. You may also visit historical sites and appreciate the unique geology of Spitsbergen. The day's itinerary will be flexible to ensure optimum wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Day 10 – Day 10: More of Spitsbergen
Day 10: More of Spitsbergen
Continue your exploration of western Spitsbergen, with its stunning fjords and outlying islands. The Expedition Team will be on the lookout for wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot Polar bears, walruses, and Brünnich’s guillemots. You may also visit historical sites and appreciate the unique geology of Spitsbergen. The day's itinerary will be flexible to ensure optimum wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Day 11 – Day 11: Spitsbergen Exploration Continues
Day 11: Spitsbergen Exploration Continues
Spend another day exploring the western part of Spitsbergen and its stunning fjords and outlying islands. The natural landscape here is incredibly diverse, ranging from polar deserts to immense glaciers. The Expedition Team will be on the lookout for wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot Polar bears, walruses, and Brünnich’s guillemots. You may also visit historical sites and appreciate the unique geology of Spitsbergen. The day's itinerary will be flexible to ensure optimum wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Day 12 – Day 12: Longyearbyen to Helsinki
- Longyearbyen
- Helsinki - Departure day
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Your Arctic adventure comes to an end today. After saying goodbye to your Expedition Team and fellow travellers, you'll be transferred to the airport for your included return group charter flight to Helsinki. From here, you can continue your journey home or extend your stay to explore more of what Helsinki has to offer.
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