Arctic Odyssey Under a Solar Eclipse

Welcome to Longyearbyen, the gateway to your Arctic adventure! Upon arrival at Longyearbyen airport, our staff will greet you and transfer you to a quality hotel (or similar). Spend the afternoon exploring the charming town center. Begin your Arctic journey at the Svalbard Museum, where you can delve into the region's history and pick up unique polar books and maps. Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of Longyearbyen's many restaurants. As midnight approaches, marvel at the midnight sun, which will shine throughout your stay.

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a leisurely morning in Longyearbyen. Take in the stunning views of icy fjords and glaciated mountains, and shop for souvenirs or last-minute necessities. For lunch, try the world's northernmost pizzas and kebabs. In the afternoon, transfer to the pier and board the deluxe expedition vessel M/V Sea Spirit. Settle into your spacious suite and explore the ship. As we set sail, enjoy informative briefings and introductions from the expedition staff. After dinner, step onto the open decks to admire the breathtaking scenery of Isfjorden in 24-hour daylight.

Today, we venture into the High Arctic wilderness of Spitsbergen. Our route will be determined by weather and sea ice conditions, ensuring the best possible experience. Expect to explore the northwestern part of the island, known for its dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife. Marvel at deep fjords, jagged mountain peaks, and immense tidewater glaciers. Keep an eye out for reindeer, Arctic foxes, and marine mammals, including the elusive Polar Bear. Visit Ny-Ålesund, a former mining town now home to Arctic researchers, and explore its museum, gift shop, and post office.

We set sail southwest across the Greenland Sea towards East Greenland. In these northern latitudes, sea ice can be encountered year-round. Stay vigilant for sightings of marine mammals such as whales and seals as we navigate these icy waters.

Our expedition in East Greenland is guided by weather and sea ice conditions. Navigate through the world's largest national park, home to the Franz Josef Fjord and Kong Oscar Fjord systems, and explore Scoresby Sund, the planet's most extensive fjord system. Discover breathtaking landscapes and the Arctic's rich cultural heritage, from ancient Thule sites to the contemporary Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit.

Experience a rare celestial event—a total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026. Our ship, the Sea Spirit, will anchor in the best location in Greenland's waters to ensure an unforgettable viewing experience. Astrophysicist Paul Sutter will provide expert insights, making this moment of totality even more memorable.

We cross the Denmark Strait towards Iceland, passing the Arctic Circle. Enjoy presentations and workshops by our expert staff, and take advantage of onboard recreation facilities. Seabird viewing and whale sightings can be enjoyed from panoramic open decks and stateroom windows.

Spend the day in the stunning Vestfirðir (Westfjords) of Iceland. This remote region, with its rugged mountains, voluminous waterfalls, and deep fjords, is home to whales, seals, and abundant birdlife. Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of this sparsely populated area.