Wild Wonders of the Arctic - 8 days

Welcome to Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago nestled between continental Norway and the North Pole. Upon arrival at Svalbard Airport, make your way to Longyearbyen, the capital of Svalbard. From there, board our expedition cruise ship, the Ocean Albatros (or similar), and settle in. After a safety briefing and an introduction to the daily routine onboard, head to the outer deck to enjoy a glass of champagne as we set sail for an unforgettable Arctic adventure.

Spend the day exploring the vast wilderness of North West Svalbard, a region steeped in history and teeming with wildlife. Discover remnants of Dutch whaling settlements and marvel at the thriving Arctic flora and fauna. Keep a vigilant eye out for polar bears in their natural habitat as you immerse yourself in the beauty of this unique landscape.

Continue your exploration of North West Svalbard, delving deeper into its rich history and diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for Arctic foxes and seabirds, and take the opportunity to learn more about the region's fascinating past.

Today, we venture into the icy expanses of northeastern Svalbard, a region characterized by rocky landscapes and towering glaciers. Despite its barren appearance, this region is teeming with life, from Arctic foxes to seabirds nesting on rocky cliffs. As we navigate through this remote wilderness, keep an eye out for walruses and other Arctic wildlife.

On day 5, we reach the northern coasts of Svalbard, some of the northernmost pieces of land on Earth. Weather permitting, we will land and explore the desolate landscapes of these remote islands, encountering unique flora and fauna adapted to extreme conditions. The birdlife is rich in this area, so don't forget to pack your binoculars!

Experience the mesmerizing environment of the Arctic ice pack, a dynamic realm filled with diverse wildlife. Marvel at the beauty of floating ice formations and encounter seals, beluga whales, and possibly polar bears as you navigate through icy channels. This is a unique opportunity to witness the resilience of life in this extreme environment.

Wake up to the serene beauty of Kongsfjord, a remote corner of the world surrounded by rugged mountains and bound by magnificent glaciers. We land and explore the historic settlement of Ny Alesund, the northernmost human settlement on Earth. This geographical location has made these islands the staging post for exploratory and scientific expeditions for centuries - a proud legacy which continues to this day.

Today, our Arctic adventure comes to an end as we return to Longyearbyen. Enjoy a final breakfast onboard the Ocean Albatros (or similar) before disembarking and making your own way back to Svalbard Airport for your flight back to the Norwegian mainland.