Realm of the Polar Bear

Voyage Overview

Search for wildlife and explore scenic fjords on this 8 day adventure.

From close-up encounters with icebergs and glaciers to the region’s plentiful wildlife, this is a voyage of non-stop highlights. Always on the lookout for wildlife that live in this polar wilderness, you’ll explore this landscape not only by ship but also on foot and via Zodiac. Roaming polar bears, lounging seals, grazing reindeer, and colonies of birds all co-exist in this harsh land we dare only to explore a few months of the year.

Trip Details

Duration: 8 Days

Ship: Expedition, Expedition Ship, 128 Guests

Start: Longyearbyen, Norway

End: Longyearbyen, Norway

Itinerary

Day 1: Embarkation in Longyearbyen
Transfer from Longyearbyen to the Expedition for a late afternoon embarkation. Meals included: Dinner

Days 2 -7: Svalbard 
This voyage is spent travelling in the world in which the polar bear survives. Our wildlife viewing opportunities are enhanced by exploring as many remote areas as possible. Spotting wildlife like the Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer, and land or sea birds can be difficult, but well worth the effort. Ice and weather conditions permitting we can explore near sea ice, through fjords that lead to glaciers and icebergs, and discover bird nesting colonies, all from the platform of the ship. Alternatively, hop in a Zodiac to explore more closely, or be brought to land to visit historical sites and experience the tundra. We are always on the lookout for wildlife, ranging from endangered and rare polar species to sea mammals and birds. And, of course, we’ll have our eyes peeled for polar bears – they can be found all throughout this region, but finding them can require patience and persistence. Come join us in the search!

Early-season voyages often provide the greatest opportunity to see large ice floes in the Arctic pack ice, which usually means excellent wildlife viewing. Later in the season, the group can cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore more of the archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

Each day will be planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Distances are relatively short in the Archipelago and as there are no ocean crossings, the seas are normally calm. During these six days visit ice covered seas, fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery and glaciers flowing into the sea. Possibility to cruise in Zodiacs along the ice edge viewing seals or walrus, in fjords with glaciers spilling down to the sea or in front of spectacular seabird cliffs. The evening of our last full day of adventure will find the expedition ship anchored off Longyearbyen. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Disembarkation in Longyearbyen
On the departure day, there will be transfers available to the Longyearbyen airport for all passengers with flights scheduled. Meals included: Breakfast

Please note the itinerary and route map are only tentative outlines of what you may experience. No specific itinerary, routing or landing sites can be guaranteed in advance. Where the ship actually sails will depend on a lot of factors including, but not limited to, the weather & ice conditions and the captain & expedition leader. Every trip is different, which adds to the excitement of expedition cruising in the polar regions.