Voyage Overview
Cruise through fjords, enjoy tundra hikes, and see thrilling wildlife.
Enjoy the best of Svalbard, a world of near-endless daylight, where polar bear sightings quicken your pulse, guillemot cries echo from towering cliffs, and beluga whales rise from the sea. Explore tundra adorned with wildflowers, keep watch for arctic fox, and discover historical camps of explorers and hunters. Push through pack ice to find walrus and bearded seals, and delight in the breathtakingly beautiful fjords.
Trip Details
Duration: 11 Days
Ship: Douglas Mawson, Premium Ship, 130 Guests
Start: Oslo, Norway
End: Oslo, Norway
Highlights:
- 8 planned days in Svalbard
- Enjoy the thrill of searching for wildlife such as walruses, seals, whales, reindeer, arctic foxes, seabirds and polar bears
- Cruise along blue glacier fronts and through stunning fjords
- Explore the tundra and its stunningly beautiful scenery on guided hikes
Trip Itinerary Overview:
Day 1: Arrive Oslo, Norway
Day 2: Flight to Longyearbyen & Embarkation
Days 3-10: Svalbard
Day 11: Disembark in Longyearbyen and Flight to Oslo
Tour Dates
| Dates | Availability | |
|---|---|---|
Aug 8 – Aug 18, 2027 (11 days) | Very Limited | view pricing chart |
| Dates | Availability | |
|---|---|---|
Jul 12 – Jul 22, 2028 (11 days) | Limited | view pricing chart |
Jul 27 – Aug 6, 2028 (11 days) | Limited | view pricing chart |
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Oslo, Norway
Having made your way to Oslo, walk a short distance to our group hotel. The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.
Day 2: Charter Flight to Longyearbyen & Embarkation
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before walking to the airport for our charter flight to Longyearbyen for embarkation. In Longyearbyen, explore the town on a guided tour. After the tour, you will be transferred directly to the pier to embark in the late afternoon. Settle into your cabin before attending important safety briefings and enjoy the thrill of departure as we ‘throw the lines’ and set sail. Note: the excursion is contingent on the arrival time of our charter flight to Longyearbyen.
Days 3-10: Svalbard
Svalbard offers Arctic wilderness at its best. The experienced Expedition Team will tailor each day around weather, sea ice, wildlife and the latest local information. There is no fixed chain of landings: a sighting, a newly accessible fjord or a change in wind and ice may reshape the plan and create the most memorable moments of the voyage.
With more open water and a longer operating window, summer can support broader exploration. Depending on conditions, we may range through the fjords of western Spitsbergen, investigate the northern islands or seek a route towards Hinlopen Strait and Nordaustlandet. Places such as Alkefjellet, the Bråsvellbreen ice front or the far north may become possibilities, and a full circumnavigation is always aspirational.
Summer brings the tundra fully to life. Guided walks may cross flower-dotted valleys, raised beaches and fossil-rich ground, with chances to see Svalbard reindeer and Arctic foxes. Bird cliffs remain busy with guillemots, kittiwakes, puffins and little auks, while offshore waters may hold walrus, seals and feeding whales. Polar bears can occur anywhere in the archipelago and are observed responsibly from a safe distance.
Historic whaling stations, trappers’ huts and remains from scientific and polar expeditions add a human dimension to the landscape. Our guides will interpret these fragile sites without disturbing the stories preserved there.
If you have selected an optional activity such as kayaking, we will aim to offer it whenever conditions allow. Zodiac cruising, guided walks and the possibility of a polar plunge ensure that the long summer days are used to their fullest.
Day 11: Disembark in Longyearbyen & Charter Flight to Oslo
During the early morning we cruise back into Longyearbyen. Farewell your Expedition Team upon disembarkation and enjoy some free time before transferring to the airport for your return charter flight to Oslo to continue your journey. Note: the arrival time in Oslo is contingent on the approved allocated flight slot of our charter flight to Longyearbyen, which we expect to receive in March of the same travel year.
In true expedition style we encourage exploration and adventure, offering flexibility in challenging environments in a way that puts you among the action to see and do as much as possible. This itinerary is only a guide and subject to change due to ice and weather conditions.
Trips & Rates
Please note, rates are Per Person in USD
Availability & prices are subject to change at anytime
| Cabin Category | Aurora Stateroom Triple | Aurora Stateroom Twin | Aurora Stateroom Superior | Balcony Stateroom C | Balcony Stateroom B | Balcony Stateroom A | Balcony Stateroom Superior | Junior Suite | Captain’s Suite | Aurora Stateroom Single | Aurora Stateroom Superior Single | Solo Balcony Stateroom A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per Person Price in USD | $19,295 | $19,895 | $20,995 | $21,595 | $22,695 | $24,395 | $26,695 | $31,795 | $36,395 | $19,895 | $20,995 | $24,395 |
| Discount | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | |||
| Discounted Per Person Price | $15,436 | $15,916 | $16,796 | $17,276 | $18,156 | $19,516 | $21,356 | $25,436 | $29,116 | $19,895 | $20,995 | $24,395 |
| Availability | Limited: 2 berths left | Limited: 2 berths left | Open | Open | Open | Open | Limited: 5 berths left | Limited: 4 berths left | Limited: 1 berth left | Open | Open | Open |
Adventure Options:
| Cabin Category | Aurora Stateroom Triple | Aurora Stateroom Twin | Aurora Stateroom Superior | Balcony Stateroom C | Balcony Stateroom B | Balcony Stateroom A | Balcony Stateroom Superior | Junior Suite | Captain’s Suite | Aurora Stateroom Single | Aurora Stateroom Superior Single | Solo Balcony Stateroom A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per Person Price in USD | $19,295 | $19,895 | $20,995 | $21,595 | $22,695 | $24,395 | $26,695 | $31,795 | $36,395 | $19,895 | $20,995 | $24,395 |
| Discount | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | Save 20% | |||
| Discounted Per Person Price | $15,436 | $15,916 | $16,796 | $17,276 | $18,156 | $19,516 | $21,356 | $25,436 | $29,116 | $19,895 | $20,995 | $24,395 |
| Availability | Limited: 2 berths left | Limited: 2 berths left | Open | Open | Open | Open | Limited: 5 berths left | Limited: 4 berths left | Limited: 1 berth left | Open | Open | Open |
Adventure Options:
| Cabin Category | Aurora Stateroom Triple | Aurora Stateroom Twin | Aurora Stateroom Superior | Balcony Stateroom C | Balcony Stateroom B | Balcony Stateroom A | Balcony Stateroom Superior | Junior Suite | Captain’s Suite | Aurora Stateroom Single | Balcony Stateroom A Single | Aurora Stateroom Superior Single |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per Person Price in USD | $18,695 | $19,195 | $20,395 | $20,895 | $21,995 | $23,695 | $25,895 | $30,795 | $35,195 | $19,195 | $23,695 | $20,395 |
| Discount | Save 25% | Save 25% | Save 25% | Save 25% | Save 25% | Save 25% | Save 25% | Save 25% | Save 25% | |||
| Discounted Per Person Price | $14,021 | $14,396 | $15,296 | $15,671 | $16,496 | $17,771 | $19,421 | $23,096 | $26,396 | $19,195 | $23,695 | $20,395 |
| Availability | Full | Full | Open | Full | Limited: 4 berths left | Limited: 3 berths left | Limited: 5 berths left | Limited: 2 berths left | Limited: 1 berth left | Open | Limited: 1 berth left | Full |
Adventure Options:
Adventure Options:
- Kayaking Program: $1,330/person on 12-15 day Antarctica voyages for 2026-27 season & $1,350/person for 2027-28 season, $1,745/person on 20+ day Antarctica & South Georgia voyages and $1,030/person on 9-10 day trips. Requires previous kayaking experience and an intermediate paddling level.
- Paddling (including multiple outings for 2026-27 season): $640/person
- Paddling (one outing for 2027-28 season): $350/person
- Camping: $165/person for 2026-27 season & $195/person for 2027-28 season
- Snorkeling: $675/person on 12-14 day Antarctica voyages for 2026-27 season & $695/person for 2027-28 season, $835/person on 20+ day Antarctica & South Georgia voyages for 2026-27 season & $860/person for 2027-28 season and $515/person on 8-10 day trips.
- Alpine Trekking: $1260/person
- Snowshoeing: $370/person on 12-15 day Antarctica voyages for 2026-27 season & $395/person for 2027-28 season and $440/person on 20+ day Antarctica & South Georgia voyages for 20267-27 season & $475/person for 2027-28 season.
- Ski/Snowboard Touring: $1395/person for 2026-27 season & $1,695/person for 2027-28 season – experience required
- Shackleton Crossing on Foot: $2,220/person – experience required
Voyage Ship
Douglas Mawson
Setting sail in 2025, the new state-of-the-art ship, the Douglas Mawson, is the last in a line of purpose-built vessels that have redefined small ship expedition cruising. Named after the legendary Australian geologist and explorer, the new small ship embodies Mawson’s pioneering spirit and is designed for global discovery. Featuring the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW® and purpose-built with enhanced sustainability features, it takes 130 adventurers to the world’s wildest places in smooth, quiet comfort. It boasts a wide range of cabins, including a range of single cabins.
Douglas Mawson Cabins & Deck Plan
Captain’s Suite
DECK 4
The largest of all the suites on the Douglas Mawson with a preferred low, mid-ship location. The Captain’s Suite features a large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite. Additional amenities include 1 free pair of binoculars per suite, free stocked mini bar (replenished as needed), 1 free bottle of champagne and gratuities included. Cabin square footage includes balcony.
487 sq. ft. (45.22 m2)
1-2
1 king or 2 twins
Junior Suite
DECK 7
The four Junior Suites are located on deck 7 and offer quick access to some of the ships most popular public spaces including the bridge, observation lounge, sun deck, gym & sauna. These spacious suites have a separate lounge area and balcony. The included mini bar is stocked once only, not replenished. Cabin square footage includes balcony.
446 – 451 sq. ft. (41.47 – 41.87m2)
1-2
1 king or 2 twins
Balcony Stateroom Superior
DECK 4
DECK 6
Balcony Stateroom Superior cabins feature floor to ceiling windows, a balcony, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area. Some of these cabins are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms. Cabin square footage includes balcony.
299 – 390 sq. ft. (27.77 – 36.27m2)
1-2
1 king or 2 twins
Balcony Stateroom Category A
DECK 4
DECK 6
The 25 Balcony Stateroom A cabins are the most abundant on board. These cabins are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator. There are 4 dedicated Solo Balcony Stateroom A cabins (#407, 409, 410 & 412) available with no single supplements. Pricing based on full brochure fare. See pricing grid for details. Cabin square footage includes balcony.
248 – 288 sq. ft. (23.07 – 26.77 m2)
1-2
1 king or 2 twins
Balcony Stateroom Category B
DECK 4
DECK 6
The 17 Balcony Stateroom B Cabins are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 & 6. Many are fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups. Cabin square footage includes balcony.
238 – 269 sq. ft. (22.07 – 24.97 m2)
1-2
1 king or 2 twins
Balcony Stateroom Category C
DECK 4
DECK 6
The 15 Balcony Stateroom C cabins are the most economical balcony stateroom, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These cabins either have the most forward or aft location or are mid-ship with a smaller cabin size. Cabin square footage includes balcony.
227 – 268 sq. ft. (21 – 24.87 m2)
1-2
1 king or 2 twins
Aurora Stateroom Superior
DECK 7
The six Aurora Stateroom Superior Staterooms are located high on the ship with easy access to the outdoor deck space. The cabins feature floor to ceiling windows creating a French balcony feel, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.
150 – 174 sq. ft. (13.97 – 16.17m2)
1-2
1 king or 2 twins
Aurora Stateroom Twin
DECK 3
The lowest priced twin/double occupancy cabin on the Douglas Mawson featuring a porthole window, desk area and private en-suites. There are just 2 Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins on the ship so they typically fill up far in advance.
165 – 172 sq. ft. (15.37 – 15.97m2)
1-2
1 king or 2 twins
Aurora Stateroom Triple
DECK 3
The two Triple cabins feature a porthole window, desk area and private en-suites.
243 sq. ft. (22.6m2)
3
3 twins
Aurora Stateroom Superior Single
DECK 3
DECK 7
Douglas Mawson has four Aurora Stateroom Superior Single cabins featuring a porthole and private en-suites.
Note – this photo is cabin #709, the only Aurora Stateroom Superior Single with a large window. The cabins on deck 3 will have a much smaller porthole.
Deck 3: 163 sq. ft. (15.18m2); Deck 7: 118 sq. ft. (10.97m2)
1
1 single
Aurora Stateroom Single
DECK 3
The two Aurora Stateroom Single cabins are the smallest and lowest priced solo cabin featuring a porthole and private en-suite.
106 sq. ft. (9.85m2)
1
1 single
Inclusions/Exclusions
Inclusions:
- All transfers as mentioned in the itinerary.
- One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Oslo on Day 1.
- Roundtrip charter flights between Oslo and Longyearbyen.
- Sightseeing tour of Longyearbyen on Day 2, prior to embarkation (time permitting).
- Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
- All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks & juices during voyage.
- Premium spirits, cocktails, beer, wine and liqueurs during voyage.
- Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
- All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
- Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
- Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
- One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
- Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
- Comprehensive pre-departure information.
- Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
- Gratuities during excursions and enrichment program for local guides, drivers, venues and local sites.
- Wi-Fi. Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
Exclusions:
- International or domestic flights not mentioned in the itinerary, unless specified in the itinerary.
- Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
- Airport arrival or departure taxes.
- Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
- Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
- Hotel accommodation and meals unless specified in the itinerary.
- Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
- All items of a personal nature including but not limited to gratuities*, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, or phone charges.
Note: *A gratuity of USD $20 per person, per day for the crew and Expedition Team will be automatically added to your onboard account. You may remove or adjust this amount when settling your account. For suite guests, this gratuity is included as part of the Suite Benefits.
Solo Travelers
Are you traveling alone? Solo travelers have the following options.
- Book into a share cabin into a share cabin with another (or other) guests of the same gender
- Book an Aurora Stateroom Single, Balcony Stateroom A Single or Aurora Stateroom Superior Single
- Book a twin cabin at solo occupancy at 1.5x the per person share price
