Sail to the Bowhead Whales, which keep along the ice edge in the Greenland Sea. Follow the routes of the 17th century whalers, who nearly exterminated the Atlantic population in the 18th century, aboard the beautiful 20 passenger Noorderlicht.
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
After arriving in Longyearbyen, the ‘capital’ of Spitsbergen, you may wish to visit the Svalbard Museum which has an interesting collection on the history of Spitsbergen, the mining industry and polar exploration. In the evening, set sail for Trygghamna which holds the remains of a 17th century English whaling station and an 18th century Pomor hunting station, which you will visit the next morning.
From Tryghamna, walk to Alkhornet a large seabird cliff, where the first birds are prospecting their breeding places. Below the cliffs is a den of Arctic Fox and Reindeer graze on the lush vegetation. In Forlandsundet, visit a haul out place of Walrus at Poolepynten or Sarstangen, if sea ice allows.
This morning sail into Kongsfjord to the 14th of July Glacier and cruise in zodiacs. Not far from the glacier, visit a breeding site for Brünnich’s Guillemot, Auk and Puffin, which in this time of the year begin to prospect their breeding places. Alternatively, there may be a chance to sail into Magdalena Fjord, one of the most beautiful places on Spitsbergen, with many impressive glacier faces. During a shore visit view the remains of 17th century English whaling activities.
Today the ship will try to visit Ytre Norskøya, a small island which was used for many years as a lookout point for Dutch whalers, you can still follow their tracks to the summit of the island. On shore the remains of 17th century blubber ovens can be found near the graves of 200 Dutch whalers. Alternatively, land at Smeerenburg on Amsterdamøya, where the Dutch whalers had a summer settlement to process the whale oil.
Spend these days at sea sailing from 80 N to 76 N along and in the outer fringes of the ice edge looking for Bowhead Whales, Harp Seals, Hooded Seals, Polar Bears and migrating seabirds like Little Auks, Brünnichs Guillemots, and Kittiwakes.
Bell Sund is a fjord system with two major branches (Van Mijenfjord, Van Keulenfjord) and a side bay (Recherchefjord). The geology is fascinating and has created amazing landscapes, such as the long, narrow island of Akseløya that blocks Van Mijenfjord almost completely. In Fridtjofhamna, the calving glacier Fridtjofbreen is surrounded by picturesque mountains. The rich wildlife of the area has attracted hunters throughout several centuries - walk in their footsteps and see remains of their huts - for example, at Ahlstrandhalvøya. Recherchefjord is one of the places in Spitsbergen with the highest concentration of historical sites, dating back to 17th century whalers. Polar Bears and beluga whales are often seen in this area.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$4,300
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Twin Non Private
The ‘Noorderlicht’ provides accommodation for 20 travellers in comfortable twin cabins.
All cabins have upper and lower berths, a cupboard and wash basin with hot and cold water. Shared shower (4) and toilet (5) facilities are conveniently located.
Notes
- Rates are quoted in U.S. dollars and represent costs per person, double occupancy.
- Cabins are available for single occupancy at 1.7 times the double occupancy rate.
- Due to the extreme nature of itinerary destinations, travel insurance is mandatory for all cruises aboard the Noorderlicht - including medical, accident and repatriation/evacuation insurance.
Initial deposit is 25% cruise cost, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor
TrustScore 4.8 | 164 reviews
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9 hours ago
Our travel was flawless! The rider pickup (airport, hotel, ship) was seamless. Jane's recommendation for Emerald Cruise Sakara was everything I wanted but the experience was soooo much more. Adventure Life took care of each and every detail and this was the easiest of all my travels.
Anne Petty
1 day ago
Follow up was effective any questions were answered in a timely manner
Fiona Lonsdale
2 days ago
I spoke with at least a half dozen other travel companies, looking for a Galapagos cruise that fit our schedule and budget. Some companies could manage one or the other, but Erin was the only one who could do both. She found us the perfect cruise, at a fantastic price! And she has been quick and patient with responses to my many questions. So far, Adventure Life has been a fantastic company to work with!
Sandi T
2 days ago
Adventure Life took care of everything! All we had to do was show up when we were supposed to, which made our first trip to Costa Rica largely stress-free and incredibly fun. Our trip reps, Hannah and Mariethony, were helpful and responsive, getting back to us by email usually within a few hours. Our accommodations were all great, and we got incredibly blessed with some absolutely stellar guides and drivers.
Our Jungle & Beach trip was an excellent balance of adventure and rest. We got to try out a lot of different activities, including snorkeling, hiking, white water rafting and kayaking, while also partaking of some rest around the pool or by the ocean. We enjoyed seeing and exploring the beautiful Caribbean side of the country.
Joy Knowles
2 days ago
This was a life changing trip of a lifetime and exceeded my expectations. No details were left out during the planning of this trip by Adventure Life. The entire crew on the ship could not have been more helpful and kind. Everyone went out of their way to make this trip as pleasurable as possible.
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