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Glaciers and beautiful arctic tundra.

South Spitsbergen

Example 8 Day Cruise aboard Noorderlicht
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Journey to remote areas of South Spitsbergen on an incredible 8-day Arctic expedition aboard the 20 passenger sailing vessel, the Noorderlicht. Throughout your voyage, search for whales and a myriad of different Arctic sea birds as you sail through a labyrinth of amazing fjords.
Giant whale jaw in the arcticA lone reindeer searches for its herdA walrus relaxes on the snow.Purple Saxifrage on a Arctic hillsideGlaciers and beautiful arctic tundra.
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Embark in Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen

After arriving in Longyearbyen, the ‘capital’ (actually the administrative center) 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. Sail in the afternoon, setting course for Alkhornet, a high cliff. Below the cliffs one often sees Arctic foxes and reindeer. Continue to Trygghamna to visit the remains of a 17th century English whaling station and an 18th century Russian Pomor station.

Day 2-3: Tryghamna /Bell Sund / Fridtjofbreen

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Leave Tryghamna early in the morning and sail to the north side of Bell Sund. Bell Sund is a fjord system with two major branches (Van Mijenfjord, Van Keulenfjord) and one smaller side bay (Recherchefjord). The geology is fascinating and has created amazing landscapes, such as the long, narrow island of Akseloya 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 Ahlstrandhalvoya. Recherchefjord is one of the places in Spitsbergen with the highest concentration of historical sites, dating back to 17th century whalers and the mining period of the early 20th century. The glacier Recherchebreen ends at a lagoon, likely to be frozen in October, with many smaller icebergs. Polar bears are likely to be present anywhere in the Bellsund area, and keep your eyes open to find them. Belugas (White whales) have also been seen in this area.

Day 4-5: Hornsund

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Today, sail around the incredible labyrinth of side fjords in Hornsund. The geological formations in this area are spectacular! Veer behind Brepollen, a large glacial deposit at the head of the fjord. Then glide along a beautiful glacier front, where you have a good chance to see bearded seals and polar bears! When traveling past Sofiakammen, the ship will sail very close to colonies of kittiwakes and Brunnich guillemots. In the afternoon, take the opportunity to visit the Polish research station in Isbjørnhamna, where the friendly research team will discuss their scientific programs.

Day 6-7: Isfjord

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
As the ship heads back towards Longyearbyen, stop in Poolepynten on Prince Karls Foreland, often frequented by walruses. Later sail into the inner reaches of the Isfjord system, or pay a visit to the Russian settlement Barenstzburg or Pyramiden.

Day 8: Longyearbyen

  • 1 Breakfast
Depart by scheduled flight from Longyearbyen to Oslo.

Ship/Hotel

Noorderlicht

Walking through vast arctic landscapes.
Alaska travel and aurora borealis
A walrus sunbathes on the ice

Dates & Prices

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$3,050
Noorderlicht
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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.
Included
  • 4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 4 Dinners

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Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
Justin Chappelle
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