If there is such a thing as a "classic" Arctic expedition cruise, this would be it! Join the Ocean Nova on this 11-day voyage to get the best of Spitsbergen. Explore the western edge of the island and venture into some northern outlying areas, where polar bears and walruses make their homes. Come across colonies of seabirds and watch for whales. Packed with options for snowshoeing and sea-kayaking, this is the perfect expedition for exploring the "wildlife capital of the Arctic."
Highlights
Cruise stunning fjords, glaciers & outlying islands in search of wildlife
Learn and appreciate the island's history, geology, and unique culture
Grab a walking stick and explore tundra, rugged coastlines, and calm bays
Ramp up your expedition with optional kayaking and snowshoeing adventures
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Your Spitsbergen adventure begins when you board the Ocean Nova in Longyearbyen, the island's largest settlement. As you embark, take in excellent views of the mountainous landscape that serves as a backdrop to this seaside settlement.
Sail around this magical island on a constant search for wildlife. Your expedition covers western Spitsbergen as well as some stunning fjords and outlying islands to the north. From polar deserts to immense glaciers, the natural landscape here is just as varied as the wildlife.
Each expedition presents new opportunities, so there is no fixed itinerary - however your ship's crew does have some favorite destinations: 14th of July Glacier, Smeereburg, Phippsoya, Alkhornet, and the Hinlopen Strait.
The destinations visited on your voyage are selected for optimum wildlife viewing and for appreciation of the history and geology of Spitsbergen. Polar bear viewing is almost guaranteed, with Phippsoya being one of their preferred hunting areas and the towering cliffs of Alekfjellet providing many free bird egg meals for both them and the arctic fox. Torellneset and Phippsoya are great places for walrus photography. Coming across a walrus haul-out is a moment you won't forget. These lumbering giants of the Arctic create quite a noisy scene, as each walrus vies for a choice spot of coastline.
If you're itching to get a little closer to the action, take a sea-kayak excursion to some of the more isolated pockets of Spitsbergen. Smeerenburg is a great place for an optional snowshoeing excursion (on selected voyages), as you can visit a memorial erected in 1906. This historical site remembers the whalers who lost their lives in the 17th and 18th centuries while working in extreme Arctic conditions.
There is no shortage of natural beauty in Spitsbergen. The tundra can be surprisingly colorful in summer, with wildflowers bursting for a taste of sunshine. Each day see something new, whether it is a rare bird species or an abandoned hut from centuries ago.
Day 11: Longyearbyen | Disembark
1 Breakfast
The time to say goodbye has come. Your adventure ends as it began, in the frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here transfer to the airport for your flight home.
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.
$6,495
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Quad
Averaging 157 sq ft. Equipped with 4 twin beds (two lower berths, two upper berths). Located on the Upper Deck with private facilities and exterior views.
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Triple
Averaging 140 sq ft. Equipped with 3 twin beds (two lower berths, one upper berth). Located on the Upper Deck with private facilities and exterior views.
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Upper (Lower Berth) Deck Twin
Averaging 90 sq ft. Equipped with 2 twin beds (one upper berth and one lower berth). Located on the Upper Deck with private facilities and exterior views.
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Upper Deck Twin Cabin
Averaging 115 sq ft. Equipped with 2 twin beds. Located on the Upper Deck with private facilities and exterior views.
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Bridge Deck Twin Cabin
Averaging 105 sq ft. Equipped with 2 twin beds. Located on the Bridge Deck with private facilities and exterior views.
Notes
- Rates are quoted in U.S. dollars and represent costs per person, double or triple occupancy. Request the Twin or Triple Share Program where we match you with a cabin mate of the same gender. Even if we are unable to find a cabin mate for you, no single supplement will be charged. Single occupancy of a twin cabin is available at 1.7 times the twin occupancy rate.
Mandatory medical insurance: Travelers should have a minimum US$50,000 (or equivalent) of emergency medical coverage prior to embarkation. It is recommended that you and all members of your party have comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, trip delay (interruption or after departure coverage), baggage, and repatriation.
Initial deposit is 20% of cruise fare (minimum $1000) plus the cost of kayaking (if applicable), and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card
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.