Introduction to Spitsbergen: Fjords, Glaciers and Wildlife of Svalbard

Your Arctic adventure begins in Helsinki, renowned for its extraordinary architecture and intriguing mix of eastern and western influences. If you arrive early, explore the many museums, galleries, and restaurants, relax at a Finnish sauna or wander the vibrant Design District before retiring at your included hotel.

Today is the day to board on Ocean Adventurer! Take the private charter for your flight to Longyearbyen. Spend some time exploring Spitsbergen’s largest settlement before embarkation. As your ship sets sail, enjoy your first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from icy waters.

Cruise around this magical island on a constant search for wildlife. Your expedition covers western Spitsbergen as well as stunning fjords and outlying islands to the north. From polar flora to immense glaciers, the natural landscape here is just as varied as the wildlife.

Each expedition presents new opportunities and different weather and ice, so there is no fixed itinerary; however, some of the places to visit include the 14th of July Glacier, Smeerenburg, Alkefjellet and the Hinlopen Strait. The destinations visited are selected for optimum wildlife viewing with an appreciation of the history and geology of Spitsbergen.

The island offers multiple opportunities for wildlife photography. Spotting polar bears is more likely here than almost anywhere else, as the Svalbard archipelago is one of their preferred hunting areas.

The towering cliffs of Alkefjellet provide homes to thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots (thick-billed murres).

Coming across a walrus haul-out is a moment you won’t soon forget. These giant pinnipeds of the Arctic create quite a noisy scene as each walrus vies for a choice spot of coastline.

If you’re itching to experience a more intimate view from the water, you can book the sea kayaking or paddling excursion adventure options.

In Spitsbergen, there is no shortage of natural beauty. The tundra can be surprisingly colorful in summer, with wildflowers bursting for a taste of sunshine. See something interesting every day, whether it is unique arctic wildlife a polar bear resting between hunts or abandoned sites from centuries ago.

The time to say goodbye to your Expedition Team and shipmates has come. Your adventure ends as it began in the historic frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, transfer to the airport for your return group charter flight to Helsinki, included in the transfer package.