Adventure into the heart of Spitsbergen on this 8-day Arctic cruise aboard the two-mast sailing vessel, Noorderlicht. Learn about the region's history with a visit to the Svalbard Museum and excursions to old whaling and mining settlements. Sail into a variety of fjords including the magnificent Bellsund fjord system. The geology and landscapes within the fjords are breathtaking with towering mountains, steep cliffs, and calving glaciers. Throughout the cruise, there are endless opportunities to view unique Arctic wildlife including polar bear, arctic fox, walrus, beluga whale, and a myriad of sea birds. In addition, the autumn Spitsbergen voyages, at the onset of winter, are ideal for observing the Aurora borealis. Spitsbergen's distinctive scenery, history, and wildlife will sure to excite all travelers.
Highlights
Marvel at the brilliant colors of the northern lights
Sail near ice floes and into the region's complex fjord systems
Visit important historical sites and learn about Spitsbergen's past
Observe abundant wildlife including polar bear, arctic fox, walrus and more
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’ (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 prominent cliff at the mouth of Isfjorden. 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.
Leave Trygghamna early in the morning and sail to the north side of Bellsund. Bellsund is a fjord system with two major branches, Van Mijenfjord and Van Keulenfjord, and one smaller 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 Fridtjovhamna, the calving glacier Fridtjovbreen 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 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 bear are likely to be present anywhere in the Bellsund area, so keep a keen watch to find them. Also be on the lookout for beluga whales in this area.
Visit Barentsburg, the only inhabited Russian settlement in Spitsbergen. There is also a possibility of exploring the abandoned Russian coal mining settlement of Colesbukta.
Sail into the inner reaches of the Isfjorden system marveling at its spectacular scenery and geology. Many of the smaller fjord arms may still be locked in ice so you experience expedition cruising at its best.
Day 8: Longyearbyen | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Depart by scheduled flight from Longyearbyen to Oslo.
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.
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 20%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 90 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
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
7 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff.
All Miscellaneous Service Taxes and Port Charges Throughout the Program
All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac.
Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes.
All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea.
Comprehensive pre-departure material.
Transfers and Baggage Handling between the Airport, Hotels & Ship Only for Those on the Group Flights to/from Longyearbyen.
Excluded
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes
Pre- and Post Land Arrangements
Meals ashore
Baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (which is strongly recommended).
Excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges.
Medical travel insurance — including emergency medical attention and evacuation coverage — is required, with a minimum of EUR/USD 50,000 per person for Arctic trips, EUR/USD 100,000 per person for Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic islands, and EUR/USD 300,000 per person for the Ross Sea. A comprehensive travel insurance policy should typically meet these requirements.
This was our first trip to South America and we were a little nervous. But Adventure Life made things so easy! All our questions were answered before we left, and our guide, Vidal, was amazing! He gave us enough space to explore without rushing us along. He also knew where the best picture taking opportunities were, which was great.
