North Pole in Luxury

Day 1: Paris to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen

Meet your fellow travellers at the airport and take your included charter flight from Paris to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen, a journey of approximately 4.5 hours. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to the ship.

We recommend that you arrive in Paris the day before your charter flight to avoid any possible delays. The exact flight timings will be confirmed closer to departure but could be in the morning.

Day 2: At sea along Spitsbergen’s coastline

The largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, Spitsbergen is the last piece of land before you strike out into the unknown towards the North Pole. Aboard your ship, you will sail along the spectacular coastline of an aptly named landscape; the word Spitsbergen means “pointed mountains” in German. Between age-old glaciers and rugged mountains, you will discover a jagged coastline, hollowed out by fjords. In a unique setting, we recommend spending as much time out on deck as possible to enjoy the glorious views as you head north.

Days 3- 7: At sea, sailing through ice floes

Enjoy the absolutely unique experience of sailing to the heart of the ice floe, a vast expanse of immaculate ice. The landscapes are constantly changing, shifting from a smooth, flat wilderness to chaos of ice, then to channels of open water. The ship will sail along these naturally open channels and power through the areas where the frozen layer is thinnest. There may be opportunities for wildlife encounters as you head north, so keep your eyes peeled for seals, birds, and perhaps even a polar bear if you are lucky. Take advantage of the midnight sun to soak up the otherworldly atmosphere.

Day 8: Geographic North Pole

Defined by a 90° North latitude, the Geographic North Pole lies on the Earth’s rotational axis, at the intersection of all meridians. Plunged into darkness for six months of the year, then lit by the sun for the following six months, this mythical site, permanently covered in ice and far from any land, has fascinated generations of explorers. Only a select group of intrepid explorers have ever reached this far north, so you are part of a very exclusive group!

Days 9-13: Sailing south through the ice

Begin your journey back south towards the archipelago of Svalbard. During your time at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board this fantastically well-equipped ship. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the beautiful spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. The ship has been designed with huge windows throughout to ensure that you always make the most of the view, wherever you are.

The expedition team on board will be offering educational presentations regarding the wildlife and landscapes of the Arctic. These are highly recommended and really enhance your experience and understanding of this glorious location. The ship also hosts a team of scientists who use it as a platform to conduct polar research and they may give a talk regarding the work they are doing during your expedition.

Wrap up warm and head out on the deck with your binoculars and camera to look for wildlife and enjoy the glorious crunching noise as the ship moves through the ice. The ship even has some unique heated seats on deck, allowing you to warm up without needing to head indoors.

Days 14-15: Returning to Svalbard

As you move clear of the ice you may spot mountains ahead - your first glimpse of land for days! You are returning back to Svalbard and will continue to sail south towards Longyearbyen. The best spot to be is out on deck as this is a great time to look out for marine wildlife. Possibilities include whales, seals, and maybe even a walrus taking a nap on a comfortable piece of ice.

Day 16: Arrive in Longyearbyen for disembarkation

You will disembark this morning and be transferred to the small airport in Longyearbyen for your charter flight back to Paris.

We recommend that you make arrangements to stay close to the airport as the charter flight timings are unpredictable and it could be a late arrival back into civilisation.

NOTE: This itinerary is for guidance only as each voyage will vary depending on ice and weather conditions, and opportunities to see wildlife. Flexibility is key and all part of the adventure of an expeditionary cruise.