Svalbard Explorer

Day 1: Arrival in Oslo, Norway

Once you've arrived in Oslo, travel to your hotel, where a night's stay is included as part of the itinerary. 

The expeditionary staff will be on hand to offer helpful information about your upcoming embarkation, as well as local tips on where to eat, access cash or pick up any last-minute essentials from nearby shops.

The rest of the day is yours to explore or unwind as you wish. 

Day 2: Fly to Longyearbyen and embark on your ship 

This morning, enjoy a relaxed complimentary breakfast at the hotel, followed by some downtime before your included afternoon charter flight.

After checking out, it's just a short walk to the airport for your flight to Longyearbyen. On arrival, you'll be transferred directly to the pier to board the ship.

Once on board, settle into your cabin, attend a few important safety briefings, and soak up the buzz of departure as you set sail into Arctic waters.

Days 3 to 7: Exploring Spitsbergen

Spitsbergen, the biggest island in the Svalbard archipelago, offers a spectacular Arctic backdrop.

Your onboard expedition team – seasoned professionals with many voyages to this region under their belts – will craft each day’s itinerary based on weather and sea ice, as well as wildlife-watching opportunities, making every day a unique experience.

Expect dramatic fjords, towering mountains and stunning tundra plains dotted with ancient fossils. Keep an eye out for walrus lounging on sea ice or along the shore, and join shore walks in landscapes rich with colourful wildflowers.

You'll also visit towering bird cliffs alive with guillemots and puffins, as well as scree slopes home to vast colonies of little auks.

One of the most unforgettable highlights? A chance sighting of a polar bear on the pack ice – an experience that stays with you forever.

Optional activities such as kayaking may also be available, depending on conditions (bookable in advance). For the adventurous, listen out for the announcement when it’s time to brave the polar plunge, a quick, icy dip you’ll be talking about for years.

Day 8: Disembark in Longyearbyen and fly to Oslo

Arrive back in Longyearbyen early in the morning and disembark after breakfast. You’ll have a little free time before heading to the airport for your return flight to Oslo, where your Arctic adventure wraps up.

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.