5 reasons to choose an X-Bow ship in Svalbard

  1. For comfort and stability, these modern X-Bow ships are hard to beat. The cutting-edge, aerodynamic design makes for smoother sailing, while ice-strengthened hulls allow confident navigation in polar waters. Less time in transit = more time exploring
  2. If you're looking to combine the intimacy of a smaller ship with the amenities of a larger one – like a gym, hot tub, sauna and more – these vessels hit this sweet spot
  3. Most itineraries on X-Bow ships also include convenient charter flights, making travel to and from Svalbard refreshingly hassle free
  4. Across the small fleet of X-Bows operating in Svalbard each summer, you’ll find an exciting range of itineraries and a wide choice of departure dates
  5. Cabin categories are just as varied, with most offering private balconies where you can relax and search for wildlife between landings

Swoop says

Swoop Says background image

Watching from the bridge as my X-Bow effortlessly sliced its way into the pack ice like a hot knife through butter, the extraordinary capabilities of these ships was really driven home for me. Awesome!

Alex Mudd Head of Swoop Arctic

Our top cruises on X-Bow ships

Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.

Express Svalbard Cruise

In search of a whistle-stop Arctic experience? This is the shortest Svalbard voyage available. Walk the tundra, experience calving glaciers and reach 80 degrees north while keeping a close eye out for Svalbard’s megafauna: polar bears, walruses and reindeer. All…

  • 7 Days
  • $7,790
High Arctic Explorer: Svalbard, Greenland & Iceland

Beginning in Svalbard before sailing west across the Greenland Sea and exploring Greenland’s long eastern coastline to finish in Iceland, this is an audacious Arctic journey of startling diversity and contrast. Spectacular landscapes, towering glaciers and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters all…

  • 15 Days
  • $22,295
Into the Polar Bear’s Realm

This popular introduction to Svalbard is keenly priced and, with numerous early season departures, guarantees plenty of ice. Sail onboard one of the newest ships in polar waters and spot bears from the plentiful deck space. Optional kayaking and hiking…

  • 10, 11 or 12 Days
  • $8,451
Svalbard Explorer

For a stellar introduction to all Svalbard has to offer, travel on board a modern X-Bow ship with a maximum of just 130 guests while accompanied by one of the best expedition teams in the business. Complimentary charter flights and…

  • 8 Days
  • $13,895
Svalbard Wildlife In-Depth

Travelling at the height of summer, this trip is the longest of any Svalbard cruise and offers the best possible conditions for thrilling wildlife encounters. Your circumnavigation of Spitsbergen includes huge glaciers, epic bird cliffs and ice-choked channels. Plus, there's…

  • 14 or 15 Days
  • $15,088
Extended Svalbard Adventurer

Delivering a whopping 12 full days of exploration under the midnight sun, this voyage appeals to both wildlife enthusiasts keen to boost their chances of sighting Svalbard’s captivating fauna and the slow traveller who wants to get under the skin…

  • 15 Days
  • $23,495
Spitsbergen Circumnavigation

Maximise wildlife sightings with the chance to circumnavigate Spitsbergen island. Search for walrus, arctic fox, whales and of course the ‘King of The Arctic'. Sail through the Hinlopen Strait and visit abandoned trapping stations and experience glaciers up close all…

  • 11 or 12 Days
  • $16,795

Planning guide to X-Bow ships

What to consider when choosing an X-Bow ship

Kayaking from the Greg Mortimer, Arctic vessel

Kayaking from the Greg Mortimer

  • At first glance, these ships may appear similar, but there are some key differences to be aware of. These range from guest capacity (130-200 passengers) to what’s covered in the fare, as well as the onboard amenities and individual ship layouts
  • Because of the variables, prices can vary significantly between ships and itineraries. It’s worth paying close attention to the finer points when deciding which is right for you
  • One feature all X-Bow ships have in common is exceptional stability, thanks to the unique design – which slices through waves rather than riding over them – and retractable underwater ‘wings’ that reduce side-to-side roll by more than 85% 
  • All X-Bows operating in Svalbard offer optional kayaking and/or paddling excursions – a fantastic way to explore the Arctic up close
Swoop Says background image

Swoop says

With firsthand experience aboard every X-Bow ship, the Swoop team is well placed to guide you through the details and differences to help you choose the right fit. 

Who do X-Bow ships suit?

The great strength of X-Bows is their broad appeal, whether you’re attracted to their stability, comfortable balcony cabins or wellness facilities such as saunas.

These ships work equally well whether you're:

  • Travelling solo
  • Exploring as a couple
  • Joining with friends or family as part of a group
The Greg Mortimer in Palanderbukta

The Greg Mortimer in Palanderbukta

Discover more about Svalbard

Le Commandant Charcot, Arctic Vessel - exterior shot

Svalbard Luxury Ships

Whether luxury for you means exceptional service, world-class dining, top-tier guides, an extensive wine list or relaxing spa treatments, these ships have you covered. With …

Discover More
Svalbard Micro Ships

Svalbard Micro Ships

These gutsy little 12-guest micro ships are perfect for exploring Svalbard’s waters. They’re also ideal for travellers seeking an intimate, highly personalised experience with …

Discover More
Svalbard Expedition Ships

Svalbard Expedition Ships

The great allure of expedition ships lies in their original working roots, classic lines, no-frills style and authenticity. Travelling on one is an experience in its own right. …

Discover More
When to visit Svalbard

When to visit Svalbard

While Svalbard may be an almost year round destination, the changing weather, number of daylight hours, amount of ice and snow conditions through the year all have a marked effect …

Discover More

Ready to Book Your Arctic Adventure?

1
Listen

Listen

We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.

2
Match

Match

Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.

3
Reserve

Reserve

We'll place a 24 hour hold on your preferred option - without obligation - whilst we talk through the details.

Our team of experts are ready to help you with any questions about a trip to the Arctic.