This "express" Arctic adventure cruise takes 6 days to explore the icy waters and landscapes of Svalbard. The cruise is operated by Ocean Albatros, an ice-class expedition ship that can withstand the Arctic pack ice. On this cruise, you will get to experience the unique ecology of Svalbard, including its mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. You will have the chance to see whales, walruses, polar bears, and Arctic birds. The highlight of the cruise is the sighting of polar bears. You will also get to explore the majestic glacial landscapes and go on fascinating landings on the shore.
Day by day
Arrival in Longyearbyen - the capital of Svalbard, possibly the most northern'real town' on earth.
Ocean Albatross docks close to town. The Expedition Leader provides information on the cruise and ship routines, as well as safety and security procedures, after the welcome drink. There will be an obligatory safety drill before sailing. Your Arctic Adventure begins when the Captain leaves Advent Fjord.
The wildlife, scenery and history of the Svalbard coast in the northwest are always worth a visit. Since the 1600s, this part of Svalbard has been a major center for whale hunting, with "Blubber Town", the primary target being oil-rich Bowhead Whales, which are the Arctic's sole resident baleen species.
New Alesund, the "town", is located on King's Bay (Kongsfjorden) and it's well worth visiting. This is the northernmost permanent civil settlement on earth. It has a population in summer of around 120 people and an even more hardy population during the winter of 35. It was originally the coal-mining town of King's Bay and played an important role in arctic exploration and exploitation, particularly flight.
It is now the centre of Arctic research and one of the world's most northern communities. Send a postcard to the most northern Post Office in the World.
You're in high arctic if you venture north or east. The north and east of Svalbard are the areas that receive the least amount of visitors. This is because they're closed to exploring for part of the year due to dense pack ice.
The terrain here is dominated by the "polar desert". Permanent ice covers much of the area, and when it melts, there's very little greenery on the landscape, which has been carved out over many millions of years.
This part of Svalbard, despite its lack of protection, is worth exploring, because it is home to a variety of wildlife. Here, Arctic geese and ducks nest and the largest concentration of walruses in the Arctic gathers on the coast. Also, polar bears and seals can be seen here. Minke and Beluga Whales are common.
Sjuoyane is the group of islands that are located at Svalbard's most northern point. They have always been a great place to see Polar Bears.
The north coast of Spitsbergen is often the first place ships head to when they reach the edge of the pack ice later in the season.
The wildlife, scenery and history of the Svalbard coast in the northwest are always worth a visit. Since the 1600s, this part of Svalbard has been a major center for whale hunting, with "Blubber Town", the primary target being oil-rich Bowhead Whales, which are the Arctic's sole resident baleen species.
New Alesund, the "town", is located on King's Bay (Kongsfjorden) and it's well worth visiting. This is the northernmost permanent civil settlement on earth. It has a population in summer of around 120 people and an even more hardy population during the winter of 35. It was originally the coal-mining town of King's Bay and played an important role in arctic exploration, particularly flight.
It is now the centre of Arctic research and one of the world's most northern communities. Send a postcard to the most northern Post Office in the World.
The wildlife, scenery and history of the Svalbard coast in the northwest are always worth a visit. Since the 1600s, this part of Svalbard has been a major center for whale hunting, with "Blubber Town", the primary target being oil-rich Bowhead Whales, which are the Arctic's sole resident baleen species.
New Alesund, the "town", is located on King's Bay (Kongsfjorden) and it's well worth visiting. This is the northernmost permanent civil settlement on earth. It has a population in summer of around 120 people and an even more hardy population during the winter of 35. It was originally the coal-mining town of King's Bay and played an important role in arctic exploration, particularly flight.
It is now the centre of Arctic research and one of the world's most northern communities. Send a postcard to the most northern Post Office in the World.
Includes
- Embarkation shuttle transfer to the vessel from Ushuaia city centre
- Shuttle transfer after disembarkation from the ship to Ushuaia city centre or airport
- All Zodiac landings and excursions, as per itinerary, guided by our Expedition Team
- Expedition parka
- Rubber boots loan scheme
- Briefings and lectures by our Expedition Leader and Team
- English-speaking Expedition Team
- Full board on the ship - breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks
- Complimentary house wine, beer and soda at dinner (selected labels and brands, served at our a-la-carte dinners)
- Free tea and coffee available 24 hours
- Taxes and landing fees
- Special photo workshops
- Welcome and Farewell Cocktail Parties
Does not Include
- Extra excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Single room supplement and stateroom upgrades
- Meals not on board the ship
- Beverages (other than coffee and tea)
- Tips for the crew (we recommend USD 14 per person per day)
- Personal expenses (e.g. Albatros Polar Spa services, Albatros Ocean Boutique purchases)
Highlights
- Explore the icy waters and landscapes of Svalbard, including its glaciers, fjords, and mountains.
- Spot whales, walruses, and polar bears, the iconic Arctic wildlife.
- Learn about the Arctic from experienced naturalists.
- Go on fascinating landings on the shore, where you can explore the tundra and see the local wildlife.
- Enjoy the midnight sun in the summer months.
Activities
