Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen Cruise
Cruise along Spitsbergen’s west coast on a comfortable and upscale expedition ship for 8 or 11 days. Cruise to the heart of the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, in the company of specialist teams, to discover the exceptional flora and fauna that lives in these extreme conditions where temperatures reach -86°F in winter.
On the main 8-day Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen itinerary, discover Hornsund, one of Spitsbergen’s most beautiful fjords, which boasts an impressive glacier front, as well as Bellsund, whose lush valleys are sure to delight. Explore Nordvest-Spitsbergen National Park, following the footsteps of the former whalers who once settled in the sites that are now home to the graves of many sailors and are frequented by various species of cetaceans. Experience the world’s northernmost small town, Ny-Alesund, an international research base and former mining city that once was the departure point for many expeditions to the North Pole. Finally, reach the sumptuous Kongsfjorden glaciers and the last islands before the North Pole. During this unforgettable expedition, sail to latitudes of 80° north. Watch for walruses and polar bear along the way.
The 8-day Cruising Arctic Norway: Glaciers, Ice Floes & Polar Bears – With Smithsonian Journeys itinerary follows the same route as the main 8-day itinerary. This itinerary is tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. These voyages uniquely include transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world-class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of the local environment and culture. Look for the themed icon in the Rates and Dates table below.
An alternative 11-day Pristine Spitsbergen itinerary follows a similar route, uniquely visiting the southern portion of Spitsbergen, Sor-Spitsbergen National Park, as well as sailing close to Bjornoya (Bear Island) en route to disembark in Tromso, Norway. Sor-Spitsbergen National Park offers some of the island’s most beautiful fjords, like the Hornsund with its impressive glacier front. Bjornoya (Bear Island) is a refuge for many birds, in the western part of the Barents Sea.
Two sister ships cruise the icy waters of the Arctic on this once-in-a-lifetime expedition: L’Austral and Le Boreal. Travel in style aboard these 264-guest, luxury French expedition ships that offer refined and attentive service, a plethora of onboard activities and unrivaled elegance. Appreciate understated sophistication, an international feel and top-notch guides aboard these ships on their Svalbard cruises.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises and Arctic expedition trips.