Svalbard Circumnavigation: The Ultimate Arctic Quest | Ocean Albatros Expedition Ship

Svalbard Circumnavigation: The Ultimate Arctic Quest

The Arctic region of Svalbard reveals its wild natural beauty during an extraordinary journey through this distant northern archipelago. The expedition unfolds through a landscape which features glacier-filled fjords and floating sea ice and coastal areas full of wildlife and historic sites from past explorations.

The northern and eastern and southern parts of Svalbard expose visitors to its stunning natural environments which include polar deserts and seabird nesting areas and flourishing ocean habitats. Travelers on this route will discover Ny-Ålesund before they begin their Arctic wildlife observation and they will experience the breathtaking scenery which defines this northernmost wilderness.

Day by day

Day 1: Beginning the Journey in Longyearbyen

The expedition starts from Longyearbyen which functions as a tiny Arctic settlement that lies between tall mountain peaks and frozen fjord waters. The settlement functions as Svalbard's main administrative center which also serves as its primary logistical hub because it exists deep within Isfjorden. Longyearbyen provides visitors with both modern facilities and authentic experiences of Arctic northern life despite its location beyond Norway's mainland territory. The expedition vessel departs its dock to start its journey through the Arctic Ocean as soon as passengers board the ship. The beginning of this amazing journey to explore one of the world's most inaccessible areas has started.

Day 2: Ny-Ålesund and Kongsfjorden

The second day brings travelers to Kongsfjorden, one of the most scenic fjords in Svalbard. The fjord reveals deep waters which stretch between its towering glaciers and steep mountain peaks to create an impressive Arctic landscape. The area contains Ny-Ålesund which functions as a research base that holds worldwide scientific importance. The settlement served as a base for early polar explorers who used it to launch their North Pole expedition attempts. Today, scientists from around the world conduct research here focused on climate change and Arctic ecosystems.

Day 3: Historic Sites of Northwest Svalbard

Day 4: Navigating the Arctic Ice Edge

Day 5: Hinlopen Strait and Arctic Bird Cliffs

Day 6: Edgeøya and Eastern Svalbard

Day 7: Hornsund and Southern Spitsbergen

Day 8: Bellsund and Coastal Exploration

Day 9: Walrus Beaches of Western Spitsbergen

Day 10: Return to Longyearbyen

| Falkland | Rockhopper, Black-browed Albatross colony

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Cruise 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

Cruise 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

Circumnavigate the Svalbard archipelago

Explore the historic polar outpost of Ny-Ålesund

Venture to the edge of the Arctic pack ice

Observe walruses, seabirds, and Arctic wildlife

Discover glaciers and fjords across northern and southern Svalbard

Activities

Sea Kayaking

Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.

Ice Camping

Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.

Snowshoeing

Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.

Photography

Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus, Explorer Boat excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.

Explorer Boats

Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward facing Explorer Boats. They allow you to sit comfortably and securely while crackling through the ice-strewn waters. Look out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales as you cruise.

Yoga

It doesn’t get more serene than complimentary yoga classes to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.