An iceberg rises out of a grey ocean next to an inflatable boat full of passengers from the expedition around spitsbergen
sea birds flap their wings to take flight from the ocean in the arctic circle
Male photographer in bright blue jacket kneels down by green and gold tundra to take a photo.
Group of Arctic travelers sits & stands in a Zodiac along the shoreline, photographing a polar bear.
Puffin with bright orange & yellow beak waves a wing, seen during the Around Spitsbergen voyage.
View Photos
$5400USD
Starting At
10-15
Days
Jun
Jul
Aug
Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Around Spitsbergen

The 10-day Around Spitsbergen Arctic cruise sails entirely around the island of West Spitsbergen, round-trip from Longyearbyen, Norway. While in the realm of the polar bear, focus on seeing these magnificent hunters, along with other Arctic wildlife. Cruise through icy waters to impressive glaciers and attempt to reach 80 degrees north. Spitsbergen’s abundant wildlife was once a huge draw for whalers and trappers and now discerning visitors are discovering the attractions of huge Arctic seabird colonies and the chance to enjoy and photograph Arctic wildlife like walrus, reindeer, arctic fox, beluga whales and, of course, polar bears. 

In addition to the main 10-day Around Spitsbergen itinerary, there is a 10-day alternative route that aims to reach the rarely visited Kvitøya Island as well as a 15-day Around Spitsbergen, Arctic Spring sailing itinerary that offers a relaxed pace aboard a three-masted schooner, with a flexible day-by-day to visit many fascinating stops along Spitsbergen’s east coast. 

The Norwegian name for the Svaldbard archipelago, including Bear Island and Jan Mayen, is Spitsbergen and it contains the largest of Norway’s Arctic islands. Covering an area almost as big as the Republic of Ireland, Spitsbergen has a population of 3,500 in five settlements and is a virtually unspoiled wilderness. Highlights of this Arctic cruise include a Zodiac ride near the towering blue-white face of the 11th of July Glacier; exploring the once mining village and now research center of Ny Ålesund, the world’s most northerly settlement; photographing thousands of kittiwakes near a popular polar bear hunting ground at Monaco Glacier; attempting to reach 80 degrees north and the Seven Islands at Phippsøya; sailing the Hinlopen Strait to search for blue whales, polar bears and ringed seals; watching walruses haul out on Kapp Lee; gazing at the spire-like mountain peaks of Horsundtind; and walking amongst beluga whale skeletons and witnessing the consequences of 19th century whale hunters.

Passage is aboard the 170-guest Hondius, one of the 108-guest ships Ortelius or Plancius, or the 33-guest schooner Rembrandt van Rijn. The Rembrandt van Rijn is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her adventurous nature and intimate size, however all of these small ships are equipped for intimate exploration of the incredible sights visited on all Around Spitsbergen itineraries.

While the intention is to circumnavigate Spitsbergen, it is important to note that the chances of each ship completing a full Spitsbergen circumnavigation (based on the expeditions’ experiences from 1992 to present) are about 30% in the first half of July, 70% in the second half of July, 90% in the first half of August and 95% in the second half of August. In case your expedition cannot complete a full circumnavigation of Spitsbergen, your captain and expedition team will devise a program in Northeast or Southeast Spitsbergen.

Regardless of itinerary choice, the wildlife, history and frigid magnificence of the Arctic makes sailing Around Spitsbergen a trip to remember. Contact the polar experts at AdventureSmith Explorations to discuss which itinerary and ship best suits your interests, ability and budget.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises, Svalbard Cruises and Arctic trips.



Itinerary

Around Spitsbergen - In the Realm of Polar Bear & Ice Itinerary

The 10-day Around Spitsbergen – In the Realm of Polar Bear & Ice voyage operates round-trip from Longyearbyen and circumnavigates Spitsbergen.

Route map of Around Spitsbergen Arctic small ship cruise, operating round-trip from Longyearbyen, Norway and circumnavigating the island of Spitsbergen, with stops at Krossfjorden, Ny Ålesund, Liefdefjorden, Monaco Glacier, Phippsøya, Nordaustlandet, Barentsoya Island, Bell Sund & Ahlstrandhalvøya.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Longyearbyen, Svalbard

Arrive in Longyearbyen, Norway, the administrative center of the Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago. Enjoy strolling around this former mining town, whose parish church and Svalbard Museum make for fascinating attractions. Though the countryside appears stark, more than a hundred species of plant have been recorded in it. In the early evening the ship will sail out of Isfjorden, where you might spot the first minke whale of the voyage.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Krossfjorden - Ny Ålesund

Heading north along the west coast, arrive by morning in Krossfjorden, with the possible opportunity to board the Zodiacs for a cruise near the towering blue-white face of the 14th of July Glacier. On the green slopes near the glacier, colorful flowers bloom while flocks of kittiwakes and Brünnich’s guillemots nest on the cliffs. There is also a good chance of spotting opportunistic arctic foxes scouting for fallen chicks, or a bearded seal paddling through the fjord. In the afternoon sail to Ny Ålesund, the world’s most northerly settlement. Once a mining village served by the world’s most northerly railway that can still be seen, Ny Ålesund is now a research center. Close to the community is a breeding ground for barnacle geese, pink-footed geese and arctic terns. Visitors interested in the history of Arctic exploration will want to walk to the anchoring mast used by polar explorers Amundsen and Nobile in their airships Norge in 1926 and Italia in 1928 before their flights to the North Pole.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Liefdefjorden & Monaco Glacier

Depending on the weather, the ship could sail into Liefdefjorden and cruise within sight of the 3.1-mile-long face of the precipitous Monaco Glacier. The waters in front of the glacier are a favorite feeding spot for thousands of kittiwakes and the base of the ice is a popular polar bear hunting ground. If ice conditions prevent sailing here early in the season, an alternate route along the west coast of Spitsbergen can be implemented.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 4 - 5
Seven Islands - 80 Degrees North

The northernmost point of your voyage may be north of Nordaustlandet, in the Seven Islands. Here you will be at 80 degrees north, just 540 miles from the geographic North Pole. Polar bears inhabit this region, so the ship may park for several hours among the pack ice before wheeling around west again. When the edge of the sea ice is tens of miles north of the Seven Islands (mostly in August), spend a second day to get to and in the sea ice. Alternatively (mostly in July), turn to Sorgfjord where a herd of walrus is often found not far from the graves of 17th century whalers. A nature walk here can bring you close to families of ptarmigans. The opposite side of the fjord is also a beautiful area for an excursion.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Hinlopen Strait & Nordaustlandet

Sail into Hinlopen Strait, home to bearded and ringed seals as well as polar bears; at the entrance there is even the possibility to spot blue whales. As with Liefdefjorden, you can take an alternate west Spitsbergen route if ice prevents entry into Hinlopen. After cruising among the ice floes of Lomfjordshalvøya in Zodiacs, explore the bird cliffs of Alkefjellet with thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots. On the east side of Hinlopen Strait, the Zodiacs may attempt a landing at Palanderbukta on Nordaustlandet, home to reindeer, pink-footed geese and walruses. Near Torrelneset, explore the polar desert of Nordaustlandet, next to the world’s third largest ice cap. Here you may encounter walruses during a coastline hike over the area’s raised beaches.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Barentsoya Island: Freemansundet & Diskobukta

The plan is to make a landings in Freemansundet, though polar bears sometimes make this impossible. Potential stops on Barentsøya include Sundneset (for an old trapper´s hut), Kapp Waldburg (for its kittiwake colony), and Rindedalen (for a walk across the tundra). You may also cruise south to Diskobukta, though Kapp Lee is more likely your destination. On Kapp Lee is a walrus haul-out, Pomor ruins and the chance for hikes along Edgeøya.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Hornsund Area of Southern Spitsbergen

Start the day quietly cruising the side fjords of the spectacular Hornsund area of southern Spitsbergen, taking in the spire-like mountain peaks. Hornsundtind rises to 4,695 feet, while Bautaen shows why early Dutch explorers gave the name “Spitsbergen” – pointed mountains – to the island. There are also 14 magnificent glaciers in the area and opportunities for spotting seals, beluga whales and polar bears.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 9
Bell Sund & Ahlstrandhalvøya

Today find yourself in Bell Sund, one of the largest fjord systems in Svalbard. The ocean currents make this area slightly warmer than other areas in the archipelago, which shows in the relatively lush vegetation. Here there are excellent opportunities to enjoy both history and wildlife. A possibility is to land on Ahlstrandhalvøya at the mouth of Van Keulenfjorden, where piles of beluga skeletons can be found. These remains of 19th century whale slaughter are a haunting reminder of the consequences of thoughtless exploitation. Fortunately, belugas were not hunted into extinction and there’s a good chace of coming across a pod. Alternately, while cruising the side fjords of Bellsund, you can explore the tundra where reindeer like to feed as well as rock slopes where little auks are breeding.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
Disembark Longyearbyen, Svalbard

Every adventure, no matter how grand, must come to an end. Disembark in Longyearbyen and be transferred to the airport for your flights onward home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Voyage aboard the indicated vessel in the itinerary; all meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea; all shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac; program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff; free use of rubber boots and snow shoes; transfers and baggage handling between the airport, hotel and ship only for those passengers on the group flights to and from Longyearbyen; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; AECO fees and governmental taxes; comprehensive pre-departure material.

Exclusions

Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights; pre- and post-cruise land arrangements; transfers to/from the vessel outside Spitsbergen; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; meals ashore; baggage and cancellation insurance; personal insurance (mandatory); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges; the customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be provided).

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Around Spitsbergen – In the Realm of Polar Bear & Ice voyage begins and ends in Longyearbyen, Norway (LYR). Longyearbyen is only accessed via flights from Oslo, Norway (OSL). Some flights arrive very early in the morning, before standard hotel check-in; in these cases, we recommend booking an extra hotel night or arranging a day room option. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. 

Plan flights to arrive to Longyearbyen by 3:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Embarkation time is between 4:00 and 5:00pm on day of departure, with a 6:00pm departure. Transfers in Longyearbyen are provided on specified group flights. Travelers arriving on independently arranged flights should make their own way to the port on day of embarkation and to the airport upon disembarkation. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 10 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Longyearbyen no earlier than 2:30am on Day 10. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Various optional activities may be available on your Around Spitsbergen voyage. Kayaking is available (limited capacity) for $450(2024) per person. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and to pre-book.

Guided shore excursions, walks, wildlife spotting and Zodiac cruises are included in the fare and will be offered to all passengers during each voyage. Every day there will be excursions on land, weather and ice permitting. The landings will take 3 to 6 hours per day over untracked area. According to circumstances (the weather, the ice-situation or the passengers’ wishes) the program can sometimes be adjusted. Ample time will be devoted to wildlife, vegetation, geography and history.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x the per-person Twin or Superior listed rates. Single travelers wishing to book on a “sharing basis” may do so at no additional cost in Twin, Triple or Quadruple categories upon availability.

Families & Children

Upon request (some voyages may be excluded), children under 16 years old with parents may receive a 40% discount in the following cabins: Grand Suite, Superior, Triple (1 child sharing with 2 parents/adults) and Quadruple (1 child sharing with 3 parents/adults, or 2 children sharing with 2 parents/adults). Parents are entirely responsible for their children at all times, on land and on board; there is no onboard day care or nursery facility.

Travel Insurance

Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 per person. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

Around Spitsbergen – Kvitoya, In the Realm of Polar Bear & Ice

The 10-day Around Spitsbergen – Kvitoya, In the Realm of Polar Bear & Ice voyage operates round-trip from Longyearbyen, circumnavigates Spitsbergen and aims to sail around the rarely visited Kvitøya Island.

Route map of Around Spitsbergen - Kvitoya, In the Realm of Polar Bear & Ice voyage, operating round-trip from Longyearbyen, Norway and circumnavigating the island with aim to visit its northeastern sub island.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Longyearbyen, Svalbard

Arrive in Longyearbyen, Norway, the administrative center of the Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago. Enjoy strolling around this former mining town, whose parish church and Svalbard Museum make for fascinating attractions. Though the countryside appears stark, more than a hundred species of plant have been recorded in it. In the early evening the ship will sail out of Isfjorden, where you might spot the first minke whale of the voyage.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Krossfjorden - Ny Ålesund

Heading north along the west coast, arrive by morning in Krossfjorden, with the possible opportunity to board the Zodiacs for a cruise near the towering blue-white face of the 14th of July Glacier. On the green slopes near the glacier, colorful flowers bloom while flocks of kittiwakes and Brünnich’s guillemots nest on the cliffs. There is also a good chance of spotting opportunistic arctic foxes scouting for fallen chicks, or a bearded seal paddling through the fjord. In the afternoon sail to Ny Ålesund, the world’s most northerly settlement. Once a mining village served by the world’s most northerly railway that can still be seen, Ny Ålesund is now a research center. Close to the community is a breeding ground for barnacle geese, pink-footed geese and arctic terns. Visitors interested in the history of Arctic exploration will want to walk to the anchoring mast used by polar explorers Amundsen and Nobile in their airships Norge in 1926 and Italia in 1928 before their flights to the North Pole.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Seven Islands - 80 Degrees North

The northernmost point of your voyage may be north of Nordaustlandet, in the Seven Islands. Here you will be at 80 degrees north, just 540 miles from the geographic North Pole. Polar bears inhabit this region, so the ship may roam for several hours among the pack ice in search of wildlife.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Schweigaardbreen

Pushing east to Nordaustlandet, the ship reaches the area where the Italian captain Sora tried to rescue the Nobile Expedition in 1928. The focus here is the great glacier front of Schweigaardbreen, though there may also be a landing at Firkantbukta with the chance to gain some altitude and take a few higher-elevation photos. Alternately, there may be a Zodiac cruise near Storøya, where there may be walrus encounters.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Kvitøya

Today the ship tries to reach the rarely visited Kvitøya, far to the east and close to Russian territory. The enormous ice cap covering this island leaves only a small area bare. Land at the western tip of Andréeneset, where the Swedish explorer S. A. Andrée and his companions perished in 1897. Another objective for the day is Kræmerpynten, where a sizable group of walruses reside.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Isisøya & Bråswellbreen

South of Nordaustlandet, possibly land on Isisøya, formerly a Nunatak area surrounded by glaciers but now an island surrounded by the sea. Next possibly pass by Bråswellbreen, part of the largest ice cap in Europe and famed for its meltwater waterfalls.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Barentsoya Island: Freemansundet & Diskobukta

The plan is to make a landing in Freemansundet, though polar bears sometimes make this impossible. Potential stops on Barentsøya include Sundneset (for an old trapper´s hut), Kapp Waldburg (for its kittiwake colony), and Rindedalen (for a walk across the tundra). You may also cruise south to Diskobukta, though Kapp Lee is more likely your destination. On Kapp Lee is a walrus haul-out, Pomor ruins and the chance for hikes along Edgeøya.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Hornsund Area of Southern Spitsbergen

Start the day quietly cruising the side fjords of the spectacular Hornsund area of southern Spitsbergen, taking in the spire-like mountain peaks. Hornsundtind rises to 4,695 feet, while Bautaen shows why early Dutch explorers gave the name “Spitsbergen” – pointed mountains – to the island. There are also 14 magnificent glaciers in the area and opportunities for spotting seals, beluga whales and polar bears.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 9
Bell Sund & Ahlstrandhalvøya

Today find yourself in Bell Sund, one of the largest fjord systems in Svalbard. The ocean currents make this area slightly warmer than other areas in the archipelago, which shows in the relatively lush vegetation. Here there are excellent opportunities to enjoy both history and wildlife. A possibility is to land on Ahlstrandhalvøya at the mouth of Van Keulenfjorden, where piles of beluga skeletons can be found. These remains of 19th century whale slaughter are a haunting reminder of the consequences of thoughtless exploitation. Fortunately, belugas were not hunted into extinction and there’s a good chace of coming across a pod. Alternately, while cruising the side fjords of Bellsund, you can explore the tundra where reindeer like to feed as well as rock slopes where little auks are breeding.

Accommodations

Hondius, Ortelius, Plancius

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
Disembark Longyearbyen, Svalbard

Every adventure, no matter how grand, must come to an end. Disembark in Longyearbyen and be transferred to the airport for your flights onward home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Voyage aboard the indicated vessel in the itinerary; all meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea; all shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac; program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff; free use of rubber boots and snow shoes; transfers and baggage handling between the airport, hotel and ship only for those passengers on the group flights to and from Longyearbyen; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; AECO fees and governmental taxes; comprehensive pre-departure material.

Exclusions

Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights; pre- and post-cruise land arrangements; transfers to/from the vessel outside Spitsbergen; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; meals ashore; baggage and cancellation insurance; personal insurance (mandatory); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges; the customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be provided).

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Around Spitsbergen – Kvitoya, In the realm of Polar Bear & Ice voyage begins and ends in Longyearbyen, Norway (LYR). Longyearbyen is only accessed via flights from Oslo, Norway (OSL). Some flights arrive very early in the morning, before standard hotel check-in; in these cases, we recommend booking an extra hotel night or arranging a day room option. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. 

Plan flights to arrive to Longyearbyen by 3:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Embarkation time is between 4:00 and 5:00pm on day of departure, with a 6:00pm departure. Transfers in Longyearbyen are provided on specified group flights. Travelers arriving on independently arranged flights should make their own way to the port on day of embarkation and to the airport upon disembarkation. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 10 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Longyearbyen no earlier than 2:30am on Day 10. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Various optional activities may be available on your Around Spitsbergen – Kvitoya voyage. Kayaking is available (limited capacity) for $450(2024) per person. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and to pre-book.

Guided shore excursions, walks, wildlife spotting and Zodiac cruises are included in the fare and will be offered to all passengers during each voyage. Every day there will be excursions on land, weather and ice permitting. The landings will take 3 to 6 hours per day over untracked area. According to circumstances (the weather, the ice-situation or the passengers’ wishes) the program can sometimes be adjusted. Ample time will be devoted to wildlife, vegetation, geography and history.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x the per-person Twin or Superior listed rates. Single travelers wishing to book on a “sharing basis” may do so at no additional cost in Twin, Triple or Quadruple categories upon availability.

Families & Children

Upon request (some voyages may be excluded), children under 16 years old with parents may receive a 40% discount in the following cabins: Grand Suite, Superior, Triple (1 child sharing with 2 parents/adults) and Quadruple (1 child sharing with 3 parents/adults, or 2 children sharing with 2 parents/adults). Parents are entirely responsible for their children at all times, on land and on board; there is no onboard day care or nursery facility.

Travel Insurance

Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 per person. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

Around Spitsbergen, Arctic Summer Itinerary

The 15-day Around Spitsbergen, Arctic Summer sailing voyage operates round-trip from Longyearbyen, circumnavigates Spitsbergen and visits slightly different sites on a flexible schedule.

Route map of Around Spitsbergen, Arctic Summer voyage round-trip from Longyearbyen, circumnavigating Spitsbergen.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Longyearbyen, Svalbard

Arrive in Longyearbyen, the administrative center of Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago. Enjoy strolling around this former mining town, whose parish church and Svalbard Museum make for fascinating attractions. Though the countryside appears stark, more than a hundred species of plant have been recorded in it. In the early evening the ship sails out of Isfjorden, where you might spot the first minke whale of your voyage. In the evening, sail for Trygghamna to see the remains of a 17th-century English whaling station and 18th-century Pomor hunting station, both of which you can be visited the next morning.

Accommodations

Rembrandt van Rijn

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Trygghamna & Alkhornet

From Trygghamna,walk to Alkhornet, a large seabird cliff where the birds are scouting out breeding places. Below the cliffs is a common place to spot arctic foxes and possibly also reindeer grazing on the lush vegetation if there’s not too much snow.

Accommodations

Rembrandt van Rijn

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Fuglefjorden: Svitjodbreen, Birgerbukta & Ytre Norskøya

Sail into Fuglefjorden amid views of Svitjodbreen and Birgerbukta, both breeding areas for great skuas as well as likely spots to see a polar bear. On Birgerbukta see 17th-century Basque ovens once used for cooking whale blubber. The aim next is to visit Ytre Norskøya, a small island that served for many years as a Dutch whaling lookout. Here, follow the whalers’ tracks to the summit of the island, passing popular bird cliffs on the way. On shore are the remains of more 17th-century blubber ovens, while arctic skuas and common eiders breed among the graves of some two hundred Dutch whalers.

Accommodations

Rembrandt van Rijn

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 4 - 14
Exploring Svalbard

Start by sailing either to Sorgfjord or Murchison Bay, on the north side of which lies an extensive polar desert that is home to numerous reindeer as well as a Swedish research station. Then continue through Hinlopen Strait, surrounded by lofty ice caps.

Over the following days, possibly visit the following sites:

Lomfjord
This is a beautiful fjord fringed by towering mountains offering great opportunities for a hike.

Wilhelmøya
A tundra landscape in which polar bears can possibly be seen, Wilhelmøya is also a good area for shoreline, inland and altitude-gaining hikes.

Svartknausflya
Possibly take an excursion to this stark polar desert, which is almost devoid of vegetation but rich with invertebrate fossils and whale skeletons along its raised beaches.

Heleysundet
A narrow but picturesque waterway between Spitsbergen and Barents witht his route can only be made against the current.

Freemansundet
Depending on conditions, sail through this waterway. A walk at Kapp Lee may introduce a few new reindeer and walruses. And possibly visit a large colony of kittiwakes nesting in a canyon in Diskobukta. Arctic foxes and polar bears with their young often roam this canyon, scavenging for birds that fall from the ledges. Sub-fossilized whale bones are scattered across the raised beaches.

Hornsund
Sail into the labyrinth of side fjords around Hornsund. At Brepollen rests a large glacial deposit at the head of the fjord. Sailing along the glacier front affords good chances of spotting bearded seals and polar bears. The geological formations in this area are vibrant and mesmerizing.

Bellsund
En route to Longyearbyen, possibly reach Ahlstrandhalvøya. More fascinating geological formations can be seen here, as well as the remains of 20th-century beluga hunting. (This is still a good area to see beluga.)

Accommodations

Rembrandt van Rijn

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 15
Disembark Longyearbyen, Svalbard

Every adventure, no matter how grand, must come to an end. Disembark in Longyearbyen and be transferred to the airport for your flights onward home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Voyage aboard the indicated vessel in the itinerary; all meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea; all shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac; program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff; free use of snowshoes; transfers and baggage handling between the airport, hotel and ship only for those passengers on the group flights to and from Longyearbyen; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; AECO fees and governmental taxes; comprehensive pre-departure material.

Exclusions

Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights; pre- and post-cruise land arrangements; transfers to/from the vessel outside Spitsbergen; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; meals ashore; baggage and cancellation insurance; personal insurance (mandatory); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges; the customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be provided).

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Around Spitsbergen, Arctic Summer voyage begins and ends in Longyearbyen, Norway (LYR). Longyearbyen is only accessed via flights from Oslo, Norway (OSL). Some flights arrive very early in the morning, before standard hotel check-in; in these cases, we recommend booking an extra hotel night or arranging a day room option. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. 

Plan flights to arrive to Longyearbyen by 3:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Embarkation time is between 4:00 and 5:00pm on day of departure, with a 6:00pm departure. Transfers in Longyearbyen are provided on specified group flights. Travelers arriving on independently arranged flights should make their own way to the port on day of embarkation and to the airport upon disembarkation. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 15 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Longyearbyen no earlier than 2:30am on Day 15. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Guided shore excursions, walks, wildlife spotting and Zodiac cruises are included in the fare and will be offered to all passengers during each voyage. Every day there will be excursions on land, weather and ice permitting. The landings will take 3 to 6 hours per day over untracked area. According to circumstances (the weather, the ice-situation or the passengers’ wishes) the program can sometimes be adjusted. Ample time will be devoted to wildlife, vegetation, geography and history.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x the per-person Twin listed rates. Single travelers wishing to book on a “sharing basis” may do so at no additional cost in Twin, Triple or Quadruple categories upon availability.

Families & Children

Upon request (some voyages may be excluded), children under 16 years old with parents may receive a 40% discount in triple cabins (1 child sharing with 2 parents/adults). Parents are entirely responsible for their children at all times, on land and on board; there is no onboard day care or nursery facility.

Travel Insurance

Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 per person. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Jun 24 - Jul 03, 2024
Hondius • 10 days
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 03 - Jul 12, 2024
Hondius • 10 days
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 04 - Jul 13, 2024
Plancius • 10 days
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 10 - Jul 19, 2024
Ortelius • 10 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 12 - Jul 21, 2024
Hondius • 10 days
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 13 - Jul 22, 2024
Plancius • 10 days
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 18 - Aug 01, 2024
Rembrandt van Rijn • 15 days
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background
From $6800USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 19 - Jul 28, 2024
Ortelius • 10 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 21 - Jul 30, 2024
Hondius • 10 days
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 22 - Jul 31, 2024
Plancius • 10 days
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 28 - Aug 06, 2024
Ortelius • 10 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 30 - Aug 08, 2024
Hondius • 10 days
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 31 - Aug 09, 2024
Plancius • 10 days
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Aug 01 - Aug 15, 2024
Rembrandt van Rijn • 15 days
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background
From $6800USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Aug 06 - Aug 15, 2024
Ortelius • 10 days
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Aug 08 - Aug 17, 2024
Hondius • 10 days
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Aug 09 - Aug 18, 2024
Plancius • 10 days
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background
From $5400USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jun 30 - Jul 09, 2025
Hondius • 10 days
From $5650USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 01 - Jul 10, 2025
Plancius • 10 days
From $5650USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 09 - Jul 18, 2025
Hondius • 10 days
From $5650USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 10 - Jul 19, 2025
Plancius • 10 days
From $5650USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 12 - Jul 21, 2025
Ortelius • 10 days
From $5650USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 18 - Jul 27, 2025
Hondius • 10 days
From $5650USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 21 - Jul 30, 2025
Ortelius • 10 days
From $5650USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 26 - Aug 04, 2025
Plancius • 10 days
From $5650USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 30 - Aug 08, 2025
Ortelius • 10 days
From $5650USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Aug 04 - Aug 13, 2025
Plancius • 10 days
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background
From $5650USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Aug 14 - Aug 23, 2025
Hondius • 10 days
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background
From $5650USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
small ship alternate itinerary icon with a grey background Alternative Itinerary
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity Kayaking
Accommodations

Choose the Small Ship that Fits Your Travel Style

Motorsailer
Rembrandt van Rijn

The intimate 33-guest three-mast schooner S/V Rembrandt van Rijn is well suited for expedition cruising among the fjords of Greenland, and for a Northern Lights itinerary in the Arctic.

Expedition Ship
Ortelius

The 108-guest M/V Ortelius is an ice-strengthened small ship designed for polar expedition cruises in the Arctic and Antarctica. She offers passengers a quality exploratory wildlife program to spend as much time ashore as possible.

Expedition Ship
Plancius

The Plancius is a 108-passenger small ship designed and built exclusively for polar cruises. A wide variety of cabins, ample space on five decks and a wide range of activities offered make the Plancius a great option for active expedition cruises.

Expedition Ship
Hondius

The 170-guest M/V Hondius was built exclusively for cruises in Antarctica and the Arctic. She is one of the strongest ice-strengthened vessels currently cruising in the polar regions.

Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

Arielle Lightcap • January 7th, 2020
Expert Review: What to Expect on a Polar Bear Cruise

A travel expert lends her Arctic cruise insight on what you can expect aboard a small ship polar bear cruise in the Arctic Svalbard region.

Testimonial

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"Outstanding"

The boat and staff were outstanding, great food and service, excellent wildlife with loads of whales, polar bears, walruses, arctic foxes, and arctic birds.

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Read More Rectangle Copy 10 Created with Sketch.
Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

phone-solid Created with Sketch. 877-620-2875 phone-solid Created with Sketch. 877-620-2875 comment-alt-solid Created with Sketch. Contact Us
Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

In 2025, the main Around Spitsbergen – In the Realm of Polar Bear & Ice itinerary can be combined with the main Spitsbergen – Northeast Greenland, Aurora Borealis itinerary for the 23-day Extensive Spitsbergen – Northeast Greenland – Aurora Borealis operating from Longyearbyen, Svalbard to Reykjavik, Iceland with no repeated landing sites. Please inquire with an Adventure Specialist for further details.

Also in 2025, the Around Spitsbergen – Kvitoya, In the Realm of Polar Bear & Ice itinerary can be combined with the East & South Greenland Explorer, Aurora Borealis itinerary for the 30-day Extensive Spitsbergen – East & South Greenland, Aurora Borealis operating from Longyearbyen, Svalbard to Narsarsuaq, Greenland with no repeated landing sites. Please inquire with an Adventure Specialist for further details.

Add to Wishlist
14 Day Cruise
Spitsbergen - Northeast Greenland

Sail from Spitsbergen to East Greenland aboard a selection of small expedition ships to experience the Arctic's dramatic coastline, highlighted by Scoresby Sund in East Greenland and the famed aurora borealis.

From $7000USD
Aug Sep
Add to Wishlist
10 - 10 Day Cruise
A Circumnavigation of Iceland

Iceland's world-class geology and unique cultural heritage come alive in this Circumnavigation of Iceland aboard 126-guest Nat Geo Endurance or 148-guest Nat Geo Explorer. Cruise round-trip from Reykjavik; see glaciers, geysers and immense cliffs with world-class guides leading the way!

Special Offer
From $11285USD
Jul
Add to Wishlist
10 Day Land Tour
East Greenland Arctic Adventure

Discover Greenland like never before! The safari-style Base Camp Greenland offers an eye-level vantage point of Arctic icebergs, whales and seals in frigid waters. Kayak, hike and meet local Inuit who live in harmony with nature.

From $12995USD
Jul Aug Sep
More to Explore

Trips You Might Also Like

View All Svalbard Cruises
Add to Wishlist
8-9 Day Cruise
North Spitsbergen

Explore North Spitsbergen and focus on spotting polar bears aboard the 170-guest Hondius, or 108-guest Ortelius or Plancius. Zodiac cruise and photograph rugged mountains, sweeping tundra, ice caps, glaciers, unspoiled wilderness and abundant wildlife.

From $4000USD
Jun Jul Aug
Add to Wishlist
8-11 Day Cruise
Sailing Spitsbergen

The Arctic awakens on these 8- to 11-day Sailing Spitsbergen expeditions aboard the 33-guest Rembrandt van Rijn sailing schooner. Spot Arctic animals and absorb history while snowshoeing, hiking, Zodiac riding and sailing the Svalbard archipelago.

From $3300USD
May Jun Jul
Add to Wishlist
9-12 Day Cruise
Scoresby Sund Aurora Borealis

Spend 9-12 days experiencing the natural phenomenon of the aurora borealis, or northern lights, at a maximum intensity on this special voyage to the Scoresby Sund, East Greenland, the longest fjord in the world, aboard a selection of small expedition ships.

From $4600USD
Aug Sep Oct
View All Svalbard Cruises
Exit Created with Sketch.

Around Spitsbergen

test message
View Wishlist