polar bear jumping from one iceberg to another reflecting on the blue waters off views off the Norwegian Discovery
Girl in orange jacket paddles a sit-on-top yellow kayak in glassy water beside snowy mountains on a Norwegian Discovery cruise.
Guests from the National Geographic Endurance hiking in the mouatins of Signehamna, Svalbard, Norway.
Reflections of water and boats docked in front of a row of colorful buildings in Norway.
flock of seagulls flies over the ocean near towering, green-covered rocky cliffs under a partly cloudy sky Bear Island, Barents Sea, Svalbard, Norway
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$17425USD
Starting At
12
Days
Apr
May
Jun
Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard & The Northern Fjords Cruise

On this Norwegian Discovery expedition, seek polar bears, wild isles and picturesque fjords. Discover remote islands, iconic wildlife and legendary beauty. In the high Arctic archipelago of Svalbard, spend several remarkable days amid the ice floes and follow nature’s rhythms in search of the most famous creature of the north—the polar bear—plus see walrus, seals and myriad seabirds. Kayak and Zodiac cruise for water-level exploration and, conditions and wildlife permitting, go ashore to hike. Continue to mist-shrouded Bear Island to encounter towering cliffs populated with thousands of seabirds. Then head further south to the coast of Norway and spectacular isles of Sørøya and Senja, where nature flourishes amid vibrant coastal cultures.

Sail to the high Arctic archipelago of Svalbard under the midnight sun in search of polar bears hunting along the pack ice. Zodiac cruise along the towering cliffs of Bear Island that rise straight from the sea and are home to tens of thousands of raucous seabirds. On Senja Island visit pristine Ånderdalen National Park to search for reindeer, elk, red foxes and more. Explore the lovely fjords of Sørøya by Zodiac and kayak, and hike on shore.

The 138-guest National Geographic Endurance or National Geographic Resolution each offers active exploration via hiking, walking, kayaking and Zodiac riding amidst stunning scenery. Explore under the sure guidance of expedition leaders, an assistant expedition leader, veteran naturalists, a National Geographic photographer, plus a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor, a Global Perspectives guest speaker, an undersea specialist, a wellness specialist and a video chronicler. Their collective knowledge and passion paired with the unparalleled beauty of the Arctic region ensures an extraordinary experience on this once-in-a-lifetime Arctic cruise.

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



Itinerary

Southbound Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard & The Northern Fjords Itinerary

The 12-day southbound Norwegian Discovery cruise begins with a charter flight from Oslo to embark the ship in Longyearbyen, explores Svalbard, cruises southbound with a visit to Bear Island and time along the Norwegian fjords before disembarking in Tromso, Norway.

Route map of 13-day Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard & The Northern Fjords cruise, operating round-trip from Oslo, Norway.
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Day 1
Arrive Oslo, Norway

Arrive in Oslo and transfer to your centrally located hotel. Spend the day at your own pace exploring the sights, sounds and tastes of this vibrant city. Check in with the ship’s hospitality desk this afternoon, making your last arrangements before your charter flight the following day.

Accommodations

Hotel Bristol (or similar)

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Fly to Longyearbyen & Embark

Depart Oslo on the recommended flight* to Longyearbyen; transfers to the airport and luggage assistance will be provided. On arrival to this Arctic outpost, explore the world’s northernmost settlement that has morphed from a coal mining hub to a base for exploration and science in recent history. Witness daily life and delve into this history before embarking.

*If you are not purchasing the recommended flight, then please confirm your arrangements.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 8
Exploring Svalbard

This expedition operates in true expedition style, letting nature dictate your day-to-day movements within an
immense Arctic wonderland. Your fully stabilized, ice-class expedition ship probes deep into the ice where the polar bears forage, walrus sun themselves and the Svalbard reindeer roam. Join your spotters on the Bridge as you scan the floes and islands for these iconic creatures, along with bearded and ringed seals; arctic fox; and whales that call these waters home, like beluga, fin and minke. There’s no greater thrill than a sighting that brings everyone rushing to the bow or Bridge for a close-up view.

Sail deep into protected bays and fjords, where even a novice kayaker can comfortably paddle surrounded by sparkling bergs and dramatic mountains. Video from the ship’s Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) allows you to peer into the mysterious world that exists 1,000 feet below during Recaps with your multi-talented field staff.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 9
Bjørnøya (Bear Island)

Sitting at the confluence of the Norwegian and Barents Seas, Bear Island is ironically known as a birdwatcher’s paradise. The island also houses one remote meteorological station. With conditions permitting, enjoy a Zodiac cruise around the southernmost member of the Svalbard archipelago and revel at the bird cliffs, home to countless thousands of fulmars, kittiwakes and guillemots.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 10 - 11
Sørøya & Senja Islands

Off Norway’s coast, two of its largest islands offer stunning landscapes, challenging and rewarding hikes, and protected fjords to explore. The mountainous island of Sørøya, known for its scenic bays, pristine nature reserves, and large populations of skrei, or cod, welcomes you to its shores as you make your way south from Bear Island. After exploring this gateway to Finnmark, Norway’s northernmost county, head south to Senja Island. Capture panoramic landscapes along your certified photo instructor, glide amongst islands in a kayak, or explore village streets and shops as you get to know Norway’s second-largest island.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 12
Disembark Tromso, Norway

Disembark your ship in Tromsø and transfer to the airport for flights home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Expedition parka to keep; two hotel nights in Oslo; accommodations; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Charter flight from Oslo to Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway (your Adventure Specialist can confirm pricing during the booking process); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

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 southbound Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard & The Northern Fjords cruise begins in Oslo, Norway (OSL), with a charter flight to embark the ship in Longyearbyen, Norway (LYR), on Day 2 of the itinerary. Embarkation time may vary as it is based upon arrival of group flights. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 12 in Tromso, Norway (TOS). Plan to depart Tromso anytime after 12:00pm Noon on Day 12 of the outlined itinerary. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

The charter flight from Oslo to Longyearbyen is not included in the cruise price, but is arranged for you by AdventureSmith Explorations through your ship. Your Adventure Specialist will book this flight for you on the scheduled charter flight for your particular departure. Airfares vary by departure; your Adventure Specialist will detail these for you in their proposal and on your invoice. There is a strict luggage limit of 50 lbs checked luggage and 18 lbs cabin baggage on the flight between Oslo and Longyearbyen.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, Zodiac excursions, photography, morning yoga and stretching, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. 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.

Northbound Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard & The Northern Fjords Itinerary

The 12-day northbound Norwegian Discovery cruise embarks the ship in Tromso, Norway, cruises northbound with time along the Norwegian fjords and a visit to Bear Island, then explores Svalbard before disembarking in Longyearbyen, with a charter flight to end in Oslo, Norway.

Route map of 13-day Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard & The Northern Fjords cruise, operating round-trip from Oslo, Norway.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Tromso, Norway

Arrive in Tromsø, known as the gateway to the Arctic due to the large number of Arctic expeditions that originated here. Transfer to the meeting place in the city and spend the day at your own pace exploring the sights, sounds and tastes of this Arctic capital. Check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

dinner

Read More
Days 2 - 3
Sørøya & Senja Islands

Off Norway’s coast, two of its largest islands offer stunning landscapes, challenging and rewarding hikes, and protected fjords to explore. The mountainous island of Sørøya, known for its scenic bays, pristine nature reserves, and large populations of skrei, or cod, welcomes you to its shores as you make your way south from Bear Island. After exploring this gateway to Finnmark, Norway’s northernmost county, head south to Senja Island. Capture panoramic landscapes along your certified photo instructor, glide amongst islands in a kayak, or explore village streets and shops as you get to know Norway’s second-largest island.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Bjørnøya (Bear Island)

Sitting at the confluence of the Norwegian and Barents Seas, Bear Island is ironically known as a birdwatcher’s paradise. The island also houses one remote meteorological station. With conditions permitting, enjoy a Zodiac cruise around the southernmost member of the Svalbard archipelago and revel at the bird cliffs, home to countless thousands of fulmars, kittiwakes and guillemots.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 5 - 10
Exploring Svalbard

This expedition operates in true expedition style, letting nature dictate your day-to-day movements within an
immense Arctic wonderland. Your fully stabilized, ice-class expedition ship probes deep into the ice where the polar bears forage, walrus sun themselves and the Svalbard reindeer roam. Join your spotters on the Bridge as you scan the floes and islands for these iconic creatures, along with bearded and ringed seals; arctic fox; and whales that call these waters home, like beluga, fin and minke. There’s no greater thrill than a sighting that brings everyone rushing to the bow or Bridge for a close-up view.

Sail deep into protected bays and fjords, where even a novice kayaker can comfortably paddle surrounded by sparkling bergs and dramatic mountains. Video from the ship’s Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) allows you to peer into the mysterious world that exists 1,000 feet below during Recaps with your multi-talented field staff.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 11
Disembark Longyearbyen, Fly to Oslo & Overnight

Disembark in Longyearbyen for a glimpse at life in this Arctic outpost. Witness daily life and delve into this history before departing on a charter flight to Oslo. If you’re joining the recommended flight* to Oslo, transfers to the hotel and luggage assistance will be provided. Upon arrival, check in to the airport hotel for an included overnight.

*If you are not purchasing the recommended flight, then please confirm your arrangements.

Accommodations

Hotel Bristol (or similar)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 12
Depart Oslo, Norway

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the return flight home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Expedition parka to keep; two hotel nights in Oslo; accommodations; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Charter flight from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway to Oslo, Norway (your Adventure Specialist can confirm pricing during the booking process); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

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 northbound Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard & The Northern Fjords cruise begins in Tromso, Norway (TOS), and ends in Oslo, Norway (OSL). Embarkation time may vary as it is based upon arrival of group flights. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 11 in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway (LYR), followed by a charter flight to Oslo, Norway (OSL). Plan to depart Oslo anytime on Day 12 of the outlined itinerary. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

The charter flight from Longyearbyen to Oslo is not included in the cruise price, but is arranged for you by AdventureSmith Explorations through your ship. Your Adventure Specialist will book this flight for you on the scheduled charter flight for your particular departure. Airfares vary by departure; your Adventure Specialist will detail these for you in their proposal and on your invoice. There is a strict luggage limit of 50 lbs checked luggage and 18 lbs cabin baggage on the flight between Longyearbyen and Oslo.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, Zodiac excursions, photography, morning yoga and stretching, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. 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

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Jun 14 - Jun 25, 2025
National Geographic Endurance • 12 days
From $17425USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Apr 25 - May 06, 2026
National Geographic Resolution • 12 days
From $17595USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Accommodations

Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Endurance

The 138-guest National Geographic Endurance is the newest addition to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability and sustainability as well as for in-depth education and an unmatched range of exploration in the polar regions.

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Resolution

The 138-guest National Geographic Resolution is one of the newest additions to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability, efficiency, scholarship and long-range exploration in the polar regions.

Deals

Current Deals on This Trip

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires December 31st, 2024
Groups Save 5% On Select 2025 Nat Geo Fleet Worldwide

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires December 31st, 2024
Book Early & Save On 2026-27 Nat Geo Fleet Worldwide

Choose from a variety of cruises worldwide wen you book your 2026-27 departure and save in more ways!

Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

Todd Smith • June 17th, 2022
Expert Aboard: National Geographic Resolution & Endurance Ship Review

AdventureSmith's founder writes this firsthand review of the National Geographic Resolution & Endurance. Learn what makes these the best-in-class, next-generation expedition ships, from X-Bow design to on-deck igloos.

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.

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Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

In conjunction with this cruise, the following pre-cruise option is available for a seamless land-and-sea group travel experience with National Geographic guides and fellow passengers. Contact AdventureSmith Explorations for pricing.

Norway’s Fjords Extension is a 6-day pre-cruise exploration of Bergen, Oslo, and Norway’s two longest fjords, with nightly hotel accommodation. Kayak, canoe and hike, and enjoy a ride on the Flåm Railway, one of world’s most scenic train journeys.

Add to Wishlist
16 - 16 Day Cruise
Svalbard, Iceland & Greenland's East Coast Cruise

On this expedition cruise, link Iceland and Greenland with Svalbard. Step aboard 138-guest Nat Geo Resolution for stunning fjords, icebergs, remote villages and iconic wildlife including polar bears, walruses, reindeer and whales.

Special Offer
From $21269USD
Jun Jul
Add to Wishlist
15 - 15 Day Cruise
Coastal Wonders of Norway, the Faroe Islands & Iceland

Follow the Viking trail on this expedition cruise from Norway to Iceland, visiting the Faroes & other far-flung North Atlantic islands.

Special Offer
From $20265USD
Jun Jul
Add to Wishlist
13 - 20 Day Cruise
Jewels of the Arctic

Discover the jewels of the Arctic aboard cutting-edge small expedition ships. Among Svalbard, Greenland and Iceland there is something for every traveler to discover. Add-ons like kayaking make the journey even more rewarding for the adventurous.

Special Offer
From $17095USD
Jun Jul Aug
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A Circumnavigation of Iceland

Iceland's world-class geology and unique cultural heritage come alive in this 8- or 10-day Circumnavigation of Iceland aboard 138-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!

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Complete this epic 22-day voyage from Greenland, along Baffin Island and Canada's northern mainland coast, to Alaska. Board 138-guest National Geographic Resolution, to follow in the footsteps of intrepid Arctic explorers.

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Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard & The Northern Fjords Cruise

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