Zodiac boat with Arctic travelers in yellow jackets cruises past 1 long ice shelf & smaller iceberg in front on a sunny day.
Spitsbergen travelers in yellow jackets follow a guide with a shotgun in a red jacket, looking up at birds with icefields beyond.
Arctic travelers in yellow jackets walk over tundra with small yellow flowers on a cloudy day on the Intro to Spitsbergen.
closeup of polar bear face on introduction to spitsbergen: fjords, glaciers & wildlife of svalbard cruise
A few tandem kayakers dressed warmly paddle yellow & red boats in calm sea beside floating ice during a Svalbard cruise.
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Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway

The 10- to 12-day Svalbard Explorer voyage is an active adventure that begins and ends in Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen, one of Norway’s Arctic islands in the Svalbard archipelago. The aim of this expedition is to explore a majority of the coastline of the largest island in the group. Expect to sail magnificent fjords, cruise in inflatable skiffs past towering sea cliffs and encounter polar bears and walruses in their natural habitat.

The huge bird cliffs along the Spitsbergen coasts are a major attraction. Spitsbergen is a breeding ground for large numbers of guillemots such as the Brunnich’s and the black guillemot. Other bird species such as Atlantic Puffin, little auk, northern fulmar and kittiwake can also be found on or around the cliffs, while the arctic tern, ringed plover, purple sandpiper and four species of skua prefer the tundra. Shore excursions by Zodiac will enable you to set foot in places only a few humans have walked before and optional kayaking and paddle excursions are available at an added cost to intimately explore your surroundings even further.

Most departures in 2025 operate over 10 days, with the exception of one 12-day departure that adds 2 days exploring Spitsbergen. In 2026, the itinerary adds a post-cruise hotel overnight in Helsinki, making the trip 11 days long.

This Arctic cruise begins and ends in Longyearbyen, Svalbard with round-trip charter flights to and from Helsinki, Finland. Get an extensive exploration of Spitsbergen aboard the 199-guest Ultramarine or 138-guest Ocean Explorer, both ice-stable ships equipped for personal and intimate Arctic exploration. Experience the Arctic for yourself on this stunning Svalbard cruise.

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



Itinerary

Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway Itinerary

This 10-day Arctic expedition around Spitsbergen begins and ends in Helsinki, Finland with round-trip charter flights to and from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and only a pre-cruise hotel overnight. One special 12-day departure is also available in August, spending two more days exploring Spitsbergen.

Route map of Svalbard Explorer cruise focused on western edge of the archipelago & operating round-trip from Longyearbyen with bookend flights to and from Helsinki, Finland.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Helsinki, Finland

Your Arctic voyage begins in Helsinki, renowned for its extraordinary architecture and intriguing mix of eastern and western influences. If arriving early, explore the many museums, galleries and restaurants, relax at a Finnish sauna or wander the vibrant Design District before retiring at the included airport hotel.

Accommodations

Airport Hotel TBA

Meals

n/a

Read More
Day 2
Fly to Longyearbyen, Svalbard & Embark

This morning, the group will transfer to the airport and board a private charter flight to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s largest settlement, where there will be some free time to explore before embarkation. As the ship sets sail, enjoy the first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from icy waters.

Accommodations

Ultramarine, Ocean Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 9
Exploring Spitsbergen

You’ll cruise around this magical island on a constant search for wildlife. Your expedition will cover western Spitsbergen as well as stunning fjords to the north. From polar flora to immense glaciers, the natural landscape here is just as varied as the wildlife.

Each expedition presents new opportunities and different weather and ice, so there is no fixed itinerary; however, some of the places you may visit include the 14th of July Glacier, Smeerenburg, Alkefjellet and the Hinlopen Strait. The destinations visited will be selected for optimum wildlife viewing with an appreciation of the history and geology of Spitsbergen. The island offers multiple opportunities for wildlife photography. Since most of Svalbard’s Arctic ecosystem is uninhabited and well-protected, this remote archipelago is one of the world’s best places to spot polar bears against stunning natural backdrops of mountains and ice.

The towering cliffs of Alkefjellet provide homes to thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots (thick-billed murres). Coming across a walrus haul-out is a moment you won’t soon forget. Get a chance to witness the intimate gatherings of giant pinnipeds as they haul out together on small coastal strips. If you’re itching to experience a more intimate view from the water, you can book the sea kayaking or paddling excursion adventure options.

In Spitsbergen, there is no shortage of natural beauty. The tundra can be surprisingly colorful in summer, with wildflowers bursting for a taste of sunshine. Each day, you’ll see something interesting, whether it is an ever-changing gallery of spectacular icebergs, a polar bear resting between hunts, or an abandoned historical site from centuries ago.

Accommodations

Ultramarine, Ocean Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
Disembark Longyearbyen, Fly to Helsinki, Finland & Depart

The time to say goodbye to your expedition team and shipmates has come. Your adventure ends as it began, in the historic frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, be transferred to the airport for your return group charter flight to Helsinki, included in the transfer package.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Mandatory Transfer Package (approximate package price is $1,195 in 2025 and includes one night’s pre-expedition hotel night at Helsinki airport hotel with breakfast on Day 2, charter flight from Helsinki to Longyearbyen, arrival and departure transfers in Longyearbyen, and charter flight from Longyearbyen to Helsinki); shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals and snacks on board; soft drinks and juices on board; beer, wine, standard spirits and cocktails during dinner and bar service hours; complimentary WiFi; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by experienced expedition leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by the expedition team and special guests as scheduled; photographic journal documenting the expedition; waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard the ship; emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of US $500,000 per person; transfers between Longyearbyen town center and port on embarkation and disembarkation day.

Exclusions

International airfare; arrival and departure transfers in Helsinki; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended), or insurance of any kind; excess baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, and any gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified; phone and internet charges; voluntary gratuity at the end of voyage for shipboard staff and crew; additional overnight accommodation; any adventure options or excursions.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required when booking 181 days or more prior to departure. A second deposit of 25% of trip cost is due 180 days prior to departure. Bookings made 180 days or less prior to departure require a deposit of 50% of total trip cost. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days prior to departure. 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 121 days – 100% of deposit
120 to 91 days – 75% of total trip cost
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

(For expeditions booked prior to October 15,2024: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.)

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 Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway voyage begins and ends in Helsinki, Finland (HEL), with group charter flights between Helsinki and Longyearbyen, Norway (LYR). 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 Helsinki anytime on Day 1 of the itinerary. An arrival transfer is not needed, as the Day 1 hotel is at the airport (your room may not be ready until 3:00pm). On Day 10 of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier between 7:00 and 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with a transfer to the airport or hotel. Plan flights to depart Helsinki no earlier than three hours following arrival of your group charter flight from Longyearbyen on Day 10. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Group charter flights between Helsinki and Longyearbyen are required on this trip’s itinerary; see the Mandatory Transfer Package information listed above under Inclusions. The flight to Longyearbyen is expected to depart early on Day 2 of the itinerary. There is a strict luggage limit on the flights to and from Helsinki, which will be detailed in your final documents as flights are confirmed close to departure. Should you have additional luggage, it can be stored at the hotel in Helsinki; there is no option to pay for additional luggage. On Day 10 of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier between 7:00 and 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with a transfer to the airport for the return charter flight to Helsinki, or to your independently arranged hotel in Longyearbyen.

Activities

Hiking, Zodiac cruising, daily presentations, photography guides and the polar plunge are optional and included. Various optional activities may be available on your Svalbard Explorer cruise, for guests aged 16 and older, at the following per person costs in 2025: sea kayaking for $795 and one-time paddling excursion for $295. Sea kayaking is arranged in small groups of 10 people, multiple times per voyage, and only conducted during calm weather conditions. You must have some prior kayaking experience, including the capability to do a wet exit. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Contact AdventureSmith for more details and to reserve your spot on these adventure activities.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ocean Explorer: Grand & Royal Veranda Stateroom; Studio Veranda Single; Explorer, Junior & Owner’s Suite
Ultramarine: Deluxe Balcony Suite, Terrace Suite, Penthouse Suite, Owner’s Suite, Ultra Suite

Families & Children

At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times, and may not participate in adventure options.

Travel Insurance

Emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of up to $500,000 USD per paying traveler provides coverage between the first and last day of ship-based travel and is included in the cost of this trip. For ship- and land-based trips, additional days of travel pre- and post-expedition are not covered. Travelers are responsible for having adequate international medical coverage prior to embarkation, with a minimum benefit of $50,000 USD. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers also protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. 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.

Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway Itinerary

This 11-day Arctic expedition around Spitsbergen begins and ends with a pre- and post-cruise hotel overnight in Helsinki, Finland, with round-trip charter flights to and from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and both a pre- and post-cruise hotel overnight.

Route map of Svalbard Explorer cruise focused on western edge of the archipelago & operating round-trip from Longyearbyen with bookend flights to and from Helsinki, Finland.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Helsinki, Finland

Your Arctic voyage begins in Helsinki, renowned for its extraordinary architecture and intriguing mix of eastern and western influences. If arriving early, explore the many museums, galleries and restaurants, relax at a Finnish sauna or wander the vibrant Design District before retiring at the included airport hotel.

Accommodations

Airport Hotel TBA

Meals

n/a

Read More
Day 2
Fly to Longyearbyen, Svalbard & Embark

This morning, the group will transfer to the airport and board a private charter flight to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s largest settlement, where there will be some free time to explore before embarkation. As the ship sets sail, enjoy the first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from icy waters.

Accommodations

Ultramarine, Ocean Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 9
Exploring Spitsbergen

You’ll cruise around this magical island on a constant search for wildlife. Your expedition will cover western Spitsbergen as well as stunning fjords to the north. From polar flora to immense glaciers, the natural landscape here is just as varied as the wildlife.

Each expedition presents new opportunities and different weather and ice, so there is no fixed itinerary; however, some of the places you may visit include the 14th of July Glacier, Smeerenburg, Alkefjellet and the Hinlopen Strait. The destinations visited will be selected for optimum wildlife viewing with an appreciation of the history and geology of Spitsbergen. The island offers multiple opportunities for wildlife photography. Since most of Svalbard’s Arctic ecosystem is uninhabited and well-protected, this remote archipelago is one of the world’s best places to spot polar bears against stunning natural backdrops of mountains and ice.

The towering cliffs of Alkefjellet provide homes to thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots (thick-billed murres). Coming across a walrus haul-out is a moment you won’t soon forget. Get a chance to witness the intimate gatherings of giant pinnipeds as they haul out together on small coastal strips. If you’re itching to experience a more intimate view from the water, you can book the sea kayaking or paddling excursion adventure options.

In Spitsbergen, there is no shortage of natural beauty. The tundra can be surprisingly colorful in summer, with wildflowers bursting for a taste of sunshine. Each day, you’ll see something interesting, whether it is an ever-changing gallery of spectacular icebergs, a polar bear resting between hunts, or an abandoned historical site from centuries ago.

Accommodations

Ultramarine, Ocean Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
Disembark Longyearbyen, Fly to Helsinki, Finland & Overnight

The time to say goodbye to your expedition team and shipmates has come. Your adventure ends as it began, in the historic frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, be transferred to the airport for your return group charter flight to Helsinki, included in the transfer package. Upon arrival in Helsinki, be transferred to your included hotel for the night.

Accommodations

Hotel TBA

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Day 11
Depart Helsinki, Finland

After breakfast, you can make your way to the airport for your onward f light home, or stay to explore Finland’s culturally-rich capital on your own if you’ve made prior arrangements.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Mandatory Transfer Package (approximate package price is $1,495 in 2026 and includes one night’s pre- and post-expedition hotel night at Helsinki airport hotel with breakfast on the following day, charter flight from Helsinki to Longyearbyen, arrival and departure transfers in Longyearbyen, and charter flight from Longyearbyen to Helsinki); shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals and snacks on board; soft drinks and juices on board; beer, wine, standard spirits and cocktails during dinner and bar service hours; complimentary WiFi; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by experienced expedition leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by the expedition team and special guests as scheduled; photographic journal documenting the expedition; waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard the ship; emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of US $500,000 per person; transfers between Longyearbyen town center and port on embarkation and disembarkation day.

Exclusions

International airfare; arrival and departure transfers in Helsinki; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended), or insurance of any kind; excess baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, and any gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified; phone and internet charges; voluntary gratuity at the end of voyage for shipboard staff and crew; additional overnight accommodation; any adventure options or excursions.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required when booking 181 days or more prior to departure. A second deposit of 25% of trip cost is due 180 days prior to departure. Bookings made 180 days or less prior to departure require a deposit of 50% of total trip cost. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days prior to departure. 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 121 days – 100% of deposit
120 to 91 days – 75% of total trip cost
90 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 Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway voyage begins and ends in Helsinki, Finland (HEL), with group charter flights between Helsinki and Longyearbyen, Norway (LYR). 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 Helsinki anytime on Day 1 of the itinerary. An arrival transfer is not needed, as the Day 1 hotel is at the airport (your room may not be ready until 3:00pm). On Day 10 of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier between 7:00 and 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with a transfer to the group hotel. Plan flights to depart Helsinki anytime on Day 11. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Group charter flights between Helsinki and Longyearbyen are required on this trip’s itinerary; see the Mandatory Transfer Package information listed above under Inclusions. The flight to Longyearbyen is expected to depart early on Day 2 of the itinerary. There is a strict luggage limit on the flights to and from Helsinki, which will be detailed in your final documents as flights are confirmed close to departure. Should you have additional luggage, it can be stored at the hotel in Helsinki; there is no option to pay for additional luggage. On Day 10 of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier between 7:00 and 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with a transfer to the airport for the return charter flight to Helsinki.

Activities

Hiking, Zodiac cruising, daily presentations, photography guides and the polar plunge are optional and included. Various optional activities may be available on your Svalbard Explorer cruise, for guests aged 16 and older, at the following per person costs in 2025: sea kayaking for $1,795 and one-time paddling excursion for $295. Sea kayaking is arranged in small groups of 10 people, multiple times per voyage, and only conducted during calm weather conditions. You must have some prior kayaking experience, including the capability to do a wet exit. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Contact AdventureSmith for more details and to reserve your spot on these adventure activities.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ocean Explorer: Grand & Royal Veranda Stateroom; Studio Veranda Single; Explorer, Junior & Owner’s Suite
Ultramarine: Deluxe Balcony Suite, Terrace Suite, Penthouse Suite, Owner’s Suite, Ultra Suite

Families & Children

At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times, and may not participate in adventure options.

Travel Insurance

Emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of up to $500,000 USD per paying traveler provides coverage between the first and last day of ship-based travel and is included in the cost of this trip. For ship- and land-based trips, additional days of travel pre- and post-expedition are not covered. Travelers are responsible for having adequate international medical coverage prior to embarkation, with a minimum benefit of $50,000 USD. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers also protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. 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

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

May 07 - May 16, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 10 days
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From $8481USD
Per Person
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May 11 - May 20, 2025
Ultramarine • 10 days
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From $8076USD
Per Person
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May 15 - May 24, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 10 days
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From $9831USD
Per Person
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May 23 - Jun 01, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 10 days
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From $10335USD
Per Person
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May 24 - Jun 02, 2025
Ultramarine • 10 days
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From $8076USD
Per Person
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May 31 - Jun 09, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 10 days
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From $10371USD
Per Person
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Jun 01 - Jun 10, 2025
Ultramarine • 10 days
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From $8535USD
Per Person
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Jun 08 - Jun 17, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 10 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $12818USD
Per Person
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Jun 09 - Jun 18, 2025
Ultramarine • 10 days
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From $8076USD
Per Person
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Jun 16 - Jun 25, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 10 days
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From $10983USD
Per Person
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Jun 17 - Jun 26, 2025
Ultramarine • 10 days
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From $8414USD
Per Person
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Jun 24 - Jul 03, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 10 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $10371USD
Per Person
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Jul 02 - Jul 11, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 10 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $10983USD
Per Person
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Jul 10 - Jul 19, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 10 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $10983USD
Per Person
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Aug 03 - Aug 14, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 12 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $11249USD
Per Person
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May 13 - May 23, 2026
Ultramarine • 11 days
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From $9243USD
Per Person
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May 14 - May 24, 2026
Ocean Explorer • 11 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $11219USD
Per Person
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May 21 - May 31, 2026
Ultramarine • 11 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $9243USD
Per Person
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May 22 - Jun 01, 2026
Ocean Explorer • 11 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $11219USD
Per Person
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May 29 - Jun 08, 2026
Ultramarine • 11 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $9728USD
Per Person
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May 30 - Jun 09, 2026
Ocean Explorer • 11 days
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From $12715USD
Per Person
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Jun 06 - Jun 16, 2026
Ultramarine • 11 days
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From $9728USD
Per Person
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Jun 07 - Jun 17, 2026
Ocean Explorer • 11 days
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From $12715USD
Per Person
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Jun 14 - Jun 24, 2026
Ultramarine • 11 days
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From $9970USD
Per Person
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Jun 15 - Jun 25, 2026
Ocean Explorer • 11 days
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From $12715USD
Per Person
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Jun 22 - Jul 02, 2026
Ultramarine • 11 days
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From $9970USD
Per Person
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Jun 23 - Jul 03, 2026
Ocean Explorer • 11 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $12715USD
Per Person
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Jul 01 - Jul 11, 2026
Ocean Explorer • 11 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $12715USD
Per Person
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A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option One-Time Paddling
Accommodations

Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
Ultramarine

The new Ultramarine 199-passenger polar ship is purpose-built for safety and far-off exploration in Antarctica and the Arctic. Dual helicopter pads and an incredible 70-day cruising range allow access to the hardest-to-reach places.

Expedition Ship
Ocean Explorer

The 138-guest Ocean Explorer offers refined spaces, a relaxed atmosphere, state-of-the-art technology, a design optimized for smooth and efficient cruising, an elevator servicing all decks, and a private balcony in most cabins. Come aboard this polar ship for amenities like Jacuzzis and a sauna, plus tenured guides.

Expert Reviews

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

Andrew Browning • December 1st, 2023
Expert Aboard: Ultramarine Ship Review

Read a detailed ship review from our expert who was aboard Ultramarine, plus see traveler ratings on everything from the food & helicopters to his Greenland itinerary highlights.

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.

Nick Mitchell • March 19th, 2021
Expert Review: Nansen & Me—My Time on the Svalbard Explorer Cruise

An Adventure Specialist details his most northerly expedition. Learn about taking an Arctic cruise in early season, what wildlife he saw and why he recommends kayaking in the Arctic, plus insights into the best time to visit Svalbard to see polar bears.

Testimonials

Hear It From Travelers Who Have Explored With Us

"The Trip Ran Like Clockwork"

Fulfilling all that was on the detailed expectations. The wilderness of the Arctic was the big plus and to be there in real life and not just seeing it via the TV screen was humbling. To go where there had never been habitation and nature ruled was awesome. The kayaking made the holiday.

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"Awesome!"

I can now officially call myself "bipolar!" Visiting both the northern and southern cold zones in 6 months was awesome!

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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.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

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16 - 16 Day Cruise
Norway's Fjords & Arctic Svalbard

Join National Geographic expert leaders aboard 138-guest Nat Geo Endurance or Resolution to see the Arctic's unparalleled beauty, exploring where polar bears prowl and walruses haul out on rocky shores.

Special Offer
From $24607USD
May Jun Jul
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11 - 26 Day Cruise
Iceland Circumnavigation Cruise

Circumnavigate Iceland aboard the 132-guest Greg Mortimer on a flexible route that includes plenty of time ashore, plus add-on activities like kayaking.

Special Offer
From $13195USD
May Jun
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8 - 8 Day Cruise
Norwegian Fjords Cruise

Set sail  for 8 days aboard a French luxury ship on this Norwegian fjords cruise. Discover dizzying cliff faces, Viking history and the Norwegian capital of Oslo, a city with unique energy.

From $8420USD
Jul Aug
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Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway

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