Spitsbergen Highlights: Journey into the Arctic Wilderness

7 Days | Soak up the many highlights of icy Spitsbergen and journey into the Arctic wilderness

Polar
Wildlife
From
USD $5,843

Pack all the excitement of the epic Arctic into just a week on this seven-day cruise aboard the Ultramarine. Sail into the icy wilderness and see some once-in-a-lifetime sights on this amazing journey into Spitsbergen and the surrounding islands. Take Zodiac excursions to explore this rocky island covered in mountains, glaciers, cliffs and fjords that play host to a thriving and diverse ecosystem. Walk through a tundra covered in wildflowers, learn about the fascinating geology of the north and see the abandoned whaling towns rich with history. Chase incredible views and with an expert Expedition Team by your side, have the best chance to spot some local wildlife – including walruses, colonies of seabirds, the fabled reindeer and the iconic polar bear.

Trip overview

Map of Spitsbergen Highlights: Journey Into The Arctic Wilderness including Finland and Norway
Start
Helsinki, Finland
Finish
Helsinki, Finland
Theme
Polar, Wildlife
Destinations
Norway, Finland
Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Style
Comfort
Ages
Min 8
Group size
Min 1 - Max 199
Trip code
BQMD
We’re in the process of figuring out how much CO2-e this trip generates. In the meantime, find out more about our climate commitments and carbon reduction target.

Why you'll love this trip
  • On this amazing Arctic adventure, you’ll have the best chance to spot some iconic marine and land wildlife, such as polar bears, walruses, seabirds and reindeer.
  • If you’re short on time, this adventure is the perfect Arctic escape, as it will cover the many highlights of Spitsbergen in just a week! With amazing onboard amenities and a fantastic Expedition Team, what more could you need?
  • Make Zodiac excursions (depending on weather) across the icy seas and explore massive glaciers, gorgeous fjords, thundering icebergs and a landscape like no other.
  • Take the opportunity to hike the colourful tundra covered in wildflowers – one of the many unique features of an Arctic wilderness.
  • Immerse yourself in the icy realm even further with optional sea-kayaking adventures, snowshoeing, Zodiac rides and onboard lectures and talks by experts.

Is this trip right for you?
  • As you’d expect, temperatures in the Arctic are very cold. A warm parka and waterproof boots and unlimited hot drinks will be provided, but you should also bring base layers and lots of warm clothing. Please see the trip notes for further important information about what to bring.
  • Depending on the weather, you will be making regular excursions in a Zodiac boat to explore the local area and look for wildlife. It can get very cold and wet on the Zodiac, so ensure you are dressed appropriately and keep your camera safe and dry. Sturdy sea legs are needed as you make wet and dry landings from the boat and on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces. Some ships have a lot of stairs, so please hold on to the handrails if the seas are rough.
  • The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and although there's an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you'll be able to do everything that is planned for. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially to such a remote area.
  • This trip takes place during the time of year when Spitsbergen enjoys 24-hour daylight. Just one of the benefits of this is that incredible wildlife can be seen at any time of the day – be prepared to be woken at any time so as to not miss out on exciting animal sightings.
  • Polar bears are among the most incredible and appealing animals on the planet, but they are also powerful predators with little fear of humans. Therefore it's necessary to be aware of the guidelines surrounding any contact with Polar bears. Follow your leader’s instructions and do not stray from your group – your leader carries equipment to protect you.

Boats

Ultramarine
Ultramarine
BOAT TYPE: ExpeditionPASSENGERS: 199
If you’re looking to take your polar adventure to the next level, Ultramarine is designed to help you discover amazing new places and see the very best of the spectacular polar regions. Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, Ultramarine helps travellers access a wide variety of activities while featuring spacious suites, incredible public spaces, and a huge range of outdoor wildlife viewing vantage points. It also features an innovative mix of sustainability features that exceed all industry standards. Other features include an all-inclusive bar and a helicopter landing pad, with sightseeing flights included in the voyages. Please note: Helicopter operations are not permitted in certain regions such as Svalbard and South Georgia. These restrictions are in place to protect the landscape and wildlife of these areas.
Explore features

Itinerary

Map of Spitsbergen Highlights: Journey Into The Arctic Wilderness including Finland and Norway

Inclusions

Meals

6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners

Transport

Expedition cruise ship, Zodiac

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night), Expedition cruise ship (5 nights)

Dates and availability

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Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Spitsbergen Highlights: Journey into the Arctic Wilderness
From
USD $5,843