This High Arctic adventure begins in the traditional Spitsbergen town of Longyearbyen, where modern shops and art galleries contrast with the settlement's strong coal mining heritage.
Discover majestic glaciers, awe-inspiring fjords and the fascinating former mining town of Alesund as you explore North West Spitsbergen National Park.
Keep an eye out for polar bears hunting on the ice flows during your time in Eastern Svalbard, before navigating the breathtaking Isfjord, home to the endemic Svalbard Reindeer. Shore landings and guided hikes led by the Expedition Team enrich this once-in-a-lifetime voyage.
NE459 Operated by Hurtigruten Expeditions
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In the Realm of the Polar Bear Itinerary
Day 1 - Oslo (Norway) - Longyearbyen (Spitsbergen)
Take the opportunity to explore Norway's fascinating capital, Oslo, with its varied architecture and lively bars, before an evening flight to Longyearbyen. Arrive in Longyearbyen and transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 2 - Longyearbyen
Check-out of your hotel and join an excursion showcasing the best of Longyearbyen and the surrounding area before embarking ship. It is a town of contrasts, mixing strong Arctic influences with modern amenities including art galleries, pubs and restaurants.
Day 3-4 - North West Spitsbergen National Park
The North West Corner of Spitsbergen is dotted with beautiful islands, beaches and fjords, not forgetting the majestic shapes which can be found in the drifting ice. Weather permitting, we will land and discover Svalbard's history. You will have the opportunity to see the remains of ancient blubber ovens used to render whale oil.
Day 5-7 - Eastern Svalbard Nature Reserve
Eastern Svalbard boasts the highest population of polar bears on the archipelago so there is a good chance of spotting one of these wonderful creatures. Journey through the Hinlopen Strait, where thousands of seabirds mate and walrus can be seen diving for clams in the bays before heading towards Edgeøya, the third-largest island in the Svalbard archipelago.
Day 8 - South Spitsbergen National Park
Cruise toward the southernmost tip of Spitsbergen to Hornsund which boasts a wonderfully varied landscape and geology.
Day 9 - Isfjord
Isfjord is the most extensive fjord system in the archipelago. Spend the day exploring this breathtaking fjord including the magnificent U-shaped valleys where you might be lucky enough to spot a Svalbard Reindeer.
Day 10 - Longyearbyen - Oslo (Norway)
Disembark ship in Longyearbyen and transfer to the airport for your flight to Oslo.
Itinerary is subject to change. All planned landings are subject to weather and ice conditions.