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Arctic Spitsbergen: Fjords, Glaciers and Wildlife of Svalbard

Mixed Board Basis 9 nights from £4,899 per person Including Flights

Overview

Embark on a captivating 10-day expedition to Spitsbergen, Svalbard's largest island, starting from the bustling Longyearbyen. This journey, a gateway to the “wildlife capital of the Arctic,” promises unparalleled wildlife sightings, including walrus, reindeer, and the elusive polar bear. Experience the phenomenon of continuous daylight, delve into the island's history and geology, and marvel at the vast tundra on guided hikes.

Available on two ships, each offering a unique polar adventure, this expedition caters to diverse preferences. 'Ultramarine', a cutting-edge polar vessel, accesses uncharted territories with its advanced features, including 20 quick-launch Zodiacs and expansive wildlife viewing areas, ensuring a personalized Arctic exploration. 'Ocean Adventurer', popular for its cozy atmosphere, offers a more intimate experience, fostering connections among guests and expedition staff. Both ships promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Arctic's natural beauty. (Q)

Highlights:

  • Journey through Svalbard in search of natural and cultural sites
  • Visit the lesser-known parts of this arctic region and seek out polar bears, reindeer and seals
  • Board the MS Expedition Ship
  • Hike the Tundra and Polar desert
  • Cruise in a Zodiac to explore glaciers, fjords, icebergs and more
  • Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Arctic with optional kayaking adventures
Whats included?
  • Flights & taxes
  • Accommodation
  • Transfers
  • Checked baggage
  • ATOL protection
  • In resort assistance & 24 hour contact centre
Why Book with Tropical Sky?
  • Hassle-free - book direct quickly and easily
  • Choice of airlines and the option to switch
  • A friendly, family run business with a wealth of experience.
  • Great deals on offer for multiple destinations
  • Low deposits
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Day 1

Arrive in Helsinki, Finland

Your Arctic adventure starts in Helsinki, celebrated for its remarkable architecture and fascinating blend of eastern and western influences. If you arrive early, take the opportunity to explore the city's numerous museums, galleries, and restaurants. Enjoy a relaxing Finnish sauna or stroll through the vibrant Design District before settling in at your included hotel.

Day 2

Fly to Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Embark

This morning, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen's largest settlement. As your ship sets sail, savour your first glimpse of the island's rugged, glacier-capped mountains rising majestically from the frigid waters.

Days 3 to 9

Exploring Spitsbergen

Your cruise around Spitsbergen promises a constant search for wildlife, covering its western part and stunning northern fjords. The island's landscape, ranging from polar flora to vast glaciers, is as diverse as its wildlife.

The expedition's itinerary is flexible, adapting to weather and ice conditions. Potential visits include the 14th of July Glacier, Smeerenburg, Alkefjellet, and the Hinlopen Strait, chosen for optimal wildlife viewing and appreciation of Spitsbergen's history and geology.

Svalbard offers exceptional opportunities for wildlife photography, especially of polar bears in an untouched Arctic ecosystem. Alkefjellet's cliffs are a haven for thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots, and witnessing a walrus haul-out is unforgettable.

For a closer encounter with nature, consider sea kayaking or paddling excursions. Spitsbergen's beauty is boundless, from summer's vibrant tundra wildflowers to icebergs, resting polar bears, and historical sites. Each day unveils new and fascinating sights.

Day 10

Disembark in Longyearbyen and fly to Helsinki

Your journey concludes where it started, in the historic, frontier-style town of Longyearbyen. From here, we'll arrange your transfer to the airport for the return group charter flight to Helsinki, included in your transfer package.

  • International flights
  • Leadership throughout your voyage by experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities
  • All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily programme
  • All shore landings as per the daily programme
  • Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
  • All meals, snacks, soft drinks, and juices onboard throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals.)
  • Selected beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea, and cocoa available around the clock
  • Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
  • A photographic journal documenting the expedition
  • A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
  • An official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep
  • Hairdryer and bathrobes in every cabin
  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the programme
  • All luggage handling aboard the ship
  • Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person
  • Transfers between Longyearbyen town centre and port on embarkation and disembarkation day

What's Not Included:

  • Meals ashore unless otherwise specified
  • Baggage, cancellation, interruption, and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended
  • Excess-baggage fees on international flights
  • Mandatory waterproof trousers for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
  • Laundry, bar, and other personal charges unless specified
  • Phone and Internet charges (connectivity may vary by location)
  • Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew
  • Additional overnight accommodation
  • Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities

Roisin Carbery
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