Greenland & Spitsbergen: Exploring the Fjords & Glaciers

Arrive Longyearbyen

Be sure you keep your eyes peeled for the collection of colourful buildings that signal your arrival into Longyearbyen. Set amongst the dramatic landscapes of Norway’s northern reaches, this small coal-mining town serves as the gateway to Arctic exploration! Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel where we recommend you settle in and prepare yourself for the incredible adventure that awaits.

Overnight: Radisson Blu Polar Hotel Spitsbergen

Exploring Longyearbyen - Embark M/S Expedition

Today your Arctic adventure truly begins! Having dropped your checked luggage off at the meeting point between 09.00 and 12.00, the rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure. Wander the streets of Longyearbyen and explore everything this town as to offer from the fascinating museums to the array of shops, bars and restaurants.

You will be given a specific time to meet back at the hotel where you will be transferred to the ship along with your travel companions for embarkation. Please ensure that you have your passport accessible as you will need this to board your expedition ship!

Overnight: M/S Expedition in Svalbard (D)

Exploring Northeast Greenland National Park

The next several days will be spent exploring the vast fjord system of Northeast Greenland National Park, the biggest National Park in the world! Venture through Scorsbysund, the tree-like fjord system marked by winding branches of fjords dotted with towering icebergs. Take to the Zodiacs and land on some of the most spectacular fjord country in the world and be sure to capture moments and memories in this vast wilderness. As you walk over the autumn tundra you may spot musk oxen grazing nearby! Witness the changing light of polar sunrise and sunsets, draping the mountains in extravagant colours and if you are lucky, you may get to watch the dazzling light show of the Aurora Borealis whilst sailing through the calm seas.

As you attempt to follow the drifting pack ice along the coast of Northeast Greenland, be sure you keep a keen lookout for Arctic wildlife including orca, humpback and minke whales, seals, sea birds and of course the ‘King of the Arctic’. In addition, there will be lectures hosted throughout the day onboard the ship, allowing you to learn about anything from local wildlife through to the history and exploration of the Arctic.

Overnight: M/S Expedition in Svalbard (B, L, D)

Exploring Ittoqqortoomiit

Having spent several days traversing the far reaches of Greenland’s incredible wilderness, it is time to visit the community of Ittoqqortoomiit. Although small and a fair distance from other inhabited towns, the vibrancy of life here is shown through the brightly coloured buildings, the eager husky puppies, the purr of engines racing along the unpaved roads and the overwhelming warmth of the people who call this community their home! With just 450 residents and one grocery store, many people rely on traditional hunting and fishing practices in order to survive. Spend the day fully immersing yourself in this cultural experience and learn how people survive in this spectacular, yet isolated region.

Overnight: M/S Expedition in Svalbard (B, L, D)

Exploring Spitsbergen

Over the next few days, you will have the chance to explore the Northwest Spitsbergen National Park; a rare and unique place blessed with both breath-taking landscape and captivating history. Located halfway between Norway and the North Pole, the Svalbard archipelago is considered as the last outpost en-route to the North Pole by many explorers. Home to fascinating flora and fauna, be sure to take full advantage of the sunlight to search for wildlife. Spend your days searching for the elusive polar bear as they hunt for seals, perhaps witness Svalbard’s unique subspecies of reindeer and be sure to lookout for the Arctic fox! We highly recommend having your binoculars and cameras to hand.

Overnight: M/S Expedition in Svalbard (B, L, D)

Spitsbergen - Depart Longyearbyen

Having explored Spitsbergen, you will sail back to Longyearbyen where you can expect to disembark the expedition ship around 08.00. From here you will either be transferred directly to the airport or to the Radisson Blu Polar Hotel depending on your onward travel plans. If you have secured a later flight home, then you will be able to store your luggage at the hotel and enjoy your final day wandering the streets of Longyearbyen – perhaps check out the museums, grab a last-minute souvenir or enjoy a relaxing meal at one of the restaurants. You will be transferred to the airport later in the day as per your flight schedule.

Please note that if you have an early morning flight booked, you will be able to disembark the ship and be provided with a transfer to the airport in time to check-in for your flight.

(B)