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Spring Expedition to the Arctic

Svalbard Arctic Expedition

Located midway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, the Svalbard archipelago is one of the most remarkable wilderness regions on Earth. Towering glaciers spill into icy fjords, drifting sea ice stretches towards the horizon and wildlife thrives in one of the planet’s most extreme environments.

This special May 2027 expedition aboard the M/V Polarfront brings a unique perspective to our classic Ultimate Svalbard Safari.

This expedition invites travellers to experience the Arctic during a pivotal moment in the seasonal cycle. Early May marks the transition between winter and spring, when sea ice fractures, wildlife becomes more active and the returning Arctic light illuminates the dramatic landscapes of Svalbard.

With only 12 guests aboard MV Polarfront, this expedition offers exceptional flexibility to explore ice-filled fjords, search for polar bears on the pack ice and witness the Arctic awakening after winter.

Why This Expedition Is Unique

Exceptional Polar Bear Encounters - Spring is one of the best times to search for polar bears as they roam the sea ice hunting seals.
One of the Arctic’s Most Exclusive Expedition Ships - With only 12 passengers, MV Polarfront offers an intimate and flexible exploration experience.
True Arctic Expedition Travel - Routes are shaped daily by wildlife sightings, sea ice and weather conditions.
Experience the Arctic Awakening - Witness Svalbard during the dramatic seasonal transition from winter to spring.

Day 1 – Arrive Longyearbyen

Your Arctic adventure begins in Longyearbyen, the northernmost town in the world. Located on the island of Spitsbergen, the town sits beneath dramatic mountains and glaciers, offering a fascinating introduction to life in the High Arctic.

Upon arrival you will transfer to your hotel and have time to settle in before the expedition begins.

Day 2 – Embark MV Polarfront

Today, you transfer to the harbour and board MV Polarfront, your expedition vessel for the coming days. After settling into your cabin, meet the experienced expedition team and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing where you will learn more about the journey ahead, safety procedures and life aboard the ship.

As the ship departs Longyearbyen, sail through the dramatic Isfjorden, surrounded by rugged mountains and vast Arctic landscapes. Spend time on deck watching for your first wildlife sightings, which may include seabirds, seals or even the distant blow of a whale. In the evening, enjoy your first dinner on board while the expedition team outlines the exciting days of exploration ahead.

Days 3–10 – Exploring the Svalbard Archipelago

This is true Arctic expedition travel, with no fixed itinerary. Your captain and expedition team will adapt the route daily based on wildlife sightings, sea ice conditions and weather. While exploring the Svalbard archipelago, you may encounter towering glaciers, ice-filled fjords and vast seabird colonies returning for the summer. Keep watch for polar bears on the pack ice, walrus resting along Arctic beaches and Arctic fox or Svalbard reindeer roaming the tundra.

Zodiac cruises and shore landings allow close exploration of remote landscapes and wildlife habitats, while onboard talks from the expedition team share insights into Arctic ecology, exploration history and conservation.

Close-up portrait of a walrus with long tusks on the sea ice in Svalbard by Will Bolsover

Day 11 – Depart Longyearbyen

Your expedition concludes as the ship returns to Longyearbyen in the early morning. After breakfast, you will disembark and transfer to the airport for your onward journey, bringing your Arctic adventure in Svalbard to a close.

As with all polar expeditions, flexibility is essential. Routes and landing sites will depend on ice conditions, weather and wildlife opportunities, ensuring the best possible experience in this remarkable Arctic wilderness.

The Ship

M/V Polarfront

Originally built in Norway as a meteorological research vessel, M/V Polarfront was later converted into a small expedition ship ideally suited for navigating Arctic waters. With an ice-strengthened hull and advanced stabilisation, the vessel provides both safety and comfort while exploring Svalbard’s fjords and pack ice. Carrying just 12 passengers, Polarfront offers one of the most exclusive expedition experiences in the Arctic.

On board you will find: