Svalbard Pioneer

• Day 1/2 - Longyearbyen and Prins Karls Foreland

  Our Svalbard circumnavigation cruise departs from the port of Longyearbyen in the afternoon. The overall schedule is flexible to allow us to see as much as possible and will be led by our highly experienced leader. Taking advantage of the beautiful 24-hour sunlight we will sail out of the Isfjord and towards Prins Karls Foreland where we will do shore landings and visit a walrus colony on day 2. Our plan is to sail north and attempt a clockwise circumnavigation of Spitsbergen.

• Day 3/5 - Ny-Alesund, Kongsfjord and Ice Edge

  As we head north we plan to call at the scientific community of Ny-Alesund, the most northerly inhabited settlement on earth which is home to an interesting historical site and museum. We will explore the majestic Kongsfjord and the fjords that branch into it. We will sail close to an impressive calving glacier face and there will also be an opportunity for hikes ashore with our expedition leader. If the conditions allow we will then sail north and attempt to reach the edge of the sea ice which extends all the way to the North Pole, a really impressive sight.

• Day 6/8 - Nordaustlandet and Hinlopen Strait

  We will sail along the north coast of Spitsbergen keeping a lookout for wildlife including polar bears that inhabit the area. Depending on the sea ice conditions, we aim to continue along the north coast to reach the island of Nordaustlandet and cruise along the Austfonna Ice Cap, a truly breathtaking sight. If the sea ice doesn’t allow us access then the other option is to head south through the Hinlopen Strait. We aim to make shore landings on a daily basis to explore the majestic wilderness of this area.

• Day 9/13 - Southern Spitsbergen

  We will follow the compass south and explore the region along the south coast of Spitsbergen. We will visit rarely visited landing sites and have lots of chances to take in the breathtaking nature, wildlife, and scenery. As we round the southern tip of Spitsbergen, we will enter the area around Hornsund where we will have a day to explore and do some wilderness hikes. We will then set sail north along the coast towards Longyearbyen.

• Day 14 - Longyearbyen

  Safely back in the port of Longyearbyen after our epic 14-day Svalbard circumnavigation cruise, we will enjoy a final breakfast together. We say our goodbyes and disembark in the morning after making new friends and sharing an incredible adventure together.

Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your captain and expedition leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.