Svalbard Explorer | Ocean Explorer | IExpedition

Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway

  • Overview

    This fascinating expedition provides a taste of everything Spitsbergen has to offer, starting with its largest settlement, Longyearbyen. The largest island of the Svalbard archipelago is known as the “wildlife capital of the Arctic,” and on this stirring voyage, we show you why. A key focus of this 10-day expedition will be to seek out the abundant wildlife that resides here, including walrus, reindeer, and that most iconic of Arctic denizens, the polar bear, in their natural habitat, while marveling at the surreal experience of continuous daylight. Explore the unique Arctic landscape, hike the vast and colorful tundra, learn about the history and geology of this remote wilderness, and join us on a gripping excursion to a faraway, unforgettable land.

    Expedition Highlights

    • Encounter iconic Arctic wildlife, such as polar bears, walrus and reindeer

    • Take advantage of continuous daylight

    • 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

    Duration: 12 days
    Passengers: 200 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Helsinki, Finland
    Disembarkation Point: Helsinki, Finland
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Cruise only
    Single Supplement: 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Arrive in Helsinki, Finland

      Your Arctic adventure begins in Helsinki, renowned for its extraordinary architecture and intriguing mix of eastern and western influences. If you arrive early, explore the many museums, galleries and restaurants, relax at a Finnish sauna or wander the vibrant Design District before retiring 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, enjoy your first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from frigid waters.

    • Day 3/9 - Exploring Spitsbergen

      You’ll cruise around this magical island on a constant search for wildlife. Your expedition will cover western Spitsbergen as well as stunning fjordsto the north. From polar flora to immense glaciers, the natural landscape here is just as varied as the wildlife.Each expedition presents new opportunities and different weather and ice, so there is no fixed itinerary; however, some of the places we may visit include the 14th of July Glacier, Smeerenburg, Alkefjellet and the Hinlopen Strait. The destinations visited will be selected for optimum wildlife viewing with an appreciation of the history and geology of Spitsbergen.The island offers multiple opportunities for wildlife photography. Since most of Svalbard’s Arctic ecosystem is uninhabited and well-protected, this remote archipelago is one of the world’s best places to spot polar bears against stunning natural backdrops of mountains and ice.The towering cliffs of Alkefjellet provide homes to thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots (thick-billed murres).Coming across a walrus haul-out is a moment you won’t soon forget. Get a chance to witness the intimate gatherings of giant pinnipeds as they haul out together on small coastal strips.If you’re itching to experience a more intimate view from the water, you can book the sea kayaking or paddling excursion adventure options.In Spitsbergen, there is no shortage of natural beauty. The tundra can be surprisingly colorful in summer, with wildflowers bursting for a taste of sunshine. Each day, you’ll see something interesting, whether it is an ever-changing gallery of spectacular icebergs, a polar bear resting between hunts, oran abandoned historical site from centuries ago.

    • Day 10 - Disembark in Longyearbyen and Fly to Helsinki

      The time to say goodbye to your Expedition Team and shipmates has come. Your adventure ends as it began, in the historic frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your return group charter flight to Helsinki, included in the transfer package.

    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.

  • Adventure Activities

    Sea Kayaking

    One of the most exhilarating ways to experience Antarctica, the Arctic or any of our global voyages. The experience of sea kayaking in the humbling wilderness of Antarctica is guaranteed to stir your soul. Paddle between brash ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes, skim past penguin rookeries or under soaring bird cliffs, or drift quietly as you watch wildlife unobtrusively, absorbing the majestic scenery

    USD$ 937 per person

    Paddling Excursion

    If you’re interested in kayaking and would like to try something less in depth than Sea Kayaking, you can still enjoy the benefits of adding an on-water experience to your expedition with a Paddling Excursion. Sign up for a onetime paddle on our sit-on-top kayaks, which are stable and unencumbered— perfect for anyone with little to no kayak experience. Expert guides take rotating groups of passengers on calm days to connect with the sea.

    USD$ 352 per person

    Polar Plunge

    This rite of passage, experienced just once per expedition, sees you safely jumping into icy ocean waters under the watchful eye of our staff—and just about every single camera lens on board!

    Included

    Zodiac Cruising

    Zodiacs are the workhorses of polar expeditions, safely transporting guests to remote shorelines and shallow inlets—places the ships can’t reach. Expedition staff make stepping in and out of them safe and comfortable.

    Included

    Hiking

    There are options on most excursions for shorter walks, often to take advantage of excellent lookouts, that don’t require hiking boots and other equipment. Hiking participation is optional and your Expedition Team will advise you of what you can expect prior to each excursion.

    Included
  • Inclusions
    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities
    - All Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program
    - All shore landings per the daily program
    - Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
    - All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals.)
    - Select 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
    - Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
    - All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
    - 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 center and port on embarkation and disembarkation day
    - One night’s pre-expedition hotel night at Helsinki airport hotel, with breakfast
    - Arrival and departure transfers in Longyearbyen

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Arrival and departure transfers in Helsinki
    - Excess-baggage fees on international flights
    - Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew
    - Laundry, bar and other personal charges unless specified
    - Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
    - Meals ashore unless otherwise specified
    - Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above
    - Passport and visa expenses
    - Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities
    - Phone and Internet charges (connectivity may vary by location)
    - Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended
    - Additional overnight accommodation
    - International airfare
  • Map
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  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    Ocean Explorer - the 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology. One of the ship’s key features is the ULSTEIN X-BOW®, a marine engineering innovation that ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience thanks to the inverted bow. Located at the bow is the two-story, light-filled library, which introduces a welcome airiness to the expedition ship.  

    Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design and almost all have verandas. Guests can relax and find comfort in the spacious gym, sauna with large windows, and two outdoor Jacuzzis.  

    Ocean Explorer features ample outdoor viewing areas and multi-height outer decks, which are ideal for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. The vessel is equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs that enable guests to get off the ship quickly and safely for off-ship adventures. In addition to the well-appointed and spacious public areas, Ocean Explorer has an industry-leading mix of sustainability systems, including fuel-efficient Rolls Royce engines. 

    Features & Facilities
    • Sauna
    • Library
    • Fitness Center
    • Jacuzzi
    • Observation lounge
    • Main and Private Dining Room
    • High Observation Outdoor Decks
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating:
    Guests #: 138
    Crew #: 105
    Ice Class: 1A, PC6
    Speed: 16
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built:
    Length: 104m
    Width:
    Draft: 5
    Tonnage:
    Registry: Portugal
    Elec Outlets:
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability

Studio Double

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
Enjoy the calm ambience of this stateroom which features a porthole window and every amenity essential for your polar voyage.
USD$ 16,275pp
USD$ 12,054pp

Studio Veranda Stateroom

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
Located on Deck 6. These cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
USD$ 17,250pp
USD$ 12,756pp

Deluxe Veranda Forward Stateroom

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
Enjoy privacy and elegance at the front of the ship where guests are treated to sweeping views from their private veranda.
USD$ 18,075pp
USD$ 13,350pp
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Deluxe Veranda Middle Stateroom 

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
These classic staterooms ensure guests have easy access to all amenities the ship has to offer.
USD$ 18,975pp
USD$ 13,998pp

Deluxe Veranda Stateroom

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
Revel in superior comfort of this stateroom on Deck 4 while taking in the panoramic ocean views from your private veranda.
USD$ 19,500pp
USD$ 14,376pp
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Grand Veranda Stateroom

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
Near the center of the ship on Deck 6, this stateroom offers easy access to the lounge, dining room and a private veranda.
USD$ 20,550pp
USD$ 15,132pp

Royal Veranda Stateroom

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
This spacious, classic stateroom allows you to stretch freely. Centrally located on Decks 4 and 6.
USD$ 23,700pp
USD$ 17,400pp

Royal Veranda Stateroom

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
This spacious, classic stateroom allows you to stretch freely. Centrally located on Decks 4 and 6.
USD$ 23,700pp
USD$ 17,775pp

Studio Single

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor..
USD$ 24,525pp
USD$ 15,285pp
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Junior Suite

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive.
USD$ 24,525pp
USD$ 15,285pp
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Studio Veranda Single

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7. It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
USD$ 26,400pp
USD$ 16,410pp

Explorer Suite

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.
USD$ 27,750pp
USD$ 20,316pp

Owners Suite

03 Aug 2025 - 14 Aug 2025
This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities.
USD$ 30,075pp
USD$ 18,615pp