Your Arctic adventure starts in Helsinki, a city famous for its stunning architecture and unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. Arrive early to enjoy the city's attractions—visit museums, explore galleries, try local restaurants, unwind in a Finnish sauna, or stroll through the lively Design District. After your explorations, rest at the hotel included.

This morning, the group heads to the airport and takes a private charter flight to Longyearbyen, the largest town in Spitsbergen. Once the ship sets sail, take your first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-covered mountains rising dramatically from the icy waters.

You’ll cruise around this magical island in a constant search for wildlife. Your expedition covers western Spitsbergen as well as stunning fjords to 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 conditions. Consequently, there is no fixed itinerary. However, some of the places you may visit include the 14th of July Glacier, Smeerenburg, Alkefjellet, and the Hinlopen Strait. The destinations you'll visit are 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 everchanging gallery of spectacular icebergs, a polar bear resting between hunts, or an abandoned historical site from centuries ago.

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, you’ll transfer to the airport for your return group charter flight to Helsinki, included in the transfer package.

After breakfast, you can make your way to the airport for your onward flight home, or stay to explore Finland’s culturally rich capital on your own if you’ve made prior arrangements.