Arrive in Oslo at any time and check into your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to do as you please before resting up for your journey the next day.

Wake up early this morning to catch your charter flight from Oslo to Longyearbyen; transportation from your hotel to the airport is provided.

Longyearbyen is located in a picturesque valley by the shores of Adventfjord, surrounded by steep mountains and several glaciers. The village has only about 25 miles of roads and is divided into several neighborhoods, including the town center and Nybyen (New Town). Nybyen consists of charming miners' barracks built after the war, guest houses, a restaurant, a gallery, and beautiful views of the landmark Hiorthfjellet. Don't miss the chance to visit the Svalbard Museum, which provides a break from the numerous activities such as summer dogsledding or cruises to the abandoned Russian city of Pyramiden.

Ny-Alesund is the northernmost settlement on Svalbard. Here, you can find an international scientific research station. Near the village is a breeding ground for rare geese and arctic terns. Not far from here, you may cruise toward the Ossian Sars Nature Reserve, a place to preserve surrounding vegetation that is a sight to behold.

Even in one of the most isolated regions of the Arctic, there is still the captivating history of a pioneering past. Your expedition leaders, Captain, and the onboard pilot will determine possible landings each day for all-out explorations. Wildlife abounds throughout the archipelago of Svalbard, including puffins, reindeer, Arctic terns, and foxes. An expert photographer will help you look out for the perfect photo opportunity of these animals, but especially for the elusive polar bear. As Zodiac cruises may bring you closer to glaciers, keep your eyes on the water for whale fins.

CAPTAIN’S CHOICE — Your Captain will expertly navigate ice floes, icebergs, and changing sea and weather conditions to ensure you experience the most from your expedition. Each day is a new adventure filled with spontaneous exploration as your Captain works with your expedition team to determine possible shore landings and Zodiac safaris. All itinerary routes serve as examples and are subject to change based on current conditions, prioritizing the safety and optimal expedition experience for all guests.
 

This village in the North Cape on the island of Mageroya claims to be the northernmost fishing village in the world. Rolling hills of green, magnificent arctic fjords, and an untamed natural beauty make it a stunning stop off the beaten path. Rugged cliffs are home to thousands of cormorants, puffins, and gannets. While few people inhabit the village, you are likely to come across wild reindeer that may venture close to town. Within the village of Skarsvag sits the Christmas and Winter House, a cozy visitors’ attraction where you can experience the holiday year-round with a hot drink and slice of cake as you peruse the local wares and handicrafts and enjoy an atmosphere of dazzling decorations and festive music.
 

Witness magnificent fjords and glaciers throughout Tromsø, Norway, and immerse yourself in a sophisticated cultural life and architectural delights. A superb example of blending the built environment with the natural setting is the Arctic Cathedral, an architectural marvel made of aluminum-coated concrete panels, making a stunning facade resembling an iceberg. To see the real icebergs, you only have to take the Fjellheisen cable car 1,525 feet above sea level for incredible views of the Norwegian fjords. You can also stroll around the Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden, visit the Science Center of Northern Norway, or gain new knowledge at the city’s museums, including the Polar Museum, Tromso University Museum, and Perspektivet Museum.

The small fishing town of Leknes amid the breathtaking Lofoten Islands offers an unexpected culinary adventure. From the commonly found stockfish to wine varieties made from blueberries and mountain fruits, there’s a unique flavor for every foodie profile. Venturing to the outskirts of town on the fjord shores, find local wooden crafts, paintings, and hand-spun textiles for an authentic souvenir to take home. About eight miles north of Leknes, you can discover Norwegian history at the Lofotr Viking Museum, which includes a replica of a Viking chieftain’s longhouse.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones once you get to shore.

Sitting on the island of Vagsoy, the village of Maloy contains striking beaches of silver sand and a longstanding history of fishing. As a significant source of Norway’s beloved seafood, you can find local favorites such as crab-stuffed sandwiches, cod and chips, and fish soup here. Once you’ve fueled up on regional cuisine, venture out to the 10-foot-tall Kannesteinen rock. Its unique shape has been compared to a whale fluke or a blooming mushroom, but regardless of what you think it looks like, it leaves an impression. Gather your fellow history buffs for a visit to the Maloy Raid Center, where you can learn about the Allies’ operation that led to a strategic World War II victory. The village’s four lighthouses beckon you to discover stunning scenes as they overlook rugged cliffs that plunge into the sea. Steeped in legends of a Viking king, Maloy inspires the imagination and invites you to connect with a piece of the past.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones once you get to shore.

The heath and dune landscapes of Skagen inspired many artists in the mid-19th century, and you can see these charming paintings in the Skagens Museum. At Grenen Beach, find one of the few unorganized areas of Denmark. The wild beauty of the Kattegat and Skagerrak clashing makes it a striking locale to explore. Just northeast of Skagen in Jutland stands the Skagen Lighthouse. A captivating structure designed by Niels Sigfred Nebelong, it replaced Skagen’s original lighthouse in 1958. It’s a simple construct that embodies the nature of Denmark’s culture and invites visitors to take a photo op.

Bid farewell to the expedition team and fellow travelers as you disembark in Oslo today.