Arctic Cruise: Circumnavigation of Spitsbergen

Questions? Call us: 1-866-549-7614

Lush tundra between young, jagged peaks on the west coast, formidable pack ice in the north and polar desert in the east, Spitsbergen offers a variety of landscapes and abundant wildlife. Explore a land home to polar bears, walrus, seals, reindeer, and a multitude of sea birds, while your distinguished expedition staff provides lectures to enhance your experience and understanding. Note: The 7/26/2008 departure is one day longer, 12 days.

Trip Details

Duration: 11 days
Visited Areas: Antarctica , Arctic
Trip Type: Expedition Trips
Airfare not included

Trip Price (per Person)

USD	4345.00
or call: 1-866-549-7614

Itinerary

Day 1: Longyearbyen, Norway (Embark)

During the afternoon, board the Polar Pioneer in Longyearbyen and make yourself at home before cruising along beautiful Isfjorden.

Days 2-3: At Sea/Amsterdam Island

Following the warm current of the Gulf Stream, travel north along the mountainous west coast. Take long walks among summer flowers and observe remarkable bird cliffs. Visit the 350-year-old remains of Dutch whaling settlements on Amsterdam Island and the 100-year-old ruins of the Swedish Andree ballooning expedition.

Days 4-6: Duck Island/Coastal Mountains

Along the north coast, the ship nuzzles into the Arctic Ocean pack ice, where you will search for walrus and seals. In the coastal mountains, visit trapper huts and stay alert for polar bears. Enjoy magnificent views of sweeping glaciers from Duck Island or cruise along the snout of Monaco Glacier.

Days 7-10: Hinlopen Strait/Barents and Edge Island/South Cape

Along the east coast of Spitsbergen, enter a different world - a polar desert. If ice conditions allow, pass south through the narrow Hinlopen Strait, a channel flanked by austere, cream-coloured slopes rich in fossils. On walks, seek eider ducks, Arctic foxes and beautiful ivory gulls. Passing, Barents and Edge islands, cross polar bear migration routes, before rounding Spitsbergen's most southerly point, South Cape.

Day 11: Longyearbyen, Norway/Depart

For those interested, morning sightseeing tours of Longyearbyen can be arranged before your afternoon transfer to the airport.

Trip Information

Ship	Polar Pioneer
Highlights	Small research ship with kayaking option; polar bear sightings, excellent birding, magnificent sweeping glaciers, tundra walks among wildflowers
Trip Notes	Note: The 7/26/2008 departure is one day longer, 12 days.Sea Kayaking is optional on this voyage. If you wish to take this option you need to advise ExpeditionTrips.com at the time of booking. Please note that sound sea kayaking experience is essential. Included:Cabin accommodations on the ship; all meals onboard; all shore excursions; lectures and guide services; medical services (there is a resident medical officer and infirmary on board); port taxes and port charges.Not Included:Airfare; accommodation or transfers before or after the cruise; visa, passport, and vaccination charges and airport departure taxes; meals not included in ship cruise itinerary; items of a personal nature; gratuities to the ship's crew are left to the discretion of the passenger; fuel surcharge may apply.
Payment Policy	A deposit of $1250 per person is required to confirm your reservation. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.Payment MethodsDeposit: credit cards are accepted (VISA, MC, AmEx, Discover); Final payment: check or wire.WE ARE UNABLE TO ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS FOR FINAL PAYMENT.