Spitsbergen Highlights: Wildlife Capital of the Arctic | Ocean Explorer
8 Days
Save Up To 27%
WAS From AUD 12,325 Now From AUD 9,593 Trip Code: ACQESPH
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Helsinki, Finland
Finish: Helsinki, Finland
SHIP: Ocean Explorer (Arctic)
Destination
Svalbard
Meals
Breakfast in hotel & All meals & snacks on board. Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings
Transport
Economy flights to Longyearbyen from Helsinki & Group Transfers in Longyearbyen for arrival, embarkation & disembarkation
Accommodation
Cabin on board ship & Hotel
DEPARTURE DATES
Enquire Now
Included Sightseeing
Daily Arctic Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team
NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions
OVERVIEW
You will experience the amazing Arctic wilderness of Svalbard on this expedition cruise that focuses on the very best highlights of this remote habitat. Despite the mountains and glaciers covering this stony island, a vibrant and varied ecosystem may be found in the fjords and high cliffs. By covering as much ground as you can, you will have the best chance of seeing the walrus, with its long tusks and characteristic whiskers, the majestic biodiversity of all the Arctic bird species and the polar bear, the most iconic of all the animals of the region.
ITINERARY
Arrive in the Finnish capital and make your way to the group hotel located right at Helsinki airport. (The hotel is included in your Charter Flight & Hotel Package.) You will have the rest of the day to explore explore the many museums, galleries and restaurants, relax at a Finnish sauna or wander the vibrant Design District. If you do plan to visit Helsinki city center, take advantage of the convenient, 40-minute rail service from the airport.
After breakfast, the group will transfer to the Helsinki airport and board our private charter flight to Longyearbyen, part of your Charter Flight & Hotel Package. Our journey to the High Arctic now truly begins. You will see the coastal and birch forests of southern Scandinavia give way to taiga and tundra environments, the mountains of Norway and northern Sweden, and the convergence of the Norwegian and Barents seas. Approaching Svalbard, you may get your first views of a pure, snow-capped wilderness, complete with ridgelines, glaciers, and perhaps even sea ice in the distance. We land in Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s largest settlement, and transfer to the harbor where we will embark on our ship.
You’ll sail around the shores of this magical archipelago, constantly searching for natural wonders. Covering western Spitsbergen, your expedition will afford ample opportunities to view immense glaciers, deep fjords, soaring mountains and unique flora and fauna. Sailing north into Krossfjorden, have your camera handy, ready to capture some of the best glacier calving in Spitsbergen. Deep in the fjord, the highly active Lilliehöök Glacier awaits. Listen in awe to the growling as big chunks break off into the icy waters below. A Zodiac excursion to nearby Ny-London, an abandoned mining settlement, provides an ideal place for a guided walk. Sightings of wildlife, such as the endemic Svalbard reindeer, might be possible here. After cruising overnight, wake up to the stunning sight of the magnificent Monaco Glacier, another prolific iceberg producing glacier. To make this even more thrilling, help your Expedition Team to scan the shorelines and ice edge for marine mammals. Possible landing sites include Texas Bar, Worsleyneset and Alicehamna. At Smeerenburg you can see the remains of an abandoned settlement that was established by Dutch whalers nearly 400 years ago. Here, at what was once one of Europe’s most northerly outposts, you’ll have time to explore ashore and learn about Spitsbergen’s whaling history. Afterwards, cruising to Magdalenefjorden rewards you with panoramic vistas of snow-capped mountains and massive glaciers reflected in the crystal-clear waters. We hope to round out the day in Alkhornet, taking in the towering cliffs teeming with nesting seabirds, such as fulmars and Brünnich’s guillemots (thick-billed murres). Sightings of reindeer are possible here too. Later, in the evening, swap stories with your shipmates and crew one last time, at the captain’s farewell dinner.
The time to say goodbye has come. Your adventure ends as it began, in the frontier settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your charter flight to Helsinki, and group hotel night. Both are included in your Charter Flight & Hotel Package.
After breakfast at your included hotel, make your way independently to the Helsinki airport for your onward flight home, or spend more time exploring the Finnish capital as prearranged.
Please note: Cruise itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, ice conditions and other factors.
Ocean Explorer (Arctic)
Utilising the best ships and expedition crew is necessary to venture further in the Polar Regions. We have both of them. In terms of elegance, adventure, and cutting-edge technology, Ocean Explorer is the ideal complement to our fleet. For our sophisticated polar explorers, Ocean Explorer enhances the polar experience on all fronts. The Ulstein X-Bow, the industry-leading X-Bow design, ensures that your clients will glide through even the roughest waves with ease. In any polar sea state, the ship's distinctive forward-sloping X-Bow reduces vibration, noise, and impact for a comfortable ride. The ship is equipped with the newest sustainability technologies, including fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and the revolutionary MAGS gasification system, which turns garbage into energy and reduces the environmental effect of waste transportation. Equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs and four distinct sea-level embarkation locations, Ocean Explorer provides a wide range of off-ship experiences, such as Zodiac cruising and kayaking, enabling your guests to experience a close-up encounter with the Antarctic and Arctic wilderness. Every interior feature on board, including the striking two-story forward lounge, the floor to ceiling glass retreat in the library, and the elegant fittings and furniture throughout the ship, has been meticulously chosen by designers to ensure that visitors have a wonderful experience. The roomy and opulent cabins guarantee your guests a peaceful stay free from noise pollution from nearby rooms, and nearly every cabin has an outdoor balcony. Two outdoor Jacuzzis and a dry sauna are available for your clients to relax in after a full day of activities off-ship.
Ice Class: Length: 342 ft (104.4 m)
Breadth: 60.3 ft (18.4 m)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: 220V (European) & USB-A ports in night lights Passenger
Capacity:138
View Ship Details
Included ACTIVITIES
These are included in your cruise fare. Activities vary by itinerary and destination and are subject to regulations, weather conditions and other factors.
Polar Plunge
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Expert Lectures
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Shore Excursions
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Zodiac Cruises
Learn MoreOPTIONAL ADVENTURES ADD ONS
These can be booked in advance at an extra cost. Activities vary by itinerary and destination.
Kayaking
Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.
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Day Paddling
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Photography
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Citizen Science
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Hiking
Learn MorePricing per person
 | Owners SuiteFeatures:- 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. | 21 % off AUD 23,125 AUD 18,827Available Enquire Now
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 | Penthouse SuiteFeatures:- This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. 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. | 21 % off AUD 21,825 AUD 17,716Available Enquire Now
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 | Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, 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 are also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: Cabins include a separate sitting area except 609, 610, 611, 612, 614 and 615. | 24 % off AUD 15,725 AUD 12,500Available Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Veranda ForwardFeatures:- Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, 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. | 25 % off AUD 15,125 AUD 11,987Available Enquire Now
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 | Studio Veranda SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). 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. | 21 % off AUD 22,325 AUD 18,143Available Enquire Now
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 | Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, 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. | 21 % off AUD 20,825 AUD 16,861Available Enquire Now
|
 | Veranda SuiteFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. 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. | 23 % off AUD 16,625 AUD 13,270Available Enquire Now
|
 | Triple SuiteFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites, specifically designed for three guests, are configured with two singles in the inner bedroom and a third bed in the outer room beside the bedroom. Also, the other portion of the outer room is furnished with a sofa. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub (with shower head) , vanity and heated floor. | 26 % off AUD 13,825 AUD 10,876Available Enquire Now
|
| Owners SuiteFeatures:- 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. | 21 % off AUD 23,125 AUD 18,827Available Enquire Now
|
| Penthouse SuiteFeatures:- This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. 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. | 21 % off AUD 21,825 AUD 17,716Available Enquire Now
|
| Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, 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 are also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: Cabins include a separate sitting area except 609, 610, 611, 612, 614 and 615. | 24 % off AUD 15,725 AUD 12,500Available Enquire Now
|
| Deluxe Veranda ForwardFeatures:- Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, 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. | 25 % off AUD 15,125 AUD 11,987Available Enquire Now
|
| Studio Veranda SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). 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. | 21 % off AUD 22,325 AUD 18,143Available Enquire Now
|
| Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, 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. | 21 % off AUD 20,825 AUD 16,861Available Enquire Now
|
| Veranda SuiteFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. 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. | 23 % off AUD 16,625 AUD 13,270Available Enquire Now
|
| Triple SuiteFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites, specifically designed for three guests, are configured with two singles in the inner bedroom and a third bed in the outer room beside the bedroom. Also, the other portion of the outer room is furnished with a sofa. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub (with shower head) , vanity and heated floor. | 26 % off AUD 13,825 AUD 10,876Available Enquire Now
|
| Owners SuiteFeatures:- 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. | 22 % off AUD 20,625 AUD 16,690Available Enquire Now
|
| Penthouse SuiteFeatures:- This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. 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. | 22 % off AUD 19,425 AUD 15,664Available Enquire Now
|
| Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, 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 are also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: Cabins include a separate sitting area except 609, 610, 611, 612, 614 and 615. | 25 % off AUD 14,125 AUD 11,132Available Enquire Now
|
| Deluxe Veranda ForwardFeatures:- Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, 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. | 26 % off AUD 13,525 AUD 10,619Available Enquire Now
|
| Studio Veranda SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). 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. | 22 % off AUD 19,725 AUD 15,920Available Enquire Now
|
| Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, 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. | 22 % off AUD 18,525 AUD 14,894Available Enquire Now
|
| Veranda SuiteFeatures:- Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. 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. | 25 % off AUD 14,825 AUD 11,731Available Enquire Now
|
| Triple SuiteFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites, specifically designed for three guests, are configured with two singles in the inner bedroom and a third bed in the outer room beside the bedroom. Also, the other portion of the outer room is furnished with a sofa. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub (with shower head) , vanity and heated floor. | 27 % off AUD 12,325 AUD 9,593Available Enquire Now
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Important Information
* Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 16 July 2026, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates. Some current in market offers may be combinable and Shackleton Club Past Passenger and multi trip discounts may be applied subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Prices are subject to change based on currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and other external factors. No discount applies to any transfer packages, additional activities or pre/post services. The advertised prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment discount, which requires the full balance to be paid at the time of booking to apply. Further conditions may apply, contact us for more information.
NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.
Prices are based on per person, and vary from single, triple, and twin cabins.
Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.
All entrance fees are subject to change without prior notice.
Includes charter flights from Helsinki to Longyearbyen and return back to Helsinki
Please note this itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.
IINCLUSIONS
Cabin accommodation on board ship
All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage.
Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
All scheduled landings and excursions
Guiding and leadership by expert exploration team and crew
A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
An Expedition parka (yours to keep)
A photographic journal documenting the expedition
Transfers between Longyearbyen town center and port on embarkation and disembarkation dayMANDATORY TRANSFER PACKAGE (INCLUDED)
One night pre- & one night post-expedition hotel night at Helsinki airport hotel, with breakfast
Charter flight from Helsinki to Longyearbyen
Arrival and departure transfers in Longyearbyen
Charter flight from Longyearbyen to HelsinkiEXCLUSIONS
International flights
Arrival transfer in Helsinki
Any other pre or post land arrangements not mentioned above
Passport and visa expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above
Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew
Meals ashore unless otherwise specified
Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights
Laundry, bar and other personal charges unless specified
Optional Adventure Activities
- 2 (light adventure)
Available upon request, a supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Please Contact Us for more information.
Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.