Spitsbergen Explorer | Ocean Adventurer
12 Days
Save Up To 46%
WAS From £ 8,200 Now From £ 4,796
STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACQESAH
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Helsinki, Finland
Finish: Helsinki, Finland
SHIP: Ocean Adventurer
Destination
Spitsbergen
Accommodation
Cabin on board ship
DEPARTURE DATES
Enquire Now
OVERVIEW
Discover the incredible wildlife of Spitsbergen, a remote, untouched wilderness and the ‘wildlife capital of the Arctic’. Departing from Helsinki, you will board the Ocean Adventurer in Svalbard to explore the islands to the north and cruise along the western edge of this magical island where jagged mountains, deep fjords and dramatic glaciers provide a stunning backdrop. Spitsbergen is the land of the polar bear and the midnight sun, home to Svalbard reindeer, Arctic foxes, colonies of walruses, whales, seals and thousands of migratory seabirds. There are opportunities to sea-kayak, and to snowshoe to a historic memorial to the whalers who lost their lives in the 17th and 18th centuries. This is a classic Arctic itinerary.
*Discounts, promotions and dynamic pricing are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn or changed at any time and subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates. Discounts are subject to change, availability will be confirmed at time of booking. 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 bonus. Further conditions may apply, contact us for more information.
ITINERARY
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.
This morning, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s largest settlement, where you’ll have some time to explore before embarkation. As your ship sets sail, enjoy your first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from icy waters.
Explore western Spitsbergen as well as stunning fjords and outlying islands to the north. From polar deserts to immense glaciers, the natural landscape here is just as varied as the wildlife. As you cruise around this magical island located above the Arctic Circle, your Expedition Team will constantly be searching for wildlife. Each expedition presents new opportunities and different weather and ice, so we have no fixed itinerary; however, some of the places we may visit include the 14th of July Glacier, Smeerenburg, Phippsøya, Alkhornet 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. Spotting polar bears is more likely here than almost anywhere else, as the Svalbard archipelago is one of their preferred hunting areas.
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. These giant pinnipeds of the Arctic create quite a noisy scene as each walrus vies for a choice spot of coastline.
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 colourful in summer, with wildflowers bursting for a taste of sunshine. Each day, you’ll see something interesting, whether it is unique arctic wildlife a polar bear resting between hunts or abandoned sites from centuries ago.
The time to say goodbye has come. Your Arctic adventure ends as it began, in the 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.
Ocean Adventurer
Built in 1976 in Yugoslavia, the Ocean Adventurer underwent extensive conversion and refurbishment in 1999 with a further extensive upgrade in 2017. This comfortable ship carries a maximum of 128 passengers, accommodated in 66 cabins all with private en-suite facilities, exterior views and each equipped with a TV and DVD player. The ship also features a large multi-purpose lounge and presentation room, bar, spacious window-lined dining room and exercise room. There are ship-to-shore satellite communications with email and wireless internet access on board. The Ocean Adventurer with its ice-strengthened hull was designed specifically to carry travellers to the remotest corners of the world. It is equipped with a fleet of Zodiacs for shore transfers, landings and Zodiac cruises. There are also 4 partially enclosed lifeboats on board. Why we like it "This purpose built expedition ship carries just 132 guests. There are refined public spaces and generous cabins all with private facilities. The ship is sturdy at sea and strong in the ice. This is one of our favourite ships to charter due to the all-round nature of the vessel. Excellent international crew and exceptional food put this ship in the “must recommend” bracket!"
Ice Class:
Length: 101 metres
Breadth: 16.2 metresMax
Draft: Cruising
Speed: 12 knots
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:132
View Ship Details
Accommodation
We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.
Standard
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Superior
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Deluxe
Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.
Kayaking
Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.
Learn More
Day Paddling
If you are looking for another way to nurture your inner adventurer, our day paddle excursion might be the perfect fit! Absorb the majestic scenery from a more intimate vantage point as you paddle through the pristine waters of Antarctica on a sit-on-top kayak.Our expertly guided, one-time, Paddle Program gives you the rare chance to see Antarctica from the same perspective as most of the wildlife – at the surface of the sea.
Learn MorePricing per person
 | TripleFeatures:- A Triple Cabin has two lower berths and one upper berth, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution. | 46 % off £ 8,200 £ 4,796Available Enquire Now
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 | Lower Deck TwinFeatures:- A Lower Deck Twin cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution. | 46 % off £ 9,500 £ 5,498Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Main Deck Twin PortholeFeatures:- A Main Deck Twin Porthole cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution. | 46 % off £ 10,500 £ 6,038Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Main Deck Twin WindowFeatures:- A Main Deck Twin Window cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and two windows with exterior views. | 46 % off £ 11,400 £ 6,524Available Enquire Now
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 | SuperiorFeatures:- A Superior cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and windows with exterior views. Note: this cabin has either corner or parallel bed configuration. | 46 % off £ 12,400 £ 7,064Available Enquire Now
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 | DeluxeFeatures:- A Deluxe Cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and windows with exterior views. | 46 % off £ 12,400 £ 7,064Available Enquire Now
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 | SuiteFeatures:- A Suite has a double bed, windows with exterior views, private facilities. | 46 % off £ 15,600 £ 8,792Available Enquire Now
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 | Owner's SuiteFeatures:- An Owner's Suite has a double bed and private sitting room. One features a large panoramic window facing aft, and the other two suites face port and starboard. Cabin 403 has a bathtub; other Owner's Suites have showers. | 46 % off £ 16,600 £ 9,332Available Enquire Now
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| TripleFeatures:- A Triple Cabin has two lower berths and one upper berth, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution. | 46 % off £ 8,600 £ 5,012Available Enquire Now
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| Lower Deck TwinFeatures:- A Lower Deck Twin cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution. | 46 % off £ 10,000 £ 5,768Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Main Deck Twin PortholeFeatures:- A Main Deck Twin Porthole cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution. | 46 % off £ 11,000 £ 6,308Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Main Deck Twin WindowFeatures:- A Main Deck Twin Window cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and two windows with exterior views. | 46 % off £ 12,000 £ 6,848Available Enquire Now
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| SuperiorFeatures:- A Superior cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and windows with exterior views. Note: this cabin has either corner or parallel bed configuration. | 46 % off £ 13,200 £ 7,496Available Enquire Now
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| DeluxeFeatures:- A Deluxe Cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and windows with exterior views. | 46 % off £ 13,200 £ 7,496Available Enquire Now
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| SuiteFeatures:- A Suite has a double bed, windows with exterior views, private facilities. | 46 % off £ 16,400 £ 9,224Available Enquire Now
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| Owner's SuiteFeatures:- An Owner's Suite has a double bed and private sitting room. One features a large panoramic window facing aft, and the other two suites face port and starboard. Cabin 403 has a bathtub; other Owner's Suites have showers. | 46 % off £ 17,500 £ 9,818Available Enquire Now
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| TripleFeatures:- A Triple Cabin has two lower berths and one upper berth, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution. | 20 % off £ 8,900 £ 7,280Available Enquire Now
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| Lower Deck TwinFeatures:- A Lower Deck Twin cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution. | 20 % off £ 10,300 £ 8,400Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Main Deck Twin PortholeFeatures:- A Main Deck Twin Porthole cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution. | 20 % off £ 11,300 £ 9,200Available Enquire Now
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| Main Deck Twin WindowFeatures:- A Main Deck Twin Window cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and two windows with exterior views. | 20 % off £ 12,300 £ 10,000Available Enquire Now
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| SuperiorFeatures:- A Superior cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and windows with exterior views. Note: this cabin has either corner or parallel bed configuration. | 20 % off £ 13,600 £ 11,040Available Enquire Now
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| DeluxeFeatures:- A Deluxe Cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and windows with exterior views. | 20 % off £ 13,600 £ 11,040Available Enquire Now
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| SuiteFeatures:- A Suite has a double bed, windows with exterior views, private facilities. | 20 % off £ 16,900 £ 13,680Available Enquire Now
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| Owner's SuiteFeatures:- An Owner's Suite has a double bed and private sitting room. One features a large panoramic window facing aft, and the other two suites face port and starboard. Cabin 403 has a bathtub; other Owner's Suites have showers. | 20 % off £ 18,100 £ 14,640Available Enquire Now
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| TripleFeatures:- A Triple Cabin has two lower berths and one upper berth, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution. | 33 % off £ 8,900 £ 6,267Available Enquire Now
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| Lower Deck TwinFeatures:- A Lower Deck Twin cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution. | 33 % off £ 10,300 £ 7,212Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Main Deck Twin PortholeFeatures:- A Main Deck Twin Porthole cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and a porthole with exterior views. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution. | 33 % off £ 11,300 £ 7,887Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Main Deck Twin WindowFeatures:- A Main Deck Twin Window cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and two windows with exterior views. | 33 % off £ 12,300 £ 8,562Available Enquire Now
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| SuperiorFeatures:- A Superior cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and windows with exterior views. Note: this cabin has either corner or parallel bed configuration. | 33 % off £ 13,600 £ 9,440Available Enquire Now
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| DeluxeFeatures:- A Deluxe Cabin has two lower berths, private facilities, and windows with exterior views. | 33 % off £ 13,600 £ 9,440Available Enquire Now
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| SuiteFeatures:- A Suite has a double bed, windows with exterior views, private facilities. | 33 % off £ 16,900 £ 11,667Available Enquire Now
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| Owner's SuiteFeatures:- An Owner's Suite has a double bed and private sitting room. One features a large panoramic window facing aft, and the other two suites face port and starboard. Cabin 403 has a bathtub; other Owner's Suites have showers. | 33 % off £ 18,100 £ 12,477Available Enquire Now
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Important Information
INCLUSIONS
Cabin accommodation on board ship
All meals whilst on board
All scheduled landings and activities by zodiac
Guiding and lectures by experienced expedition crew
Expedition parka
Loan of expedition boots
Comprehensive pre-departure material
Transfers to/from ship on embarkation and disembarkation daysMandatory Charter Package:
- One night’s pre-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 Helsinki
EXCLUSIONS
International Flights
Visa and reciprocity fees (if applicable)
Travel insurance
Any pre or post land arrangements not mentioned in itinerary
Customary gratuity for staff and expedition crew
- 2 (light adventure)
Available on request. Please contact us for more information.
Please note this itinerary may be subject to change due to weather and sea conditions once on board. Prices may be subject to change and availability at the time of booking.
Departure date, seasonality and availability.