North Spitsbergen Explorer - Into the Pack Ice | Ortelius

Arriving in Longyearbyen, the hub of administration in Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, marks the beginning of your journey. Explore the charming remnants of this former mining town, taking in the captivating sights of its parish church and the Svalbard Museum. Despite the seemingly barren landscape, over a hundred plant species have been documented in the area. As the day progresses into early evening, the ship departs from Isfjorden, providing the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the first minke whale of your expedition.

Embark on a captivating journey that ventures into the heart of the pack ice and explores the secluded coastlines of the rugged northern region of Spitsbergen. Potential destinations on our itinerary include:

Raudfjord:
Explore the expansive Raudfjord on the north coast of Spitsbergen, where glaciers cascade and ringed and bearded seals may make an appearance. Thriving seabird colonies, rich vegetation, and the chance to encounter polar bears enhance the allure of this picturesque fjord.

Monaco Glacier:
Weather permitting, we may navigate into Liefdefjorden, offering a view of the impressive 5-kilometer-long face of Monaco Glacier. The waters in front of the glacier are teeming with kittiwakes, and polar bears often frequent the base of the ice. In case of early season ice conditions, an alternate route along the west coast of Spitsbergen may be taken.

Highlights of Hinlopen:
Venture into Hinlopen Strait, a habitat for bearded seals, ringed seals, and polar bears. The strait's entrance may provide a chance to spot blue whales. Zodiac cruises among the ice floes of Lomfjordshalvøya lead to the bird cliffs of Alkefjellet, home to thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots. A landing on Nordaustlandet could unveil reindeer, pink-footed geese, and walruses, with an alternate route considered if ice conditions hinder entry into Hinlopen.

The Seven Islands:
Journey to the northernmost point, potentially reaching 80° north in the Seven Islands. This region is inhabited by polar bears, offering an opportunity for the ship to spend hours amidst the pack ice before heading west again.

Sailing the Continental Shelf:
While retracing our route west, be on the lookout for polar bears and elusive Greenland (bowhead) whales. Approximately 40 nautical miles west of Spitsbergen, we traverse the edge of the continental shelf, where fin whales forage in the upwelling zones along the Spitsbergen banks during the summer. Near Kongsfjorden's mouth, you may spot minke whales.

Forlandsundet, St. Johns Fjord, or Alkhornet:
Depending on circumstances, observe walruses in Forlandsundet, sail into St. Johns Fjord, or head south to the mouth of Isfjorden, where a landing at Alkhornet awaits. These areas host seabird colonies, Arctic foxes, and grazing reindeer, creating a diverse and captivating Arctic experience.

Every remarkable adventure reaches its conclusion. The vessel docks back in Longyearbyen in the early morning, and convenient bus transportation to the airport will be arranged for your departure.

Please note: Cruise itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, ice conditions and other factors.