Spitsbergen Circumnavigation: A Rite Of Passage - 15 Days | Ultramarine
14 Days
Save Up To 19%
WAS From NZD 27,395 Now From NZD 22,487
STYLE: Luxury Small Ship Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACQESC
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (Light Adventure)
Start: Helsinki, Finland
Finish: Helsinki, Finland
SHIP: Ultramarine
Destination
The Arctic & Spitsbergen
Meals
All Meals, Snacks, Soft Drinks & Juices On Board Throughout Your Voyage. Select Beer & Wine During Dinner; And Coffee, Tea & Cocoa Available Around The Clock
Transport
Charter flights from Helsinki, Finland to Longyearbyen, Svalbard & group transfers to/from the airport & ship
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
The most thorough exploration of the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard is provided by this 15-day voyage through Spitsbergen, which includes seeing iconic Arctic wildlife such as walrus, reindeer, and polar bears; gaining an insight into 16th-century maritime culture at remote landing sites; and experiencing the unique opportunity to take in breath-taking views at birdwatching havens like 14th of July Glacier and Alkefjellet. We will also try to complete the archipelago's circumnavigation, which is regarded by many Arctic enthusiasts as a rite of passage, if conditions permit.
You'll have plenty of memories and photos from the wildlife viewing opportunities on this trip, including the chance to see the iconic polar bear roaming the pack ice, small herds of reindeer loping across the tundra, the walrus with its long tusks and distinctive whiskers, and Arctic birds in all their varied majesty. Zodiac shore trips provide you the chance to see locations that are rarely visited by humans. This journey is undoubtedly the great adventure you have been waiting for.
*Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 31 October 2024, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates.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.
ITINERARY
Helsinki, known for its remarkable architecture and fascinating blend of eastern and western influences, is the starting point for your Arctic trip. Explore the numerous museums, art, and dining options. You can also unwind in a Finnish sauna or stroll through the bustling Design District before checking into your hotel.
The group will head to the airport this morning to catch our private charter flight to Longyearbyen, the biggest municipality in Spitsbergen. Admire the island's rocky, glacier-capped mountains as they rise magnificently from icy waters for the first time as your ship sets sail.
As we start the tour by travelling north and circumnavigating the island of Spitsbergen, discovering smaller, outlying islands, you may anticipate a new adventure every day. We want to circumnavigate Spitsbergen, but if circumstances permit, we will also try to circumnavigate the entire archipelago, which includes many of the Svalbard archipelago's outer islands. The 14th of July Glacier, Ny-London, Phippsøya, Alkefjellet, and the rarely visited Kvitøya are some of the locations we may visit, though each excursion will be unique based on the weather and ice.
You may find these names odd, yet each site has a distinct charm of its own. With its vast glaciers and vibrant tundra meadows, Spitsbergen is a place of unending natural splendour. Birdwatchers can see puffins, purple sandpipers, black-legged kittiwakes, pink-footed geese, and barnacle geese in 14th of July Bay, and Brünnich's guillemots (thick-billed murres) nesting on the cliffs of Alkefjellet..
When we visit places like Ny-London, Sundneset, and Alkhornet, get your camera ready to catch reindeer. We're constantly on the lookout for wildlife. Your Expedition Team is constantly on the lookout for the recognisable polar bear. Because sea ice, the bears' preferred hunting habitat, is frequently found in Phippsøya and Isbukta, you have an excellent chance of seeing and photographing them in action.
Understanding Spitsbergen's past—not just how people live there now, but also how this region was first explored—is essential to appreciate it. Remains of 16th-century outposts and other whaling-related relics can be found at landing sites like Smeerenburg, where whaling was a major activity.
The frontier-style community of Longyearbyen is where your journey comes to a finish. As part of the transfer package, we will then drive you to the airport for your return group charter flight to Helsinki.
After breakfast, you can either head to the airport for your next trip home or, if you have made other plans, stay to independently explore Finland's culturally rich city.
WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?
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A complete circumnavigation of Spitsbergen is anticipated.
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See a variety of Arctic bird species, including purple sandpipers, Arctic terns, and puffins.
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Discover fjords, icebergs, glaciers, and more during the included Zodiac cruise.
Ultramarine
Step onboard the Ultramarine! This premium expedition vessel takes guests to the most isolated and breathtaking wildernesses on the planet. The ship has been purpose-built to meet the specific demands of the polar regions and is well appointed to let guests explore The Arctic and Antarctica safely and comfortably. It offers a robust portfolio of adventure activities. The mix of sustainability features create innovative operations to offer ultra-immersive polar experiences to guests on board .The vessel is one of the few to offer a suite of flight-seeing activities, travelling in one of the two twin-engine helicopters. This really opens up the possibilities to go further and see more. The Expedition Ship can accommodate a maximum of 199 passengers and offers the most spacious suites in its category . The cabins are all elegantly designed and feature oversized windows with sleeping views and spa-inspired bathrooms. Ultramarine offers breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also features a best-in-class 70-day operational range, four embarkation points to load and embark zodiacs and get you to shore faster. The ship has a water level Zodiac hangar, which allows for more spontaneous off-ship adventures where the opportunity presents itself. This allows you to get off the ship in less than half the time of some other vessels.
Ice Class:
Length: 128m (420ft)
Breadth: 21.5m (70.5ft)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:199
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.
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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
 | Solo PanoramaFeatures:-
| 24 % off NZD 46,800 NZD 36,024Available Enquire Now
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 | Explorer TripleFeatures:-
| 24 % off NZD 26,000 NZD 20,216Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Explorer SuiteFeatures:-
| 24 % off NZD 34,000 NZD 26,296Available Enquire Now
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 | Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 24 % off NZD 37,100 NZD 28,652Available Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 24 % off NZD 43,500 NZD 33,516Available Enquire Now
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 | Terrace SuiteFeatures:-
| 24 % off NZD 45,100 NZD 34,732Available Enquire Now
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 | Penthouse SuiteFeatures:-
| 24 % off NZD 46,800 NZD 36,024Available Enquire Now
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 | Owner's SuiteFeatures:-
| 24 % off NZD 59,600 NZD 45,752Available Enquire Now
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 | Ultra SuiteFeatures:-
| 24 % off NZD 65,800 NZD 50,464Available Enquire Now
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| Solo PanoramaFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 49,495 NZD 40,333Available Enquire Now
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| Explorer TripleFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 27,395 NZD 22,487Available Enquire Now
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| Explorer SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 35,895 NZD 29,351Available Enquire Now
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| Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 39,295 NZD 32,097Available Enquire Now
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| Deluxe Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 46,095 NZD 37,588Available Enquire Now
|
| Terrace SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 47,795 NZD 38,960Available Enquire Now
|
| Penthouse SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 49,495 NZD 40,333Available Enquire Now
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| Owner's SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 62,995 NZD 51,234Available Enquire Now
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| Ultra SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 69,795 NZD 56,725Available Enquire Now
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Important Information
Prices are based on per person, and vary from single, quad, 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 on a return basis.
Please note this itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions*
INCLUSIONS
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).
Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person.EXCLUSIONS
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.