Scenic Svalbard | Venture

Embark on your adventure in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, a city seamlessly blending ancient history with a vibrant modern atmosphere. Its streets tell tales, from the cobblestones of the Old Town to the elegant Georgian avenues of the New Town, both honored as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore Edinburgh Castle, perched majestically atop an ancient volcanic rock, and wander along the Royal Mile leading to the regal Palace of Holyroodhouse. Experience world-class art at the Scottish National Gallery and find tranquility in the Princes Street Gardens. Admire the contemporary Scottish Parliament building, tour the decommissioned Royal Yacht Britannia, and as night descends, immerse yourself in Edinburgh's thriving cultural scene.

Today, your journey unfolds with a flight to Longyearbyen, the administrative hub of Svalbard, nestled in a narrow valley along the shores of Adventfjorden—a small tributary of Isfjord, the largest fjord system in Svalbard. This fjord, extending 100 kilometers (60 miles) into the island of Spitsbergen, boasts nine significant tidewater glaciers and numerous hanging glaciers.

Home to 2,100 residents, Longyearbyen stands as one of Earth's northernmost settlements, where residents thrive through coal mining, education, and tourism. Established in 1906 by American industrialist John Longyear, the town not only bears witness to human resilience but also serves as a gateway to unparalleled natural beauty.

Later in the afternoon, you'll embark on your Arctic expedition as you board the ship and set sail at 5 pm, continuing your journey amidst the Arctic landscapes.

In the upcoming days, you will explore the remote and expansive landscapes of Svalbard, a wilderness largely untouched by human presence. Our plans and itinerary remain flexible, allowing the ever-changing weather, conditions, and wildlife to shape each day's adventure. If a polar bear appears on the horizon, we might pause the ship or Zodiacs to observe it. If ice obstructs our path, we might slow down, exploring the edge of the ice while searching for wildlife or opt for an alternative destination. In the face of storms, we may seek shelter in a more protected bay, discovering a different and equally captivating spot. Svalbard, with its myriad beauties, mysteries, and exciting discoveries, awaits those with open eyes and hearts.

Highlights of this expedition include traversing Tundra landscapes, hiking across seemingly barren terrains alongside Expedition Staff who unveil the charm of small plants and flowers thriving in this harsh environment. Marvel at rock formations shaped by frost and water over time, with opportunities to encounter arctic foxes, reindeer, and various bird species during tundra explorations.

Polar bears, the majestic rulers of the Arctic, are a magical sight to behold. Whether a distant white speck or strolling along a shoreline, encountering this iconic species is always awe-inspiring. We prioritize responsible wildlife viewing, ensuring our activities have no adverse impacts on these creatures. Onshore walks are closely monitored by our Bear Guards to ensure the safety of both visitors and bears.

Delve into Svalbard's minimal human history by exploring historic remains, including huts from whaling eras and trappers' shelters. These silent structures stand as reminders of the resilient individuals who once eked out a living in this harsh land.

For an up-close view of icebergs and glacier fronts, Zodiac cruises provide an ideal vantage point. The mesmerizing blue hues of the ice and captivating formations add to the experience. While aboard the Zodiacs, keep an eye out for fascinating marine life such as beluga whales, humpback whales, and elusive seals and walrus.

Today you will disembark at Longyearbyen at 7 am. Upon disembarking, you will be seamlessly transferred to the airport for your flight back to Edinburgh, where you will spend the night in a hotel.

On your final day, after a night in an Edinburgh hotel, have a relaxed breakfast before concluding your journey. Head back home with the memories from your time in the Arctic.

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