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As the sea around Svalbard opens up with the ice melting during the summer months, it gives us the opportunity to take you on our most detailed exploration of the archipelago. Over the next 12 days we will set off to explore Svalbard and make daily shore landings with our expedition leader and guide to experience the raw beauty and majestic nature of Svalbard. Our aim is to circumnavigate Spitsbergen and to explore the Austfonna Ice Cap, depending on conditions or spend extended time exploring the far north-east. This is an intimate small-group experience with a minimum of one guide for every 6 guests.
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Day 1
Embark ship in Longyearbyen in the afternoon
Our Svalbard circumnavigation cruise departs from the port of Longyearbyen in the afternoon. The overall schedule is flexible to allow us to see as much as possible and will be led by our highly experienced leader. Taking advantage of the beautiful 24-hour sunlight we will sail out of the Isfjord. Coordinates: 78.2232° N, 15.6267° E
Meals: B,D
Day 2
Prins Karls Foreland
This morning we explore Prins Karls Foreland where we will do shore landings and visit a walrus colony. Our plan is to sail north and attempt a clockwise circumnavigation of Spitsbergen. Coordinates: 78°44'N, 11°89'E
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3-6
Ny-Ålesund, Kongsfjord and Ice Edge
As we head north we plan to call at the scientific community of Ny-Ålesund, the most northerly inhabited settlement on earth which is home to an interesting historical site and museum. We will explore the majestic Kongsfjord and the fjords that branch into it. We will sail close to an impressive calving glacier face and there will also be an opportunity for hikes ashore with our expedition leader. If the conditions allow we will then sail north and attempt to reach the edge of the sea ice which extends all the way to the North Pole, a really impressive sight. Coordinates: 78.3413° N, 11.7250° E
Day 7-9
Nordaustlandet and Hinlopen Strait
We will sail along the north coast of Spitsbergen keeping a lookout for wildlife including polar bears that inhabit the area. Depending on the sea ice conditions, we aim to continue along the north coast to reach the island of Nordaustlandet and cruise along the Austfonna Ice Cap, a truly breathtaking sight. If the sea ice doesn’t allow us access then the other option is to head south through the Hinlopen Strait. We aim to make shore landings on a daily basis to explore the majestic wilderness of this area. Coordinates: 79.5223° N, 13.4638° E
Day 10-11
Southern Spitsbergen
We will follow the compass south and explore the region along the south coast of Spitsbergen. We will visit rarely visited landing sites and have lots of chances to take in the breathtaking nature, wildlife, and scenery. As we round the southern tip of Spitsbergen, we will enter the area around Hornsund where we will have a day to explore and do some wilderness hikes. We will then set sail north along the coast towards Longyearbyen. Coordinates: 78.5810° N, 11.3932° E
Day 12
Disembark Longyearbyen where our trip concludes.
Safely back in the port of Longyearbyen after our epic Svalbard circumnavigation cruise, we will enjoy a final breakfast together. We say our goodbyes and disembark in the morning after making new friends and sharing an incredible adventure together. Coordinates: 78.2232° N, 15.6267° E NB* The above itinerary is a guide only. A part of any Arctic adventure is the flexibility to take advantage of the weather and ice conditions. Our expedition leader will make sure you see as much a possible.
Meals: B
What's included
What's not included
Our voyages are designed for curious travellers — not just passengers. While our itineraries offer a range of activities, from gentle Zodiac cruises to more challenging hikes and paddles, it’s important to understand the nature of this experience before you join us. These expeditions are suitable for most travellers with an adventurous spirit, good health, and the ability to move confidently around a vessel — especially in variable weather and sea conditions. Some shore landings and excursions may involve uneven terrain, wet landings, or light scrambling. Boarding Zodiacs and navigating the ship may require balance and agility, though our experienced team is always on hand to assist. Each trip may include a variety of optional activities, most of which require no prior experience. You might find yourself kayaking past icebergs, snowshoeing across pristine landscapes, or even catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Of course, all activities are optional — you’re always welcome to stay aboard and enjoy the ship at your own pace. Not sure if this trip is right for you?
Get in touch with our team — we’re here to help you choose the experience that best suits your interests, comfort, and curiosity.
Introducing MV Vikingfjord, a new ice-strengthened expedition ship for 12 guests with great environmental credentials.
MV Vikingfjord offers cruise ship comfort on a small ship with 8 ensuite cabins, an open plan lounge with rear facing windows, an observation lounge in the bridge, an on deck hot tub and sauna, and a light and modern Scandinavian design.
Rebuilt from the ground up in 2023 as a modern expedition vessel it has a brand new energy efficient engine and NOX filter fitted making it one the most efficient vessels working in the Arctic.
Signature Double or Twin Cabin
These cabins are approx 15 m² with a choice of double or twin beds and a ensuite shower and toilet. Located on deck 1 they have a window, desk & chair and wardrobe.
Signature Single
These cabins are approx 10 m² with a single beds and a ensuite shower and toilet. Located on deck 1 and 2 they have a window and wardrobe.
Signature Suite
One signature suite (Cabin 8) is approx 15 m² with a double bed and ensuite shower and toilet. Located on deck it has windows, a desk & chair and wardrobe.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Explore places the big ships can’t with the widest selection of genuine small-ship, activity-first cruising. On Water Expeditions offers exceptional value, quality services, no hidden costs, and plenty of inclusions.
Don't watch the action sail past your window, dive into it! Designed for active travellers, these itineraries give you more time to adventure off the boat.
Activity is built into every journey. From paddling to hiking, enjoy a basecamp-style experience that injects fun, meaningful connections and thrilling adventure into it.
Each voyage is thoughtfully selected for low-impact exploration, supporting genuine conservation and sustainability while respecting local communities and environments.
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