For this expedition around Svalbard, we are delighted to be working with our US associates at Quark Expeditions and their vessel the 138-passenger MV Ocean Explorer. Quark expeditions have been taking travellers on adventures to the Arctic for over 30-years and for this voyage they have made a small allocation of cabins available to us.
This fascinating expedition provides a taste of everything Spitsbergen—the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago—has to offer and you will understand why it is also known as the ‘Wildlife Capital of the Arctic’. Famous for its thriving animal populations, here you can spot walruses and whales in the coastal waters, polar bears on the sea ice edge, Arctic foxes and reindeer on-land, and many species of seabirds in the sky.
On this exciting journey, making good use of the onboard Zodiacs, you will be able to explore the unique Arctic landscape, hike the vast and colourful tundra, and learn about the history and geology of this remote Norwegian Arctic island. The onboard expedition team know the region well and their knowledge will contribute much to your understanding with briefings and lectures. There will also be ample time to relax on board while cruising when you can pass the time on deck looking for wildlife or simply enjoy the onboard facilities.
Ocean Explorer
Ocean Explorer is a modern, elegant and purpose-built expedition vessel for polar exploration. The 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology. One of the ship’s key features is the ULSTEIN X-BOW®, a marine engineering innovation that ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience thanks to the inverted bow. Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design and almost all have verandas. Guests can relax and find comfort in the spacious gym, sauna with large windows, and two outdoor Jacuzzis. Ocean Explorer features ample outdoor viewing areas and multi-height outer decks, which are ideal for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. The vessel is equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs that enable guests to get off the ship quickly and safely for off-ship adventures. In addition to the well-appointed and spacious public areas, Ocean Explorer has an industry-leading mix of sustainability systems, including fuel-efficient Rolls Royce engines.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Helsinki, Finland.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive this afternoon and make our way to our airport hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 2 Helsinki to Longyearbyen.
Return to the airport this morning for the specially chartered flight to Longyearbyen. On arrival transfer to the MV Ocean Explorer. Sail this evening and enjoy your first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from frigid waters.
Days 3 to 11 Exploring Spitsbergen.
Spend the next nine days cruising around this magical island on a constant search for wildlife. The expedition will cover western Spitsbergen as well as stunning fjords to the north. From polar flora to immense glaciers, the natural landscape here is just as varied as the wildlife. Each expedition presents new opportunities and different weather and ice, so there is no fixed itinerary; however, some of the places we may visit include the 14th of July Glacier, Smeerenburg, Alkefjellet and the Hinlopen Strait. The destinations visited will be selected for optimum wildlife viewing with an appreciation of the history and geology of Spitsbergen. Spitsbergen offers multiple opportunities for wildlife photography. Since most of Svalbard’s Arctic ecosystem is uninhabited and well-protected, this remote archipelago is one of the world’s best places to spot polar bears against stunning natural backdrops of mountains and ice. 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. Get a chance to witness the intimate gatherings of giant pinnipeds as they haul out together on small coastal strips. If you’re itching to experience a more intimate view from the water, you can book the optional sea kayaking or paddling excursion adventure options. In Spitsbergen, there is no shortage of natural beauty. The tundra can be surprisingly colorful in summer, with wildflowers bursting for a taste of sunshine. Each day, you will see something interesting, whether it is an ever-changing gallery of spectacular icebergs, a polar bear resting between hunts, or an abandoned historical site from centuries ago.
Day 12 Longyearbyen to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our specially chartered flight to Helsinki. Connect with our onward flight to London arriving this evening.
Dates and Prices
WEB EXCLUSIVE
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 3 to 14 August 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Deluxe Veranda Forward | £5495 | |
| Veranda Stateroom | £5795 | |
| Veranda Suite | £5995 | |
| Junior Suite | Not Available | |
| Penthouse Suite | Not Available | |
| Owner's Suite | Not Available | |
| Studio Single | £6995 | |
| Studio Veranda Single | Not Available | |
Tour Reference Code: SCOE030825
Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel • Overnight hotel accommodation in Helsinki with breakfast • 10 nights aboard the MV Ocean Explorer on a full board basis • Soft drinks included on MV Ocean Explorer • House wine & beer during bar hours and with dinner on board • Use of rubber boots during cruise • Shore excursions • Expedition team • Parka jacket • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, drinks other than those mentioned, optional kayaking excursions.
During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Ocean Explorer
Ocean Explorer is a modern, elegant and purpose-built expedition vessel for polar exploration. The 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology. One of the ship’s key features is the ULSTEIN X-BOW®, a marine engineering innovation that ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience thanks to the inverted bow. Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design and almost all have verandas. Guests can relax and find comfort in the spacious gym, sauna with large windows, and two outdoor Jacuzzis. Ocean Explorer features ample outdoor viewing areas and multi-height outer decks, which are ideal for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. The vessel is equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs that enable guests to get off the ship quickly and safely for off-ship adventures. In addition to the well-appointed and spacious public areas, Ocean Explorer has an industry-leading mix of sustainability systems, including fuel-efficient Rolls Royce engines.
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