Circumnavigating Spitsbergen – In the realm of the Polar Bear
CRUISE ID # HXSPSVA02-270612
Longyearbyen TO Longyearbyen
In the realm of the Polar Bear
11‑day all‑inclusive Svalbard Expedition Cruise with round-trip flights from Oslo
Join us as we attempt to venture above the 80th parallel and circumnavigate Spitsbergen, the largest island in the High Arctic archipelago of Svalbard.
Under the soft glow of the Midnight Sun, experience mighty glaciers, serene fjords and Arctic wildlife, including reindeer, whales, and perhaps even polar bears.
Discover Longyearbyen, the world's northernmost town, and scan for wildlife in the stunning Northwest Spitsbergen National Park.
Crossing the 80th parallel north
Embark on a true High Arctic expedition as we set our sights on the 80th parallel, just 600 nautical miles from the North Pole. Depending on favourable ice conditions, we'll attempt a bold circumnavigation of Spitsbergen, exploring rugged landscapes in one of Earth’s most remote regions and encountering remarkable wildlife along the way.
Land of the polar bear
Under the Midnight Sun, enjoy 24 hours of daylight, ideal for wildlife watching with our expert guides. From the ship or small expedition boats, you'll have the chance to spot polar bears, reindeer, Arctic foxes, walruses, and a variety of Arctic birds, all thriving in their natural habitat.
In line with AECO
HX is a proud member of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO). To protect the sensitive environments we explore, we carefully follow AECO standards on available landing sites and safe distances from wildlife, while still giving you an unforgettable expedition experience.
$11,238
WITH SPECIAL SAVINGS APPLIED
FARES SHOWN ARE PER GUEST
Suites & Fares
CHOOSE START DATE
: June 12, 2027
Itinerary
Longyearbyen is the biggest settlement in Svalbard. Seat of the Norwegian administration, it also has the best services and infrastructure in the archipelago. Located deep in the Adventfjord, a sidearm of the Isfjorden (Icefjord), Longyearbyen’s airport can be used all-year round, but its harbor is blocked by ice in winter. Most shops, hotels, restaurants and a hospital are within easy walking distance of the port. One of the most prominent buildings in town is the UNIS center, where several Norwegian universities have joined forces to operate and offer the northernmost higher education to both Norwegian and international students. Adjacent to UNIS, and well worth a visit, is the Svalbard Museum, covering the natural history and exploitation of Svalbard. Remnants of the former mining activity can be seen all around Longyearbyen and even in town.
Longyearbyen is the biggest settlement in Svalbard. Seat of the Norwegian administration, it also has the best services and infrastructure in the archipelago. Located deep in the Adventfjord, a sidearm of the Isfjorden (Icefjord), Longyearbyen’s airport can be used all-year round, but its harbor is blocked by ice in winter. Most shops, hotels, restaurants and a hospital are within easy walking distance of the port. One of the most prominent buildings in town is the UNIS center, where several Norwegian universities have joined forces to operate and offer the northernmost higher education to both Norwegian and international students. Adjacent to UNIS, and well worth a visit, is the Svalbard Museum, covering the natural history and exploitation of Svalbard. Remnants of the former mining activity can be seen all around Longyearbyen and even in town.
Experience science, serenity, and epic scenery
Today you’ll discover the serenity of Ny-Ålesund and neighbouring fjords such as Krossfjord and Kongsfjord. Disconnect and enjoy a day without distractions as the Norwegian Mapping Authority’s nearby geodetic station means we must switch off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
One of the northernmost settlements and a former mining town, Ny-Ålesund was the starting point for Roald Amundsen’s expeditions north with the airship ‘Norge’. Now a hub for global science and climate research, you can still see remnants of the town’s history.
You’ll be immersed in rugged, glacial scenery as we explore the fjords around Ny-Ålesund. Be ready for adventure; we’ll seize any opportunity to launch our small expedition boats, go ashore to hike or cruise by majestic glaciers.
Experience science, serenity, and epic scenery
Today you’ll discover the serenity of Ny-Ålesund and neighbouring fjords such as Krossfjord and Kongsfjord. Disconnect and enjoy a day without distractions as the Norwegian Mapping Authority’s nearby geodetic station means we must switch off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
One of the northernmost settlements and a former mining town, Ny-Ålesund was the starting point for Roald Amundsen’s expeditions north with the airship ‘Norge’. Now a hub for global science and climate research, you can still see remnants of the town’s history.
You’ll be immersed in rugged, glacial scenery as we explore the fjords around Ny-Ålesund. Be ready for adventure; we’ll seize any opportunity to launch our small expedition boats, go ashore to hike or cruise by majestic glaciers.
Experience pristine Arctic wilderness
Over the next two days, we’ll explore the natural beauty and rugged tundra of this breathtaking national park where steep mountains, glaciers and beautiful offshore islands form a unique Arctic landscape.
We’ll scout for some of the animals of the Arctic – seals, walruses and reindeer. Early in the season, there’s a good chance we may spot polar bears too, so we’ll always be on the lookout for these iconic but elusive predators.
Be ready for adventure; we’ll seize any opportunity to launch our kayaks or use our small expedition boats and go ashore to hike or participate in a beach clean up.
Experience the opportunity of sailing to the edge of the polar ice cap
If conditions allow, we’ll sail north and cross the 80th parallel to explore the ever-changing ice edge. The transition zone between the ice cap and the sea is a magical yet ephemeral place where the waters are filled with ice floes and drifting pack ice. From the ship, there are great opportunities for spotting wildlife, such as seals and walruses who lounge on the sparkling ice. And if the conditions are right, we’ll lower our expedition boats into the water and enjoy an unforgettable close-up experience amid the floating ice.
The ice edge isn’t a fixed boundary, and it moves depending on the season and conditions, so visiting it will be an attempt rather than a certainty. From May to August, as summer progresses, it retreats further towards the pole, meaning it may be out of reach for us. If so, we’ll explore the no-less-impressive fjords, glaciers and incredible scenery of the Svalbard coast.
Scouting for polar bears, seabirds, and walruses
Be ready for anything. If sea ice permits, we'll venture into the frozen seascape of Eastern Spitsbergen, scouting for polar bears, walrus, and colonies of Brünnich's guillemots through the legendary Hinlopen Strait. We may head south to Freemansundet and Kapp Lee, or explore Edgeøya and Barentsøya by Zodiac.
In true expedition style, where we go depends on conditions. If the ice doesn't allow passage east, we'll delve deeper into western Svalbard, navigating deep fjords and past calving glaciers in search of remarkable Arctic wildlife. Either way, expect exhilarating landings, hikes, and kayak trips at every turn.
Majestic glaciers, birds, and pioneer history
Your expedition cruise continues south towards Hornsund – one of Svalbard’s most beautiful fjords. Colourful vegetation makes way for towering mountains along this picturesque waterway. The cliffs here are home to large colonies of auks, guillemots and Northern Fulmars, along with Arctic foxes and Svalbard reindeer below.
Head out on deck to spot seals and whales, Mount Hornsundtind, and glaciers reaching into the sea, and learn about Wanny Woldstad, the first female trapper to hunt in Svalbard.
Then we head to admire the classic beauty of the snowcapped mountains of Bellsund: a historic area where you can see the evidence of former whaling and mining activity on the shoreline.
Our activities will be determined by the ever-changing weather conditions of Hornsund and Bellsund. Your Expedition Team will decide on the best possibilities for exploring on the day.
Longyearbyen is the biggest settlement in Svalbard. Seat of the Norwegian administration, it also has the best services and infrastructure in the archipelago. Located deep in the Adventfjord, a sidearm of the Isfjorden (Icefjord), Longyearbyen’s airport can be used all-year round, but its harbor is blocked by ice in winter. Most shops, hotels, restaurants and a hospital are within easy walking distance of the port. One of the most prominent buildings in town is the UNIS center, where several Norwegian universities have joined forces to operate and offer the northernmost higher education to both Norwegian and international students. Adjacent to UNIS, and well worth a visit, is the Svalbard Museum, covering the natural history and exploitation of Svalbard. Remnants of the former mining activity can be seen all around Longyearbyen and even in town.
About the Ship
Name
MS Spitsbergen
Operator
HX Expeditions
Named after the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, MS Spitsbergen embodies the history of HX's 1896 'Sports Route' between mainland Norway and Svalbard.
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Food connects us to place. That’s why, wherever possible, flavours on board are inspired by the regions we explore. Expect seasonal ingredients, regional dishes, and sustainable seafood, all served in relaxed surroundings.
Take Away: Prefer a quieter evening? Aune’s takeaway service lets you enjoy a freshly prepared meal in the comfort of your cabin or suite, perfect for laid-back nights in.
Life on MS Spitsbergen is casual, calm, and connected to nature. Whether you’re sipping coffee by the window or watching the world go by from the observation deck, the spirit of discovery stays with you, even between landings.
Whether you want to relax after a day of excursions or to get moving after wildlife watching out on deck, MS Spitsbergen has everything you need.
Enjoy a lecture on the ship's deck or in one of the conference rooms and learn something new. You will be joined on the Norwegian coast and on expedition voyages by expert Expedition Teams, all hand-picked due to their knowledge and experience. They will give lectures and lead activities all designed to enhance your knowledge and understanding of the areas you're sailing in. Learn about the history, cultures and wildlife.
The onboard Expedition Team is composed of the Expedition Leader, the Assistant Expedition Leader, the Expedition Coordinator plus several lecturers and experts. Your Expedition Leader will regularly update you on the progress of the trip as well as the different points of interest and wildlife sightings that may occur. Biographies of the Expedition Team can be found on board. In the ships science center, you will be able to find information r....
We offer a rich and varied programme of included and optional shore excursions run by third-party providers in many areas we sail to. In many ports, we offer an included excursion, which can be reserved for no additional charge. In some cases, the included excursion can be combined with other optional excursions in the port. Most excursions can be pre-booked, but may also be bookable onboard if capacity remains.
We advise that you book w....
The Science & Education program brings together like-minded individuals
Covering over 3/4 of the planet's surface, our oceans are vital in supporting human life on earth and are also home to over 90% of all known wildlife. Despite it influencing everything from our weather to transportation and yes, expedition cruises, very little is known about our blue planet.
This is where HX Expeditions and our fleet of small, state-of-the-....
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Breakfast, lunch and dinner, every day: Indulge in anything your appetite desires across a huge list of delicious choices that almost rival the memories you’ll make off the ship. Start the day with an impressive buffet breakfast before moving onto a mouth-watering menu of à la carte choices later in the day. Of course, that includes house wine and beer and soft drinks.
A warm welcome to the sauna, hot tubs and more: Make so....
Due to the nature of expedition cruising, our voyages often take us far away from the resources and the facilities we are used to in day-to-day life. We recognise that disabilities and mobility issues can range in severity, and recommend all guests consider accompaniment by a companion if they need assistance, either on board or ashore, due to the environment, operations and the unique safety requirements found on an expedition ship.
We ....
Weather varies depending on your destination, but sturdy footwear for wet and dry landings is essential. We provide boots and trekking poles on certain expeditions, but you’re welcome to bring your own.
On-board
- Casual clothes – the dress code is relaxed and informal, even for dinners
- Comfortable flat shoes for everyday use while onboard. It can be slippery on deck, so we recommend shoes with a good grip
Our expedition ships feature a small onboard hospital essential equipment, and medication to handle small emergencies.. Every ship has an English-speaking medical team with a doctor and at least one nurse, supported 24/7 by dedicated land-based experts.
In the event of a serious emergency, the nearest hospital will be contacted. Medical consultations as well as medicines will be charged to the passenger affected. All guests must have per....
Everything you need to know about your cruise, including your bookings, daily programme, restaurants and services on board and essential information about available excursions is at hand at any time.
What have I booked?
Take a look at My bookings to explore the excursions you have booked and prepare for your adventure accordingly with practical tips.
What's happening today?
The daily programme helps you to....