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Svalbard Tour Packages

An escape to Svalbard promises to be an adventure you’ll never forget! Journey to this Arctic archipelago in winter to chase the northern lights, or travel in summer for the midnight sun. These Svalbard tours include your accommodation, guided excursions and airport transfers, all arranged by your own dedicated travel consultant.

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About Your Svalbard Tour

Whether you’re whizzing across snow-dusted landscapes or learning to drive a dog sled, you can expect the extraordinary in Svalbard. What’s more, exciting activities like this are already included in your tour package. With insider knowledge from your local guides, you’ll get the most out of your trip to Arctic Norway.

When you book a partially guided tour of Svalbard with Nordic Visitor, you’ll get: • An authentic travel experience operated by a trusted company • A dedicated travel consultant who will arrange your entire trip • Excursions led by experienced professional guides • Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay • 24/7 phone support during your trip for peace of mind

Nordic Visitor has made it easy to plan your Svalbard holiday. Begin your adventure by following these simple steps: 1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

Why Choose Nordic Visitor

Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor has been designing tours in Northern Europe ever since. Using their insider knowledge of Svalbard, your regional travel consultant will arrange your trip for you. What’s more, you can rest easy knowing that each part of your package is quality-tested by us.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when TripAdvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence . We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

You are in good hands

You can reach us 24/7 throughout your trip. If anything unforeseen crops up, get in touch and a travel expert will be available to assist you. This includes minimising any disruption to your itinerary. So you can explore with confidence, safe in the knowledge that support is just a call away.

Hassle-free experience

Pick any of these Nordic Visitor Svalbard trips and we’ll take care of the details for you. Your dedicated travel consultant will book your accommodation, guided excursions and airport transfers before you get there. This means that from the moment you touch down, your experience will be seamless.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

Customisable tour options

These Svalbard tours already include handpicked activities, but we know that your travel wish list is unique to you. So why not personalise your itinerary with optional extras, such as guided hikes or snowmobile rides? Plus, you’ll have the option to extend your stay with additional nights.

Customer Reviews

Nordic Visitor may be a new name in Svalbard tourism, but we’ve been around for a while in the Nordic countries. In Norway and beyond, we’ve established a great reputation with our local suppliers and guests from all over the world. It won't be long until you can read new reviews here! Maybe yours will be next?

Your Svalbard Vacation Highlights

Dazzling ice caps and rugged fjords are waiting for you in this remote archipelago where the polar bear is king. Visit Svalbard and you could…

• Spend time in Longyearbyen , the most northerly town in the world
• Chase enchanting and colourful displays of the northern lights in winter
• Go wildlife-watching on Spitsbergen , home to Arctic foxes, polar bears and reindeer
• Learn about the history and culture of these islands when you tour the Svalbard Museum
• Soak up jaw-dropping scenery with endless daylight, thanks to summer’s midnight sun
• Try your hand at mushing on a dog sledding excursion to the Adventdalen Valley
• Join a guided snowmobile tour , where you’ll glide through untouched landscapes
• Immerse yourself in nature when you stay at the remote Isfjord Radio Adventure Hotel
• Find out why Svalbard is a perfect place for one of the world’s Global Seed Vaults

Frequently Asked Questions About Svalbard Tour Packages

If you want to know more before planning your trip to Arctic Norway, don’t miss the answers to these frequently asked questions about visiting Svalbard. For even more information, check out this handy Svalbard Travel Guide .

To learn about our booking process, payments and more, please read these FAQs and booking terms .

1. Where is Svalbard?

You’ll find the island chain of Svalbard located around halfway between Northern Norway and the North Pole. This Norwegian archipelago lies well within the Arctic Circle.

The region’s 9 main islands are scattered between latitudes of 74° and 81° N. Spitsbergen is the largest of these islands. And its capital, Longyearbyen, sits at a latitude of 78° N, making it one of the world’s northernmost settlements.

2. Is Svalbard a country?

Svalbard isn’t a country, but it’s been part of the Kingdom of Norway since the Spitsbergen Treaty came into effect in 1925. This connection is why all flights to Svalbard are via Norway.

3. Is Svalbard worth visiting?

If you love off-the-beaten-path adventures, Svalbard’s rugged landscapes should definitely make it onto your travel wishlist. Skip one of those expedition cruises, and instead choose to have an authentic travel experience organised by local experts. On our carefully curated trips, you’ll really get to know the region.

With around just 2,600 people making their home in Svalbard, much of the island chain is pristine wilderness. Think vast glaciers, Arctic tundra and wild fjords.

The archipelago’s fauna doesn’t disappoint either. Not only is this a land where polar bears roam, but you might also glimpse Arctic foxes, seals and reindeer. Come summer, migratory birds arrive and get ready to start nesting. Plus, take to the water and you could spy some of the whale species that swim in the seas around Svalbard.

Why not combine your Arctic escape with other regions of Norway? Get inspired by these top Norwegian vacation spots .

4. Are there polar bears in Svalbard?

Yes, polar bears live in Svalbard year-round. In fact, the islands, and surrounding Barents Sea, are home to about 3,000 of these majestic creatures. This is higher than the number of people that live in the area!

It’s worth remembering that these are wild animals, so you aren’t guaranteed to spot a polar bear. Of course, their presence here also means that outdoor excursions must be with a guide who knows what to do if you come across one. Read more about the measures to protect both polar bears and visitors in this Svalbard travel guide .

Choose a Svalbard tour with Nordic Visitor, and rest easy knowing that we only use handpicked local suppliers with experienced professional guides.

5. Can you see the northern lights in Svalbard?

Absolutely! Svalbard is one of the best places to see the northern lights in Norway . Why, you ask? Well, to see the aurora borealis you need darkness, clear skies, high solar activity, and low light pollution. With its remote position in the Arctic Circle, where there’s lots of solar activity, Svalbard ticks all of these boxes.

If you want to chase the aurora, then the winter months of February and March are an ideal time to visit. This is because the long polar nights mean you’ll have a greater chance of seeing the northern lights.

Find out more about hunting for the aurora in this guide to the northern lights in Norway .

6. Can you visit the Svalbard Global Seed Vault?

Svalbard’s Global Seed Vault is not open to visitors. But it is possible to join a sightseeing tour from Longyearbyen, which stops outside the entrance. From here, you can see how the structure is built into the permafrost. You’ll also be able to admire the art installation above the door into the vault.

7. What is there to do in Svalbard?

No matter when you visit, there’s plenty to see and do in Svalbard . But it’s worth bearing in mind that travelling in summer or winter will change the type of activities you can do during your trip.

For instance, from mid-Novermber to late-January the sun doesn’t rise, this is known as the polar night. And while this is great for spotting the northern lights, you’ll miss out on the epic views. Visit from February into spring though, and you can combine hunting for the aurora with other activities.

Come to Svalbard in winter and you could:

• • Go on a snowmobiling expedition to a remote Arctic hotel
• • Try husky sledding through snow-blanketed valleys
• • Chase breathtaking displays of the northern lights

On the other hand, travel to Svalbard between mid-April and mid-August and you’ll experience the midnight sun. This natural phenomenon is when the sun doesn’t set near the poles.

The longer days and less snowy conditions of summer are best for:

• • Taking boat trips along the rugged coastline
• • Exploring the untouched wilderness on guided hikes
• • Learning how to drive a dog sled with wheels

There are also a few things you can do year-round near Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s capital. Delve into the local culture when you visit Svalbard Museum or the North Pole Expedition Museum. Or take a guided day tour into the surrounding countryside to see key sights, such as the Svalbard Global Seed Vault.

You could also grab a pint at Svalbard Bryggeri AS, the most northerly brewery in the world. And there’s Camp Barentz, a restaurant designed to look like the cabin of William Barentz, one of the first people to discover Svalbard.

Check out these other top things to do in Svalbard. And find out more about the best time to visit Norway , with tips on what to do and where to go.

8. How do I get to Svalbard?

The easiest way to get to Svalbard is by getting to Oslo or Tromsø on mainland Norway and taking a connecting flight to Svalbard.

Your travel to and from Svalbard isn’t included in these packages, but we’d be happy to assist you with organising your flights from Oslo (3 hours) or Tromsø (1.5 hours). If you’d like to split your journey with nights in either of these cities, just speak to your travel consultant.

Oslo is the nation’s capital, so you’ll find there are direct flights here from several worldwide locations. Based on the flight schedule and time of year, you could fly direct to Oslo’s airport (OSL) from the likes of:

• Amsterdam (AMS)
• Dubai (DXB)
• Dublin (DUB)
• Edinburgh (EDI)
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
• London Heathrow (LHR)
• Los Angeles (LAX)
• New York City (JFK)
• Paris Charles De Gaulle (CDG)
• Keflavík, near Reykjavík (KEF)
• Zürich (ZRH)

Tromsø is a smaller airport, which serves fewer destinations. But it’s handy for reaching Svalbard if you’re already in Norway, or are coming from elsewhere in Northern Europe. Depending on the time of year, there are nonstop flights to Tromsø from airports such as London Gatwick (LGW), Paris Charles De Gaulle (CDG) and Zürich (ZRH).

9. When should I organise my flights?

We recommend checking what flights are available before booking your Svalbard tour. But it’s best to wait until after your travel consultant has finalised the arrangements for your trip to purchase your flights.

Once they’ve been in touch with your tour confirmation, you can go ahead and make plans for getting to Svalbard.

10. How many days do you need in Svalbard?

To get the most out of your time in Svalbard, you’ll want to allow at least a few days here. Around 4 to 7 days is a good length of time for exploring the area.

With 4 days, you’ll have 2 full days for venturing out into nature. Plus, you might also have time for sightseeing in Longyearbyen on your travel days.

Meanwhile, a week will allow you to head even further off the beaten path. For instance, you could go on guided multi-day excursions by boat or snowmobile, depending on the season. And when you return to Longyearbyen, you’ll have time to see the local attractions and enjoy even more activities.

11. Do I need a visa to visit Svalbard?

Depending on where you’re travelling from, you might need a visa for your trip to Svalbard. This is because, although Svalbard isn’t in the Schengen Area, it’s part of the Kingdom of Norway, which is.

This means if you’re a resident of a country with a visa requirement for the Schengen Area, and you’re travelling to Svalbard via Norway, you will need a visa. Whether or not you require a visa, a valid passport, or other accepted form of ID, are needed to enter the region.

Before you travel make sure to check the rules for entry and residence on the Governor of Svalbard’s website.

12. Can I choose the arrival date?

Yes, you can pick the start date that works for you on these partially guided Svalbard packages.

You can begin summer tours, from May through September, on any day of the week. The tours from February to April or May aren’t available to start on any day, but there are still plenty of dates to choose from.

Each package has an online calendar where you can see up-to-date availability and take your pick from possible departure dates.

13. Can I customise my tour?

Of course, these Svalbard itineraries have been designed so you can tailor your getaway to suit you. When booking online, you can customise your own trip with optional activities and extra nights.

To find out what additional excursions are available, check out the tour page for the trip you’re interested in. Or ask your travel consultant about the activities that would work best for you.

Your options include snowmobiling and dog sledding. Plus, there’s a sightseeing tour from Longyearbyen where you'll see glaciers and some of Spitsbergen’s more historical sights. And why not extend your stay by adding extra nights to your trip?

If there’s something specific you’d like to arrange in Svalbard, just ask your dedicated travel consultant.

14. How should I dress in Svalbard?

When it comes to dressing for Svalbard, it’s worth knowing that the region's name means “cold coast” in Old Norse. Svalbard’s location within the Arctic Circle means that no matter when you visit, you're likely to experience unpredictable weather. And while it can be surprisingly mild on a calm summer's day, temperatures can also drop well below freezing at any time of year.

This means you’ll want to be prepared for all seasons, whether you’re travelling in summer or winter. Layering is the best way to dress for these varied conditions. And this way you can add and remove items as you need them.

Here’s an example of a packing list for Svalbard to get you started:

• Warm and waterproof hiking boots with good grip
• Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers
• Warm synthetic or down insulated jacket
• Woollen or fleece jumpers
• Thermal baselayers
• Cosy hat, scarf/neck warmer and gloves
• Thick hiking socks
• Indoor shoes
• Reusable water bottle
• Travel adapter (type C or F)

For extra warmth, disposable hand warmers to put into your gloves are also a good idea. And if you need any special equipment for an excursion included in your tour package, it will be provided as part of the activity.

Get in touch with us and a regional travel expert will be able to answer any questions you might have about travelling to Svalbard. Now’s the time to start planning your dream Arctic getaway.

Our Scandinavian phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

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Blog Articles

7 top things to do in svalbard, 7 incredible things to see and do in norway, best time & place to see northern lights in norway, how to visit svalbard: layers, layers, layers.

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Bookings & Enquiries

More polar bears than people, reindeers, mining town history, picture perfect glaciers, dog sledding, snowmobiling, Franz Josef Land- a remote archipelago, polar nights with Northern Lights/ Aurora Borealis and midnight sun in the summer. An Eldorado for nature-based activities!

Tour Standard

Basecamp Nordenskiöld Svalbard

5 days - Independent adventure tour | True Arctic Wilderness.

Svalbard Northern Lights Adventure

4 days - Silent Esledding, Gourmet Food & Ice Cave Adventure in Spitsbergen

Magic of the Arctic

5 days - Boutique stay in Svalbard | Rib boats | Glacier exploring

Oslo, Bergen and Svalbard Express

14 days - Visit Oslo, Norway in a Nutshell, Bergen then voyage to Svalbard

Oslo, Bergen and Svalbard Express Deluxe

15 days - Visit Oslo, Norway in a Nutshell, Bergen then voyage to Svalbard

Spitsbergen Arctic Darkness

4 days - Out of this world 24-hour darkness, Arctic adventures and dogsledding

Spitsbergen Arctic Summer

4 days - Arctic adventures, pristine nature and glaciers

• Pre or Post Cruise

Svalbard Northern Lights for Thanksgiving

4 days - Make this Thanksgiving unforgettable in Svalbard, Arctic Norway.

WHY TRAVEL TO SVALBARD?:

Arctic tours and voyages are our speciality and as Svalbard is the northernmost part of Norway, this is a destination we know well. With its open landscapes, sparse vegetation and endless glaciers, a trip here will certainly make you feel on top of the world!

Svalbard (also knows as Spitsbergen & Spitzbergen which is the main islands' name) combines as a station for Arctic research, climatology and a perfect adventure holiday destination. Dog sledding, glaciers, boat cruising, polar bears, the midnight sun and the beautiful Northern Lights/ Aurora Borealis are highlights on your adventure to Svalbard.

Summer and winter are both excellent for visiting Svalbard, each with their unique characteristics- summer in perpetuity of light and winter with a country lit up by Northern Lights around the clock (conditions permitting) Svalbard is the only permanently settled place on earth where you can experience dayside Northern Lights. On our Spitsbergen Northern Lights tour , you can experience this unique winter atmosphere of Svalbard and its Polar Nights.

OUR SVALBARD TOURS CAN INCLUDE:

For a true taste of all that Svalbard has to offer in summer, join a Hurtigruten Spitsbergen and Polar Bears on MS Nordstjernen voyage , getting into the far-reaching fjords of Svalbard, in search of Polar Bears. You will experience an extraordinary Arctic landscape, glaciers and bird cliffs.

If you are looking for adventure, our independent Basecamp Nordenskiöld true Arctic wilderness tour is suitable for both singles, couples and groups. Stay in a true hunting cabin- but with modern comforts while exploring arctic nature and beauty with options for treks, kayaking, glacier walks and much more.

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Svalbard Small Group Tours

6 svalbard small group tours.

Explorer Family Polar Arctic Ocean Cruise +1

The Ultimate Expedition | Circumnavigating Svalbard (MS Spitsbergen)

Circumnavigating Spitsbergen | In the Realm of the Polar Bear | 2024 (MS Spitsbergen)

Explorer Family

East Greenland and Svalbard—A True Arctic Expedition

Circumnavigating Spitsbergen – In the realm of the Polar Bear

Explorer Family Polar Arctic

Iceland, Jan Mayen, Spitsbergen – Island Hopping in and around the Arctic (Northbound)

Circumnavigating Svalbard - The Ultimate Expedition

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Top Svalbard Trips & Vacation Packages

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• Wildlife & Safari Exploration
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• Archaeological Site Visits
• Local Market Visits
• Northern Lights
• Photography Seminars
• Scuba Diving
• Small Ship Cruises
• Village Visits
• Whale Watching
• Wildlife Viewing
• Greg Mortimer
• Le Champlain
• Le Commandant Charcot
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• Sylvia Earle
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Svalbard Encounter Expedition Micro Cruise

• Visit the stunning Longyearbyen
• Discover Prins Karls Foreland
• Explore north west of Spitsbergen
• See Lilliehöök Glacier on Svalbard

Svalbard Odyssey

• Explore Longyearbyen
• Experience Camp Barentz
• Visit Svalbard Museum
• Look out for birdlife

Norway's Fjords and Arctic Svalbard (Northbound)

• Explore the rare northern fjords
• Paddle in a deep fjord
• Explore Lofoten Islands
• Visit the famous building in Tromso

Spitsbergen Highlights: Expedition in Brief

• Enjoy all the adventures
• Kayak surrounded by icebergs
• Hike the arctic tundra
• Look for arctic wildlife

Spitsbergen Explorer: Wildlife Capital of the Arctic

• View iconic arctic wildlife
• Immerse in the icy realm of Arctic
• Cruise in Zodiac to explore Arctic
• Hike the tundra and polar desert

Svalbard and the Northern Fjords

• Make for the wilder wilds
• Discover the islands and fjords
• Actively explore the scenery
• Explore the coves and inlets

Norway's Fjords and Arctic Svalbard

Around spitsbergen, in the realm of polar bear & ice.

• Discover unspoiled wilderness
• Spot iconic arctic wildlife
• Explore the arctic's landscapes
• Watch for the elusive beluga whale
• Sail to Spitsbergen’s coastline
• Spot lots of wildlife
• Photograph Arctic tundra flowers

Svalbard in Depth

• Seek out Arctic wildlife
• Experience Arctic
• Discover Svalbard

Svalbard Adventure

• Discover the Northwest Corner
• Search for unique wildlife
• Explore Monaco glacier
• Hike through Svalbard

Around Spitsbergen, In the realm of Polar Bear & Ice

• Spot minke whale
• Catch Arctic fox and bearded seal
• Discover Monaco Glacier
• See polar bears at Seven Islands
• Enjoy Bell Sund's flora and fauna

Alpine Peaks of Spitsbergen, Ski & Sail

• Watch for polar bears and walrus
• Visit Kongsfjorden and Isfjord
• Ski the snowy Arctic terrain
• Enjoy zodiac cruising and hiking

Svalbard Circumnavigation and Kvitøya : In-Depth Exploration in the Land of the Polar Bear

• Discover Nordaustlandet
• Experience Southeast Svalbard
• Explore Kvitøya

Best of Svalbard

• Observe majestic polar bears
• Walk in the footsteps of explorers
• Explore spectacular Svalbard
• Discover the North Pole

West Svalbard & Polar Ice Edge

• Discover Longyearbyen
• Explore Forlandet National Park
• Visit South Spitsbergen
• Encounter Arctic wildlife

Ice Waterfalls, Wildlife & Arctic Colors Svalbard Autumn Photo Tour

• Discover Prins Karls Forland
• Explore Spitsbergen

Top Svalbard Travel Destinations

• Krossfjorden
• Longyearbyen

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Svalbard Cruises

Pristine wilderness between norway and the north pole, information about svalbard.

Polar expedition cruises in Svalbard offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the remote and pristine Arctic wilderness. Located between mainland Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard is home to breathtaking glaciers, fjords, and an abundance of wildlife, including polar bears, walruses, and whales. These cruises typically range from 8 to 15 days and offer a range of activities such as kayaking, snowshoeing, and wildlife watching. With the help of experienced guides, travelers can experience the raw beauty of the Arctic and learn about its unique ecosystem and history. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a unique vacation experience, a Polar expedition cruise in Svalbard is an unforgettable experience.

Interesting facts about undefined

Svalbard is located between mainland Norway and the North Pole, making it a prime location for polar expeditions.

The region is home to an abundance of wildlife, including polar bears, walruses, and whales, making it a popular destination for wildlife watching.

Polar expedition cruises in Svalbard offer a range of activities, including kayaking, snowshoeing, and camping, allowing travelers to experience the raw beauty of the Arctic in a variety of ways.

The region is also rich in history and cultural significance, with early explorers such as Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen having made expeditions to Svalbard. Today, travelers can learn about the history and ecology of the region through guided tours and educational presentations.

Pictures of Svalbard

Destinations you will visit in Svalbard

Svalbard Isfjorden

Svalbard- East & North

Svalbard- NW

Svalbard- SE

Svalbard- SW

Svalbard- Hinlopen Strait

Highlights in svalbard.

Historical site on SW side of Hornsund with the remains from the days of whaling and overwintering Russian and Norwegian trappers.

Gåshamna was also the site of the Swedish/Russian Arc of Meridian Expedition from 1898 to 1902, one of the first international research expeditions in the Arctic. In addition to the cultural remains, there is beautiful tundra with the Arctic flora.

Remains of a gypsum mine below spectacular and beautiful cliffs. In addition to the cultural remains, including parts of a railway and a barge, it has an interesting flora due to the ‘mild’ location, deep inside Isfjorden.

Nearby cliffs, which go right down to the sea, are eroded into impressive shapes, and can be a great place to explore offshore in a Zodiac, the chance to see various seabirds that breed on the cliffs, with kittiwakes and four auk species including Puffins. It is a popular site for a combined landing and Zodiac cruise, and a ‘sail’ past on boats out from Longyearbyen that are visiting Pyramiden.

Located on the NW corner of Edgeøya at the entrance to Freemansundet, Kapp Lee is the location of a Walrus haul out that is also a good location for Reindeer, the chance of Arctic Fox, and great tundra vegetation.

It is also a site of cultural significance with the foundations of a Pomor dwelling and several hunters cabin including a hexagonal shaped hut that is right next to the Walrus haul out. Just above the shoreline on nearby beach are the remains of a Bow Head Whale where the carcass must have drifted ashore long ago. Now, with isostatic rebound (the land slowly rising up after being pushed down under the weight when the whole of Svalbard was under an ice sheet) the bones are a short distance above the shoreline.

Raudfjorden

Further around the Northwest coast of Spitsbergen, further to the east, this fjord is often blocked off by the pack ice in the early season before, but is the first area to become free as the pack ice retreats from the NW corner of Spitsbergen.

The mountains in this area are rugged and the coast here may have been the land that Barents saw when he came up with the name of Spitsbergen. The name, ‘red fjord’ comes from the red sandstone in the south and east areas of the fjord. There is a hunter’s wooden cabin at Bruceneset and a cairn for a pioneer that died of scurvy whilst overwintering in 1907/08. The name is for the explorer William S. Bruce, the area named by Prince Albert I of Monaco on the Princesse Alice on his oceanographic expeditions to Svalbard from 1898 to 1907.

Hinlopenstretet

The sound between Spitsbergen and Nordaustlandet in the high Arctic, in contrast to the milder coast of western Spitsbergen. Early in the season it is locked in ice that slowly clears from the south.

The northern end can be blocked by the pack for a while, varying from season to season. Once open, it enables circumnavigation of Spitsbergen, although ice can still drift in on strong currents and block Hinlopenstretet. When Hinlopenstretet is open, but the northern end is still blocked, ships will come into the area, typically sailing along Freemansundet between Edgeøya and Barentsøya, then return.

The area is superb for Zodiac cruises and landings, and can be superb even as a ship cruise. There are plenty of seabirds, the sound can be good for whales, there are various fjords to explore, like the surprisingly arid and desert-like Wahlenbergfjorden, various island groups to explore, like Wahlbergøya, and the chance to experience what is described as the polar desert. Three locations stand out as highlights in whole of Svalbard, the ice cliff Bråsvellbreen, the Walrus Haul out at Torellneset , and the bird cliff at Alkefjellet.

Smeerenburgfjorden

This extensive fjord system has impressive scenery and numerous glaciers that is great to explore by ship whilst being on the watch out for bears. It is also an area with lots of history.

Smeerenburg was the base for the Dutch whalers that was known as ‘blubber town’, with the remains of the blubber ovens for those that get ashore. There is also a Walrus haul out that can be observed from the shore, or from a Zodiac if there is a bear nearby (quite often the case here in the NW). Close by is Virgohamna, the site where Andrée set off his ill-fated trip to the North Pole by balloon in 1897, and where Wellman attempted to fly to the pole in the early 1900’s. Today there are the scattered remains of the balloon shed and the aircraft hangar. Special permission is required to land but the remains can be seen from a Zodiac offshore. Smeerenberg was also the location where the Fram appeared after drifting across the Arctic Ocean, stuck in the ice for three years!

Kongsvegen and Kongsbreen

The inner part of Kongsfjorden is popular for ship cruising and especially Zodiac cruising with the mountain scenery, some impressive glacier fronts, and the chance to explore the ice floes looking for wildlife, and the chance of a bear.

Also keep a look out for Long tailed Jaegers, one of the few places they breed in Svlbard is on the island of Ny London in the middle of Kongsford. A number of lakes and pools in the region can attract a range of waterbirds.

Austfonna and Bråsvellbreen

The ice cliff here is so impressive it features in the opening credits of The Frozen Planet. It is where the massive ice cap of Austfonna, covering 58% of Nordaustlandet, meets the sea, and the third largest ice cap in the World.

The ice cliff is about 180km long, apart from few rocky out¬crops, and roughly 24m high, with a series of waterfalls along the length when it is warmer. The ice cliff is routinely referred to as Bråsvellbreen, but it is the huge glacier streaming out of Austfonna. It often surges forward and is known as the Sudden Swell Glacier. The section at the southern end of Hinlopenstretet is the most accessible, often as a combined ship cruise and a Zodiac cruise, and it is simply breath taking, a bit like the ice wall in the Game of Thrones!

There is also the chance to check out wildlife on the ice floes and the bergy bits.

The largest glacier on Spitsbergen that flows into the NW sector of Storfjorden with the longest front to any glacier in Svalbard where it reaches the sea.

With numerous carvings it is almost impossible for a ship to get close for a ship to get close, apart from the northern end, but it makes for a stunning Zodiac cruise with the ice cliffs, the icebergs, and the brash ice. As well as looking out for wildlife the area is known for its stunningly beautiful blue icebergs.

Fjortende Julibukta

The 14th of July bay and glacier, named by Prince Albert I of Monaco on the Princesse Alice on his oceanographic expeditions to Svalbard from 1898 to 1907.

It is one of the highlights in Krossfjorden, often combining a landing with a Zodiac cruise. Cruising along the impressive glacier front, there are regular calvings with bergs in the bay that attracts birds like kittiwakes. And nearby there are bird cliffs with a colony of Thick-billed Murres (Brünnich’s Guillemot) that also includes Atlantic Puffins. Options for landing (being careful of potential Tsunami waves from calvings) include one of the best spots in the whole of Svalbard for flowers, and even the chance to walk on the side of the glacier.

The World’s northernmost year-round community and a site of cultural importance with layers of history. Originally it was a remote coal mining town, known as Kings Bay, until a serious accident in 1962.

The location meant King’s Bay was the starting point of various historical attempts to reach the North Pole, and the mast for Nobile’s airships can still be seen. Today it is a centre for international Arctic research, with traditional houses of when it was King’s Bay alongside modern bases for various countries. It is great to walk around the town and tourism also plays a role and ships can come alongside at the dock (one of the few docks apart from Longyearbyen and Barentsburg in Svalbard). There are shops, a museum, and the most northerly post office in the World. It is also great for birds, including Barnacle Geese (perhaps the most well studied wild geese in the World), Red-throated Loons on the lake, and the chance of an Ivory Gull by the dog kennels.

Magdalenefjorden

One of the most spectacular and most photographed fjords in Svalbard, and with all the pointed peaks it can be understood how Spitsbergen got its name. Very popular for the landing at Gravneset, with the whaler’s graveyard it is named after, with the remains of the blubber ovens from the whaling days.

The tundra is also great for plants and wildlife, from geese to Arctic Terns. Zodiac cruising is a great way to explore the rest of the fjord and to look out for wildlife that includes a huge Little Auk colony in the scree on the northern side (some quite close to the shore), and to look out for seals. As well as Ringed Seals and Bearded Seals there is a spot with Harbour Seals (the most northerly in the World?), and a site where Walrus haul on a sandy beach at the entrance of the fjord to the west of Gravneset. The Waggonwaybreen glacier has been retreating and ships can get quite close to witness carvings, a floating platform on the part of the open fjord that was covered by the glacier just a few years ago. Staff will always be on the lookout for bears that can turn up here.

Nordfjorden

There are several deep fjords along the north coast of Isfjorden with glaciers coming down to the bay. These can be popular for Zodiac cruises along the glacial fronts, discover wildlife, and in some places, even to get ashore to walk on a glacier.

North coast - Nordaustlandet

With most of the island under the icecaps of Austfonna and Vestfonna, this rugged coastline is not covered by the ice cap, including Kapp Platten, but few ships visit this remote coast, preferring to explore Sjuøyane.

Vårsolbukta

On the NW side of Bellsund, this is a huge Little Auk colony amongst the extensive scree on the side of the mountain ridges above the landing beach.

It can be a challenge to get to, and to scout, in case of bears, but it is a stunning wildlife spectacle with thousands of Little Auks wheeling around and calling (sounding like little trolls!). The activity also attracts Arctic Foxes and the tundra, with all the nutrients leaching down, is superb for plants, and to look out for geese and Reindeer.

Along the shore there is the chance of Beluga.

Torrelneset

The highlight here is the large Walrus haul out on the beach, one of the best in Svalbard.

It is also a great location to land, one of the few locations on Nordaustlandet, and experience the polar desert, and to walk up a series of raised beaches to a viewpoint overlooking Hinlopenstretet.

A long narrow island of hard bedrock at the entrance to Van Mijentfjorden, the northern fjord arm of Bellsund. It is popular for a Zodiac cruise around the island and through the narrow Mariasundet, with the strong currents that attract seabirds.

There is the chance of landing to explore the geology, but with lots of scouting first to make sure there is not a hidden bear. The surrounding mountains provide some spectacular scenery and some impressive geology. But few cruise ships go further into this deep fjord, preferring to do landings in Bellsund, and to ship cruise into Hornsund.

Isbjørnhamna

Site of a Polish research base on NW side of Hornsund. A few cruises get the chance to visit the base and to go up to the Little Auk colony.

Ahlstrandodden and Bamsebu

These two sites are at the entrance to the southern arm of Bellsund - Van Keulenfjorden. Both sites, and the area between them, are scattered with remains from the Beluga, the white whale, that was hunted for the blubber and skin. There are piles of bleached bones and upturned wooden boats that were left when the area was abandoned in the 1930’s.

Beluga can be seen along the shore here. If you are lucky to encounter them it is poignant with their bleached bones on the shore.

It is popular site for a landing and to walk across the tundra between the two sites, looking for Arctic flowers, Reindeer, Arctic Foxes, and check out some hunter’s cabins and the remains of fox traps.

Also look out for Purple Sandpipers and Red Phalaropes feeding along the shoreline.

Barentsburg

An active Russian mining town on the hillside of Grønfjorden, that has fallen on hard times, and it can look bleak and stark.

But it is a great place to walk around with the Soviet architecture. There is a hotel, a souvenir shop, a museum, and recently, with more investment, a brewery. Most of the cruises do not visit, but it is easy to see on a clear day sailing in or out of Isfjorden. It is a popular day trip from Longyearbyen, and you could even stay overnight.

This island is off the NE coast of Nordaustlandet and there is a very large Walrus colony, with lots of mothers with young.

Although it is almost impossible to get ashore with the restrictions and all the Walrus, the terrain, and the chances of bears, it is popular for a Zodiac cruise for ships doing a circumnavigation of the whole archipelago.

Poolepynten

This location is outside Isfjorden on the long island of Prins Karls Foreland, but is within the reach of day trips from Longyearbyen, on a long boat ride.

It is known for the Walrus haul out, one of the few relatively close to Longyearbyen, and is popular as a landing for cruise ships. It is a great location to experience a haul out, and they are so used to people, individuals swimming along the shore sometimes come for a closer look! The beaches are covered in logs that have drifted all the way across the Arctic Ocean from Siberia, just watch out for Arctic Terns. The lagoon to the rear can be great for Purple Sandpipers, Red Phalaropes, and Red Throated Loons.

Woodfjorden

This large fjord, and the associated Bockfjorden and Liefdefjorden in northern Spitsbergen, becomes accessible as the pack retreats. It is great for ship cruising, enjoying the scenery, and to look out for bears along the extensive coastline.

Flexibility is key with the chance of bears and changing weather conditions, but with plenty of choices in this large fjord complex. Zodiac cruises are popular, including Monacobreen glacier at the end of Liefdelfjorden, and the islands of Andøyane, a great area for a range of birds, including King Eider. There are also options for landings. The large and impressive wooden hut at Mushamna on the NE side of Woodfjorden. The small hunter’s cabin known as the Texas Bar in Liefdefjorden. The ‘thermal spring’ at Jotunkjeldane in Bockfjorden.

Bjørnøya (Bear Island)

Bear Island is considered Svalbard’s southernmost island, roughly half way between Spitsbergen and Norway’s North Cape. Although the last polar bears were seen in 2004, the name goes back to Dutch explorer Willem Barentsz and his visit in 1596.

The island has been used to hunt walrus, for whaling, and even coal mining has taken place. The strategic location on the border of the Norwegian Sea and the Barents Sea has led to a meteorological station being set up by Norway near Gravodden on Bear Island’s north coast. Some two thirds of the island is a relatively flat plain with shallow freshwater lakes and Ramsar Wetland, while the entire island and the surrounding waters are a Nature Reserve.

Bear Island has also been designated an Import Bird Area as it is a staging area for Pink-footed and Barnacle Geese and the steep cliffs south of Sørhamna are home to thousands of breeding seabirds,the area of most interest for a ship cruise, and even a Zodiac cruise on the few occasions the seas is calm.

This island, and the associated smaller islands, is off the NW coast of Nordaustlandet. Lågøya means ‘low island’, and it is the site of a Walrus haul out and is great for bird life, with the chance of Sabine’s Gulls that are attracted to the lagoons on the island.

Part of the island is sea¬so¬nal¬ly pro¬tec-ted and off limits and landings are often thwarted by the presence of a bear, or bears. It is an area where there can be loose pack ice when the pack, further to the east, is still too compact to sail though. It means this location very popular for Zodiac cruising with the wildlife that can be encountered. There is at least one old hunter’s cabin on the island, but conditions were particularly harsh on Lågøya, some perishing on the island, making hunters reticent of over wintering here.

Whale Watching

The shallow seas off South West Svalbard and the drop-off into deeper waters are probably the best places for whale watching in Svalbard.

In addition to the Humpback Whale, Fin Whale, and Blue Whale, the SW is a good area to see White-beaked Dolphins (more elusive to the NW), whilst heading further out to deeper waters, there is the chance of spotting Sperm Whales and the Northern Bottlenose Whale.

Across the bay from Pyramiden, surrounded by some impressive mountains and geology, with a small group of houses and remains of a railway.

These were constructed in 1919 by William Spiers Bruce, the Scottish oceanographer and polar scientist, with the Scottish Spitsbergen Syndicate Ltd. It is a great example of attempts to mine at the start of the 20th century.

Krossfjorden

The two split fjords that form the inner part of Krossfjorden are popular for ship cruising and Zodiac cruising to enjoy the scenery, the glacier fronts, and to look out for wildlife and the chance of a bear.

There are also several options for landings including Möllerhamna, with a hunter’s cabin painted orange that is known the ‘Lloyds Hotel’. Many cruise ships have visited the site for over 100 years, leaving behind mementoes like signs, graffiti (no longer allowed), and a bar. Sigenhamna is another location where there was a German weather station in World War II.

Festningen and Russekeila

There is some great tundra to explore along the flat coast on the SW side of Isfjorden, to the east of Kapp Linne.

Festningen, quite close to Barentsburg, is well known for the fossils, including the footprint of a dinosaur in sediments that have been forced by the Earth’s forces into a vertical position. Russekeila is a cultural site from the time the Russian Pomors carried out trapping in this area.

Freemansundet

This is the sound between Edgeøya and Barentsøya, flat topped islands compared to Spitsbergen, with tundra flats and slopes below higher cliffs of hexagonal pillars.

This is the preferred route to Hinlopenstretet, although the eastern end is usually blocked off by ice in the early season. Whatever the conditions, it is a great place to look out for bears from the high vantage of the ship. Bears often rest on the tundra on either shore, just be aware there are plenty of reindeer that the inexperienced can mistake for a bear in the early season with their whitish coats. It is also an area where whale and seal carcasses can drift ashore, attracting bears. With the tundra there is still the slight influence of the gulf stream. But once through the eastern end the ship is in the high Arctic and a very different landscape, dominated by the polar desert and ice caps.

Storfjorden

The large bay/sea between SE Spitsbergen and the islands of Edgeøya and Barentsøya that can be a good location for whale watching.

The bays along the coast of SE Spitsbergen can often be good ‘fast ice’ to the land that can attract a lot of bears as areas of fast ice start to reduce.

Haleysundet

This is the sound between Spitsbergen and Barentsøya and a second way to reach Hinlopenstretet instead of Freemansundet.

However, with the extremely strong currents few captains go this way, and usually later in the season, when there is less chance of ice floes hurtling through on the current, and at the right stage of the tide. It is a spectacular ship cruise, often with lots of feeding seabirds. There is a nearby passage that is far too narrow to sail through, but there is the option to go through this narrow passage by Zodiac whilst the ship goes through the main channel and picks up the Zodiacs on the other side. A really exciting and fun Zodiac cruise!

This location is on the island of Blomstrandhalvøya that is in Kongsfjorden and just across the bay from Ny Ålesund. It is the site of an ill-fated attempt to extract the marble deposits by the Northern Exploration Company and the adventurer Ernest Mansfield.

A lot of money and effort was put into the project, but it turned out the marble would shatter as it warmed up! Today there are the remains of the marble quarry and debris from the mine, including wooden huts, and various bits of machinery, including a crane and a rusting steam engine. As well as the cultural remains it is a good place for wildlife, including the elegant Long-tailed Skuas that breed here that are very rare elsewhere in Svalbard, with the Arctic Skua being far more abundant.

The fjords in the inner part of Hornsund is superb to explore by ship with the spectacular rugged scenery, including the distinctive and towering peak known as Hornsundtind. The geology is impressive, and make sure to look out for birds, seals, and even Polar bears.

Deeper in the Fjord, there is the impressive and long glacial front of Hornbreen, and there are glacial fronts in Burgerbutka to the north, and Samarinvågen to the south. These locations are also excellent for Zodiac cruising to get close to the glacial fronts (at a safe distance) and look for wildlife.

Amongst the ice floes is a great place to look for Ringed Seals, Bearded Seals, and the Ivory Gull.

Alkefjellet

The bird cliff here is so impressive it features in the opening credits of The Frozen Planet.

Situated in Hinlopenstretet on the NE side of Spitsbergen, the cliffs are home to around 60,000 pairs of Brünnich’s guillemots, numerous kittiwakes, and Glaucous Gulls and kittiwakes. It is not only the site and sound of the birds, but the cliffs themselves, the geology is stunning with a series of sheer ramparts, some set back (a great place for Arctic Foxes), others going straight down into the sea. It is an outstanding Zodiac cruise, and since ships can get quite close, there is often an additional ships cruise past the cliffs with different angle from the higher vantage point.

Fuglesongen

The views of NW Spitsbergen, the land of the pointed peaks, is impressive from this area, once it is free of ice. Fuglesongen means ‘bird song’ and thousands of Little Auks breed here, flying around in huge ‘wheels’ of birds and sounding like little trolls!

A few determined groups make a landing here, but it needs calm conditions, sticking out on the NW tip of Spitsbergen. But is still an impressive site to witness for ships that sail between Fuglesongen and Klovningen. There is no land to the north, towards the pole, the area often covered in the pack ice at the start of the season.

Translating as ‘White Island’, located in the extreme NE of Svalbard it is both a bleak and a beautiful location with most of the island covered by an ice cap, with one rocky peninsula at the eastern end.

Few cruise ships get here, and there are years when it remains in the grip of the pack ice the whole season. It is also the location where the remains of Andrée and his two companions were found, along with the journal, and a tin box containing photographic films. They set off on their ill-fate balloon expedition to the North Pole in 1897, then disappeared, a mystery for decades until their remains were found on Kvitøya, 33 years later in 1930, an indication of the remoteness of the island and the scarcity of vessels that sailed through the area or landed. With a memorial to the expedition, and just to step ashore, it is a unique landing. But this is often unlikely with changing weather conditions, where the fog can come in quickly, and the fact that that bears are often found here. It is still a great location for a Zodiac cruise, weather permitting, to explore the rocky eastern end, look out for Walrus and bears, and pause to think of the fate of Andrée.

A series of hard granite islands that translates as seven islands, islands that are to the north of Nordaustlandet. Being the furthest north in the whole of Svalbard, the islands can remain in the pack ice for much of the year.

Walrus can be seen throughout the area, with at least one popular landing at a haul out. There are plenty of seabirds, and the chance of a bear resting somewhere on one of the islands, sometimes several bears, understandable with the location. With the myriad of islands it is very popular to explore by Zodiac and the area also has important ties to polar exploration. Many of the locations were named after the English North Pole expeditions led by Phipps (1773) and Parry (1827), including Neslonøya, after a certain young midshipman! Not that long ago the whole area could be trapped in ice throughout the year and just to the east was the area where Nobile’ airship, the Italia, crashed onto the ice, with a huge rescue effort.

On the west coast of Edgeøya, Diskobukta is a narrow canyon, set in the steep hillside, with a large colony of Black-legged Kittiwakes, of over 100,000 birds.

It is quite a challenge to get ashore with the shallow seas just offshore, that makes it even more worthwhile to get here. With so many birds Arctic Foxes often patrol the base of the cliffs.

On the SW coast of Edgeøya, the name means Russian’s Bay from when Pomor hunters were in the area.

This is an area of boggy tundra with numerous lakes that is a great location for a wide range of Svalbard birds and Reindeer in the Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve.

Animals in Svalbard

Antarctic Tern

Arctic Tern

Atlantic Puffin

Barnacle Goose

Bearded Seal

Black Guillemot

Black-legged Kittiwake

Bowhead Whale

Common Eider

Our trips to Svalbard

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Svalbard Cruises

ALL ABOUT SVALBARD

Poseidon Expeditions - your polar cruise operator

At Poseidon Expeditions, we offer various breathtaking polar cruises for every taste. However, Svalbard, with its gorgeous views and wildlife, is one of the most spectacular locations to visit.

Discover Breathtaking Svalbard Cruises

If you are eager to discover the beauty of polar terrain this year or have a vacation planned for 2023, we offer numerous Svalbard tours to choose from, such as Spitsbergen, Greenland, Polar Ice Edge, and more.

Spitsbergen is the largest and most beautiful island of the Svalbard archipelago, which consists of two smaller islands, Nordaustlandet and Edgeøya. Mostly, the cruises depart from the administrative center of this area named Longyearbyen.

There are many attractions for travelers when choosing a Svalbard cruise. Dive into the world of icy landscapes, arctic climate, and raw nature. Take a chance to see polar ice caps, wild animals, and northern lights in person. All of it is available with any of our Svalbard tours.

As for activities, each voyage becomes truly memorable due to an inspiring photography experience, exciting sea kayaking adventure, and breathtaking views during a challenging hiking trip.

What Can You See in Svalbard?

Svalbard has a lot of sightseeing to offer travelers. As a former no man’s land, it is a gorgeous northern terrain with rich wildlife and breathtaking views. It is easy to meet polar bears and walruses when you go on a Svalbard expedition cruise.

However, Svalbard archipelago islands are not only famous for wild animals. The following locations are well-known landmarks of the islands and, without a doubt, worth attention during a trip.

Why travel with Poseidon Expeditions?

M/V Sea Spirit – Tiny but Mighty

With a maximum capacity of just 114 passengers, we usually operate with 100 guests off the ship. It maximizes our travelers' time ashore because there is no need for splitting passengers into groups for landing rotations as required on larger ships.

A real polar expedition

Experience active exploration of the polar regions through a variety of activities. Weather permitting, we schedule up to 3 excursions per day and offer optional kayaking and, in Antarctica, camping. Enrich your polar knowledge in an engaging and interactive way through Poseidon’s edutainment program.

25 years of polar cruising

Polar cruising is our passion and expertise and over the past 24 years, we’ve gained tremendous experience building a strong team of enthusiastic polar professionals who are all experts in their field. Each cruise is a thoughtfully crafted expedition voyage.

Longyearbyen

An administrative center located on Spitsbergen island, this northernmost town forms the heart of the Svalbard archipelago. Mostly, expeditions to Svalbard that take travelers to explore the Arctic depart from here.

The place is a lively center offering various entertainment options, such as museums, galleries, pubs, sports-recreation facilities, etc. Take an excursion to the North Pole Museum to learn exciting facts about the Arctic.

Smeerenburg

The Longyearbyen cruise can take you to Smeerenburg, a former whaling station with a rich history. Get a glimpse of massive blubber remains carefully preserved since the 17th century. Take a boat trip to feel the spirit of the past and enjoy the beautiful views, including fjords, glaciers, and mountains.

The expedition ship will take you to the most remarkable glaciers of Svalbard, Monaco Glacier, and 14th of July Glacier.

Monaco Glacier, located in Liefdefjorden and named after its discoverer, Prince Alber I of Monaco, is famous for the large surface and blue tint. The beauties of this 7km wide glacier also include polar bears and other wildlife.

14th of July Glacier, in the extent of 16 km, is located in Haakon VII Land and delivers gorgeous views and unique wildlife, such as arctic terns, barnacle geese, and others.

Those spots are worth adding to the itinerary to get the best of the cruise.

US$ 8 921

US$ 7 796

US$ 6 371

US$ 7 561

US$ 8 581

US$ 5 776

About Svalbard

Geographical Facts

Svalbard is a northern archipelago that forms part of Norway. It is situated in the waters of the Arctic Ocean above the Arctic Circle.

There are nine islands in the archipelago; however, Spitsbergen is the largest one and serves as an important location in polar tours. In most cases, all arctic expeditions in the area depart from Longyearbyen, a developed administrative center.

Historical Background

Svalbard means “cold coast” in translation from Old Norse.

It is believed that it was discovered back in 1194. Although it only became widely known after rediscovering in 1596 by Willem Barents and Jacob van Heemskerck.

From 1611 many European whalers arrived in Svalbard and began to argue over whaling rights. All issues were settled by the decline of whaling only in 1800.

That led to a focus shift from whaling to coal, which also caused quarrels over export rights between European, Russian and American companies. Nowadays, only Norway and Russia are authorized to extract coal on the Svalbard territory.

Northern Landscape

Over half of the territory is covered with snowfields and glaciers that extend as far as the sea. Besides, there are many fjords on the northwestern coast of Spitsbergen.

Also, the packed ice around Spitsbergen accumulates quickly, which complicates access to the territory.

Abundant wildlife

The raw nature of the Svalbard archipelago is the perfect habitat for iconic wildlife. Most of the territory is inaccessible to people, which gives animals the unique opportunity to flourish. Summer features the beautiful blooming Arctic tundra with arctic foxes and the Svalbard reindeer. This is also the best time for spotting polar bears, walruses, ringed seals and beluga whales. Bird lovers will enjoy the abundance of species, such as the Arctic skua, black-legged kittiwake, common eider, red-throated diver, barnacle goose and the snow bunting. Cruising aboard small expedition ships is the best way to spot wildlife in the most remote areas. On your Svalbard voyage, you’ll have the best chance of experiencing polar bear sightings. The midnight sun will provide plenty of time to explore, observe and take the best photos.

Svalbard expedition enables tourists to exclusively observe different Arctic animals and sea mammals in their natural habitat. Prepare to meet polar bears, blue and white arctic foxes, reindeer, seals, walruses, and whales. Such excursions make dreams come true.

Top Things to See

A ghost town named Pyramiden grants the mysterious impression of visiting the Soviet Union.

Isfjord is one of the largest and most beautiful fjords in the area, where you can meet polar bears, enjoy glacier views, or join a snowmobile safari.

Barentsburg, the second-largest settlement in Svalbard, is an interesting place to visit for beautiful views, historical sightseeing, and wildlife.

The uninhabited Edge island is the third-largest in Svalbard, where you can meet polar bears, walruses, and other animals and capture the most stunning views.

The Svalbard Museum will help you learn more about the history and culture of the area.

The North Pole Expedition Museum tells the amazing story of airships exploring the north.

Svalbard snowmobile safari, ice cave visiting, dog-sledding with a husky, and many other activities and places are available.

Plan Your Svalbard Tour

How to Get to Svalbard

Poseidon Expeditions offers Svalbard cruise packages and will help you get to the location where your Svalbard cruise begins. Cruises to Svalbard (Norway) in 2023/24 depart from Longyearbyen. However, we can easily arrange your transfer to Spitsbergen cruises from any location at a low cost.

For an unforgettable cruise to Svalbard, we’ll provide you with all the information you need for flights, bookings and accommodations. Onboard information is included – so you’ll be safe and ready for polar travel.

Each Svalbard expedition is always thoroughly supported by our team. On top of onboard entertainment, we help the travelers to learn about the peculiarities of polar vacation and explain precaution measures.

Visa Control

If you plan to visit Svalbard this year or in 2022, you should remember about the visa control. Sometimes trips to Spitsbergen might require a special visa.

Our company will provide you a piece of expert advice on the necessity of getting a visa in your particular case. We will also assist you in applying to the consulate or embassy and preparing the set of needed documents.

Svalbard Ships

We deliver only a high-class fleet for each Svalbard cruise. We rely on our small but advantageous ship:

The deluxe expedition ship  Sea Spirit  is very maneuverable and contains 114 passengers. Comfortable accommodation on board and an additional fleet of Zodiacs make this vessel very attractive.

On our ship, we offer many different onboard entertaining options: restaurants, bars, game lounge, gym, shops, swimming pool, etc. You will never get bored. Besides, due to low passenger groups going ashore during stops is very pleasant.

Facts About Svalbard

The total area of the land: 61022 km²

Svalbard population as of 2022: 2552 people

Spitsbergen administrative center: Longyearbyen

Currency: Norwegian Krone

What Clothes Should You Take with You to Svalbard?

Remember that for visiting Svalbard, you will need arctic-quality, multi-layer clothes that can be easily changed in case of weather changes.

How Cold Is Svalbard?

Usually, the average temperature is above +6°C in summer and -15°C in winter.

What Money Do I Take and How Much?

The currency in Svalbard is the Norwegian Krone. But the sum can only be calculated depending on your habits and preferences. Some people do not require much money on top of the tour cost. Others consider the vacation cheap and can afford to spend a lot more.

What’s Not Included in the Tour?

The tour covers all necessary services: transfer, accommodation, catering, entertainment, and excursions. However, all your extra expenses are to be covered additionally.

Is Svalbard easy to visit?

While it’s not quite as difficult as visiting the North Pole, Svalbard is remote. It is easy to reach the capital of Longyearbyen by plane and then continue via cruise ship. The best way to visit the most remote places on the archipelago is aboard an expedition ship, and we even offer a cruise circumnavigating Spitsbergen and Nordaustlandet!

How long does it take to sail to Svalbard?

It all depends on where your journey begins. We have various cruises starting in Edinburgh and Longyearbyen. From Edinburgh, we sail north through the Norwegian and Greenland Sea. On our 12-day British Isles cruise, we reach Svalbard on day 9, stopping on the Faroe Islands and Jan Mayen en-route.

When is the best time to see polar bears?

The best time and way to sea polar bears is on a summer Svalbard cruise. You get prime views from the deck and during Zodiac cruising, while keeping a safe distance from wildlife.

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is always advised for any trip. So to diminish the risks, we suggest you get it even though it is not obligatory.

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Polar Bear Tour

A number of our Svalbard cruises afford you the possibility of spotting a polar bear. Experience these living emblems of the Arctic for yourself, check out our wide selection of polar bear tours.

Region: Arctic

Destinations: Svalbard

Where to see polar bears

Seal’s dread, whale’s bane, ever-wandering one – all of these are names for the sometimes terrifying, often elusive, always majestic polar bear .

But where is the best place to see these amazing apex predators?

Svalbard, otherwise known as Spitsbergen, is among the top locations for spotting polar bears. In fact, polar bears are one of the primary reasons thousands of tourists embark on voyages to the Arctic, especially the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard.

Though nobody can guarantee you will spot a polar bear, there are a number of Svalbard cruises devoted almost exclusively to finding and viewing these magnificent animals.

Polar bear tour basics

Though polar bears can be found all over the circumpolar north, our polar bear tours focus on northern Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard island group.

But polar bears can be as dangerous as they are beautiful, so expedition guides armed with powerful rifles supervise all landings. Passengers are cautioned never to approach a polar bear, and sometimes landings are canceled if a polar bear is seen close to (or approaching) the landing site.

This is because polar bears are carnivorous hunters and can be aggressive if they feel threatened. Caution is paramount, as is understanding of our limitations. Nature calls the shots in the polar regions, and most polar bear tours only manage one or two sightings.

The lure of the polar bear tour

But if polar bear trips cannot ensure a sighting, why do so many people continue to book tickets? The reason, perhaps, lies in the reputation of the creature itself.

For many people, the polar bear is so linked to the Arctic that it functions virtually as a stand-in for the land itself: indomitable, exotic, deadly if not respected. Also, polar bears have fascinated and frightened humans since our earliest days.

The Saami and Laplanders would not dare speak the creature’s name, giving it a number of nicknames to avoid angering it. Inuit called polar bears “wandering ones,” Kets called them “grandfathers,” and their Latin name, Ursus maritimus , translates to “sea bear.”

In other words, polar bears have meant many different things to many different cultures. Not surprising, then, that polar bear tours continue to pack in the passengers.

What powers the polar bear

At the end of the day, however, polar bears are animals just like us – albeit at the top of the Arctic food chain. They sleep (around 20 hours a day), they mate (in the spring, like many animals), and they eat (a lot).

Indeed, eating and finding food are among their main occupations. Many pictures taken on polar bear tours capture them in the act of doing just that. If you’re still wondering where to see polar bears, start by following the food.

Polar bears prefer a diet of seals, though they are far from picky: Reindeer , musk oxen , crustaceans, caribou, walruses , birds, bird eggs, whale carcasses, plants, and even other polar bears will do. When they’re fortunate enough to catch a seal, they consume mainly the calorie-rich blubber and skin, leaving the red meat and its abundant protein to their cubs.

Polar bear range and ranges

To find enough food, polar bears spend much of their time roaming great distances. Hunting leads them all over the Arctic, though polar bears are thought to have preferred feeding areas called “home ranges.”

Changing conditions in their home range, however, often compel polar bears to travel hundreds of miles in search of better food choices. These journeys can take some time, as polar bears are not fond of keeping up a fast pace.

Though polar bears can be elusive, their wide-ranging hunts explain why they can be found all over the Arctic. Svalbard polar bear tours, however, offer the highest probability of a sighting due to their careful search of key polar bear ranges.

See the polar bear for yourself

Reading about where to see polar bears is one thing, but seeing one in person is another. And seeing a polar bear in the Arctic rather than a zoo is best of all.

A number of our Svalbard trips give you the possibility of spotting a polar bear. To find out more about how you can experience these living emblems of the Arctic for yourself, check out our wide selection of polar bear tours.

Related cruises

Around Spitsbergen, In the realm of Polar Bear & Ice

Full Spitsbergen Circumnavigation

HDS06-24 Take a cruise around Spitsbergen and explore the icy waters of the North Atlantic. This special expedition offers you the chance to catch sight of whales, reindeer, Arctic foxes, walruses, seals, and the star attraction, the polar bear.

m/v Hondius

Cruise date:

3 Jul - 12 Jul, 2024

Berths start from:

PLA06-24 Take a cruise around Spitsbergen and explore the icy waters of the North Atlantic. This special expedition offers you the chance to catch sight of whales, reindeer, Arctic foxes, walruses, seals, and the star attraction, the polar bear.

m/v Plancius

4 Jul - 13 Jul, 2024

OTL06-24 Take a cruise around Spitsbergen and explore the icy waters of the North Atlantic. This special expedition offers you the chance to catch sight of whales, reindeer, Arctic foxes, walruses, seals, and the star attraction, the polar bear.

m/v Ortelius

10 Jul - 19 Jul, 2024

HDS07-24 Take a cruise around Spitsbergen and explore the icy waters of the North Atlantic. This special expedition offers you the chance to catch sight of whales, reindeer, Arctic foxes, walruses, seals, and the star attraction, the polar bear.

12 Jul - 21 Jul, 2024

PLA07-24 Take a cruise around Spitsbergen and explore the icy waters of the North Atlantic. This special expedition offers you the chance to catch sight of whales, reindeer, Arctic foxes, walruses, seals, and the star attraction, the polar bear.

13 Jul - 22 Jul, 2024

We have a total of 27 cruises

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Isfjord Radio Music Festival 6. - 8. September

Longyearbyen literature festival 1. - 6. september.

• Taste Svalbard 2. - 6. October
• Dark Season Blues Festival 26. - 29. October
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You are here: Things to Do > Glacier safari - Svalbard Adventures

Glacier safari - Svalbard Adventures

Type: boat trips.

Tel: +47 79 02 50 00

Book Tickets Online

Welcome to the heart of the fjords surrounded by a ton of jaw-droppingly beautiful attractions you will not find anywhere else. Travel by RIB boat and experience the huge expanses of glaciers, unique wildlife, and fast-paced joy.

We will depart from Longyearbyen crossing Isfjorden by RIB boat. Surrounded by the local wildlife and refreshing sea spray, on our way to the glaciers located in the innermost part of the fjord. Isfjorden is a luxurious oasis for a wealth of whale– and seal species, with its favourable climate and its unique position. For those hoping to spot the world’s largest animal ever, there might be a chance to see the blue whale in the season occurring from June to August. Seeing wildlife roaming around in their natural habitat truly is a spectacular experience.

Ice calving The sound of thunder erupts from the ice. The glacier is on the move. Massive amounts of ice are pushed around. The glacier moves forward, closer, and closer to the edge where it breaks off and plummets into the ocean. A spectacular natural phenomenon known as calving.

The glaciers on Svalbard are not like the ones you experience in the rest of the world. They can recede for many years before they suddenly move fast forward for some years, resulting in magical ice formations within the glacier. This process is known as surging and the surge glaciers in Svalbard are a must see for everyone who visits the Arctic. One of the glaciers on the west side of Isfjorden is currently surging. Join us as we head out in open RIB-boats to explore the glaciers and the wildlife that surrounds them.

Our guide will evaluate the weather and conditions and choose the destination that will give you the best experience.

Included - Transport to and from your place of accommodation. - Floating suit, life vest, shoes and googles. - Guide with safety equipment. - Search and rescue insurance. - Lunch, hot drinks and biscuits.

Essential information - We recommend warm clothing to wear under the floating suit such as wool underwear, wool socks, thick sweater, and windproof outer clothing. - A small backpack for extra clothing or other items - Age limit: 10 years, or 14 years if the passenger is not accompanied by an adult. Height restriction: inseam of least 74 cm. - For safety reasons, the route may change due to weather, wind and ice conditions. - Please state any food allergies or other preferences. - We do not recommend this tour if you are pregnant or have back problems.

• 2 - Suitable for most
• Environmentally-friendly company

Suggested prices

Prices may be subject to change.

• children - 10 years
• Polar summer
• Stiftelsen Miljøfyrtårn Eco-Lighthouse

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Top 15 Places to See the Northern Lights in 2024

Posted: June 30, 2024 | Last updated: June 30, 2024

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of nature’s most spectacular displays, dancing colors across the night sky. This phenomenon is best observed in the high-latitude regions around the Arctic Circle. Each destination offers a unique backdrop and experience for viewing the lights. This guide will take you through the best locations and times to witness this natural wonder, providing tips to enhance your aurora-chasing adventure.

1. Tromso, Norway

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Daniela Baumann

Tromsø, situated in the Arctic Circle, is a prime spot for Northern Lights viewing. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic,’ the city’s unique geographical location makes it one of the best places to witness the aurora borealis. With numerous tour operators offering aurora chases, you can venture into the wilderness to find the perfect spot away from city lights. Tromsø also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with museums and historic sites, providing a well-rounded Arctic experience. The Polar Museum and the iconic Arctic Cathedral are must-visits during the day.

Insider’s Tip: Try a “Northern Lights Safari” with local guides for the best viewing spots.

When To Travel: The best time is from late September to early April.

How To Get There: Fly into Tromso Airport, with regular flights from Oslo and other major cities.

2. Fairbanks, Alaska, USA

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pecold

Fairbanks, located in the heart of Alaska, is under the ‘Aurora Oval,’ where Northern Lights activity is most intense. The city’s geographical position offers a high chance of aurora sightings, with several resorts and lodges situated in ideal viewing locations. Alaska’s clear, cold nights provide a stunning backdrop for the lights. In addition to aurora viewing, Fairbanks hosts the World Ice Art Championships, adding to its winter appeal. The city’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural events makes it a top destination for aurora chasers.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Chena Hot Springs Resort to view the lights from a steaming hot spring.

When To Travel: Late August to mid-April is ideal for aurora viewing.

How To Get There: Fairbanks International Airport is well-connected, with direct flights from major US cities.

3. Yellowknife, Canada

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Derek Robbins

Yellowknife, in Canada’s Northwest Territories, is renowned for its clear skies and spectacular Northern Lights displays. The city is a hub for Aurora tourism, with a range of viewing tours and accommodations, including the unique Aurora Village. Yellowknife’s dry climate contributes to many cloudless nights, perfect for aurora viewing. The city also offers a glimpse into the rich indigenous culture of the region, adding depth to your visit.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the Great Slave Lake during the day for stunning winter landscapes.

When To Travel: Mid-November to early April is the best time for clear skies.

How To Get There: Yellowknife is accessible by air from major Canadian cities like Vancouver and Calgary.

4. Reykjavik, Iceland

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sphototop

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a cultural and culinary hotspot and a gateway to some of the best views of the Northern Lights in the world. While the lights can occasionally be seen from the city, venturing into the countryside increases your chances significantly. Iceland’s stark and dramatic landscapes, with its geysers, glaciers, and volcanic terrain, provide a unique backdrop for the aurora. Reykjavik’s location on the coast also offers the possibility of seeing the lights reflected in the ocean, a truly magical sight.

Insider’s Tip: Combine your aurora hunt with a visit to the Blue Lagoon for a unique experience.

When To Travel: September to mid-April is the optimal viewing period.

How To Get There: Keflavik International Airport serves Reykjavik, with regular bus services to the city.

5. Abisko, Sweden

Image Credit: Shutterstock / hans engbers

Abisko in Swedish Lapland is a small village that boasts one of the best climates for Northern Lights viewing. Its location in a low-precipitation microclimate results in clearer nights than surrounding areas. The Aurora Sky Station, situated on a mountain in Abisko National Park, is a renowned viewing spot, accessible via chairlift. The park’s pristine wilderness and lack of light pollution make it an ideal destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts. During the day, explore the national park’s stunning landscapes, including frozen lakes and snow-covered forests.

Insider’s Tip: Take the chairlift to the Aurora Sky Station in the evening for a spectacular view.

When To Travel: The best months are from December to late March.

How To Get There: Fly to Kiruna Airport and then take a train or bus to Abisko.

6. Luosto, Finland

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Francky Ld

Luosto, in Finnish Lapland, is a quaint town known for its excellent Northern Lights viewing opportunities. The town is small and away from major light pollution, offering clear, dark skies. The Aurora Chalet in Luosto provides aurora alerts, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action. Besides aurora watching, Luosto is a great destination for winter sports and experiencing traditional Finnish culture, including reindeer safaris and husky sledding.

Insider’s Tip: Stay in a glass igloo for a comfortable way to watch the lights all night.

When To Travel: September to March offers the best chances for aurora viewing.

How To Get There: The nearest airport is in Rovaniemi, with regular bus services to Luosto.

7. Ivalo, Finland

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Rolf G Wackenberg

Ivalo offers a deep wilderness experience in Finnish Lapland, perfect for those seeking solitude and unspoiled aurora views. The sparse population in the area means very little light pollution, enhancing the intensity of the Northern Lights. The region is also rich in Sami culture, offering a unique cultural dimension to your visit. Local tour operators provide a range of aurora-related activities, from photography tours to overnight stays in wilderness cabins.

Insider’s Tip: Book a stay in a traditional Sami lavvu (tent) for a unique experience.

When To Travel: The Northern Lights season runs from September to April.

How To Get There: Ivalo has its own airport, with flights from Helsinki.

8. Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sergio Ponomarev

Kangerlussuaq, a small settlement in Greenland, offers some of the most intense Northern Lights displays due to its northern location and stable weather patterns. The area’s clear skies result in excellent viewing conditions, and the surrounding Arctic landscape adds to the surreal experience. During the day, explore the Russell Glacier or take part in dog sledding and snowmobiling adventures.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the nearby Russell Glacier during the day for an extraordinary Arctic experience.

When To Travel: The best time is from late August to early April.

How To Get There: Kangerlussuaq is accessible by air from Reykjavik and Copenhagen.

9. Senja Island, Norway

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nick Fox

Senja Island, off the northern coast of Norway, offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for Northern Lights viewing. The island’s rugged landscapes, including mountains and fjords, provide a stunning backdrop for the aurora. The island’s west coast, in particular, is known for its excellent viewing spots. Senja is also great for hiking and exploring traditional Norwegian fishing villages.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the island’s hiking trails during the day for stunning views of the Norwegian wilderness.

When To Travel: The optimal time is from October to March.

How To Get There: Fly to Bardufoss Airport and drive or take a bus to Senja.

10. Murmansk, Russia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Vitaliy Kaplin

Murmansk, in the Russian Arctic, offers a unique Northern Lights experience. As the largest city within the Arctic Circle, Murmansk provides urban comforts while being close to prime aurora viewing locations. The nearby Kola Peninsula and the village of Teriberka are popular spots for aurora chasers. The city’s polar night from December to January provides 24-hour darkness, increasing your chances of seeing the lights.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Alyosha Monument for a panoramic view of the city and surroundings.

When To Travel: Late September to early April is the prime aurora season.

How To Get There: Murmansk is accessible by air from Moscow and St. Petersburg.

11. Rovaniemi, Finland

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Aleksei Verhovski

Rovaniemi, known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, offers a magical setting for Northern Lights viewing. The city on the Arctic Circle provides a range of aurora tours and activities, blending the wonder of the lights with local Lapland culture. Visit the Santa Claus Village for a unique Arctic experience, and explore the surrounding wilderness for prime aurora viewing spots.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Santa Claus Village for a unique Arctic Circle experience.

When To Travel: The best time for aurora viewing is from September to March.

How To Get There: Rovaniemi Airport has flights from Helsinki and other European cities.

12. Svalbard, Norway

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Lasse Johansson

Svalbard, a remote Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, offers one of the most unique Northern Lights experiences. The polar night here lasts from November to February, providing 24 hours of darkness and excellent opportunities for aurora viewing. The stark Arctic landscape of Svalbard, with its glaciers and polar bears, adds to the adventure.

Insider’s Tip: Take a snowmobile tour to explore the island’s remote areas.

When To Travel: The polar night period is the best time for continuous aurora opportunities.

How To Get There: Fly to Svalbard Airport from Oslo or Tromsø.

13. Anchorage, Alaska, USA

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Rex Lisman

Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, offers a unique blend of urban amenities and access to some of the best Northern Lights viewing spots in the USA. The surrounding areas, such as the Chugach Mountains and Denali National Park, provide stunning natural settings for watching the aurora. The city’s location in the south-central part of the state makes it a convenient base for exploring Alaska’s wilderness.

Insider’s Tip: Drive along the Glenn Highway for scenic spots to view the aurora.

When To Travel: Mid-September to late April is the best period for aurora viewing.

How To Get There: Anchorage is accessible by air from major US cities.

14. Lofoten Islands, Norway

Image Credit: Shutterstock / iacomino FRiMAGES

The Lofoten Islands in Norway are renowned for their dramatic landscapes, including steep mountains and picturesque fishing villages. The islands’ location within the Arctic Circle makes them an excellent spot for Northern Lights viewing. The contrast of the aurora against the backdrop of the islands’ unique scenery is breathtaking.

Insider’s Tip: Try a nighttime photography tour to capture the aurora over the picturesque landscapes.

When To Travel: The best time is from September to April.

How To Get There: Fly to Harstad/Narvik Airport, take a ferry, or drive to the islands.

15. Jokkmokk, Sweden

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mikhail Markovskiy

Jokkmokk, located just north of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland, offers a traditional and cultural approach to Northern Lights viewing. The town is known for its rich Sami culture. It hosts the annual Jokkmokk Winter Market, a celebration of indigenous Sami culture, in early February. The market coincides with one of the best times for aurora viewing, making it an ideal winter destination.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Ajtte Museum to learn about Sami culture and history.

When To Travel: Winter months, especially during the Jokkmokk Winter Market, are ideal.

How To Get There: Jokkmokk is accessible by road from Luleå, the nearest airport.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ken Phung

Chasing the Northern Lights is an adventure like no other, taking you to some of the most remote and beautiful places on Earth. Each destination offers its unique way to experience this natural wonder, whether against the backdrop of a rugged Norwegian fjord, the Alaskan wilderness, or the mystical landscapes of Iceland. As you plan your aurora-chasing journey, remember that this phenomenon is elusive and requires patience and persistence. But the reward of witnessing the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after your journey ends.

Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops

Image Credit: Shutterstock / donvictorio

Discover chilling tales from the America’s spookiest roads complete with ghostly figures and eerie phenomena in this thrilling guide to paranormal hotspots—perfect for adventure seekers and ghost enthusiasts. Ready for a supernatural road trip? Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops

18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

Image Credit: Pexels / Adrian Newell

American cities dazzle with culture and history, yet rising crime rates demand cautious exploration. This guide ensures you stay informed and safe. 18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

22 of America’s Most Charming Towns

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nejdet Duzen

Hit the road and discover America’s coziest towns, real-life versions of those quaint settings from your favorite novels. Explore charming streets where every storefront tells a story and locals greet everyone with a hello. Ready to dive into the charm? 22 of America’s Most Charming Towns

The post Top 15 Places to See the Northern Lights in 2024 was first published on PassingThru .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Tsuguliev.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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