2027 Explore the Enchanting Arctic 8-Day Tour

Cruising to Raudfjord on the northern coast of Spitsbergen, you’ll witness numerous glaciers flowing into the bay—home to common sightings of ringed and bearded seals. The surrounding cliffs and shores serve as key nesting sites for seabirds, and in the lush summer months, there’s even a chance of spotting a polar bear. Landing attempts may include Alicehamna or Buchananhalvøya, offering an up-close look at the Arctic’s rich and delicate ecosystem.

Weather and ice conditions permitting, we’ll sail into Liefdefjorden and land near the historic Texas Bar to marvel at the impressive five-kilometer-long Monaco Glacier. This area is a prime feeding ground for kittiwakes, often seen in flocks at the glacier’s edge, while polar bears may be spotted hunting below. If early-season ice prevents access, an alternative route along Spitsbergen’s western coast may be taken.

Our expedition may reach the remote Seven Islands north of Nordaustlandet, crossing the 80°N latitude—just 870 km from the North Pole. At Phippsøya, walrus gatherings are possible, while Rossøya marks the northernmost land in Svalbard. This iconic polar region offers dramatic, barren landscapes that are both awe-inspiring and historically significant in Arctic exploration.

The vessel ventures deep into offshore sea ice zones for multiple days of non-landing observation. During this iconic segment of the voyage, watch polar bears roam the ice and look out for seals and bowhead whales. Onboard activities will focus on deck-based wildlife spotting and expert briefings, with routes and timing adjusted according to weather and ice conditions.

We’ll cruise along the edge of the continental shelf about 40 nautical miles (approx. 74 km) off Spitsbergen’s west coast. These upwelling waters are rich in nutrients, attracting fin whales that feed here during the summer. Ivory gulls and other Arctic seabirds are commonly sighted, and as we approach the mouth of Kongsfjorden, we may also encounter minke whales gracefully swimming in the area.

A planned landing at Alkhornet offers a striking scene of seabirds nesting on towering cliffs while Arctic foxes roam below, and reindeer graze slowly across the tundra. If weather prevents a landing here, we may reroute to the mouth of Isfjorden to observe other whale species or cruise into Ymerbukta to explore the glacier front, where various duck species gather in the serene Arctic waters.

Even great adventures must eventually come to an end. The vessel arrives back in Longyearbyen in the early morning, and bus transportation to the airport will be provided.