Svalbard comes alive in summer, seabirds swarm the cliffs, fox cubs roam the tundra, and belugas glide through icy fjords. Witness it all aboard Explorer, a small ship built for comfort and adventure.
Explore Svalbard at the height of Arctic summer when wildlife activity is at its peak, and the midnight sun casts a golden glow over dramatic glaciers and rugged coastlines. Travelling in July and August, witness the archipelago at its most vibrant; ice has retreated enough to access remote corners, while wildlife is active, visible, and thriving.
This is a prime time for bird enthusiasts. Vast colonies of guillemot, kittiwake and little auk fill the cliffs with noise and motion as they rear their young. Arctic tern dart overhead, and skuas patrol the skies. On land, Arctic fox cubs begin to venture from their dens, while along the shoreline, walrus haul out to rest on ice floes.
Aboard Explorer, a small, ice-strengthened luxury yacht, you travel in comfort and with flexibility. With fewer guests, enjoy immersive experiences, Zodiac cruises through bays littered with icebergs, hikes across vibrant, flower-dotted tundra, and quiet moments surrounded by the stillness and splendour of the high Arctic.
Typical Itinerary
-
Day 1:
Embark in Longyearbyen
Embark your vessel in Longyearbyen. As you settle in, your ship sets sails out of Isfjorden.
-
Days 2-7
:
Explore West Svalbard
As you explore Svalbard’s vibrant summer landscape, witness seabird colonies bustling with chicks taking their first flights, while Arctic foxes prowl the cliffs in search of an easy meal. Cruise through stunning fjords on Zodiac excursions, with opportunities to encounter beluga and humpback whale, bearded and ringed seal, and herds of walrus.
Onshore, hike across tundra valleys to panoramic viewpoints, where you can soak in the ever-changing scenery. Further afield, glaciers melt into brilliant blue rivers and waterfalls, perfect for photography.
As you travel aboard your small expedition yacht, access to two Zodiacs allow you to spend as much time off the ship as possible. Your expert guides will tailor each day to maximise wildlife encounters and scenic opportunities. You may even venture north to the edge of the pack ice, with chances to spot polar bear and several species of cetacean.
Throughout your journey, you can benefit from an intimate group experience, capturing unforgettable and extraordinary wildlife encounters.
-
Day 8:
Disembark in Longyearbyen
After breakfast, disembark in Longyearbyen.
Please note: Exact itinerary will depend on weather, sea and ice conditions, as well as wildlife viewing opportunities.
MICRO VESSEL
