Signature Expeditions Svalbard

Boarding begins in the late afternoon, when you step aboard our expedition ship Explorer in Longyearbyen. As we set sail, the ship glides into Isfjorden, the vast fjord system that forms the gateway to Svalbard’s spectacular west coast. From the very first moments at sea you are surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes that define Svalbard.

You’ll travel north along the west coast of Svalbard while enjoying zodiac cruises and shore landings in various locations where our expedition team expects to find wildlife. Zodiac cruises will take you up close to glacier fronts and through scenic fjords, with opportunities to spot whales, seals, walrus, and seabirds. With two zodiacs available, we can head out quickly with all guests at the same time.

Hikes and walks are another great way to experience Svalbard’s rugged beauty, from tundra and sandy beaches to panoramic viewpoints. With the midnight sun providing us 24 hours of daylight, we’ll have plenty of time to explore the Arctic wilderness ashore. With fewer guests, every landing feels personal, and wildlife experiences are never crowded.

We aim to sail as far north as possible, venturing deep into the pack ice. This ice realm is our favorite place, beyond the reach of most other vessels. An everchanging frozen wilderness where we hope to spend several days capturing its unique beauty and, with luck, see polar bears in their natural habitat. At the same time, it’s a great place to spot whales as they feed along the ice edge.

As conditions allow, we will sail along the northeast of Svalbard, exploring areas such as Wijdefjorden and the Hinlopen Strait, with the flexibility to visit some of the remarkable landing sites, walrus haulouts, glaciers and wilderness areas found there.

For photographers, this voyage offers endless opportunities to capture stunning Arctic moments. Our expert guides will share their knowledge, helping you refine your skills in this unique environment. The small group setting of this Svalbard Expedition provides flexibility to take advantage of light conditions and unique wildlife encounters.

After breakfast on the last day, you’ll disembark the ship in Longyearbyen, bringing your Svalbard adventure to a close. We recommend booking your return flights for the afternoon or later to ensure a smooth and relaxed journey home.