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Introduction to Spitsbergen

10 Days | Take in the sights of Spitsbergen on an unforgettable Arctic trip

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10 days

Start

Helsinki, Finland

Finish

Helsinki, Finland

Trip Code

BQMI

Min Age

Trip Size

1 - 132

Physical Rating

Meals

9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 8 dinners

Transport

Expedition cruise ship, Zodiac

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night), Expedition cruise ship (8 nights)

From £6,900(10 days)

Trip Informations

Discover the shivery essence of the Arctic as you explore Spitsbergen and its outlying islands. Search for wildlife at every turn, and be prepared for close encounters with lumbering polar bears, noisy walruses and huge colonies of seabirds. This is the largest island in Svalbard and boasts an astonishing array of wild, natural landscapes. Hike flowering tundra at the base of the 14th of July Glacier, roam the rocky, cliff-lined shores of Alkefjellet or grab your snowshoes for an inland excursion to the abandoned whaling sites of Smeerenburg. Along the rugged western coast, be captivated by untouched fjords and discover the many enchanting shades of ice. This trip captures the icy spirit of the polar regions, giving you a unique perspective of the history and geology of this mystical place at the northern reaches of the world.

Why you’ll love this trip

Uncover the incredible landscape of Spitsbergen, from the quirky northernmost city of Longyearbyen and brilliantly blue glaciers like the ‘14th July Glacier’, to stunning fjords and towering mountains and cliffs

Experience the unique and memorable sensation of 24 hours of sunlight

Scour sheets of ice and hopefully be rewarded with unforgettable sightings of the ruler of the Arctic – the Polar Bear

With endless daylight there are also endless wildlife-viewing opportunities – elusive Arctic foxes, breaching whales, lounging masses of walruses, and enchanting seabirds dotted along the cliffs of Alkefjellet

Choose to get even closer to this amazing environment with optional activities like snowshoeing, hiking, and gliding along pristine waters between icebergs in a sea kayak

Is this trip right for you?

As you’d expect, temperatures in the Arctic are very cold. A warm parka will be provided along with waterproof boots and unlimited hot drinks, but you should also bring base layers and lots of warm clothing. Please see the trip notes for further important information about what to bring.

Weather depending, you will be making regular excursions in a Zodiac boat to explore the local area and look for wildlife. It can get very cold and wet on the Zodiac, so make sure you are dressed appropriately and that you keep your camera safe and dry. Sturdy sea legs are needed as you make wet and dry landings from the boat, and on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces. Some ships have a lot of stairs, so please hold on to the handrails if seas are rough.

The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned for. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially to such a remote area.

This trip takes places during the time of year that Spitsbergen enjoys 24-hour daylight. Just one of the benefits of this is that incredible wildlife can be seen at any time of the day – be prepared to be woken at any time so as to not miss out on exciting animal sightings.

Polar bears are one of the most incredible and appealing animals on the planet, but they are also powerful predators with little fear of humans. Therefore it’s necessary to be aware of the guidelines surrounding any contact with Polar bears. Follow your leader’s instructions and do not stray from your group – your leader carries equipment to protect you.

Itinerary

DAY 1
Helsinki, Finland
Your arctic adventure begins in Helsinki, where you may arrive at any time today. Known for its extraordinary architecture, Helsinki is a great place to spend time, exploring the many museums, galleries and restaurants. Perhaps relax at a Finnish sauna or wander the vibrant Design District before retiring at your included hotel.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
There are no meals included on this day.
Special information
Please make your own way to the joining hotel. Check in time is from 3pm.
DAY 2
Helsinki, Finland to Longyearbyen for embarkation
This morning, transfer to Helsinki airport and board our private charter flight to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen's largest settlement, where you'll have some time to explore before being transferred from a designated meeting point to the pier for embarkation. As your ship sets sail, enjoy your first view of the island's rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from icy waters,
Accommodation
Expedition Cruise Ship (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Special information
On arrival in Longyearbyen, your luggage will be transferred directly to the ship while you enjoy free time.
Due to port logistics, it is possible that you may need to board the vessel by Zodiac, rather than from the pier.
DAY 3
Exploring Spitsbergen
You’ll cruise around this magical island on a constant search for wildlife. Your expedition will cover western Spitsbergen as well as stunning fjords and outlying islands to the north. From polar flora to immense glaciers, the natural landscape here is just as varied as the wildlife.
Accommodation
Expedition Cruise Ship (7 nights)
Meals
Breakfast (7)
Lunch (7)
Dinner (7)
DAY 4
Disembark in Longyearbyen and Fly to Helsinki
The time to say goodbye to your Expedition Team and shipmates has come. Your adventure ends as it began, in the historic frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen after breakfast. From here, transfer to the airport for your return group charter flight to Helsinki. Your trip comes to an end on arrival at Helsinki airport.
Meals
Breakfast
Special information
This trip will finish at Helsinki Airport. We recommend staying an additional night in Helsinki in case of any flight delays. If you are wanting to book onward flights from Helsinki on this day please contact your sales agent for further information about the included charter flights arrival time.

Inclusions

Meals

9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 8 dinners

Transport

Expedition cruise ship, Zodiac

Accommodation

Hotel (1 night), Expedition cruise ship (8 nights)

Dates and availability

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Important notes

Your voyage is operated by our sister company, Quark Expeditions. All accommodation and transfer arrangements as listed in the itinerary are also operated by Quark Expeditions or their local representatives.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

To confirm your reservation, a deposit of 25% (unless indicated otherwise at time of booking) of the total invoice amount is required at time of booking. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure.

Please refer to our "Booking terms and conditions" page on our website for all Quark Expedition terms and conditions,

ADVENTURE OPTIONS

Kayaking is available to book on all Arctic voyages except on Icebreakers. Kayaking must be booked prior to departure and incurs an additional cost. Spaces are limited so please enquire at time of booking. Some previous, recent experience is essential. Hiking is also offered on some itineraries. This activity is at no additional cost and do not need to be pre-booked. See the itinerary for Adventure options available on this voyage.

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