Quark Expeditions
Spitsbergen Circumnavigation: A Rite of Passage
Spitsbergen Circumnavigation: A Rite of Passage
This 14-day journey offers the most extensive exploration of Spitsbergen in the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, including the opportunity to witness iconic Arctic wildlife like walrus, reindeer and polar bears, a glimpse into 16th-century maritime culture at secluded landing sites, and the rare chance to appreciate breathtaking views at the birdwatching utopias 14th of July Glacier and Alkefjellet. If conditions allow, we will also attempt a full circumnavigation of the archipelago, which is considered a rite of passage for many Arctic enthusiastists. The wildlife-viewing opportunities on this trip will leave you with plenty of memories and photos: the walrus with its long tusks and distinctive whiskers; Arctic birds in all their varied majesty; small herds of reindeer loping across the tundra; and that most iconic of Arctic creatures, the polar bear, as it roams the edges of the pack ice. Shore excursions by Zodiac will enable you to explore places where few humans have ever set foot. This voyage truly is the big adventure you’ve been waiting for.
- Spot iconic Arctic wildlife, such as polar bears, walrus and reindeer
- View numerous Arctic bird species, like puffins, Arctic terns and purple sandpipers
- Anticipate a full circumnavigation of Spitsbergen
- Explore glaciers, fjords, icebergs and more with included Zodiac cruising
- Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Arctic with optional kayaking adventures
- Hike the tundra and polar desert
| Day 1 |
This sustainable capital city will charm you with its beautiful sea-facing landscape, diverse architecture and world-famous design. While the city is modern and lively, the archipelago and green forests are quickly reached via an efficient public transportation system for those looking for nature. Helsinki's neoclassical buildings were often used as a backdrop for films set in the Soviet Union including The Kremlin Letter (1970), Reds (1981), and Gorky Park (1983). |
| Day 2 |
The remote and austerely beautiful Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago, lies north of continental Norway in the Arctic Ocean, a mere 650 miles from the North Pole. A hub for Dutch, English, French, Norwegian, and Russian whalers between the 17th and 19th centuries, this collection of glacial islands officially joined the Kingdom of Norway in 1925 with the Svalbard Act and continues to be used in coal mining enterprises. Spitsbergen, the only permanently inhabited island in the Svalbard archipelago, and its largest settlement, Longyearbyen, have become popular stops for tourists, who often arrive on arctic cruises.
This mountainous archipelago offers magnificent views of stark white glaciers and snowfields, which cover a vast stretch of the region. Arctic flora and fauna fascinate; catch a glimpse of polar bears, reindeer, arctic foxes, and walruses amongst the mossy tundra and icy coasts. In the summer, visitors will witness the rare splendor of Svalbard’s midnight sun. |
| Day 3 |
Spitsbergen is the largest island of Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, where the wonders of the Arctic come alive in breathtaking fashion. Known for its wild, untamed beauty, Spitsbergen offers travelers the chance to experience landscapes that are both surreal and majestic. From towering glaciers and jagged mountain peaks to expansive tundra and crystal-clear fjords, this frozen paradise is an explorer’s dream. The islands feature seven national parks and 23 nature reserves, which provide homes for many seabird species as well as polar bears, reindeer, the Arctic fox, and more. |
| Day 4 |
This sustainable capital city will charm you with its beautiful sea-facing landscape, diverse architecture and world-famous design. While the city is modern and lively, the archipelago and green forests are quickly reached via an efficient public transportation system for those looking for nature. Helsinki's neoclassical buildings were often used as a backdrop for films set in the Soviet Union including The Kremlin Letter (1970), Reds (1981), and Gorky Park (1983). |
| Day 5 |
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| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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07/09/26 - 07/23/26 |
Starting At $17,195 |
Get A Quote |
All fares are quoted in US dollars (US$). Rates for expeditions, flights, as well as optional pre-expedition and post-expedition extensions are based on tariffs and exchange rates in effect at the time of printing and are subject to change prior to departure. Substantial changes in tariffs, exchange rates and the price of fuel, services and labor sometimes increase the cost of expedition arrangements significantly. Quark reserves the right to alter prices or introduce surcharges accordingly, even if payment has been received in full. All travelers are required to pay for their excursion and additional purchases in conjunction with their excursion in the same currency. The fare does not include tobacco, alcoholic or special beverages (bottled or tap), miscellaneous extras, personal needs or medical care. Such goods and services, if available for purchase aboard the vessel/camp, are at the travelers’ own expense. Payment for all such goods and services including any charges for extra baggage must be made in cash or by traveler’s checks in US dollars (or other currency acceptable to the carrier) upon demand by the carrier prior to the traveler’s disembarkation. Taxes, port charges, embarkation and loading expenses, stamps, health fees and any other charges whatsoever imposed by governmental authorities in any port or place shall be for the account of the traveler if not included in the fare paid to Quark.
