Quark Expeditions
Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway
Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway
This fascinating expedition provides a taste of everything Spitsbergen has to offer, starting with its largest settlement, Longyearbyen. The largest island of the Svalbard archipelago is known as the “wildlife capital of the Arctic,” and on this stirring voyage, we show you why. A key focus of this 10-day expedition will be to spot the abundant wildlife that resides here, including walrus, reindeer, and that most iconic of Arctic denizens, the polar bear, in their natural habitat, while marveling at the surreal experience of continuous daylight. Explore the unique Arctic landscape, hike the vast and colorful tundra, learn about the history and geology of this remote wilderness, and join us on a gripping excursion to a faraway, unforgettable land. This exciting introductory journey to the remote Norwegian island, renowned for its stunning scenery and abundant, varied wildlife, is now available on two ships, each providing a distinct polar experience. Ultramarine, our new, game-changing polar vessel, can take you to remote destinations most other ships can’t reach. Aboard Ultramarine, explore Spitsbergen in brand new ways—taking advantage of the 20 quick-launching Zodiacs, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size—to create the Arctic experience perfect for you.
- Spot iconic Arctic wildlife, such as polar bears, walrus and reindeer
- Take advantage of continuous daylight
- Hike the tundra and polar desert
- Cruise in a Zodiac to explore glaciers, fjords, icebergs and more
- Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Arctic with optional kayaking adventures
| 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 |
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| Day 5 |
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| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
05/14/26 - 05/24/26 |
Starting At $10,895 |
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|
05/22/26 - 06/01/26 |
Starting At $11,495 |
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|
05/30/26 - 06/09/26 |
Starting At $11,795 |
Get A Quote | |
|
06/07/26 - 06/17/26 |
Starting At $11,795 |
Get A Quote | |
|
06/15/26 - 06/25/26 |
Starting At $11,795 |
Get A Quote | |
|
06/23/26 - 07/03/26 |
Starting At $11,795 |
Get A Quote | |
|
07/01/26 - 07/11/26 |
Starting At $11,795 |
Get A Quote |
All fares are quoted in US dollars (US$). 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.
