svalbard luxury trip

The Luxury Arctic Travel Co

Available 7 days a week – once your enquiry has been accepted you will have phone/whatsapp/text access 7 days a week.

Minimum duration of 6 nights, and minimum spend of £7,500 GBP / $8,500 USD per person applicable to all bookings.

+ 44 (0) 203 761 7078

[email protected]

• Svalbard Luxury Cruise

Svalbard Luxury Boat Cruise

Exploring the Arctic by boat can be some of the most rewarding and spectator experiences. We work closely with our partners to ensure that our client have the best experience. By working in this way we can make sure that our clients get unrivalled service. We are particularly excited to welcome to our yacht fleet M/Y Sherakhan which is one of the most exclusive super yachts available and has recently been opened to select clients on a cabin by cabin basis.  

The tour will take you around the incredible islands of Svalbard which lie 400 miles north of Noway.   These fascinating islands are rich in wildlife, arctic nature and old mining towns which are found throughout the islands. On this trip you will be able to witness first hand the untouched wilderness which is both rugged and becoming increasingly fragile. The island has a rich and deep rooted history in arctic expeditions and is often frequented by polar bears who make this island home. It is also often regarded as one of the worlds best whale watching destinations with both both humpback and orca whales often seen throughout your trip.  

Sherakhan is the perfect way to experience first hand some of the worlds most unique and dramatic landscapes including glistening glaciers, white capped mountains, midnight sun and clear blue skies.

Throughout the eight day trip expect to explore this incredible place in true super yacht comfort with the addition of world class guiding and outstanding food. Typically there will also be two landings per day. These will both be accompanied fully by the onboard expedition team whose sole responsibility is to give you the best experience possible. From here you can explore the 14th July glacier in Krossfjordan, explore the bird cliffs off Fugesongen and delve into hidden coves on the smaller zodiac boats. In some select sites it may also be possible to kayak, snorkel and for the adventures even dive amongst the glaciers.

Wildlife is plentiful throughout the cruise and as well as the whales and polar bears many enjoy watching for arctic foxes, hare and native reindeer. In some locations the use of snowmobiles can be brought in to search for polar bears in more remote inland locations.

The yacht was specifically designed for luxury expeditions and at just under 70 meters its the pinnacle in luxury adventure yachting. On board there is a 7m high atrium and dining room, full equipped gym, spa with beauty therapist, and an 18 person jacuzzi. Along with this the Sherakahn comes complete with a water slide, two 7.3m tenders, three wave runners and a fleet of snowmobiles to fully facilitate some true arctic exploration. Internally bedroom suites offer the top luxury quality that you would expect and with only 11 cabins it ensures that guests have the ultimate experience into this part of the world.

• Central Norway
• The Thief Oslo
• South West & Fjords
• The Svalbard Odyssey Itinerary
• Nordenskiold Lodge
• Funken Lodge
• Juvet Landscape Hotel
• Hotel Union Oye
• Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel
• Storfjord Hotel
• Kirkenes Snow Hotel
• Manshausen Cabins
• Malangen Resort

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THE SVALBARD ARCHIPELAGO

Svalbard offers you a fantastic introduction to the Arctic. A deserted archipelago full of other-worldly landscapes, polar bears, walrus, whales and ice. Beyond the vast glaciers, towering mountains and rare wildlife, what makes Svalbard unique is how barren it is. Sailing 80 degrees north, depending on ice conditions, you may yourself anywhere from 600 to 400 miles from the North Pole. Here, you’ll learn about polar history and experience this extraordinary region on foot, by Zodiac® and in utmost luxury onboard.

CHOOSE ULTIMATE LUXURY AND SUPERIOR DESTINATION EXPERTISE

Witness Europe’s last great wilderness in unparalleled comfort. A wonderland of natural beauty stretching from icy desert to untouched tundra inhabited by rare wildlife, shown to you by polar experts.

EXPLORE THE HIDDEN SECRETS OF SVALBARD

Located halfway between the northernmost tip of Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard is the Land of the Polar Bear – a High Arctic archipelago of rugged mountains, towering ice caps, immense glaciers and deep frozen fjords. The immense silence creates a tranquillity unrivalled almost anywhere on Earth. There’s nothing like suddenly hearing chunks of ice break off a millennial glacier from the seat of a Zodiac® while floating on the icy sea. Up here at 78° North, the world’s most seasoned expedition experts will take you closer to the heart of the Arctic to reveal the true wonder of this region.

SEE EPIC SCENERY AND RARE WILDLIFE

Hiking in Fjortende Julibreen, you’ll discover majestic landscapes teeming with walruses, seals, foxes and bears. Kayaking at Magdalenefjiorden, you’ll explore the sea, bays and inlets first hand where you can catch these sights and more. Floating alongside towering icebergs while a humpback whale or curious seal glides beside you, or hops out of the water to introduce itself, are just some of the many experiences you’ll always remember. From geologists, birders and glacier specialists, to specialists in flora and fauna, our team will enrich your adventure and unlock the secrets of Svalbard.

WE GO TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH TO ENHANCE YOUR EXPERIENCE

Having pioneered luxury expedition voyages, we’ve perfected the experience – from intimate ice-class ships and unrivalled destination knowledge to personalised experiences and unparalleled comfort.

SAIL BEYOND YOUR EXPECTATIONS ON A JOURNEY UNLIKE ANY OTHER

The most all-inclusive voyages to the arctic.

Far north is far closer than you think. Svalbard may be remote, but it is easily accessible with our seamless door-to-door service. With pre and post hotel stays in Oslo and direct charter flights to Longyearbyen, leaving you free to savour every moment.

DISCOVER A DEEPER CHOICE OF DESTINATIONS AND ITINERARIES

Travel to places others simply can’t reach.

Sail to incredible destinations from north to south over 9 days, which you can extend to 14 combined with Iceland to experience the volcanic landscapes and rich nature of the Arctic desert.

EXPLORE THE ARCTIC ABOARD OUR ULTRA-LUXURY SHIPS

Simply the best expedition experience at sea.

Step aboard our intimate yet spacious ship Silver Wind or Silver Endeavour to sail deeper into luxury and adventure uncovering some of the farthest-flung polar destinations in utmost comfort.

DISCOVER YOUR SILVERSEA LUXURY CRUISE

Travel deeper.

Steve McCurry’s Spiritual Catharsis in the Arctic Circle’s Svalbard Archipelago

Seeking Off-the-Beaten-Path Things to Do in Norway? Check out Svalbard

UNLOCK THE HEART OF THE ARCTIC

Since pioneering luxury expedition voyages, we’ve been perfecting the experience. Now we invite you to explore the awe-inspiring Arctic with our incomparable expertise, venturing deeper into this remote region to reveal its fragile beauty.

• € EUR

Luxury Travel to the Svalbard Islands

Sat in the Arctic Ocean halfway between Norway and the North Pole, the Svalbard archipelago is your only destination when it comes to exploring the fierce, arctic tundra and its inhabitants. More than half covered by glaciers, the island group supports seven national parks and 23 nature reserves protecting a largely untouched natural environment, rich in rare wildlife. Its environs are home to polar bears, reindeer, arctic fox, sea birds and whales.

Spitsbergen with its main town Longyearbyen, is the largest and only permanently inhabited island of the archipelago. No roads connect its settlements, providing a unique opportunity for snowmobiling or traveling by boat.

Your experience will differ depending on the season you decide to visit. In summer, animals and fauna thrive during the long stretch of constant light and it’s the best time for exploring fjords and glaciers, kayaking and trekking. The polar winter night means that the Northern Lights are bright and the freezing conditions are great for snowmobiling, skiing, husky sledding and visiting ice caves.

The best time to see the polar bears is the summer, between June and September when the ice melts to allow ships through. The islands have distinctively different seasons, and there are activities in both summer and winter.

• Spot polar bears, whales and wildife
• Dog sledding
• Ski and snowmobile expeditions
• Ice cave visit

Itineraries including The Svalbard Islands

Top hotels in the Svalbard Islands

Here are some of our travel designers' favourite options

Bergen - Svalbard - Bergen

The Svalbard Line

Premium Arctic roundtrip summer cruise with award-winning fare, unlimited select drinks & longer times at spots at the top of the world

Departure Dates

Voyage overview

This is our historic voyage from 1968 to the top of the world, revived for the modern traveler. You’ll journey in comfort aboard beautiful MS Trollfjord, sailing along the scenic Norwegian coast north to Spitsbergen, the largest of Svalbard’s islands.  

Experience the Midnight Sun as you travel to the Far North on a unique itinerary built on our original sailing to Svalbard

Deepen your understanding of Norway’s coast and culture with ample time for exclusive excursions in 16 carefully chosen destinations

Enjoy exceptional food and drink, personalized service, and enhanced onboard activities on your freshly refurbished ship

The day-by-day program will give you some ideas about what you can see during your voyage, but bear in mind that this itinerary is just an indication. After all, this is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions might vary.

Sailing The Svalbard Line

Welcome to Bergen ! Your voyage begins in this beautiful city on the west coast of Norway. What began as a small village was developed by King Olav Kyree in 1070 AD and is now Norway’s second largest city. The majestic peaks that famously surround the city give Bergen its nickname, “The City of Seven Mountains”. 

Nestled in Bergen’s center is Vågen Bay, the historic core of the city, and home to the UNESCO-listed Bryggen quarter made up of charming cobblestone streets and local boutique shops. Across from Bryggen, you’ll find the fish market, which cooks up fresh and delicious seafood dishes to feast on. 

Before you board MS Trollfjord, visit our comfortable guest lounge at the Bergen Terminal. Here, you can talk to staff about securing a spot on any optional excursions still available. 

Once we’ve welcomed you aboard, you’ll meet your ship’s Coastal Experience Team , who will be your hosts and guides to the Norwegian coastline and Svalbard. Get acquainted with your shipmates and take some time to get comfortable in your new home-away-from-home. 

Enjoy your first meal aboard the ship, and watch the row of colorful buildings on the seafront get smaller behind you as you sail into the Norwegian Sea. 

Alpine village by the fjord

Located at the mouth of the river Rauma on the shores of the Romsdalfjord, Åndalsnes is a picturesque coastal town, home to about 2,000 people.  

The literal highlights of Åndalsnes are the mountains that tower over the town and which line the Romsdalen valley. Trollveggen, the Troll Wall, is one prominent cliff with a vertical drop of more than 1,000 metres, making it popular for BASE jumpers.  

Experience the Norwegian concept of  friluftsliv  – a love of the outdoors – through a variety of activities, such as hiking to a local viewpoint.  For an easier way to take in the sights, sit back for a relaxing ride on the Romsdal Gondola or travel the winding Trollstigen Pass by bus.  

There is also the Golden Train experience along the Rauma Railway, voted Europe’s most scenic train journey by Lonely Planet.

Norway’s oldest fishing community

Træna is an archipelago that sits along the Helgeland coast at the edge of the Arctic Circle , 33 nautical miles northwest of the mainland. Made up of around 500 islands, islets, and skerries, only four are inhabited year-round.  

Spend the afternoon in one of Norway’s oldest fishing communities. If weather permits, you might be able to enjoy such activities as hiking and biking, or even island hopping. 

With a large population of Sea Eagles , birdwatching is another activity you won’t want to miss. For a truly authentic experience, step into the age-old shoes of a Norwegian fisherman, and cast a line under the summer sun. 

When it’s time to leave in the evening, take some time to rest onboard and unwind. We’ll cross the Arctic Circle as we continue heading north, commemorating the moment with a little Norwegian ceremony. 

The Tip of Lofoten

Today, we explore the famed Lofoten Islands . Watch for the steep mountains rising from the sea as we approach from the south in the morning.

We dock in Reine, an important – and picture-perfect – fishing village since 1743. This is one of the most-photographed landscapes in all of Norway, where red-painted rorbuer cling to a string of islands beneath sharp mountain ranges reflected in the waters below.

Not far to the south of Reine, at the western tip of the Lofoten archipelago, you’ll find Å, one of the best-preserved traditional fishing villages in Norway. You can visit it on an optional excursion.

At the heart of this tiny village is the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum, which covers the importance and development of fishing in Lofoten over the last 250 years.

Gateway to the Arctic

Tromsø is northern Norway’s urban Arctic hotspot, boasting impressive architecture, hip restaurants, and the world’s northernmost university.

Calling into Tromsø on the way to or from Svalbard follows in the footsteps of history. Most explorers and sailors on Arctic expeditions would embark from or return to the city. We aim to dock here in the morning, giving you a whole day to explore this historic Arctic city and its surroundings.

Take your pick from a number of optional excursions. Learn more about the culture and polar history of Tromsø on a city walk, or take a scenic bus tour. You can also visit the striking Arctic Cathedral, which has an impressively large multi-colored stained-glass window. Or ride the Fjellheisen Cable Car up Storsteinen Mountain for exceptionally beautiful views of the city, mountains, and fjords.

At the top of Europe

Around mid-morning, we arrive at Honningsvåg , the northernmost city in mainland Norway.

You have several optional excursions to pick from here. These could include taking a bus or riding a quad to the North Cape, a hike with your Coastal Experience Team, or an introduction to what life is like at 71°N. 

Honningsvåg is also the gateway to the North Cape , the northernmost point of Europe. The plateau stands one thousand feet (307 meters) above the sea, and is just over 1,000 miles south of the geographical North Pole. Take a moment to gaze out across the sea from a top the soaring cliffs, watching the waves crash against the rocks below. 

Sailing away from Honningsvåg, we’ll enjoy dramatic views of the plateau from the sea. The ship will head further into the Barents Sea, leaving mainland Norway’s coast far behind us. 

At sea around Bjørnøya

The southernmost island of the Svalbard archipelago, Bjørnøya sits just past the halfway point between mainland Norway and Spitsbergen. We’ll be viewing this inaccessible land from the ship in the afternoon, so think of this as the prologue to your Svalbard adventure. 

Upon seeing the island, you might notice the lack of trees, and even bushes. Very little grows here, with the land partly being covered only by a layer of moss and lichen. Whatever does grow here is fertilized by the abundant birdlife that nests on the sea cliffs. Get your camera ready to capture Little Auks, Puffins, Black-legged Kittiwakes, and Northern Fulmars flying over dramatic cliff tops and steep slopes, alongside many other seabird species. 

Contrary to its name, which means “Bear Island”, the only native mammals are Arctic foxes. The island was named after a polar bear was spotted swimming in the waters nearby, but this is an unlikely sight this far south.  

At the edge of the world

Today, we arrive at the Svalbard archipelago and make our way up to Spitsbergen, the largest of the three main islands. Magnificent brown and green mountains rise and ripple up from the High Arctic tundra while rivers of snow-melt trickle through the valley plains, glistening under the summer sun.   

Take a moment to just be here, now, in Svalbard. You’re at a latitude more than 78°N and under 820 miles from the North Pole itself. The air of this Arctic desert is fresh and pure, and temperatures in summer average between zero and eight degrees Celsius thanks to a warm northern branch of the Gulf Stream.  

In early afternoon, we find Longyearbyen nestled on the banks of Isfjord. A former coal mining colony, it is the biggest settlement in Svalbard and a hub for adventure travelers, as well as scientists and engineers attached to local research projects, like the famous Global Seed Vault .  

Spend some time strolling around the town, admiring its collection of galleries, pubs, restaurants, brewery, and the notable North Pole Expedition Museum.

You’ll also have optional excursions to pick from that bring you into the awe-inspiring landscapes surrounding Longyearbyen. Explore by e-bike, open boat, or on a wagon pulled by dogs. You could go on a fossil hike, or have a wilderness experience at Camp Barentz. And if you’ve ever wanted to try dog sledding without snow, this is your chance. 

Science on the Arctic frontier

At the tip of Brøgger peninsula, on one of Kongsfjord’s shores, is Ny-Ålesund . Like Longyearbyen, it began as a coal mine but became host to scientific stations from the mid 20th century. During the summer, there are over a hundred researchers based in the town, representing 20 glaciology and climate institutes from more than 10 countries. 

Wander around what is one of the northernmost settlements in the world, drop in at the local museum and souvenir shop, or send a far-flung postcard back to friends and family from the small post office.  

If you weren’t up in time to enjoy the impressive views of Kongsfjord on the way to Ny-Ålesund, make sure you’re on deck as we leave. It’s one of the largest fjords in the area, with an entrance guarded by two colossal creaking glaciers that regularly deposit ice into the fjord.  

This stretch is also a good place to look out for walrus basking on the shores and for many different species of migrating birds, including puffins, king eiders, pink-footed geese, and guillemots.  

Arctic fox and Svalbard reindeer can sometimes be spotted on land while the white beluga whale has been known to surface in the waters here too. If we’re very lucky, we might even see a polar bear prowling the coast for bearded and ringed seals. 

Leaving Svalbard

Unfortunately, it’s time for us to say farewell to Svalbard and to Spitsbergen and sail south back to mainland Norway.  

On board the ship, use the day to relax. If skies are clear, enjoy some summer sun out on deck and keep on the lookout for whales, dolphins, and porpoises.

For some fascinating insights into local history and wildlife, catch a lecture delivered by the Coastal Experience Team.

Enjoy the sumptuous food and drinks on board, courtesy of our Norway’s Coastal Kitchen concept that features the finest, most flavorsome, local Norwegian produce.

You can also curl up with a good book in the lounge or chat with new-found friends in the bar while reminiscing together about your favorite experiences of the voyage so far.

Exploring ‘Little Norway’

After a day at sea, we arrive back to mainland Norway.

Our first stop of the day is Tromsø , to drop off any cargo from Svalbard and pick up cargo bound for ports to the south, before we continue south to Senja. The island is one of the country’s largest, and northern Norway’s fast-rising star destination, as you’d expect for a place ranked among CNN’s top ten most beautiful islands in the world.

Often proudly described by locals as a ‘mini Norway’, Senja has a concentration of diverse landscapes that mirror different parts of the Norwegian coast, from the sandy beaches, turquoise waters and lofty mountains of its northern coast to the rocky coastline and pine forests of southern Senja and Ånderdalen National Park. You'll find rolling hills and birch forests to the east.

Disembark in the charming fishing village of Torsken and explore by bus, e-bike, on foot, or take to the fjords on a wildlife safari on one of the optional excursions.

Fall in love with Lofoten

Start the day with a few hours in Stokmarknes , an historic town with a special place in our hearts. It’s the birthplace of Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express.

It’s a fitting place for the Hurtigruten Museum , where you are immersed in the atmosphere of a different era on our retired 1956 ship, MS Finnmarken, proudly encased in glass on the waterfront. 

After Stokmarknes, we’ll sail via Raftsundet and Trollfjord to Lofoten . The rest of the day is all about exploring this breathtaking archipelago. Hailed as one of the most spectacular areas in all of Norway, you’ll understand why as you see its jagged green cliffs rise dramatically out of the ocean, climbing high into the sky like giant teeth. 

The beating heart of the archipelago is the town of  Svolvær  where your ship will be based. There are shops and restaurants to enjoy, and the hours can be spent exploring and getting to know the town yourself. 

To experience the mountains, islands, and villages around Svolvær, choose from a variety of handpicked top Lofoten excursions. You can go fishing, kayaking, or sit back and enjoy the incredible scenery on foot or on a bus tour.

Highlights of the Helgeland Coast

The ship continues south and reaches the midpoint of the Norwegian coast. This is the Helgeland Coast , a well-known stretch full of distinctive mountains that have inspired many a charming myth and local folklore.  

We will base the ship in the town of Brønnøysund , which features a lovely marina and a Neo-Gothic stone church from 1870. Spend your time exploring the town or join optional excursions such as a RIB cruise. 

Further along from Brønnøysund is the unique Torghatten Mountain. The first thing you’ll notice about Torghatten is the hole that pierces right through its center. At an easy pace, it takes about an hour to reach the hole in Torghatten on an optional excursion. The panoramic view of the islands stretching out before you is well worth it. 

Secret of the Sunnmøre Alps

The ship will make a brief stop in the town of Ålesund , known for its Art Nouveau architecture and picturesque position on a peninsula below Mount Aksla. If you’re joining the overland excursion to Hjørundfjord and Sæbo, this is where you disembark, or you can explore the town on foot.

Near to Ålesund, cutting through the peaks of the Sunnmøre Alps , a mile (5570 feet) high, is magnificent Hjørundfjord. Its picture-perfect position embedded in the Sunnmøre Alps means it is the area’s hidden gem and a secret from most other ships. 

On the banks of one of Hjørundfjord ’s branches is the idyllic village of Sæbø. Tender ashore here and join an optional bus tour or hike excursion to explore Sæbø’s charming streets, fjord and mountain scenery, nearby villages, and local culture. If you left MS Trollfjord to go on an excursion at Ålesund, this is also where you’ll rejoin the ship.

We are fast approaching the last day of our voyage. What better way to celebrate our Svalbard Line experience than a farewell dinner on our last night.

Back where we began

We arrive back in Bergen in the morning. It’s time to disembark the ship, but not before saying fond farewells to your fellow passengers and to the crew of MS Trollfjord who made your Svalbard Line journey such a comfortable one. 

You’ve traveled as part of this historic, iconic voyage to pieces of paradise along the Norwegian coast you won’t soon forget. If you’ve engaged in optional excursions, will you have photos to share of you kayaking, hiking, fishing, cycling in some of the most beautiful scenery ever seen?  

We know you’ll take fond memories of the North Cape, Helgeland, Lofoten, Senja , Hjørundfjord, crossing the Arctic Circle, Tromsø, Bjørnøya, Longyearbyen, and Ny-Ålesund home with you.  

About your trip

What's included, cabin guests.

Enjoy an impressive range of included benefits when you choose from our selection of comfortable options: Polar Inside, Polar Outside, and Arctic Superior cabins.

Accommodation on ship: Your home away from home

Choice of cabin type

Choice of cabin location

Comfortable cabin with ensuite bathroom

Take a look at the cabins on MS Trollfjord

Your culinary experience on board: Food & drink

Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the ship’s main restaurant Flora

Daily lunch and dinner in Brasserie Árran

Unlimited select drinks at Flora, Árran, and the 1893 Bar during restaurant and bar open hours except breakfast

Unlimited select tea and coffee  

Afternoon snack in the 1893 Bar

Culinary demonstrations and food tastings 

Read more about your food and drink experience  

Life on board

Multi-lingual Coastal Experience Team  

Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship and in your cabin

Daily themed lectures, photography guidance, arts and crafts sessions

Access to our fitness room and sauna facilities for your wellness needs

Library access with a selection of books and magazines

Selection of equipment for outdoor activities

Learn more about life on board MS Trollfjord

Enhance your journey with:

Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner in award-winning fine dining restaurant Røst

Unlimited select drinks in Røst during open hours with an upgraded wine selection

Unlimited handcraft cocktails in the bar during opening hours

Afternoon tea with sparkling wine

Hurtigruten clothing package including shell jacket, wool sweater, wool hat

Camera equipment and binocular rentals to view and capture incredible moments

Wide range of optional seasonal excursions and guided hikes

Suite guests 

For the absolute best in onboard comfort, cuisine, service, and beautifully appointed rooms, choose our suite experience.

Choice of suite type

Choice of suite location

Priority check-in

Stylish, spacious suite with ensuite bathroom 

Daily minibar refill

King-size bed

Daily turn-down service 

Take a look at the suites on MS Trollfjord

Choice of dining times during the main restaurant Flora opening hours

Exclusive dinner with the ship’s officers

Unlimited select drinks in Flora, Brasserie Árran, and 1893 Bar during opening hours

Unlimited select drinks in Røst during opening hours

Unlimited cocktails in the bar during opening hours

Unlimited tea and coffee (select types offered)

Culinary demonstrations and food tastings

Life on board  

Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship and in your suite

Multi-lingual Coastal Experience Team

Visit to the bridge when in port – at the Captain’s discretion

Complimentary use of binoculars

Camera equipment rental to capture incredible moments

What's Not Included

Return flights from London and transfers in Norway

Travel insurance

Optional seasonal excursions

Luggage handling

Optional hikes with the Coastal Experience Team

Prices are in USD per person based on two people traveling together sharing a cabin for two

Not all cabin categories are available for all departures

Single cabin pricing available on request

Hurtigruten has a dynamic pricing system and all prices are capacity controlled and subject to availability

We have several ships in the fleet that we travel with.

MS Trollfjord

Flagship of our Signature voyages, MS Trollfjord takes its name from a small but spectacular fjord in the Vesterålen archipelago.

Related cruises

Bergen - Svalbard - Bergen (Roundtrip)

May 2025 - September 2026

Bergen – Longyearbyen (Northbound)

The Svalbard Line – North

Premium Arctic northbound summer cruise with award-winning fare, unlimited select drinks & longer times at scenic spots like Reine with steep mountain views

June 2025 - September 2026

Svalbard – Bergen (Southbound)

The Svalbard Line - South

Premium Arctic southbound summer cruise with award-winning fare, unlimited select drinks & longer times at scenic spots like Senja dubbed 'Little Norway'

Know before you go

• FAQ: MS Trollfjord
• Restaurants on MS Trollfjord
• Meet the team: MS Trollfjord

Special Offers

There’s more than one way to sail with us and discover the many wonders of the Norwegian coast.

Save up to $1000 or get up to 6000NOK OBC

We're celebrating our 'Norwegianess' with up to $1000 on select Original Voyages and up to 6000NOK in OBC on select Signature Voyages.

Optional Excursions

Explore your destination even further with our wide range of exciting excursions. The excursion program presented is an indication of some of the excursions that may be available during your voyage.

Åndalsnes Town Walk and Romsdal Gondola

Starts from

Spring (Apr - May), Summer (Jun - Aug), Autumn (Sep - Oct)

2 hours 30 minutes

Hairpin Bends & Soaring Mountains - Trollstigen Scenic Bus Tour

Summer (Jun - Aug), Autumn (Sep - Oct)

Stand-Up Paddleboard in Åndalsnes

Summer (Jun - Aug)

Træna Culture Walk – Poetry, Art, and Heritage

Arctic Dip – Sauna & Swim

1 hour 30 minutes

Træna Island Hopping

Reine & Lofoten Scenery

Summer (Jun - Aug), Autumn (Sep - Oct), Spring (Apr - May)

Kayaking in Reine

Tromsø, The Arctic Capital – Summer

Tromsø – gateway to the Arctic

3 hours 30 minutes

Tromsø On Foot – The City & Polar History

Explore Tromsø by E-bike  (Spring & Summer)

Viking Homestead Visit

World’s Northernmost Brewery

The North Cape

Honningsvåg – gateway to the North Cape

North Cape and King Crab Experience - Summer

Spring (Apr - May), Summer (Jun - Aug)

Birdwatching Safari & The North Cape

5 hours 30 minutes

Four Wheeler to North Cape

4 hours, 30 minutes

RIB & King Crab Experience

Svalbard Wilderness and History Experience

Longyearbyen

Dogsledding on Wheels

Visit a Coal Mine of the Past

Husky Dog Wagon Ride 

Isfjord Safari by Open Boat

Longyearbyen by E-bike 

Svalbard Hike and Fossil Hunt 

Senja Wildlife Safari

Finnsnes – the gateway to Senja

Scenic Guided E-Bike Tour

Senja Scenic Route by Bus

Summer (Jun - Aug), Spring (Apr - May), Autumn (Sep - Oct)

Fjord Adventure by RIB

Senja Golden Hour Hike

Lofoten Scenery and Henningsvær

Svolvær – at the heart of Lofoten

Kayaking in Lofoten - Summer

Fishing in Lofoten - Summer

3 hours 15 minutes

Lofoten RIB & Sea Eagle Adventure

1 hour 30 minutes 

Sea Adventure by RIB

Brønnøysund – coastal charm right in the middle of Norway

Legends of Torghatten and Brønnøysund - Summer

Brønnøysund by Bike

Mountain Peaks & Fjords - Scenic Bus Tour

Ålesund on Foot

1 hours 30 minutes

Walk through the Urke Valley

The Hjørundfjord

3 hours 10 minutes

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EXPLORING A POLAR WILDERNESS ABOARD A LUXURY EXPEDITION SHIP

Svalbard odyssey.

From $12,695

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

• 10% off all cabins + $1,500 per person air credit for 2025 departures

Arrive: Longyearbyen, Norway

Depart: Longyearbyen, Norway

• Venture close to 80° north looking for polar bears on the pack ice
• Chance to discover other arctic wildlife including walrus, guillemots, puffins, seals, reindeer, arctic fox, seabirds, and whales
• Zodiac past blue glaciers and through stunning fjords
• Enjoy hikes surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful scenery

Note: This trip is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as an agent in booking your reservation with the operator. Please download the Rate Sheet in the Dates & Pricing section to see the full pricing details and contact our Cruise Collection Specialists to check availability.

Dates & Pricing

Payment & cancel schedule.

At time of reservation: $2,500 100 days prior to departure: Balance

Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Minimum fee: $2,500 per person 90 days or less: 100% of trip cost

• Arrival transfer to hotel on Day 1 and ship to airport transfer on day of disembarkation
• One night hotel accommodation in Longyearbyen including breakfast
• Welcome reception and pre-embarkation briefing
• Sightseeing tour of Longyearbyen on Day 2 prior to embarkation
• 10 or 13 night's accommodation onboard including daily cabin service
• All shore excursions and zodiac cruises
• Educational lectures and guiding services provided by the Expedition team
• All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during the voyage
• Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner
• Comprehensive pre-departure information
• Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult)
• Waterproof, polar expedition jacket
• Use of muck boots during the voyage
• Port charges, permits and landing fees

Not Included

• International and domestic airfare
• Transfers on days other than arrival/departure dates
• Hotels en route to and from the trip
• Optional excursions and optional activity charges
• Optional travel insurance
• Passport and visa fees
• Other expenses of a personal nature (laundry, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks outside of dinners, Wi-fi, phone or email charges, etc.).
• Gratuities for ship's crew

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Greg Mortimer

Days 1-11 (11 nights)

Sylvia Earle

What the trip is like.

This trip is rated Level 1+, Easy . For most activities, a relatively moderate level of exertion is required. You will need to climb in and out of Zodiacs for excursions ashore and walk one to three miles over sometimes rough terrain such as uneven, rocky beaches.

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Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
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Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
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• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
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Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago in the High Arctic between mainland Norway and the North Pole, also know as Spitsbergen. A destination of a lifetime, our expeditions to Svalbard connect you to the majesty of this Arctic wilderness, where dramatic fjords, rugged mountain ranges and a fossil-rich polar desert await.

Overhead, puffins, guillemots and other native Svalbard avian circle, commanding your attention, while the scree slopes house the island’s largest little auk colony. Witness sea walruses puncturing the ice, beluga whales breaching or a fluffy Arctic fox.  Svalbard is the kingdom of the polar bear – witness one of these majestic, elusive creatures if you’re lucky. All leave a lasting impression.

The polar summer spans from May to September, where the Midnight Sun’s beautiful colours and contrasts adds an extra dimension to Svalbard’s glaciers, majestic mountains and Arctic tundra. This is the best time to enjoy outside exploration and take in this frozen land.

Svalbard is large and diverse, showcasing nature’s surprisingly rich and extremely varied landscapes. Life in Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s capital city, may be perceived as harsh, but for those fortunate to live here, it’s hard to imagine living anywhere else. Its inhabitants strive to live as one with nature, working in harmony to uphold their unique way of life throughout the enormous seasonal variations in temperature, light and darkness.

Svalbard Cruises & Expeditions

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Svalbard Cruises

Embark on one of Aurora Expeditions’ Svalbard cruises and experience an adventure of a lifetime in this polar wilderness with our professional Expedition Team . On our Svalbard cruises and expeditions, you have the best opportunity to encounter diverse wildlife in their natural environment, and you can also enjoy a number of activities in the High Arctic, including Zodiac cruising, hiking, kayaking and more.

Our Svalbard cruises and expeditions are curated with curious and adventurous travellers in mind. We aim to get you off the ship 2-3 times a day*, so you can explore awe-inspiring sea cliffs, gigantic icebergs, majestic fjords, massive glaciers and ice caps. During an expedition cruise around Svalbard, capture unique photography with dramatic scenery and  Arctic wildlife , including the polar bear. 

*Subject to weather and conditions

• Expeditions

Destination Highlights

Spitsbergen: Realm of the Ice Bear

USD $ 10,705.75

Svalbard in Depth

USD $ 18,876.00

Arctic Golden Autumn & Northern Lights

USD $ 16,646.25

Svalbard Odyssey

USD $ 14,700.75

Jewels of the Arctic: Greenland Solar Eclipse

USD $ 22,495.50

Jewels of the Arctic

USD $ 15,671.25

Why Join a Svalbard Cruise with Aurora Expeditions?

Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago in the High Arctic between mainland Norway and the North Pole. A destination of a lifetime, our Svalbard cruises and expeditions connect you to the majesty of this Arctic wilderness, where dramatic fjords, rugged mountain ranges and a fossil-rich polar desert await.

Overhead, puffins, guillemots and other native Svalbard avian circle, commanding your attention, while the scree slopes house the island’s largest little auk colony. On our Svalbard expeditions, you can expect to witness walruses puncturing the ice, beluga whales swimming alongside the boat or fluffy Arctic foxes hunting in the snow. Svalbard is also the kingdom of the polar bear – you might spot one of these majestic, elusive creatures if you’re lucky. All the Arctic wildlife found here leaves a lasting impression.

The polar summer spans from May to September, when the Midnight Sun’s endless daylight, beautiful colours and striking contrasts add an extra dimension to Svalbard’s glaciers, sea ice, majestic mountains and Arctic tundra. Summertime, when the Midnight Sun shines over the Arctic, is the best time to enjoy outside exploration and take in this frozen land. The polar winter season makes up the rest of the year and features the polar night or endless night. This is when the sun never “rises” and it remains dark throughout the day – it’s the perfect backdrop to see the Northern Lights in Svalbard.

Svalbard is large and diverse, showcasing nature’s surprisingly rich and varied landscapes. Life may be perceived as harsh, but for those fortunate enough to live here, it’s hard to imagine living anywhere else. Its inhabitants strive to live as one with nature, working in harmony to uphold their unique way of life throughout the enormous seasonal variations in temperature, light and darkness.

Svalbard Wildlife Encounters

Wildlife sightings peak with the return of migratory birds to the sea cliffs of Svalbard in the summer months. However, the opportunity to see the King of the Arctic, the polar bear, is a major highlight of most Svalbard tours. Polar bears are strongly connected to the sea and ice, as this is where their major food source lives. This means our expedition cruise often hugs the Svalbard coastline where more polar bears are known to live and roam. In the summer months, polar bear sightings occur the most in the north and eastern areas of the island and in front of glaciers while they hunt for seals.

Our world-class expedition teams include naturalists who will educate you on the polar regions and the other Arctic wildlife found in Svalbard. Some of the most common Arctic wildlife sightings include the Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer, bearded seals, ring seals, beluga whales, narwhals if you’re lucky and a large variety of Arctic birds including Atlantic puffins.

Bird sanctuaries are common in Svalbard and the bird population reflects this. Arctic birds nest here in the summer months when the weather conditions are perfect. The cliffs and mountains protect the birds from the cold winds of the Arctic Ocean and polar regions.

Unique Svalbard Experiences

Visit Svalbard with Aurora Expeditions and participate in a number of activities unique to the High Arctic. Our Svalbard cruises provide a mix of comfort and adventure, and for those willing to explore this Arctic archipelago the memories will last a lifetime. Participate in a polar plunge  –  something most tourists look forward to when they visit Svalbard  –  or go Zodiac cruising to access parts of the coastline that your ship can’t.

Our Svalbard cruises include trips ashore where your Expedition Team will take you on walks to look for wildlife and if the chance arises take photos of the Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer and maybe even the King of the Arctic, the polar bear, if you’re lucky. Our experienced Expedition Teams know Svalbard well and safety is always the number one priority.

For those looking for even more adventure, Aurora Expeditions offers additional optional activities like sea kayaking and scuba diving amongst Svalbard’s icy waters.

Svalbard Tours Regions

The Svalbard archipelago has nine main islands; some of these islands are connected by sea ice and expedition cruises are the only safe way to move between them. A lot of these islands are national parks, in fact, Svalbard has seven national parks in total. Find out more about the main islands below.

Spitsbergen

Svalbard’s largest island is 39,044 square kilometres. Its landscape is dominated by rugged mountains indented by post-card perfect fjords, and more than half of the island is covered in ice year-round. Six national parks protect its delicate environment and diverse fauna, which makes it a favourite for travellers visiting Svalbard. Spitsbergen is the only permanently inhabited part of Svalbard, with Longyearbyen the biggest settlement and administrative centre of Svalbard.

Nordaustlandet (North East Land)

The second largest island in the Svalbard archipelago is completely uninhabited. Situated entirely within the Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve, it is made up of sizable ice caps and tundra.

Edgeøya (Edge Island)

Edgeøya is a Norwegian island situated in the southeast of the Svalbard archipelago. With an area of 5,073 square kilometres, it is the third-largest island in this archipelago. It forms part of the Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve and is home to polar bears and reindeer.

Barentsøya (Barents Island)

Named after the Dutch explorer Willem Barentsz, almost half of this island in the Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve is glaciated. While the island has no permanent human inhabitants, it is a favourite of polar bears and seabirds, especially kittiwakes.

Prins Karls Foreland (Prince Charles Foreland)

This long island on Svalbard’s west coast and its surrounding seas constitutes Forlandet National Park. It boasts jagged peaks and wild glaciers that remind one of the Antarctic peninsula, alongside vast green plains and polar deserts. The harbour seal is commonly found here.

Kvitøya (White Island)

When ice conditions allow, adventure seekers can discover Svalbard’s easternmost island, where polar bears roam and walrus swim. This island is the resting place of Andrée’s Arctic balloon expedition of 1897, which was one of the great mysteries of the Arctic for decades.

Kong Karls Land (King Charles Land)

This small island group is part of the Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve and boasts the largest concentration of polar bears in Svalbard. Because of this, there is a ban on traffic to the island, with ships and aircraft not being able to come within 500 metres of the area.

Bjørnøya (Bear Island)

The southernmost island of Svalbard is rarely visited because it can be challenging to access, with no protected bays, rough weather, strong wind and thick fog. While its history revolves around hunting, it is now an important scientific research site and the whole island is a nature reserve with restricted access.

This small, remote island in the far southeast is part of the Southeast Svalbard Nature Reserve. Visiting can be a lucky dip because of heavy ice, fog, rough waters and unprotected beaches. The island has been identified as an Important Bird Area (IBA), supporting breeding colonies of thick-billed guillemots, black guillemots and black-legged kittiwakes.

Svalbard Cruise Activities

Visit Svalbard with Aurora Expeditions and our Expedition Team will take you on excursions unique to the High Arctic, fully included in the cost of your expedition. For those interested in a little extra excitement, there are optional activities designed to get you closer to the action. Our Svalabrd expeditions provide a mix of comfort and adventure; for those willing to explore this remote Norwegian archipelago the memories will last a lifetime.

Bird Watching

Photography

Polar plunge

Trips ashore

Whale and mammal spotting

Zodiac cruises

Lecture on wildlife, our environment, history and destinations

Add-on Activities

Sea Kayaking

Sea Kayaking is one of the most exhilarating ways to experience Antarctica, the Arctic and beyond. Sea kayaking holidays in the humbling…

*Optional add-on activities are available on select voyages. They are listed on each itinerary page and additional fees apply. 

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FAQs - Svalbard Cruises

Svalbard is an enchanting Norwegian archipelago located in the High Arctic, nestled between mainland Norway and the North Pole. Known for its rugged remote beauty, Svalbard, with its largest island Spitsbergen, serves as a gateway to Arctic exploration, offering a landscape filled with dramatic fjords, towering mountain ranges, and a unique polar desert rich in fossils. This region is a haven for diverse wildlife, including the elusive polar bear, making it a prime destination for those seeking adventure in one of the planet’s most pristine wildernesses.

Yes, Svalbard is a part of Norway. It’s a remote archipelago falling under its sovereignty. Positioned between mainland Norway and the North Pole, it offers a mix of stunning Arctic wilderness and a lively community, especially in its capital, Longyearbyen. Governed by Norway since the early 20th century, the Svalbard Treaty acknowledges Norwegian control while granting certain commercial rights to other nations. The region is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, including fjords, mountain ranges, and a fossil-rich polar desert, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts with opportunities to see polar bears, walruses, and various seabirds. The phenomenon of the Midnight Sun during Svalbard’s polar summer offers unique exploration conditions and a chance to appreciate the Arctic’s natural beauty.

The cost of a cruise to Svalbard can vary depending on factors such as the duration of the cruise, the type of accommodation chosen, the inclusions like excursions, and the time of year. Prices start from USD $12,595 per person for an 8 day experience. For accurate pricing and availability, please visit the Aurora Expeditions website or contact the team directly.

The duration of a cruise to Svalbard can vary based on the specific itinerary chosen. Aurora Expeditions offers a range of Svalbard cruises and expeditions, including shorter journeys lasting several days to longer voyages lasting two weeks or more. Please refer to the detailed itinerary provided by Aurora Expeditions for the specific duration of a cruise.

When packing for a Svalbard cruise, it’s essential to include warm clothing suitable for cold weather conditions, including thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, hats, and sturdy waterproof boots for onshore excursions. Additionally, consider bringing binoculars, a camera with extra batteries, sunscreen, sunglasses, and any personal medications or essentials you may need during the trip.

Yes, Svalbard is one of the best places in the world to see polar bears in their natural habitat. Aurora Expeditions’ Svalbard cruises offer excellent opportunities for polar bear sightings during expeditions to remote areas and wildlife-rich regions of the archipelago. However, please note that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

Absolutely! A Svalbard cruise with Aurora Expeditions offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore one of the world’s last true wilderness areas, teeming with Arctic wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. From polar bear encounters to glacier-filled fjords, a Svalbard expedition promises unforgettable adventures and memories that will last a lifetime.

Travelers from the USA can reach Svalbard for cruises and expeditions by flying into Longyearbyen Airport (LYR), the main airport in Svalbard. Many international airlines offer flights to Longyearbyen with connecting flights from major US cities. Additionally, some of our new expeditions to Svalbard include charter flights from Oslo to Longyearbyen, making your journey even more seamless.

The best time to go on a Svalbard cruise or expedition from the USA depends on your interests and preferences. The summer months, from June to August, offer the best weather conditions and opportunities for wildlife sightings, including polar bears. However, some travelers may prefer the winter months for a chance to see the Northern Lights.

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A winter travel guide to Svalbard

• Published: 26 Sep 2024
• Author: Joel Rabinowitz
• Adventurous Bucket-list adventures Northern Lights Winter

Rising out of the Barents Sea, roughly halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole is Svalbard, an archipelago of nine permanently frozen islands in the High Arctic. Most of it is pure, untouched wilderness, characterised by gigantic glaciers, rugged mountains, deep fjords and barren tundra. Outside of the main town, Longyearbyen (beyond which it is prohibited to wander without polar bear protection) and a handful of other tiny settlements, signs of human civilization are almost non-existent. Although part of the Kingdom of Norway, Svalbard feels very much like a world of its own. As such, it’s a true bucket list destination for many travellers seeking to explore the wildest and most extreme limits of Scandinavia. To point you in the right direction, here’s everything you need to know about planning a trip to Svalbard.

Browse Svalbard holidays

How to get there

Svalbard Airport: the northernmost airport in the world with regular commercial flights

Given just how remote it is, getting to Svalbard is surprisingly easy. Both Scandinavian Airlines and Norwegian operate regular flights to Longyearbyen from Oslo (three hours) and Tromso (an hour and a half). Typically, one would spend a night in either city before flying out to Svalbard the following day, although you could spend a little longer exploring either Oslo or Tromso before continuing your onward journey to Svalbard.

Bear in mind that although Svalbard is part of Norway, it is not part of the Schengen area, so you’ll go through passport control in either Oslo or Tromso on exiting and entering Schengen. Also, even if you’re on a direct flight from Oslo, it may make a short stop in Tromso en route. On arrival in Svalbard, it takes just 10 minutes to get from the airport to the centre of Longyearbyen by shuttle bus. Taxis are also available, but these are more expensive and no quicker – there is no traffic in this part of the world.

There's no daylight in Svalbard from mid-November to mid-January

Svalbard experiences dramatic seasonal contrasts, so it’s crucial to carefully consider when to visit, depending on what you’re hoping to get out of your experience.

From around 20 April to 23 August, the sun doesn’t dip below the horizon at all, bathing Svalbard in perpetual daylight for more than four months. This is the Polar Summer, during which time the thawing of snow and ice opens the archipelago up for hiking, cycling and boat trips as temperatures stay comfortably above zero. Autumn is a brief but beautiful time in the High Arctic as the sunsets return, the tundra transforms into shades of gold and copper and the first dustings of snow arrive on the mountaintops.

The days rapidly shorten throughout October and by the end of the month, it sets for the last time in over 100 days, signalling the start of the Polar Night. However, it isn’t completely pitch black for this entire period; the darkest part is between mid-November and mid-January when the sun remains at least six degrees below the horizon and day and night merge into one. Towards the start and end of Polar Night, there’s an extended twilight period known as ‘Blue Hour’, when the sun isn’t up but there’s a gorgeous blue light for several hours around the middle of the day.

February is one of the best months to visit Svalbard

The days become gradually lighter throughout February and in early March, the locals celebrate the return of the sun as its rays finally emerge over the mountaintops. This period, from February to April, is a particularly opportune time to visit Svalbard, as there’s ample daylight and widespread snow cover for the activities including snowmobiling and husky sledding (which usually aren’t possible in the early months of Polar Night). Temperatures of -10°C to -20°C are fairly typical in winter – cold, but less so than other places at similar latitudes due to the warming effect of the Gulf Stream. This mostly impacts Svalbard’s west coast, where Longyearbyen is, while the uninhabited east coast tends to see significantly colder temperatures and more sea ice. Temperatures can dip below -30°C during especially cold periods, so packing plenty of quality layers is essential. 

Discover Svalbard in Polar Night

Can you see the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are a regular occurrence in Svalbard in winter

Yes, you can absolutely see the Northern Lights in Svalbard, although it isn’t necessarily the best place to go if that’s your main aim. This is because Svalbard is so far north (Longyearbyen sits at 78˚N) that it’s actually slightly outside the auroral oval, which generally encompasses latitudes between 60-75˚N. Consequently, you’re more likely to see spectacular Northern Lights in the far north of mainland Norway, Finland or Sweden, than you are in Svalbard. Svalbard does, however, offer the rare possibility of seeing the Northern Lights at almost any time of the day during the depths of Polar Night when it’s dark all the time, and they can appear in any direction, including towards the south. And, with minimal light pollution, you don’t have to wander far to have a fantastic view should the aurora make an appearance.

How long to go for

Three nights is the minimum amount of time we recommend for a trip to Svalbard, but if you’re able to stay longer, it certainly pays dividends. A stay of four or five nights will give you more time to fit in several excursions, properly explore the town of Longyearbyen and get a true feel for life in the High Arctic. And, as the weather can be unpredictable – especially during winter – a slightly longer trip affords you more flexibility to adjust your plans if necessary.

Where to stay

Funken Lodge, Longyearbyen

Considering its compact size, far-flung location and harsh surroundings, Longyearbyen offers a remarkably plentiful choice of places to stay, ranging from converted miner’s cabins and rustic, expedition-themed hotels to stylish, modern lodgings. Funken Lodge , which sits atop a hill just outside the town centre, is a standout option, featuring a wonderful bar and restaurant, while the Radisson Blu Polar Hotel makes a similarly fine base, with its own restaurant, gastro pub and outdoor hot tubs. If you’re after something a little more cosy and traditional in style, then Basecamp Hotel is a superb choice, evoking the ambience of a trapper’s cabin with its driftwood interiors. For a truly unique wilderness experience, you could even stay outside of Longyearbyen at Isfjord Radio , a boutique, off-grid retreat on Spitsbergen’s west coast.

Things to do

Snowmobiling across Svalbard's frozen wilderness

The best ways to explore Svalbard’s frozen wilderness are snowmobiling and husky sledding. If you have time, it’s worth doing both, as they’re totally different experiences. Travelling by snowmobile is significantly faster, more of an adrenaline rush and allows you to cover greater distances, while husky sledding lets you take in the scenery at a more leisurely pace and you’ll get to spend some time with the dogs before and afterwards. Both options tend to include a stop for hot drinks and something to eat along the way, along with usage of high quality thermal suits, boots and gloves to keep you warm. Most of these trips last in the region of two to four hours, but it’s also possible to arrange a full-day snowmobile expedition to the east coast. There’s always a chance of polar bear sightings, but these are far from guaranteed and it is strictly prohibited to approach or track them. You’re far more likely to see reindeer roaming in the wild.

Colourful houses of Longyearbyen

Other popular excursions include delving into the awe-inspiring underground world of Svalbard’s ice caves, exploring one of the abandoned coal mines, snowshoe hiking and visiting the Global Seed Vault (a concrete and steel structure embedded in the permafrost just outside Longyearbyen with over a million seed samples from around the world). You can’t enter the vault itself, but you can join a sightseeing tour or guided hike that'll take you close to the entrance. It’s also well worth setting aside a few hours to take a stroll around Longyearbyen itself, admiring its colourful architecture and getting a taste of life in the world’s northernmost town, perhaps making a stop for a coffee and a slice of cake at Cafe Huskies. For a deeper understanding of Svalbard’s history, consider stopping by the small but well-curated Svalbard Museum. You might also be tempted by a beer tasting experience at Svalbard Bryggeri, the world’s northernmost brewery.

Remember that at all times, polar bear protection is essential when venturing beyond the settlement’s limits, which are marked by the famous warning signs stating ‘Gjelder hele Svalbard’ (applies all over Svalbard). The most photographed one is around a 15-minute walk from the centre of Longyearbyen on the road heading east out of town. Generally, you’ll only leave Longyearbyen on excursions in the company of a qualified local guide.

What to eat

Dining at Funken Lodge (Credit: Agurtxane Concellon)

You might be surprised to discover the variety and quality of restaurants, cafes and bars on offer in Longyearbyen. These range from fine dining venues such as Huset, ​​Funktionærmessen (in Funken Lodge) and Gruvelageret, which offer high-end tasting experiences showcasing seasonal Svalbard produce, to casual, cosy pubs like Kroa, Barentz Gastropub and Svalbar that serve pizzas, burgers and sandwiches alongside a handful of local dishes. Don’t be surprised to find the likes of reindeer, seal and whale meat on some menus, along with plenty of seafood. Atlantic cod, in particular, is abundant in the fjords of Svalbard.

In Lompen Senteret, Longyearbyen’s one and only shopping mall, there’s a Thai restaurant (Saenphet) and an excellent cafe (Fruene) that specialises in hearty lunch dishes, freshly baked cakes and handmade chocolates. You’ll also find pretty much everything you could want in the remarkably well-stocked supermarket, Svalbardbutikken.

Arctic Luxury in Svalbard: Across the Polar Land

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More From Forbes

Women-only trips are a hot trend in active travel.

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Luxury active travel leader Backroads has added many new women's only departures, with over 40 ... [+] iteneraries, and here tour leaders scout hikng routes in Iceland.

In 1966, George and Martha Butterfield and Sidney Robinson launched Butterfield & Robinson , considered the first luxury guided active travel tour operator. Since then, they have led thousands of people on cycling, hiking and other active travel trips around the globe and remain the gold standard in the luxury travel industry, winning countless awards including yet another appearance on the coveted Travel + Leisure Magazine World’s Best Tour Operators list in 2024.

58 years after they started leading these trips, B&R has broken new ground and just launched its first ever slate of women-only trips, which debuted for reservations last Monday (September 23).

Called the Women For Women Travel collection, the new trips were created by two female employees, Kristi Elborne and Christina Cain, the Directors of Sales and Trip Design respectively. According to the company’s materials, “Butterfield & Robinson’s women-only collection aims to bring together like-minded women who share a passion for discovery. This B&R collection brings together adventurous, discerning women from around the world for unforgettable shared experiences centered around culture, cuisine, and connection. Each itinerary is carefully curated for women travelers, from special experiences with female winemakers in Tuscany and a dinner at the home of a female chef to discovering Cambodia with female tuk-tuk drivers and a visit in Vietnam with a woman who fought in the Vietnam War.”

Luxury active travel specialist Butterfield & Robinson just unveiled its first Women for Women trip ... [+] collection, including an iconic cycling tour of Vietnam & Cambodia.

The collection is launching with one guided, small group trip from each of the company’s three core areas, cycling, multi-sport and walking/hiking, each in one of the most popular spots for those trips. The first to depart is Camino de Santiago Women’s Walking in Spain in June 2025, then Tuscany & Umbria Women’s Multi-Active in October and Cambodia & Vietnam Women’s Biking in November.

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I recently wrote here at Forbes about the overlooked importance of “Guaranteed Departures” in all kinds of group travel, including active, and B&R is one of the companies covered, so read more here .

The category the industry calls “solo women travel” has exploded, but this can mean women simply traveling without a companion, whether truly going solo or joining group trips, women-only or not. According to leading travel medical insurance and safety company Global Rescue, more women are traveling without men, accounting for as much as 85% of the customers of some tour operators, and 40% of women surveyed said their spouse was not interested in travel.

In active travel this can be an even bigger issue if one spouse cycles or hikes and the other does not, and a 2022 study by the Adventure Travel Trade Association found that women aged 20-70 comprised 75% of travelers in the categories of adventure, culture and nature-themed travel. Earlier this year travel industry publication TravelPulse reported that 57% of all adventure travelers are women and declared that, “Women-only tours are beginning a new trend.”

Many top companies such as Backroads offer Women-only cycling trips through wine country, from ... [+] California to Bordeaux to Tuscany.

No major player has dove into this trend as deeply as Backroads , America’s largest luxury active travel operator and a longtime B&R competitor that launched way back in 1979. Backroads started offering women-only trips more than a year ago and has seen tremendous interest and growth. The company has quickly added new trips and is projecting an increase of more than 200% in guests on its Women’s Adventures in 2025 over 2024. In 2025 Backroads will run more than 125 Women’s Adventures departures. The collection currently includes more than 40 of Backroads’ most popular Walking & Hiking itineraries in bucket-list destinations, along with new biking tours in France and California, and an Active Culinary Adventure in Tuscany, the first women-only trip in this category for the company.

“Women of all ages have been a significant part of the growth in active adventure travel so we expected our Women’s Adventures would be well received, but we were thrilled with the overwhelmingly enthusiastic response,” said Backroads Executive Vice President, Avery Hale Smith.“ We've heard from many women—solo travelers and those who travel with friends or family—that the trips feel supportive, inspiring and rejuvenating and they love how the camaraderie and bonding is so organic."

“We do plan to offer more women’s-specific trips,” said Collin Daulong, who founded his active travel company, KC&E Adventures , with his wife and business partner, Caitlin, who was a professional tour guide in Italy for years. The company started as a mountain biking specialist in Vermont but has grown into a top boutique active travel company covering the globe, with an emphasis on the U.S., Italy, Croatia, Morocco and Iceland. They do a full gamut of hiking and road cycling like the other companies in this space, but also a lot of mountain biking and gravel riding, which the bigger companies have mostly overlooked.

KC&E Adventures is one of the few luxury active travel comanies offering women-only mountain biking ... [+] guided tours, this one in Arizona.

I have traveled repeatedly with both B&R and Backroads, and they are wonderful companies, and both have very high repeat customer rates, a telltale sign of doing a good job. I recently did a trip with KC&E, which has grown mainly through very positive word of mouth, and it was a great experience, very personal. Their niche is delivering curated small group private trips for the same price (or less) as their peers charge for group trips that can have over 20 people. This is an excellent value proposition for luxury travel, but the one area in which they are still scheduling group departures is women-only trips. Next up for KC&E is a Women-Only Sonoran Single Track mountain biking trip in Arizona in February, 2025.

“The reason we started doing women’s-only experiences is that when we began in Vermont, there was a clear desire from our clients for those types of trips. Whether they’re beginner cyclists or seasoned riders, women sometimes prefer to be in an environment that understands the unique nuances of being a woman in the sport—things like learning styles and comfort on the bike that men don’t always relate to. Since our company is 50% woman-owned, it’s something we’re particularly passionate about. We’re also noticing a growing interest in women’s-specific trips that are health-adjacent but not necessarily focused on cycling. Wellness experiences like yoga, hiking, and other activities in exceptional locations with amazing food are resonating. Women enjoy having these spaces to connect with other women and share unique experiences together.”

The offerings are growing fast all across active travel. REI Adventures is the group trip travel arm of the famous national outdoor gear retailer, Recreational Equipment Inc, and specializes in domestic travel, Canada and National Parks. They have more than two dozen different women-only cycling, backpacking and multi-sport trips across the U.S., including classics such as hiking the Grand Canyon.

Established cycling specialist The Cycling House offers several women-only departures for its Arizona gravel camps, California wine country road cycling and Montana luxury ranch gravel trips.

Morocco is a recently hot travel destination and one of several exotic spots where Intrepid Travel ... [+] offers women-only guided trips.

Intrepid Travel is a major luxury tour operator that was also covered in my story on Guaranteed Departures and does a huge slate of both active and non-active group travel worldwide. They are a member of the prestigious Virtuoso consortium of luxury travel providers and advisors, and have a division called Women’s Expeditions that offers adventurous trips to exotic spots such as Turkey, Morocco, Jordan, India, Pakistan and Nepal.

These are all top companies in the field and major players who I can personally recommend, but there are also a slew of companies entirely focused on this trend, including Adventure Women, Explorer Chick, Wild Women Expeditions, Adventures in Good Company and more.

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Breaking news, historic federal indictment against adams claims he fraudulently got $10m in public funds, $123k in free luxury travel, ritzy perks.

Mayor Eric Adams took bribes — including $123,000 in free flights and other ritzy perks — from foreign nationals in exchange for favors, according to a bombshell federal indictment unsealed by Manhattan prosecutors Thursday.

The historic five-count indictment — the first against a sitting New York City mayor — details an alleged decade-long pattern of corruption by Adams that includes fraudulently obtaining $10 million in public campaign funds.

The revelations came after the mayor was indicted by a grand jury on conspiracy, wire fraud and bribery charges amid the long-running federal probe.

“In 2014, Eric Adams, the defendant, became Brooklyn Borough President. Thereafter, for nearly a decade, Adams sought and accepted improper valuable benefits, such as luxury international travel, including from wealthy foreign businesspeople and at least one Turkish government official seeking to gain influence over him,” the 57-page indictment charges.

“As Adams’s prominence and power grew, his foreign-national benefactors sought to cash in on their corrupt relationships with him, particularly when, in 2021, it became clear that Adams would become New York City’s mayor,” the filing continues.

“Adams agreed, providing favorable treatment in exchange for the illicit benefits he received.”

Adams’ first court appearance has been scheduled for Friday at noon at the Manhattan federal courthouse at 500 Pearl St., court officials said.

The mayor will surrender to federal authorities sometime before then.

In the sprawling indictment, prosecutors laid bare an alleged scheme that helped Adams underwrite his 2021 mayoral campaign while showering him with free hotel rooms, flights on Turkey’s national airline and meals at high-end restaurants.

In exchange, Adams allegedly pressured Big Apple officials to waive inspections and push through approval for the Turkish Consulate in Manhattan, the indictment charges.

After Adams allegedly helped grease FDNY inspections on the Turkish consulate, a Turkish official offered him effusive praise, documents state.

“You are Great Eric, we are so happy to hear that,” the Turkish official texted Adams, according to the court papers.

“You are a true friend of Turkey.”

As part of the scheme, prosecutors allege, Adams accepted “straw donations” facilitated by senior officials within the Turkish diplomatic establishment in exchange for him and his companions getting free or discounted flights to far-flung destinations such as France, China, Sri Lanka, India, Hungary and Turkey.

He is accused of accepting tens of thousands of dollars in free flights from a Turkish airline while he was Brooklyn borough president, the indictment charges. At one point, Adams also allegedly paid $600 to stay two nights at a luxury suite in the St. Regis hotel in Istanbul — well below the actual cost of $7,000.

Adams, at times, would allegedly create — and instruct others to create — fake paper trails in order to falsely suggest he’d actually paid for the travel benefits, the indictment states.

Hizzoner also allegedly “compounded his gains” from the illegal campaign contributions by gaming the city’s matching funds program, which provides a generous match for small-dollar donations, the court papers state.

Adams’ campaign received more than $10 million in matching funds as a result of the phony certifications, the indictment alleges.

Meanwhile, prosecutors allege Adams deleted messages with others involved in his alleged misconduct — including, at one point, assuring a co-conspirator that he “always” deleted her text messages, according to the filing.

Hizzoner appeared to resort to chicanery, too, when the feds first came to seize his electronic devices last November, the indictment suggests.

When he turned his personal cellphone over, investigators found it was locked and needed a password to open.

The mayor claimed he’d only just changed the password a day earlier to prevent his staff from accidentally or intentionally deleting its contents amid the ongoing probe, per the indictment.

“But, Adams further claimed, he had forgotten the password he had just set, and thus was unable to provide the FBI with a password that would unlock the phone,” the court papers state.

US Attorney for the Southern District of New York Damian Williams told a news conference Thursday that Adams had a duty to disclose gifts he received — but “kept the public in the dark” year after year.

“He told the public he received no gifts, even after he was being showered with them,” Williams said. “This was a multi-year scheme to buy favor with a politician on the rise: Eric Adams.”

In total, Adams is facing five criminal charges, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, solicitation of a contribution by a foreign national and bribery.

He faces up to 45 years in prison if convicted on all counts.

Stay updated with the New York Post’s coverage of Mayor Eric Adams’ indictment

• Suited-up feds search Gracie Mansion after Adams becomes first indicted NYC mayor
• Adams’ indictment could open the door for these potential 2025 challengers
• Adams’ top campaign fundraiser Brianna Suggs, close aide Winnie Greco expected to be named in bombshell indictment
• Adams is first NYC mayor to be indicted in office but others resigned under probe

Adams, for his part, has denied any wrongdoing, insisting Thursday that he has no plans to resign and will fight the charges.

“From here, my attorneys will take care of the case so I can take care of the city,” he said at a news conference outside Gracie Mansion soon after the indictment was made public.

Eric Adams indicted: Live updates after NYC mayor hit with indictment

“It’s an unfortunate day. And it’s a painful day. But inside all of that is a day when we will finally reveal why, for 10 months, I’ve gone through this. And I look forward to defending myself.”

Less than 24 hours earlier, Hizzoner had insisted the then-looming charges were “entirely false, based on lies.”

Adams, who is facing mounting calls to resign, also claimed he was being targeted for criticizing the Biden-Harris administration over its handling of the migrant crisis that has wreaked havoc on the Big Apple.

The indictment dropped just hours after nearly a dozen FBI agents were spotted swarming Adams’ mayoral home , Gracie Mansion, early Thursday.  

A lawyer for Adams later ripped the FBI search and heavy law enforcement presence as a “spectacle,” saying the feds had come to take one of the mayor’s phones — months after they seized several of his devices amid the probe.

“Federal agents appeared this morning at Gracie Mansion in an effort to create a spectacle (again) and take Mayor Adams phone (again),” the attorney, Alex Spiro, said in a statement. 

“He has not been arrested and looks forward to his day in court. They send a dozen agents to pick up a phone when we would have happily turned it in.”

The historic indictment is the extraordinary culmination of weeks of searches, subpoenas and resignations of top City Hall officials that have left the Adams administration in a spiraling crisis.

Three close allies of the mayor, Rana Abbasova, Brianna Suggs and Winnie Greco, were not criminally charged in the indictment but appear to be repeatedly referenced throughout.

Suggs worked as Adams’ scheduler during his time at Brooklyn Borough Hall and Abbasova was his liaison to the Turkish community, according to sources with knowledge of the situation.

The federal investigations into Adams and his administration first exploded into the public realm in November last year when the FBI raided Suggs’ Brooklyn home .

The raid sought evidence of straw donor kickbacks by the Turkish government and the Williamsburg-based construction company KSK Construction Group into Adams’ mayoral campaign.

Just days later, the feds  seized the mayor’s phones and iPad  on the streets of Manhattan as he was leaving an event.

Meanwhile, Greco, a top Adams aide, had her  Bronx home raided  by FBI agents in February, though it wasn’t clear at the time whether it was tied to the Turkey probe.

Over the summer, federal prosecutors subpoenaed Adams, his campaign arm and City Hall to obtain information about the mayor’s schedule, his overseas travel and potential ties to the Turkish government.

Then, on Sept. 4, federal investigators seized electronic devices from the city’s police commissioner, schools chancellor, deputy mayor of public safety, first deputy mayor and other trusted confidantes of Adams — both in and out of City Hall.

It wasn’t clear at the time, though, if those subpoenas targeting top admin officials and Adams’ confidantes were tied to the mayor’s recent indictment or another of the ongoing federal probes.

Federal prosecutors in Manhattan, who are behind many of the probes, have long remained tight-lipped about any potential charges and how, if at all, the investigations may be linked to each other.

No one else, to date, has been charged with or accused of any wrongdoing in the investigations.

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