Your Arctic adventure begins in Helsinki, renowned for its extraordinary architecture and intriguing mix of eastern and western influences. Check in at the group hotel at Helsinki Airport and enjoy a welcome dinner this evening, giving you an opportunity to meet your host and the rest of the group.

After breakfast we will travel into the city centre by train. Enjoy a morning city tour and discover Helsinki’s architecture, culture and green spaces. The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense. 

This morning, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter f light to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s largest settlement. As your ship sets sail, enjoy your first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from frigid waters.

You’ll cruise around this magical island on a constant search for wildlife. Your expedition will cover western Spitsbergen as well as stunning fjords to the north. From polar flora to immense glaciers, the natural landscape here is just as varied as the wildlife. 

Each expedition presents new opportunities and different weather and ice conditions. Consequently, there is no fixed itinerary. However, some of the places we may visit include the 14th of July Glacier, Smeerenburg, Alkefjellet and the Hinlopen Strait. The destinations we visit will be selected for optimum wildlife viewing with an appreciation of the history and geology of Spitsbergen. The island offers multiple opportunities for wildlife photography. Since most of Svalbard’s Arctic ecosystem is uninhabited and well-protected, this remote archipelago is one of the world’s best places to spot polar bears against stunning natural backdrops of mountains and ice. The towering cliffs of Alkefjellet provide homes to thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots (thick-billed murres). 

Coming across a walrus haul-out is a moment you won’t soon forget. Get a chance to witness the intimate gatherings of giant pinnipeds as they haul out together on small coastal strips. 
If you’re itching to experience a more intimate view from the water, you can book the sea kayaking or paddling excursion adventure options. 

In Spitsbergen, there is no shortage of natural beauty. The tundra can be surprisingly colourful in summer, with wildflowers bursting for a taste of sunshine. Each day, you’ll see something interesting, whether it is an everchanging gallery of spectacular icebergs, a polar bear resting between hunts, or an abandoned historical site from centuries ago.

During the voyage, you will also have the privilege of experiencing an exclusive bridge tour, sparkling wine toast with the captain or expedition leader and a private dinner. These will be arranged at opportune moments during the sailing and will be subject to time availability and appropriate conditions.

The time to say goodbye to your Expedition Team and shipmates has come. Your adventure ends as it began, in the historic frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your return group charter flight to Helsinki, included in the transfer package.

After breakfast, you can make your way to the airport for your onward flight home or continue your adventure.

Secure your space today by calling one of our Travel Specialists on 0203 196 1000 or enquire here