Circumnavigating Svalbard: The Ultimate Arctic Expedition
Trip Overview
Trip Length: 14 Days
Price Point: From $11,533
Seasons Available: Summer
Venture into the heart of the High Arctic with HX Expeditions, a company whose Norwegian roots trace back centuries in exploring these remote northern waters. On this unparalleled journey, you’ll attempt a full circumnavigation of Svalbard, where pristine landscapes, towering glaciers, and an abundance of Arctic wildlife await. Sailing beyond the 80th parallel, you’ll navigate shimmering fjords and icy wilderness, reaching deeper into polar bear territory than ever before. From the seabird-filled cliffs of Bellsund to the shifting ice edge of the far north, each day promises adventure—whether it’s hiking untouched shores, kayaking alongside icebergs, or spotting whales and walruses from the deck. Aboard the environmentally conscious MS Spitsbergen, you’ll enjoy expert-led lectures, immersive excursions, and the spirit of Norwegian friluftsliv—embracing the wild. Whether in the golden hues of early summer or the vivid colors of late season, this journey offers the ultimate Arctic experience, steeped in history and wonder.
Full Svalbard Circumnavigation – Attempt to sail around the entire archipelago, reaching beyond the 80th parallel and deep into polar bear territory.
Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters – Spot polar bears, walruses, reindeer, whales, and seabirds in their natural Arctic habitat.
Exploring the Ice Edge – Witness the ever-changing boundary between sea and ice, with the chance to explore by expedition boat.
Historic & Remote Landings – Visit Ny-Ålesund, a former mining town turned scientific hub, and hike untouched Arctic landscapes.
Immersive Expedition Experience – Aboard MS Spitsbergen, enjoy expert-led lectures, adventurous excursions, and Norway’s unique friluftsliv outdoor philosophy.
Day to Day Itinerary
- Day 1 – Longyearbyen
Fly from Oslo to the world’s northernmost town. Enjoy an overnight stay in this frontier Arctic settlement, where reindeer roam the streets and adventure awaits. - Day 2 – Longyearbyen
Discover Longyearbyen on foot and join an included excursion before boarding MS Spitsbergen to begin your Arctic voyage. - Day 3 – Ny-Ålesund & Kongsfjord
Visit one of the world’s northernmost settlements, a historic Arctic research hub. Explore majestic fjords and towering glaciers while keeping an eye out for Arctic wildlife. - Days 4/5 – Northwest Spitsbergen National Park
Sail through dramatic fjords, scan for polar bears, and explore glaciers and remote islands. Venture ashore for hikes, kayak trips, or a beach cleanup. - Days 6/7 – Ice Edge Attempt
If conditions allow, sail beyond the 80th parallel to witness the ever-changing ice edge, home to walruses and seals. Expedition boats may be launched for an unforgettable close-up experience. - Days 8/11 – Exploring the East
Journey into the pristine wilderness of northeast Svalbard. Visit stunning glaciers, remote islands, and hidden fjords while seeking out polar bears, walruses, and seabirds. - Days 12/13 – Hornsund & Bellsund
Explore some of Svalbard’s most beautiful fjords, where colorful vegetation meets towering peaks. Spot Arctic foxes, seabird colonies, and remnants of historic settlements. - Day 14 – Longyearbyen & Oslo
Disembark in Longyearbyen and transfer to the airport for your flight to Oslo, carrying home memories of an epic Arctic adventure.
MS Spitsbergen
Named after Svalbard’s largest island, MS Spitsbergen is a modern, environmentally progressive expedition ship perfectly suited for Arctic exploration. Part of HX Expeditions’ long Norwegian heritage in polar travel since 1896, this ship offers an intimate yet comfortable voyage through some of the world’s most remote waters. Designed for adventure, MS Spitsbergen features advanced maneuverability, allowing access to ice-choked fjords and untouched coastlines. Onboard, the Science Center serves as a hub for discovery, with expert-led lectures and interactive workshops. The ship’s Explorer Lounge offers panoramic views, perfect for wildlife spotting, while outdoor decks provide front-row seats to the Arctic’s breathtaking scenery. Guests enjoy stylish Scandinavian interiors, cozy yet modern cabins, and a relaxed atmosphere embracing Norway’s friluftsliv (outdoor life) philosophy. With a dedicated Expedition Team, enriching activities, and daily excursions, MS Spitsbergen delivers an immersive, educational, and unforgettable Arctic adventure.
We've chosen 5 destinations from the list that are best experienced on an expedition-style cruise.
Read more
Is Greenland the right destination for you this summer?
Read more
Exploring with Quark: an interview with Gretchen on her recent Greenland expedition.
Read more
Where do you plan to be on August 12, 2026?
Read more