Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard and the Northern Fjords
Trip Overview
Trip Length: 12 Days
Price Point: From $16,425
Seasons Available: Summer
This extraordinary journey takes you from the untouched wilderness of Svalbard to the dramatic fjords of Norway, offering an immersive exploration of the Arctic. Sail under the midnight sun in search of polar bears, walruses, and seals as you navigate Svalbard’s icy waters. Zodiac cruises and guided hikes bring you closer to the region’s unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Continuing south, encounter the striking cliffs of Bear Island, home to thousands of nesting seabirds. In Norway’s fjords, explore the pristine beauty of Sørøya by kayak or on foot, then venture into Ånderdalen National Park on Senja Island, where reindeer, elk, and red foxes roam freely. Aboard the state-of-the-art National Geographic Endurance, designed for polar exploration, you’ll enjoy expert-led lectures and exceptional comfort as you journey through some of the Arctic’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. From towering glaciers to serene fjords, this expedition offers a remarkable blend of adventure, wildlife encounters, and stunning natural beauty.
Activities & Sights
- Explore the Svalbard archipelago amongst sparkling icebergs and beautiful fjords.
- Experience Sørøya Island and Senja Island, pristine arctic islands off the northern coast of Norway and explore Ånderdalen National Park.
- Probe into fjords and inlets aboard an ice-class vessel and scan the edges of the pack ice for Polar Bears, Artic Foxes, Walrus, and more.
- Take to the shore and explore glaciers and the Arctic tundra via guided hikes or zodiac rides accompanied by expert guides and naturalists.
- Enhance your understanding of the region with personalized interpretation and daily lectures given by world class leaders in biology, geology, anthropology, and more.
Day to Day Itinerary
- Day 1 - Oslo
Arrive in Oslo and transfer to your centrally located hotel. Spend the day exploring Norway’s capital at your own pace. Visit the hospitality desk in the afternoon to finalize details before your charter flight. - Day 2 – Longyearbyen
Fly to Longyearbyen, the northernmost settlement in the world. Once a coal mining hub, it is now a center for Arctic research and exploration. Discover its history before boarding National Geographic Endurance and setting sail. - Days 3/8 – Exploring Svalbard
Navigate the Arctic wilderness in true expedition style, adjusting course based on nature’s lead. Search for polar bears, walruses, and reindeer, while keeping watch for whales and seals from the ship’s bridge. Kayak among icebergs in sheltered fjords or glimpse the deep-sea world via ROV footage shared by the expedition team. - Day 9 – Bear Island
Zodiac along Bear Island’s towering cliffs, home to thousands of seabirds, including guillemots, kittiwakes, and fulmars. Weather permitting, explore this remote outpost at the meeting point of the Norwegian and Barents Seas. - Days 10/11 – Sørøya and Senja Islands
Discover the pristine landscapes of Norway’s rugged islands. Hike Sørøya’s scenic trails or paddle through its sheltered bays. On Senja Island, explore fjords by kayak, capture dramatic vistas with a photo instructor, or visit coastal villages. - Day 12 – Tromsø
Arrive in Tromsø, the "Gateway to the Arctic." Disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight home.
National Geographic Endurance
The National Geographic Endurance is a purpose-built, fully-stabilized vessel of the highest ice class (PC5 Category A). This enables the 126 adventurous guests to explore in supreme comfort. The striking profile is courtesy of the patented X-Bow® design, a unique feature that virtually guarantees the smoothest, most comfortable ride in all kinds of conditions. Understated Scandanavian-inspired décor belies these ships’ luxurious public spaces, which feature extensive windows connecting guests with the outside world. There are several science “toys” onboard, including video microscopes and a remote-controlled submarine, adding to the exceptional educational experience. Elegantly appointed, cabins feature a generously sized private bathroom with a roomy glass-walled shower stall. Notably, all except the lowest cabin categories have a private balcony, which allows guests to step out to watch the icebergs from the cozy comfort of their cabin.
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