Realm of the Polar Bear - 8 Days

From £2,519£315 per daySave 40%

Trip Snapshot

Age range

10 - 100

Start / End

  • Longyearbyen
  • Longyearbyen

Physical rating

2/5

Group size

1 - 128

Meals included

20

Highlights

  • Journey into the Realm of the Polar Bear: Embark on an 8-day expedition deep into the Svalbard archipelago, offering unparalleled opportunities for close-up encounters with the majestic polar bear and a host of other Arctic wildlife in their pristine, icy domain.
  • Breathtaking Glacial & Fjord Landscapes: Marvel at the dramatic scenery of ice-covered seas, towering glaciers spilling into the ocean, and spectacular fjords, all under the eternal daylight of the Arctic summer.
  • Dynamic Exploration by Sea and Land: Experience the polar wilderness through exhilarating Zodiac cruises along ice edges to spot seals and walrus, alongside opportunities for guided walks on shore, immersing you in this magnificent environment.
  • Rich Wildlife Spectacle: Beyond polar bears, delight in observing lounging seals, grazing reindeer, and vibrant colonies of seabirds, and keep a keen eye out for large whales drawn to nutrient-rich waters on later-season voyages.
  • Expert-Guided Arctic Adventure: Travel with a dedicated team of professional naturalists and lecturers aboard your comfortable expedition ship, enhancing your understanding of the Arctic's unique ecosystem, geography, and history through engaging lectures and discussions.
  • Comfort and Discovery Aboard Your Expedition Ship: Enjoy seven nights of ocean-facing accommodation on the Expedition vessel, providing a warm and welcoming base as you explore one of the world's most remote and awe-inspiring destinations.
  • Embark on an extraordinary expedition into the 'Realm of the Polar Bear', seeking thrilling close-up encounters with these iconic Arctic monarchs, alongside abundant wildlife like lounging seals, grazing reindeer, and vibrant bird colonies.
  • Be captivated by a pristine world of towering icebergs and magnificent glaciers, as you cruise through serene, ice-covered seas and dramatic fjords, where breathtaking mountain vistas meet the ocean's edge.
  • Immerse yourself in the Arctic's raw beauty with dynamic explorations by ship, exhilarating Zodiac cruises along the ice edge for wildlife viewing, and insightful guided excursions on foot, bringing you closer to this remote wilderness.
  • Enrich your journey with an international team of professional naturalists and lecturers, offering stimulating insights into the region's unique ornithology, marine biology, geology, and history, making every sighting a deeper learning experience.
  • Experience the magic of perpetual daylight during the season, providing ample opportunities for unparalleled wildlife viewing and capturing stunning photographs of the dramatic landscapes and diverse inhabitants of the high Arctic.
  • Enjoy seven nights aboard the well-appointed Expedition ship, ensuring comfort throughout your adventure. Benefit from essential gear like insulated, waterproof boots and an expedition parka, supplied to keep you warm and ready for every exploration.
Recommended before you book

Download the full trip brochure

Everything you need to picture the adventure and pack with confidence — in one free PDF.

What's inside the PDF

  • Day-by-day itinerary
    Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.
  • Packing & kit list
    Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.
  • What's included
    Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
Free, instant PDF - no obligation

Summary

From close-up encounters with icebergs and glaciers to the region’s plentiful wildlife, this is a voyage of non-stop highlights. Always on the lookout for wildlife that live in this polar wilderness, you’ll explore this landscape not only by ship but also on foot and via Zodiac. Roaming polar bears, lounging seals, grazing reindeer, and colonies of birds all co-exist in this harsh land we dare only to explore a few months of the year.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Longyearbyen/Svalbard

    Transfer from Longyearbyen to the Expedition for a late afternoon embarkation. Please make sure you drop your checked luggage off at the meeting point between 9am - 12pm. A local representative will be in the luggage storage room. They can provide general information about the town or your embarkation process.

    All passengers will be transferred to the ship as a group for embarkation at 4pm. Please ensure that for embarkation you have your passport accessible (not in your luggage which is being transferred separately to the ship).

  • Day 2

    Svalbard

    This voyage is spent travelling in the world in which the polar bear survives. Our wildlife viewing opportunities are enhanced by exploring as many remote areas as possible. Spotting wildlife like the Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer, and land or sea birds can be difficult, but well worth the effort. Ice and weather conditions permitting we can explore near sea ice, through fjords that lead to glaciers and icebergs, and discover bird nesting colonies, all from the platform of the ship. Alternatively, hop in a Zodiac to explore more closely, or be brought to land to visit historical sites and experience the tundra. We are always on the lookout for wildlife, ranging from endangered and rare polar species to sea mammals and birds. And, of course, we'll have our eyes peeled for polar bears - they can be found all throughout this region, but finding them can require patience and persistence. Come join us in the search! Early-season voyages often provide the greatest opportunity to see large ice floes in the Arctic pack ice, which usually means excellent wildlife viewing. Later in the season, the group can cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore more of the archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

    Each day will be planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Distances are relatively short in the Archipelago and as there are no ocean crossings, the seas are normally calm. During these six days visit ice covered seas, fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery and glaciers flowing into the sea.

    Possibility to cruise in Zodiacs along the ice edge viewing seals or walrus, in fjords with glaciers spilling down to the sea or in front of spectacular seabird cliffs.

    The evening of our last full day of adventure will find the expedition ship anchored off Longyearbyen.

  • Day 3

    Svalbard

    This voyage is spent travelling in the world in which the polar bear survives. Our wildlife viewing opportunities are enhanced by exploring as many remote areas as possible. Spotting wildlife like the Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer, and land or sea birds can be difficult, but well worth the effort. Ice and weather conditions permitting we can explore near sea ice, through fjords that lead to glaciers and icebergs, and discover bird nesting colonies, all from the platform of the ship. Alternatively, hop in a Zodiac to explore more closely, or be brought to land to visit historical sites and experience the tundra. We are always on the lookout for wildlife, ranging from endangered and rare polar species to sea mammals and birds. And, of course, we'll have our eyes peeled for polar bears - they can be found all throughout this region, but finding them can require patience and persistence. Come join us in the search! Early-season voyages often provide the greatest opportunity to see large ice floes in the Arctic pack ice, which usually means excellent wildlife viewing. Later in the season, the group can cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore more of the archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

    Each day will be planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Distances are relatively short in the Archipelago and as there are no ocean crossings, the seas are normally calm. During these six days visit ice covered seas, fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery and glaciers flowing into the sea.

    Possibility to cruise in Zodiacs along the ice edge viewing seals or walrus, in fjords with glaciers spilling down to the sea or in front of spectacular seabird cliffs.

    The evening of our last full day of adventure will find the expedition ship anchored off Longyearbyen.

  • Day 4

    Svalbard

    This voyage is spent travelling in the world in which the polar bear survives. Our wildlife viewing opportunities are enhanced by exploring as many remote areas as possible. Spotting wildlife like the Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer, and land or sea birds can be difficult, but well worth the effort. Ice and weather conditions permitting we can explore near sea ice, through fjords that lead to glaciers and icebergs, and discover bird nesting colonies, all from the platform of the ship. Alternatively, hop in a Zodiac to explore more closely, or be brought to land to visit historical sites and experience the tundra. We are always on the lookout for wildlife, ranging from endangered and rare polar species to sea mammals and birds. And, of course, we'll have our eyes peeled for polar bears - they can be found all throughout this region, but finding them can require patience and persistence. Come join us in the search! Early-season voyages often provide the greatest opportunity to see large ice floes in the Arctic pack ice, which usually means excellent wildlife viewing. Later in the season, the group can cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore more of the archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

    Each day will be planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Distances are relatively short in the Archipelago and as there are no ocean crossings, the seas are normally calm. During these six days visit ice covered seas, fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery and glaciers flowing into the sea.

    Possibility to cruise in Zodiacs along the ice edge viewing seals or walrus, in fjords with glaciers spilling down to the sea or in front of spectacular seabird cliffs.

    The evening of our last full day of adventure will find the expedition ship anchored off Longyearbyen.

  • Day 5

    Svalbard

    This voyage is spent travelling in the world in which the polar bear survives. Our wildlife viewing opportunities are enhanced by exploring as many remote areas as possible. Spotting wildlife like the Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer, and land or sea birds can be difficult, but well worth the effort. Ice and weather conditions permitting we can explore near sea ice, through fjords that lead to glaciers and icebergs, and discover bird nesting colonies, all from the platform of the ship. Alternatively, hop in a Zodiac to explore more closely, or be brought to land to visit historical sites and experience the tundra. We are always on the lookout for wildlife, ranging from endangered and rare polar species to sea mammals and birds. And, of course, we'll have our eyes peeled for polar bears - they can be found all throughout this region, but finding them can require patience and persistence. Come join us in the search! Early-season voyages often provide the greatest opportunity to see large ice floes in the Arctic pack ice, which usually means excellent wildlife viewing. Later in the season, the group can cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore more of the archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

    Each day will be planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Distances are relatively short in the Archipelago and as there are no ocean crossings, the seas are normally calm. During these six days visit ice covered seas, fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery and glaciers flowing into the sea.

    Possibility to cruise in Zodiacs along the ice edge viewing seals or walrus, in fjords with glaciers spilling down to the sea or in front of spectacular seabird cliffs.

    The evening of our last full day of adventure will find the expedition ship anchored off Longyearbyen.

  • Day 6

    Svalbard

    This voyage is spent travelling in the world in which the polar bear survives. Our wildlife viewing opportunities are enhanced by exploring as many remote areas as possible. Spotting wildlife like the Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer, and land or sea birds can be difficult, but well worth the effort. Ice and weather conditions permitting we can explore near sea ice, through fjords that lead to glaciers and icebergs, and discover bird nesting colonies, all from the platform of the ship. Alternatively, hop in a Zodiac to explore more closely, or be brought to land to visit historical sites and experience the tundra. We are always on the lookout for wildlife, ranging from endangered and rare polar species to sea mammals and birds. And, of course, we'll have our eyes peeled for polar bears - they can be found all throughout this region, but finding them can require patience and persistence. Come join us in the search! Early-season voyages often provide the greatest opportunity to see large ice floes in the Arctic pack ice, which usually means excellent wildlife viewing. Later in the season, the group can cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore more of the archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

    Each day will be planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Distances are relatively short in the Archipelago and as there are no ocean crossings, the seas are normally calm. During these six days visit ice covered seas, fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery and glaciers flowing into the sea.

    Possibility to cruise in Zodiacs along the ice edge viewing seals or walrus, in fjords with glaciers spilling down to the sea or in front of spectacular seabird cliffs.

    The evening of our last full day of adventure will find the expedition ship anchored off Longyearbyen.

  • Day 7

    Svalbard

    This voyage is spent travelling in the world in which the polar bear survives. Our wildlife viewing opportunities are enhanced by exploring as many remote areas as possible. Spotting wildlife like the Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer, and land or sea birds can be difficult, but well worth the effort. Ice and weather conditions permitting we can explore near sea ice, through fjords that lead to glaciers and icebergs, and discover bird nesting colonies, all from the platform of the ship. Alternatively, hop in a Zodiac to explore more closely, or be brought to land to visit historical sites and experience the tundra. We are always on the lookout for wildlife, ranging from endangered and rare polar species to sea mammals and birds. And, of course, we'll have our eyes peeled for polar bears - they can be found all throughout this region, but finding them can require patience and persistence. Come join us in the search! Early-season voyages often provide the greatest opportunity to see large ice floes in the Arctic pack ice, which usually means excellent wildlife viewing. Later in the season, the group can cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore more of the archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

    Each day will be planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Distances are relatively short in the Archipelago and as there are no ocean crossings, the seas are normally calm. During these six days visit ice covered seas, fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery and glaciers flowing into the sea.

    Possibility to cruise in Zodiacs along the ice edge viewing seals or walrus, in fjords with glaciers spilling down to the sea or in front of spectacular seabird cliffs.

    The evening of our last full day of adventure will find the expedition ship anchored off Longyearbyen.

  • Day 8

    Svalbard/Longyearbyen

    On the departure day, there will be transfers available to the Longyearbyen airport for all passengers with flights scheduled.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Aboard the Expedition in triple-, twin-share cabins, or suites (all with en suite bathrooms and porthole or window, 7 nts). Please note that all cabins consist of twin-size berths and are ocean-facing. Suites have one queen-size bed.

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 7, Lunches: 6, Dinners: 7

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Guided

    This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.

  • Airport Transfers

    Arrival Only

    An airport transfer to the start of the tour is included. Please contact our team if you require a quote for a return transfer.

  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • Jul 2026

    from £2,519
  • Jun 2027

    from £4,199
  • Jul 2027

    from £4,199
  • Save 40%
    Monday 6 Jul 2026to Monday 13 Jul 2026
    6+ spaces of 128 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £4,799£2,879
  • Save 40%
    Monday 13 Jul 2026to Monday 20 Jul 2026
    6+ spaces of 128 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £4,199£2,519
    Best offer
  • Save 35%
    Monday 20 Jul 2026to Monday 27 Jul 2026
    6+ spaces of 128 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £4,799£3,119
  • Save 35%
    Monday 27 Jul 2026to Monday 3 Aug 2026
    6+ spaces of 128 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £4,199£2,729

Customer reviews & ratings

(5 out of 5)
Based on 89 reviews
  • Amazing ship, guides, and food

    Lara Oct, 2019 Verified
  • - ein sehr engagiertes Expeditionsteam - wunderschöne Tierbeobachtungen - gute Stimmung an Bord

    Doris Sep, 2019 Verified

Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on this expedition?

    You will be on the lookout for a variety of wildlife including polar bears, Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer, seals, walrus, large whales (later in the season), and various land and sea birds. Sighting polar bears requires patience and persistence.
  • What types of activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes exploring the landscape by ship, on foot, and via Zodiacs for closer exploration. There's also the possibility to brave the Arctic waters for an Arctic Polar Plunge.
  • Are there any optional activities available on this trip?

    Yes, kayaking excursions are available as an optional activity for the more adventurous. Space is limited and booking in advance is strongly recommended for specific departures.
  • What are the accommodation options on board the Expedition ship?

    Accommodation is aboard the Expedition ship in triple-, twin-share cabins, or suites. All cabins and suites have en suite bathrooms and a porthole or window. Cabins consist of twin-size berths, and suites have one queen-size bed.
  • What meals are included during the expedition?

    Seven breakfasts, six lunches, and seven dinners are included. All meals are prepared by professional chefs, and dining is casual with unassigned tables.
  • Can special dietary requirements be accommodated on the ship?

    Yes, special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Please advise at the time of confirmation. Vegetarians will find plenty of options.
  • What beverages are included or available for purchase on board?

    Coffee, tea, and water are provided free of charge. All other beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are not included and can be purchased in the dining room, pub, or lounge.
  • What is the maximum group size for this expedition?

    The maximum group size aboard the Expedition is 128 passengers.
  • What kind of expertise do the expedition leaders and staff provide?

    The voyage is led by an international team of professional naturalists and lecturers. They provide informed interpretation through lectures, briefings, and informal discussions, covering ornithology, marine biology, geography, geology, history, environment, and photography. There is one expedition team member per 10 guests.
  • What is the physical rating for this trip, and what level of mobility is required?

    This trip has a Physical Rating of 2, accessible to most fitness levels. It requires being able to do extended walks and light hiking on various terrain, safely navigate ice and snow, lift your leg over the side of a Zodiac, walk on wet/rocky beaches, and stand throughout landings. The ship does not have an elevator, so staircases must be used.
  • Is there a minimum age requirement to join this trip?

    Yes, the minimum age to join this trip is 10 years.
  • What are the accommodation arrangements for solo travelers?

    Solo travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. If you prefer your own private cabin, you must select that option at the time of booking.
  • Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

    Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage coverage are strongly recommended.
  • What currency is used onboard, and how are payments handled?

    The currency for all purchases onboard the Expedition is USD. The ship is cashless, and major credit cards (VISA, Mastercard, AMEX) are used to clear incidental bills at the end of the cruise.
  • Is an emergency fund recommended for this trip?

    Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.
  • What is the tour operator's environmental policy, and how should travelers interact with the Arctic environment?

    The tour operator is dedicated to minimizing environmental impact and operates responsibly. Travelers are asked to respect wildlife by not feeding, touching, or approaching animals in ways that alter their behavior, maintaining a minimum distance of 5 meters. Vegetation should not be damaged, and no biological, geological specimens, or artifacts should be collected. Litter and garbage must not be disposed of on land.
  • Are there elevators on the Expedition ship?

    No, the Expedition is an adventure expedition ship and does not offer an elevator. Staircases must be used to move between decks.
  • What kind of electrical outlets are available onboard?

    Electricity onboard uses 220AC electrical outlets with European 2-pin round holes, and 110-volt shaving sockets in the bathroom for electric razors only. Bringing an international adapter is recommended.
  • Is laundry service available on the ship?

    Yes, laundry service is available onboard the Expedition at an additional charge, serviced by the shipboard team.
  • Are flights to Longyearbyen included in the tour price?

    No, local flights from Oslo to Longyearbyen are not included in this tour. International flights are also generally not included.
  • What safety measures are in place during the trip, especially for water-based activities?

    The safety of passengers and staff is paramount. The ship is equipped for challenging conditions, and Zodiac landing craft are operated by experienced drivers. Safety briefings are provided before every landing. For water-based activities, participation is recommended only when accompanied by a guide(s), and swimming is always at your own risk.
  • What is Planeterra and how does this tour contribute to it?

    Planeterra is the tour operator's non-profit partner, supporting community social enterprise programs and the Ocean Health Fund. Every Expedition cruise raises thousands of dollars for Planeterra. Travelers can learn about initiatives, participate in Citizen Science programs, or purchase items from Planeterra-supported communities. The Dollar-a-Day Program also allows travelers to donate one dollar per day to support community development projects.
  • Are waterproof boots for Zodiac landings provided?

    Yes, complementary used waterproof boots are supplied in USA sizes 4-16 (EURO sizes 35-49). Please be aware there are limited numbers of the smallest and largest sizes.
  • Anna's profile
  • Petra's profile
  • Charlotte's profile

Still have questions?

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.

Get In Touch

Why book with us

  • Help Change The World

    We collaborate with local businesses and communities.

  • Best Price Guaranteed

    We won't be beaten on price. If you find this adventure at a lower price please get in touch!

  • You're In Good Hands

    We work with trusted tour operators around the world.

  • You're spoilt for choice

    We have the best choice of adventures on the market.

Similar adventures

Was this page helpful ?

If you need information about a tour or a booking, please contact us instead.