Realm of the Polar Bear in Depth - 11 Days

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Trip Snapshot

Age range

10 - 100

Start / End

  • Longyearbyen
  • Longyearbyen

Physical rating

2/5

Group size

1 - 128

Meals included

29

Highlights

  • Embark on an extraordinary 11-day expedition into the Arctic's heart, meticulously designed to bring you face-to-face with the elusive polar bear in its natural, pristine habitat.
  • Traverse the magnificent Svalbard archipelago, exploring vast ice floes, towering glaciers, and expansive tundra under the enchanting glow of the midnight sun, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities.
  • Discover a vibrant array of Arctic wildlife, from lounging seals and grazing reindeer to teeming colonies of seabirds, and potentially even majestic whales drawn to nutrient-rich upwellings.
  • Experience the ultimate Arctic voyage aboard a comfortable expedition ship, offering ocean-facing cabins with en suite bathrooms and gourmet international cuisine, ensuring a restful retreat after thrilling days of exploration.
  • Benefit from the insights of an expert expedition team, comprised of professional naturalists and lecturers who enhance your journey with stimulating talks, day-to-day briefings, and guided Zodiac excursions.
  • Venture into the less explored regions of Nordaustlandet and Kvitøya, going beyond the ordinary to uncover the true wildness and breathtaking beauty of the Arctic's secluded continental edges.
  • Embark on an exhilarating 11-day deep dive into the Arctic, dedicated to tracking the magnificent and elusive polar bear across vast icy landscapes and tundras, an extended adventure promising even more incredible encounters.
  • Witness an incredible array of Arctic wildlife, from lounging seals and grazing reindeer to vibrant bird colonies thriving under the ethereal glow of the midnight sun, with opportunities to spot majestic whales in nutrient-rich waters.
  • Sail through a realm of awe-inspiring icebergs and towering glaciers, experiencing the raw, untamed beauty of the Svalbard archipelago, venturing into its less-explored, pristine corners like Nordaustlandet and Kvitøya.
  • Travel in comfort aboard the Expedition ship, where an international team of professional naturalists and lecturers enrich your journey with fascinating insights and stimulating discussions on Arctic ecology, history, and wildlife.
  • Experience the polar wilderness up close with thrilling Zodiac excursions, navigating through ice-choked waters to make unforgettable shore landings and discover hidden gems of this icy wonderland.
  • Enjoy an intimate yet comprehensive exploration, with three additional days compared to standard tours, maximizing your chances for extraordinary wildlife viewing and deep immersion in the Arctic's grandeur.
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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.
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Summary

Similar to our "Realm of the Polar Bear" tour, but with three additional days of exploring. Scour the ice and tundra in search of the elusive polar bear and encounter even more icebergs, glaciers, and unique wildlife than you ever thought possible on this 11-day expedition. Search for lounging seals, grazing reindeer, and colonies of birds under the midnight sun.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Longyearbyen

    Get a first glimpse of the midnight sun in Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen's capital. Transfer from the town 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 the 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

    Each day is planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Svalbard is one of the few places on the planet to offer such a plethora of natural and historical extravaganzas. Spend the next nine days exploring the remote polar regions. Visit ice-sculpted fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery, and glaciers crashing into the sea. Spend time exploring pack ice edges in search of polar bears hunting seals. At one or more of the stops, it's possible to encounter Svalbard's Arctic fox and the region's unique reindeer. Our goal is to give travellers the best possible opportunity to see wildlife in and around the Svalbard archipelago. 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 will cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore the entire archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions of Nordaustlandet and Kvitøya, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

  • Day 3

    Svalbard

    Each day is planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Svalbard is one of the few places on the planet to offer such a plethora of natural and historical extravaganzas. Spend the next nine days exploring the remote polar regions. Visit ice-sculpted fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery, and glaciers crashing into the sea. Spend time exploring pack ice edges in search of polar bears hunting seals. At one or more of the stops, it's possible to encounter Svalbard's Arctic fox and the region's unique reindeer. Our goal is to give travellers the best possible opportunity to see wildlife in and around the Svalbard archipelago. 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 will cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore the entire archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions of Nordaustlandet and Kvitøya, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

  • Day 4

    Svalbard

    Each day is planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Svalbard is one of the few places on the planet to offer such a plethora of natural and historical extravaganzas. Spend the next nine days exploring the remote polar regions. Visit ice-sculpted fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery, and glaciers crashing into the sea. Spend time exploring pack ice edges in search of polar bears hunting seals. At one or more of the stops, it's possible to encounter Svalbard's Arctic fox and the region's unique reindeer. Our goal is to give travellers the best possible opportunity to see wildlife in and around the Svalbard archipelago. 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 will cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore the entire archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions of Nordaustlandet and Kvitøya, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

  • Day 5

    Svalbard

    Each day is planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Svalbard is one of the few places on the planet to offer such a plethora of natural and historical extravaganzas. Spend the next nine days exploring the remote polar regions. Visit ice-sculpted fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery, and glaciers crashing into the sea. Spend time exploring pack ice edges in search of polar bears hunting seals. At one or more of the stops, it's possible to encounter Svalbard's Arctic fox and the region's unique reindeer. Our goal is to give travellers the best possible opportunity to see wildlife in and around the Svalbard archipelago. 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 will cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore the entire archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions of Nordaustlandet and Kvitøya, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

  • Day 6

    Svalbard

    Each day is planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Svalbard is one of the few places on the planet to offer such a plethora of natural and historical extravaganzas. Spend the next nine days exploring the remote polar regions. Visit ice-sculpted fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery, and glaciers crashing into the sea. Spend time exploring pack ice edges in search of polar bears hunting seals. At one or more of the stops, it's possible to encounter Svalbard's Arctic fox and the region's unique reindeer. Our goal is to give travellers the best possible opportunity to see wildlife in and around the Svalbard archipelago. 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 will cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore the entire archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions of Nordaustlandet and Kvitøya, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

  • Day 7

    Svalbard

    Each day is planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Svalbard is one of the few places on the planet to offer such a plethora of natural and historical extravaganzas. Spend the next nine days exploring the remote polar regions. Visit ice-sculpted fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery, and glaciers crashing into the sea. Spend time exploring pack ice edges in search of polar bears hunting seals. At one or more of the stops, it's possible to encounter Svalbard's Arctic fox and the region's unique reindeer. Our goal is to give travellers the best possible opportunity to see wildlife in and around the Svalbard archipelago. 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 will cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore the entire archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions of Nordaustlandet and Kvitøya, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

  • Day 8

    Svalbard

    Each day is planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Svalbard is one of the few places on the planet to offer such a plethora of natural and historical extravaganzas. Spend the next nine days exploring the remote polar regions. Visit ice-sculpted fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery, and glaciers crashing into the sea. Spend time exploring pack ice edges in search of polar bears hunting seals. At one or more of the stops, it's possible to encounter Svalbard's Arctic fox and the region's unique reindeer. Our goal is to give travellers the best possible opportunity to see wildlife in and around the Svalbard archipelago. 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 will cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore the entire archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions of Nordaustlandet and Kvitøya, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

  • Day 9

    Svalbard

    Each day is planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Svalbard is one of the few places on the planet to offer such a plethora of natural and historical extravaganzas. Spend the next nine days exploring the remote polar regions. Visit ice-sculpted fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery, and glaciers crashing into the sea. Spend time exploring pack ice edges in search of polar bears hunting seals. At one or more of the stops, it's possible to encounter Svalbard's Arctic fox and the region's unique reindeer. Our goal is to give travellers the best possible opportunity to see wildlife in and around the Svalbard archipelago. 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 will cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore the entire archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions of Nordaustlandet and Kvitøya, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

  • Day 10

    Svalbard

    Each day is planned to take advantage of local ice and weather conditions. Svalbard is one of the few places on the planet to offer such a plethora of natural and historical extravaganzas. Spend the next nine days exploring the remote polar regions. Visit ice-sculpted fjords with breathtaking mountain scenery, and glaciers crashing into the sea. Spend time exploring pack ice edges in search of polar bears hunting seals. At one or more of the stops, it's possible to encounter Svalbard's Arctic fox and the region's unique reindeer. Our goal is to give travellers the best possible opportunity to see wildlife in and around the Svalbard archipelago. 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 will cover more territory, which may allow the chance to explore the entire archipelago. This can lead into the less explored regions of Nordaustlandet and Kvitøya, or the continental edges where large whales are attracted by nutrient rich upwellings.

  • Day 11

    Longyearbyen

    On departure day, transfers to the Longyearbyen airport will be offered to 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, 10 nts). Please note that all cabins consist of twin-size berths and are ocean-facing. Suites have one queen-size bed.

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 10, Lunches: 9, Dinners: 10

    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

  • Jun 2026

    from £3,119

  • Jun 2027

    from £5,449

  • Jul 2027

    from £5,449
  • Save 40%
    Friday 26 Jun 2026to Monday 6 Jul 2026
    6+ spaces of 128 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £5,199£3,119
    Best offer
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Customer reviews & ratings

(5 out of 5)Based on 126 reviews

  • It?s very good experience

    Chiang Nov, 2019 Verified

  • Have enjoyed tour & some lectures.

    Brian 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 type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    You will be accommodated aboard the Expedition ship in triple-, twin-share cabins, or suites, all featuring en suite bathrooms and a porthole or window. Cabins have twin-size berths and are ocean-facing, while suites offer a queen-size bed.

  • What meals are included in the tour price?

    All meals are included, specifically 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 10 dinners. Dining is casual with gourmet international cuisines prepared by professional chefs, and tables are unassigned.

  • Can special dietary requirements be accommodated?

    Yes, special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Please advise at the time of confirmation.

  • Are beverages included on board?

    Coffee, tea, and water are provided free of charge. All other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are not included and can be purchased in the dining room, pub, or lounge.

  • What is the physical rating for this tour and what does it entail?

    This trip has a Physical Rating of 2, meaning it's accessible to most fitness levels and those able to do extended walks and light hiking on various terrain. You should be able to navigate ice and snow on uneven ground, lift your leg over the side of a Zodiac, push yourself up, walk on wet, rocky beaches, and stand throughout landings. The Expedition ship does not have an elevator, so staircases must be used between decks.

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

    The tour focuses on finding polar bears hunting seals. You may also encounter Svalbard's Arctic fox, unique reindeer, lounging seals, and colonies of birds, all under the midnight sun.

  • What are the main highlights of this expedition?

    Key highlights include taking a turn on "polar bear watch" with expedition staff, enjoying spectacular vistas under the midnight sun, capturing Svalbard reindeer in your viewfinder, and learning from lectures on history and natural sciences. You also have the option to challenge yourself with a polar plunge.

  • What is the maximum group size on the Expedition?

    The maximum number of travellers aboard the Expedition is 128.

  • Who will be leading the expedition?

    The voyage is led by a carefully chosen international team of professional naturalists and lecturers, with one expedition team member per 10 guests. They provide informed interpretation, stimulating lectures, day-to-day briefings, and informal discussions, as well as piloting Zodiac landing crafts.

  • Is there an option for solo travellers to have their own room?

    If you select the Private Cabin option when booking, you will receive your own room. Otherwise, solo travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.

  • What is the minimum age requirement for this trip?

    The minimum age for this trip is 10 years.

  • Are there any optional activities available?

    An optional "Arctic Polar Plunge" is available in the Arctic Ocean. Kayaking excursions are also available on specific departures, but space is limited and booking in advance is strongly recommended. For this 'Realm of the Polar Bear in Depth' tour, kayaking is available on the June 26, 2026 departure.

  • Are waterproof boots provided for Zodiac landings?

    Yes, complimentary used waterproof boots are supplied in USA sizes 4-16 and EURO sizes 35-49, though limited numbers of the smallest and largest sizes are available. If bringing your own, they should be rubber, waterproof, just below the knees (12-16” high), with a strong, ridged non-skid sole.

  • What kind of electrical outlets are available on board?

    The electricity onboard is 220AC with European 2-pin round holes. Bathrooms also have 110-volt shaving sockets for electric razors only. You may wish to bring an international adapter, though a limited supply is available to borrow.

  • Is laundry service available on the ship?

    Yes, laundry service is available aboard the Expedition by our shipboard team at an additional charge.

  • What is the recommended tipping guideline for the crew and staff?

    The industry standard and suggested amount for crew tips is USD $10-15 per person per day spent on board. Tipping is a personal choice. Tips can be settled using most major credit cards (VISA, Mastercard, and AMEX) via the ship's Purser, and the money is distributed among the crew and Expedition Staff.

  • What currency is used for onboard purchases and incidental bills?

    The currency for all purchases and to clear incidental bills (e.g., bar, laundry, crew tips) on board the Expedition is USD. The ship operates as a cashless environment, accepting major credit cards (VISA, Mastercard, AMEX).

  • Do I need an emergency fund?

    Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund, to be used if unforeseen circumstances (like a natural disaster) require a change to the planned route. This is a rare occurrence.

  • What are the health considerations for this trip?

    It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information. All passengers must review a medical questionnaire, and those with pre-existing medical conditions are required to submit a physician-signed medical form. The ship is equipped with a small infirmary and a doctor available 24 hours a day for emergencies. Routine immunizations are suggested.

  • Is travel insurance required?

    Travel insurance is compulsory for this trip. It must include a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects coverage are also strongly recommended.

  • What is the environmental policy regarding waste on board?

    To minimize environmental impact in remote destinations where plastics, glass, or tin waste cannot be offloaded for recycling, the tour encourages reducing single-use items. Guests are provided with a complimentary reusable water bottle for refilling, and are asked to take any unrecyclable plastic waste back to their home countries.

  • What transportation methods are used during the trip?

    Transportation during the trip includes the Expedition ship, Zodiac boats for landings and cruises, local bus transfers, and walking excursions.

  • What are the visa and entry requirements for this trip?

    All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. It is your responsibility to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements for Norway and the Svalbard archipelago, as rules can change without warning. The Schengen visa system applies to much of Europe, and ETIAS travel authorization may be introduced for visa-exempt nationals from 2025.
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