Arctic Explorer - Svalbard 2025
Embark on an extraordinary journey through the Arctic’s untouched wilderness with Kaadu Expeditions. This adventure brings you closer to nature’s most awe-inspiring wonders, including glaciers, fjords, polar bears, and rich birdlife. Our expeditions are curated for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and those with a passion for exploration.
Spanning over ten days, this journey will take you through the serene yet rugged landscapes of Spitsbergen, part of the Svalbard archipelago. Discover the polar wildlife, stunning ice formations, and historical settlements that few have witnessed first-hand.
Dates - June -July | 2025 | 7N/8D | Available
Price : $2700 onwards
Dates - June -July | 2025 | 9N/10D | Available
Price : $3499 onwards
Day-wise Itinerary ( Changes as per the above route maps)
Day 1: Longyearbyen – Embarkation Day Your Arctic adventure begins in the world’s northernmost town, Longyearbyen. After boarding our expedition vessel, you’ll be welcomed by our experienced crew. The atmosphere onboard is warm and friendly, with a detailed safety briefing to prepare you for the journey ahead. As we set sail from Longyearbyen, enjoy your first glimpse of the dramatic Arctic landscape. The excitement builds as we navigate deeper into the realm of ice and polar bears.
Day 2: Exploring Kongsfjord & Ny-Ålesund Wake up to the majestic sight of Kongsfjord, home to dramatic glaciers and a rich variety of Arctic wildlife. You’ll venture out on a thrilling Zodiac cruise along the glacier fronts, keeping an eye out for seals resting on ice floes. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the research town of Ny-Ålesund, known for its fascinating polar history. Explore the research stations and monuments marking expeditions to the North Pole.
Day 3: Ayerfjorden & Hamiltonbukta Hikes A morning of exploration awaits in Ayerfjorden, a scenic fjord surrounded by towering glaciers and snow-capped peaks. Join guided hikes that cater to all fitness levels. Whether you're looking to conquer ridges for panoramic views or prefer leisurely walks along the shore, there’s an adventure for everyone. In the afternoon, we sail to Hamiltonbukta, where the calm waters offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography. The guillemot and kittiwake colonies perched on the steep cliffs provide a striking contrast against the glaciers.
Day 4: Cruising the Pack Ice – Polar Bear Territory As we venture further north, we encounter the vast and mysterious pack ice, the kingdom of the polar bear. Spend the day on deck with binoculars in hand, scanning for the “King of the Arctic.” It’s a surreal experience to cruise among ice floes, searching for seals and other wildlife that thrive in this extreme environment. During the day, our experts will offer insightful lectures on polar ecology, glaciology, and the fascinating adaptations of Arctic wildlife.
Day 5: Claravågen & Eolusneset In the morning, we explore the hidden bay of Claravågen, home to seabirds and calm, reflective waters. Glide past pebbled beaches and navigate through narrow inlets, surrounded by breathtaking Arctic scenery. Later, we land at Eolusneset, where you’ll encounter the remnants of historical whaling stations. Hiking through the tundra, you’ll uncover the graves of European whalers from the 16th and 17th centuries. Our guides will share stories of survival and exploration from these harsh and unforgiving times.
Day 6: Alkefjellet – Birdwatcher’s Paradise Alkefjellet is a stunning 100-meter-high cliff that hosts over 60,000 pairs of breeding Brünnich's guillemots. This iconic bird cliff is a spectacle of Arctic life and a favorite spot for bird lovers. The narrow ledges are bustling with activity as guillemots care for their young in this natural fortress. Afterward, continue your wildlife adventure by spotting walruses along the shores of Torellneset, one of the most famous walrus haul-out sites in the region.
Day 7: Sundneset & Kapp Lee – Walruses and Reindeer Encounters The morning brings us to Sundneset, where we explore an old trapper’s hut and the surrounding tundra. Watch for Svalbard reindeer grazing nearby or Arctic foxes roaming the area. This landing offers a unique look at the rugged life of Arctic trappers. In the afternoon, we arrive at Kapp Lee, a place rich in wildlife and history. Here, you’ll observe walruses lounging on the beach, a truly iconic sight in Svalbard. Keep an eye out for polar bears, as they are often seen wandering along these shores.
Day 8: Hornsund – The Southern Fjords Hornsund, one of the most picturesque fjords of Spitsbergen, offers a stunning backdrop of jagged peaks and massive glaciers. We’ll embark on hikes along the shore to explore the remains of 17th-century whaling stations, offering a glimpse into Svalbard’s historical past. For the brave-hearted, this is also the perfect opportunity for a polar plunge into the icy waters!
Day 9: Bamsebu & Ingeborgfjellet – A Farewell to the Arctic Our last day takes us to Bamsebu, a former beluga hunting station. Here, you’ll learn about the history of Arctic whaling while walking among the scattered bones of beluga whales. The tundra comes alive with Arctic flora, making it a perfect spot for nature photography. Our final landing is at Ingeborgfjellet, where we hike to the cliffs teeming with little auks, one of the most charming birds of the Arctic. As the sun dips lower in the Arctic sky, we gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating the unforgettable experiences shared on this expedition.
Day 10: Return to Longyearbyen As we sail back to Longyearbyen, the time has come to say goodbye to the Arctic. Reflect on your adventure as we disembark and begin the journey home, with memories that will last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time of year to see polar bears in Svalbard?
The summer months, from June to August, offer the best chances of spotting polar bears in Svalbard. During this time, the pack ice begins to retreat, and polar bears are often seen hunting along the ice edges.
2. How cold will it be during the expedition?
Temperatures in the Arctic summer range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). While it’s relatively mild for the Arctic, wind and weather conditions can make it feel colder, especially on deck or during Zodiac excursions.
3. What wildlife can I expect to see?
In addition to polar bears, you may encounter walruses, Arctic foxes, reindeer, seals, and a wide variety of seabirds, including guillemots, puffins, and Arctic terns. If you're lucky, you may also spot whales, such as humpback or beluga whales.
4. How physically demanding are the hikes?
We offer hikes for all fitness levels, from leisurely walks along the shore to more challenging climbs for panoramic views. Our guides will always brief you on the terrain before each landing, and you can choose a group that suits your comfort level.
5. What kind of accommodations can I expect onboard?
Our expedition vessels are equipped with comfortable cabins, communal dining areas, and lounges where you can relax after a day of exploring. You’ll have access to all modern amenities, including hot showers and heating to keep you cozy throughout the journey.
6. How do I prepare for the trip?
Dress in layers, and make sure to bring warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a good pair of gloves. We will provide rubber boots for shore landings. You should also pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the stunning Arctic scenery.