Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard and the Northern Fjords

Day 1: Oslo, Norway

Arrive in Oslo and check in to the Clarion Hotel, The Hub upon arrival. In the afternoon, embark on a tour of Norway’s capital city. Stroll through Frogner Park among the famed Vigeland sculptures—hundreds of life-size human figures by native sculptor Gustav Vigeland. Then visit the Fram Museum, dedicated to the wooden ship sailed by Norwegian pole explorers such as Nansen and Amundsen.

Day 2: Oslo - Longyearbyen

Depart Oslo on a private charter flight and enjoy breathtaking vistas en route to Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in Svalbard. On arrival, visit the Svalbard Museum to learn about the history of Svalbard and the Arctic, from 17th-century whaling to modern scientific research. Explore the Svalbard Art Gallery, home to a permanent collection of historic items as well as contemporary exhibitions of local artists. Later, embark the National Geographic Endurance, your floating base camp for the next six days.

Day 3-5: Exploring Svalbard

Svalbard lies north of the Arctic Circle, where the summer sun never sets. Here, in true expedition style, we let nature guide our course. Our flexible itinerary and years of experience in the archipelago allow us to take the best advantage of ice and weather conditions. With our fully stabilized, ice-class ship, we probe deep into the ice in search of wildlife. Join our spotters on the bridge, scanning the edges of the pack ice for huge walruses, bearded and ringed seals, arctic foxes, reindeer, and polar bears. Venture ashore to hike the tundra, abloom with wildflowers. Sail deep into beautiful fjords and kayak quiet coves surrounded by sparkling icebergs. Board Zodiacs to view tidewater glaciers and spectacular ice formations.

With our National Geographic photographer, experts, and seasoned naturalists, we make the most of our days here. Enjoy nightly recaps and talks about the natural wonders we encounter, and view underwater video footage taken some 1,000 feet below the surface by our remotely operated vehicle (ROV). On this extraordinary voyage, every day is different, and every day is an adventure.

Day 6: Bjørnøya (Bear Island)

Sail south to isolated Bear Island, the southernmost island of the Svalbard archipelago. Board a Zodiac to explore the coves and inlets of this mist-shrouded island. Gaze up at sheer cliffs and use your binoculars to take in the spectacular sight of tens of thousands of fulmars, kittiwakes, and murres.

Day 7: Sørøya Island

Off Norway’s northern coast lies the mountainous island of Sørøya, known for its scenic bays, pristine nature reserves, and long sandy beaches. It also is renowned for its large populations of skrei, or cod, which migrate to these waters during winter and spring. We plan to make an in-depth visit to this beautiful island, with opportunities to explore its surrounding fjords by Zodiac and kayak, and hike on shore.

Day 8: Senja Island

Senja, the second largest island in mainland Norway, is characterized by dramatic mountains, colorful fishing villages, and a coastline split by beautiful fjords. In the southern part of the island, you’ll find Ånderdalen National Park—more than 70 square miles of pristine wilderness that is home to reindeer, elk, red foxes, and more. Spend a day exploring the island and fjords, and, if you wish, join our naturalists on a spectacular hike.

Day 9: Tromsø

Disembark in Tromsø, known as the “gateway to the Arctic” for the numerous Arctic expeditions that originated here. Explore this charming coastal city, then board our charter flight to Oslo and check in to the SAS Radisson Blu Airport Hotel.

Day 10: Oslo

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight.

• Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in itinerary
• Kayaks, Zodiac cruises, stand-up paddleboards, full complement of snorkeling gear, glass-bottom boat rides, where relevant
• Guidance and expertise of expedition staff
• All meals as indicated in itinerary
• Beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, hors d’oeuvres, and snacks
• Cocktails and spirits on select ships
• Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
• 24-hour access to shared spaces, such as the lounges and fitness centers

• Airfare (except flights when indicated as included), expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers
• Travel protection plan, passport, visa, and immigration fees
• Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, Wi-Fi and phone services (except when indicated as included)