Spitsbergen in Depth
14 days in the Arctic
Aboard S. Vavilov
- 13 Days 11 - 23 Jul 2012
Although they lay far to the north of the Norwegian mainland and high above the Arctic Circle, the remarkable islands of the Svalbard Archipelago are part of Norway. Together they total an area of about 62,000 square kilometres (about the same size as Ireland or Tasmania), mostly in the form of three larger islands as well as a number of smaller outcrops. Wild and rugged mountains covered with ice and snow jut skyward on the larger islands. Spitsbergen is the largest island and is sure to leave us spellbound when we first glimpse its majestic beauty.
Our aim on this expedition is to undertake a complete circumnavigation of the major islands of the group, making frequent shore stops to hike or simply admire the spectacular scenery. We also enjoy Zodiac cruises that take us in close proximity of sea cliffs and abundant wildlife. Our exact course will be dependant on the prevailing sea ice conditions, although we are hopeful of smooth sailing along the west coast of Spitsbergen as a result of the comparatively warm North Atlantic current. Here, amongst these fjords, we witness wonderful scenery and often prolific wildlife. In other areas of Svalbard our progress may be just as effortless, but the movement and location of sea ice will be an important factor in determining our exact route and landing locations. However, one thing is certain. Wherever we go, we are sure to be rewarded with unparalleled exploration opportunities in the Arctic North.
Day 1
Longyearbyen - Embarkation Day
Your voyage will depart in the afternoon from the Longyearbyen pier. Once onboard, our expedition team will welcome you and once you've settled in we'll set sail from Longyearbyen. A representative will meet all flights arriving into Longyearbyen starting from the day prior to embarkation. If you arrive before this and would like transfers, please ask us for details and costs. No pre voyage hotel accommodation is included in the voyage price. D
Day 2
14th of July Glacier and Ny Alesund
Cruise past the spectacular cliffs of the 14th of July Glacier, keeping an eye out for Purple Sandpipers, Common Eiders, Barnacle Geese, Arctic Terns and more. Later, visit Ny Alesund, once a remote coal-mining town, now a unique international research station. You may spot indigenous Svalbard reindeer, so keep your camera handy! BLD
Day 3
Smeerenburg
Dutch whalers established this community on tiny Amsterdam Island almost 400 years ago. During this shore visit you'll learn about Spitsbergen's whaling past and visit an authentic blubber oven. BLD
Day 4
Monacobreen, Worsleyneset and Moffen Island
This morning you'll wake to find the ship at anchor near the magnificent Monaco Glacier at the head of Ljefdefjorden. Afterwards, sail on to Worsleyneset to enjoy a tundra hike, and learn more about Svalbard's human history. Strict guidelines keep us from sailing too close to our final stop - a walrus sanctuary off Moffen Island. Be sure to bring your telephoto lens. BLD
Day 5
Phippsoya
An archipelago within an archipelago, Seven Islands comprises the northernmost portion of Svalbard. They lie about 10 degrees from the North Pole. Ice seldom completely disappears from the islands during the Arctic summer. Polar bear and walrus exploit the ice. Visit an abandoned trapper's cabin and watch for wildlife. BLD
Day 6
Alkefjellet
Today you'll sail past the towering cliff-face of Alkefjellet - a truly remarkable site, crowded with thousands of nesting Brunich Guillemots and Thick-billed Murres. Fox and polar bear are often seen patrolling the cliff base, hoping for a meal to drop from the sky! BLD
Day 7
Sundneset
Today you'll visit yet another unique Arctic landscape - the tundra meadow. Sundneset, found at the southeastern corner of Barents Island, enjoys surprisingly lush vegetation, including many beautiful wildflowers. Learn about this fascinating Arctic ecosystem and keep your eye out for reindeer that enjoy the meadow for more than its beauty. BLD
Day 8
Diskobukta
Today, the goal is to visit a colony of Kittiwakes that have chosen to nest in a cavern. You approach at rising tide for the best view. We'll lower the Zodiacs so you can cruise along the cliff face as the tide rises, for the best view. BLD
Day 9
Isbukta
The name means "ice bay," and there should be plenty of "fast ice" (sea ice that has frozen fast to the coast) during our visit. This means a good chance of spotting polar bears on the hunt, as the seals rest along the ice edge. This is also another good location for spotting the rare Ivory Gull, as they are known to dine on a polar bear's leftovers. BLD
Day 10
Brepollen
Home to several huge glaciers, this spectacular fjord is also a favourite haunt of the charming Beluga whale. BLD
Day 11
Bourbanhamna
Visit a historic mine. Then hike the tundra and search for tiny flowers that bloom under the midnight sun. BLD
Day 12
Alkhornet
Today you'll sail past Alkhornet - a brooding rock face crammed with nesting Guillemots, or Murres. There will also be time for another tundra hike during today's expedition itinerary. Watch for reindeer and Arctic fox. BLD
Day 13
Longyearbyen
Your adventure ends as it began, in the frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Accommodation: No post voyage hotel accommodation is included in the voyage price. If you need accommodation please ask Peregrine or your agent for details and costs. B
