Svalbard in depth with Swan Hellenic

With included UK airport lounge access, you’ll set off in feeling relaxed on your flight to Copenhagen. On arrival, transfer to your accommodation and spend the rest of the day exploring the Danish capital at your own pace.

Stay: Copenhagen accommodation (Superior)

After breakfast, you’ll return to the airport to board your flight north to the island of Spitsbergen, part of the Svalbard archipelago. On arrival in Longyearbyen – the world’s most northerly town – you’ll make your way to your waiting ship, the excitement building as you prepare for your expedition to begin.  The Arctic waters around here are populated by whales, including bowheads and narwhals, while walruses are regularly seen hauling out.

Stay: SH Vega (Superior) 

Located deep inside the Arctic Circle, approaching the Svalbard archipelago feels a lot like sailing towards the edge of the world. Known as the kingdom of the polar bears, you’ll be hoping to spot some of its subjects as you explore what are among the most varied landscapes in the Arctic. Heading out in Zodiac boats, you’ll get close to enormous glaciers, rapidly retreating from the oceans that they feed. In the north of the archipelago, past the magnificent fjords, the remaining sea ice offers the perfect hunting ground for polar bears.

Stay: SH Vega

Named after the director of a 17th century Dutch whaling company, the Hinlopen Strait divides Svalbard’s largest island, Spitsbergen, from its second-largest island, Nordaustlandet. While it’s often congested with ice, the summer months allow for safe passage among its glorious landscapes, rich history and abundant wildlife. Indeed, as you look to the rugged shoreline, you might well be treated to a sighting of a roaming polar bears, while the skies and seas team with birdlife, including several species of duck and geese.

Stay: SH Vega

As you return towards Longyearbyen, the landscapes are punctuated with large areas devoid of snow and ice alongside vast tundra and remote, windswept beaches. Alongside Svalbard’s polar bears, this Arctic wildlife hotspot is also home to walrus, beluga whales, Svalbard reindeer, ringed seal, the arctic fox and many species of marine mammals and seabirds. Subject to the conditions you may also be able to enjoy kayaking outings with the expedition team. 

Stay: SH Vega

Arrive back in Longyearbyen where you’ll transfer to the airport in time for your flight to Copenhagen. On arrival, transfer to your hotel then, if time allows, take the chance for a final exploration of Norway's capital.

Stay: Copenhagen accommodation (Superior)