Spitsbergen - Explorer 2026

06 Jun 2026 - 16 Jun 2026 (11 days)

USD8,695 SPACES AVAILABLE

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Tour Price (Per person): USD8,695 (GBP6,642 * EUR7,570 * AUD12,629)

Pricing notes : *prices are estimated and dates may change*

Join us in June for the Spitsbergen - Explorer, a once-in-a-lifetime 9-night birding and wildlife cruise through the breathtaking Svalbard archipelago. Starting in Longyearbyen, we set sail on the Akademik Sergey Vavilov, venturing into a land of Polar Bears, Belugas, Walruses, and Reindeer. Marvel at the stunning Arctic scenery, from snow-capped mountains and towering glaciers to flower-studded tundra and vast skies filled with Ivory Gulls and Snow Buntings. This high Arctic journey promises unforgettable wildlife encounters and spectacular views in one of the most pristine parts of our planet.

Top Birds

Ivory Gull, chances for Ross’ Gull, King Eider, numerous alcids, Snow Bunting.

Top Mammals

Polar Bear, Walrus, Arctic Fox, Bearded & Ringed Seal, Humpback, Narwhal, Beluga, Bowhead (Greenland), Northern Minke & Fin Whale, Svalbard Reindeer.

Habitats Covered

Explore diverse habitats including coastal and pelagic waters, towering glaciers, polar tundra, pack ice, and nesting cliffs.

Expected Climate

Experience a cold, Arctic climate with temperatures often below freezing, complemented by the pristine, clear air of the high Arctic.

Max Group Size

Dependent on ship capacity with expedition leaders.

Tour Pace & Walking

This expedition maintains a moderate pace, with a mix of leisurely cruising, informative onboard lectures, and active shore excursions for wildlife viewing and photography.

Accommodation

Stay in comfortable cabins aboard the Akademik Sergey Vavilov, providing modern amenities and cozy quarters.

Other Attractions

Historical town of Longyearbyen, spectacular Arctic scenery, glaciers, nesting cliffs, whale graveyard, fjords

Photographic Opportunities

Capture stunning images of Polar Bears, Belugas, Walruses, and Reindeer amidst spectacular Arctic landscapes, including glaciers, fjords, and nesting cliffs.

What our clients say about us

Dušan Brinkhuizen
JR, Jamaica - Island Endemics I 2026

I was very pleased with the birding. I saw all 29 endemics and a total of 42 life birds. The leaders are great at finding, luring in and identifying birds. I appreciated that the focus was very much on the birding. The food and accommodations were excellent and appropriate. I wonder if we should have spent our last night near the coast but am not sure how that would have affected our birding success.

Nigel Redman
CG, Ethiopia - Endemic Birding 2026

I had a wonderful time. Thanks!

Quinton Paul Josop
DB, India - Southern: Endemics of the Western Ghats (Small Group) 2026

The tour structure and arrangements were first class. Leaders were very good and quite knowledgable. I thought Paul was energetic a d really on the birds. Would gladly travel with him again. It was great fun and we got nearly every endemic on the trip. Great fun!!

Stephan Lorenz
HL, Bolivia - Remote 2025

The trip was run superbly from start to finish. The logistics, despite some difficulties imposed by weather conditions and countrywide fuel shortages, were impeccable and I thoroughly enjoyed the tour. Stephan did a superb job in ensuring that we all saw as many of the species as possible. He is an accomplished guide and I enjoy traveling with him.

Dušan Brinkhuizen
CC, Puerto Rico - Forgotten Greater Antilles 2026

We saw all 19 endemics as well as all of those where splits may be likely in the future. Dušan is a tireless guide. Never gives up for the best view. Our local guide, Alcides, has astonishing eyes and ears and knows every inch of his island! Cannot imagine a better local guide. Also, wish to put in a good word for our driver to and from the airport, Carlos. Please keep Carlos on board. Great trip. My shortest birding trip and, I learned, too short for me—could have stayed longer.

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