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 (GBP6,744 * EUR7,706 * AUD12,830)

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

Robert Wilcox
JM, Guatemala - Specialities of Central America 2026

Tour was wonderful. Loved everything. Very well organised and super localities. Anna is a superstar, she was invaluable

Glen Valentine
MW, Indonesia - Remote West Papuan Islands Cruise II 2025

This was a great tour and exceeded all my very high expectations. Having both Glen and Dušan as leaders was like having two olympians on your high school basketball team. As usual, the vehicles were too small for me, but Glen kindly allowed me to ride in the seat with the most legroom when possible. I have subsequently found out that I am definitely an outlier as far as client size is concerned. The tour was well planned, the schedule and guides flexible enough to work around complications, and the logistics aside from a glitch picking us up at the airport well executed.

Dušan Brinkhuizen
SK, Dominican Republic - Endemics of Hispaniola I 2026

This was my third trip with Dušan and he, once again, orchestrated an outstanding experience. Not only is he a top notch bird guide, but he is also a superb tour leader who works tirelessly to make sure his clients have an enjoyable and trouble-free experience. Last, but not least, he is an interesting and friendly person: always willing to share his expertise and excited about learning from others. I truly hope that I have an opportunity to bird and travel with Dušan again.

Robert Wilcox
ED, Guatemala - Specialities of Central America 2026

This tour group was very eclectic but really worked well together. The leaders including the van driver did an exceptional job.

Glen Valentine
TS, India - Northern: Birds & Tigers (Small Group) 2026

Glen ran an excellent tour for northern India and the Assam extension. He knows his birds and keeps guests informed about sightings as well as distinguishing bird features. His calming influence during times of stress helps the support staff and guests. We loved his enthusiasm and energy.

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