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 (GBP6,698 * EUR7,655 * AUD12,420)

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

Nigel Redman
CG, Ethiopia - Endemic Birding 2026

I had a wonderful time. Thanks!

Robert Williams
EW, Guyana - Birds & Wildlife (Relaxed) 2026

What a great experience! Everything was as you told us in the pre-departure literature, so we were well-prepared. Rob was an excellent tour leader. His vast experience in conservation, core knowledge of birds and bird behavior, and his enthusiasm was generously shared with the group. He modeled proper trail behavior and made sure that everyone “saw the bird”. The local guides were top-notch and took good care of the group. I also learned so much from the better birders in the group. Highly recommended!

Quinton Paul Josop
DB, Sri Lanka - Endemic Birds & Big Game (Small Group) 2026

Another great tour. Between the leader, Paul Josop, and the local leader, Ashoka, it was a great team that got all the endemic and lots more. It was a fun trip and Paul handled the group dynamics very well. Fantastic trip!!

André Bernon
RA, Thailand - Asian Birding at its Best II 2025

Both Andre and Uthai were remarkably tireless and effective in finding and identifying birds, including some of the most elusive species in Thailand. They also did a great job of organizing the logistics of the trip. Our meals were already prepared when we arrived at restaurants and all of the hotel arrangements were handled smoothly. We probably will not consider going on another standard Rockjumper trip. Birding steadily from dawn to after dark was a bit much, especially for 22 uninterrupted days. This pace is appropriate for most serious birders so I don’t fault the guides, but we plan to shift to a style of traveling in which we can set our own schedule. We might consider one of Rockjumper's relaxed tours, but we're not concerned about long hikes and muddy trails as long as the schedule allows for a little down time to read, reflect and recover.

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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