Glaciers & Wildlife of Svalbard

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

Fly from the UK to Oslo. Your journey begins with an overnight stay in Oslo, where you’ll be greeted at the airport and escorted to your luxury accommodation for the night. Arrive early and spend the day exploring the Norwegian capital to see the blend of modern Scandinavian architecture, meets cool waterfront dining and medieval Viking folklore. Don’t miss a visit to the medieval Akershus Fortress, the Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Munch Museum.

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

Your included transfer flights will take you from Oslo to Longyearbyen, high above the Arctic Circle. The capital of the Norwegian Svalbard Archipelago, Longyearbyen is on Svalbard’s main island and is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet. The untouched landscapes make you feel like you’re in completely unexplored territory.

Today, you’ll meet the Captain and crew of your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht. Be welcomed on board with a glass of Champagne as you explore your spacious suite. Meet your fellow guests for a drink in the Scenic Lounge Bar as you toast the start of an unforgettable journey.

Longyearbyen is the biggest settlement in Svalbard. Seat of the Norwegian administration, it also has the best services and infrastructure in the archipelago. Located deep in the Adventfjord, a sidearm of the Isfjorden (Icefjord), Longyearbyen’s airport can be used all-year round, but its harbor is blocked by ice in winter. Most shops, hotels, restaurants and a hospital are within easy walking distance of the port. One of the most prominent buildings in town is the UNIS center, where several Norwegian universities have joined forces to operate and offer the northernmost higher education to both Norwegian and international students. Adjacent to UNIS, and well worth a visit, is the Svalbard Museum, covering the natural history and exploitation of Svalbard. Remnants of the former mining activity can be seen all around Longyearbyen and even in town.

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

Welcome to the remote wilderness of the Svalbard Archipelago, a dramatic polar desert surrounded by rugged glaciers, frozen tundra and craggy mountain peaks. Every day brings a new magical vista, from the striking contrast of tundra, volcanic islands adorned with sparse greenery to the occasional snow-capped peaks that peek through the landscape.

Today, join an introductory presentation about your expedition by the Discovery Team in the state-of-the-art theatre. Feel the excitement building as they explain how your Zodiac and other Discovery excursions will work in the coming days. The theatre is where you can watch talks and lectures. At night, enjoy world-class productions from musical theatre and cabaret to pop music, dance and fun interactive game shows.

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

As you continue cruising around Svalbard, there may be opportunities to observe wildlife such as whales, Arctic foxes, seals and seabirds. Be sure to keep the binoculars provided in your suite with you during your time on board or use the Swarovski telescopes in the Observation Lounge for a closer look at the Arctic wildlife. For wildlife photographers, we recommend bringing a telephoto lens for capturing distant wildlife.

Discovery: You will enjoy Discovery excursions by Zodiac, kayak and nature walks. Explore pristine locations and discover majestic Arctic scenery and tundra landscapes.

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

Join the Captain on the bridge as we sail through an Arctic wonderland. The open bridge policy provides an opportunity to learn about the technical abilities of your Discovery Yacht as well as joining the captain and Discovery Team to look for wildlife from one of the best vantage points on the ship.

See how the Captain navigates through Polar regions where ice and weather conditions can rapidly change plans before your eyes. The unpredictability of an Arctic voyage is all part of the journey and adds to the excitement for the guests and the crew.

Spotting the Arctic’s elusive wildlife might be a chance of luck, but thanks to the eagle-eyed, experienced crew, your chances are greatly increased on board Scenic Eclipse. You can also always look for the Discovery Team experts to answer any questions you may have about this frozen world and expedition experiences – they are always on hand to share with you their knowledge and passion for this remarkable destination.

Discovery: You will enjoy daily Discovery excursions by Zodiac, kayak and nature walks. Explore pristine locations and discover majestic Arctic scenery and tundra landscapes.

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

Open the midnight sun relieving blackout curtains in your ultra-luxury suite and step onto your private verandah to take in the inspiring view. Every day brings a new magical vista, from magnificent glaciers in iceberg dotted waters to jagged snow topped mountains towering over green slopes of tundra.

Listen out for the loud crack of a glacier calving as you soak in the scenery from the Observation Deck and keep your eyes peeled for movement on the ice and in the water.

Discovery: Partake in daily Discovery excursions by Zodiac, kayak and nature walks. Explore pristine locations and discover majestic Arctic scenery and tundra landscapes.

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

Continue cruising around the spectacular Svalbard Archipelago. When enjoying daily Discovery excursions, ask for the expert polar Discovery Team for photography tips and guidance. They will help you immortalise incredible moments while cruising on the Zodiacs and kayaking around impressive ice formations.

With up to 20 members including geologists, historians, ornithologists, marine biologists, and glaciologists, the Discovery Team is at the heart of your Expedition Voyage.

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

Be sure to pack your swimming costume for the ultimate icy experience. For many, the polar plunge is an exhilarating rite of passage and while the day may change, your Discovery Team will always look for a special place to set up the Discovery Yacht’s marina so that you can leap into the icy water below.

Feel the adrenaline build as you prepare to jump. The polar plunge is an invigorating and refreshing experience that you’ll be talking about for years to come. If you’d rather watch than jump in, you can enjoy the fun with a cup of hot chocolate from one of the spacious viewing areas.

After the plunge, warm up with a drink of your choice, from a specialty tea to aged whiskey, or head to the infrared saunas in the Senses Spa for some relaxation.

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

Start your day with a class in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio. Alternatively, work out in the fully equipped gym, where one-on-one fitness coaching sessions are available.

Afterwards, head to the deck to look for the natives of the Arctic skies. In the summer, Svalbard has over 30 species of birds including the Svalbard rock ptarmigan, puffins, skuas, little auks, kittiwakes, and black guillemots, whose feathers get whiter the farther north they are found.

Relax in the Observation Lounge, where you can read books and play board games in between birdwatching. In the evening, up to 10 extraordinary dining experiences await.

Discovery: You will enjoy Discovery excursions by Zodiac, kayak and nature walks. Explore pristine locations and discover majestic Arctic scenery and tundra landscapes.

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

Throughout your voyage you can learn how people live in one of the remotest places on earth. The UK Arctic Research Base, located in one of the northernmost communities in the world, is home to a seasonal population of up to 150 people. The harsh environment and mixture of nationalities working at the base creates a unique atmosphere that you may be able to experience with a guided visit.

Back on board, warm up with a drink in one of your Discovery Yacht’s nine all-inclusive bars. Sip France's best in Lumiere's Champagne Bar *, an aged whiskey at Scenic Lounge Bar or a cocktail in your cabana beside the Sky Bar.

Discovery: You will enjoy daily Discovery excursions by Zodiac, kayak and nature walks. Explore pristine locations and discover majestic Arctic scenery and tundra landscapes.

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

The sound of ice cracking and popping may be disconcerting at first. By the end of your voyage, it could be one of your favourite sounds. Fall in love with all the shapes, colours and sounds of the environment around you is one of the most bewitching parts of an Arctic expedition cruise.

Today, join the Discovery Team in Zodiac excursions around nature’s floating ice sculptures. As you look out over flat ice fields to the horizon, you may even see a Fata Morgana. These mirages look like ice cliffs in the distance, and you might find it hard to believe when your Discovery Team explains that they’re just an optical illusion on the horizon.

Discovery: You will enjoy in daily Discovery excursions by Zodiac, kayak and nature walks. Explore pristine locations and discover majestic Arctic scenery and tundra landscapes.

Longyearbyen is the biggest settlement in Svalbard. Seat of the Norwegian administration, it also has the best services and infrastructure in the archipelago. Located deep in the Adventfjord, a sidearm of the Isfjorden (Icefjord), Longyearbyen’s airport can be used all-year round, but its harbor is blocked by ice in winter. Most shops, hotels, restaurants and a hospital are within easy walking distance of the port. One of the most prominent buildings in town is the UNIS center, where several Norwegian universities have joined forces to operate and offer the northernmost higher education to both Norwegian and international students. Adjacent to UNIS, and well worth a visit, is the Svalbard Museum, covering the natural history and exploitation of Svalbard. Remnants of the former mining activity can be seen all around Longyearbyen and even in town.

Savour one last luxurious breakfast on board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht before saying farewell to the crew who have shared this once-in-a-lifetime journey with you. As you disembark, share the highlights of your voyage in this spectacular part of the world with your new friends, knowing you have created memories to last a lifetime. You will be transferred to Oslo for an overnight stay, the final part of your journey.

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

After breakfast in your hotel, take the time to say goodbye to your fellow Arctic travellers as you fly back to your own corners of the world.Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.

As you fly out of Norway, you will treasure all the memories made on your voyage on board The World’s First Discovery YachtTM, looking out at the majestic Arctic scenery few people will ever experience.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.