Northern Svalbard, Norway

A pristine Arctic wilderness of glaciers, polar bears, and silence.

A magnificent walrus with long tusks sitting on a patch of ice in the frigid, ice-filled sea of Northern Svalbard, with snow-covered mountains in the background.

Overview

Northern Svalbard, Norway

Northern Svalbard is not a cruise port but a magnificent, remote wilderness destination in the High Arctic. Part of the Svalbard archipelago, this vast region is a land of dramatic glaciers, jagged mountain peaks, and an ever-shifting landscape of sea ice. It is a premier destination for polar expedition cruises, where the journey itself is the adventure, offering an unparalleled opportunity to witness some of the world's most incredible wildlife in their natural, untamed habitat.

An expedition to Northern Svalbard is a powerful and humbling experience. With no permanent human settlements in this part of the archipelago, the environment remains pristine and wild. Cruisers here are guests in the land of the polar bear and the walrus, following a flexible itinerary dictated by the weather, ice conditions, and the movements of the animals. It is a destination for the truly adventurous, offering a deep connection with the planet's raw, natural beauty.

Top Things to Do in Northern Svalbard, Norway

Search for Polar Bears

The main goal of any Svalbard expedition is the thrilling search for the majestic polar bear. Your expedition team will constantly scan for these iconic predators on the pack ice, along the coastlines, or on the tundra. A successful sighting is a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Tip: Polar bear sightings are never guaranteed. The patience and expertise of your expedition team are crucial to a successful encounter.

Observe Walrus Colonies

Northern Svalbard is home to numerous haul-out sites for walrus colonies. These massive marine mammals are often found lounging in large groups on beaches or on ice floes, providing an incredible opportunity to observe them from a safe distance during a Zodiac cruise or a shore landing.

Tip: The best way to observe walruses is from a Zodiac boat, where you can get close enough for great photos without disturbing them.

Take Zodiac Cruises to the Face of Glaciers

Your expedition team will use inflatable Zodiac boats to take you on cruises along the face of towering glaciers. This allows for a spectacular, close-up view of the blue ice and the dramatic moment when large chunks "calve" off into the water, a phenomenon known as calving.

Tip: Be sure to dress warmly, as the temperature can drop significantly when you are close to the glaciers.

Go on Shore Landings

When conditions permit, you will make shore landings on the tundra. Accompanied by your armed guides, you can hike to get a better view of the landscape, discover unique Arctic flora, and look for wildlife such as Arctic fox or reindeer.

Tip: All shore landings are conducted with a focus on safety, with guides scanning for polar bears at all times.

See Arctic Birds on Spectacular Cliffs

The birdlife in Northern Svalbard is surprisingly abundant. Your Zodiac will take you past towering cliffs that are home to thousands of nesting birds, including the distinctive little auks and guillemots, creating a vibrant and noisy spectacle.

Tip: Bring binoculars to get a closer look at the birds soaring from their cliffside nests.

Visit Historical Trapper and Whaling Sites

Your expedition may include landings at historical sites, such as old trappers' cabins or whaling stations. These remnants of human activity in this harsh environment tell a fascinating story of the region's past as a hunting and scientific outpost.

Tip: Always respect these historical sites and their artifacts by not touching or removing anything.

Overview