Land of the Ice Bears: An In-Depth Exploration of Arctic Svalbard

Arrive in Oslo, the capital city where each year the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded in the presence of the King of Norway. Our introduction to Oslo begins with a stroll among the famed Vigeland sculptures-- hundreds of life-size human figures set in rolling parklands. Next we visit the Polar Ship Fram Museum, dedicated to Norwegian explorers Nansen nd Amundsen. The evening is free to try one of the harbor restaurants or turn in early. Overnight at the Thon Hotel Bristol, or similar. (B)

Depart Oslo on our private charter flight over beautiful vistas to Longyearbyen. Embark our ship. (B,L,D)

Our travel in the archipelago is truly exploratory by design, and our exact day-to-day movements will remain flexible, depending on local conditions. Our main focus is the search for Svalbard’s amazing wildlife: polar bear, reindeer and walrus. Observe seals and arctic foxes and search for the very symbol of the Arctic—majestic polar bears. Cruising in Svalbard’s fjords, venture to the foot of stunning tidewater glaciers. We take our Zodiacs and kayaks to cruise among beautiful icebergs, and experience the geology, wildlife and wildflowers that give colour and vitality to the High Arctic. (B,L,D)

See day 3 for more information

See day 3 for more information

See day 3 for more information

See day 3 for more information

See day 3 for more information

Disembark the National Geographic Explorer and explore Longyearbyen before we fly to Oslo. Overnight at the Radisson Blu Airport Hotel. (B,L)

After breakfast, proceed to the airport for flights home, or continue on to other adventures. (B)