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National Geographic: An In-depth exploration of Arctic Svalbard

A remote archipelago situated just over 350 miles north of Norway's North Cape, Svalbard is a place of deep fjords, mountains and massive sheets of ice. During summer, when the sun never sets, the tundra experiences a warm awakening. It is carpeted with wildflowers. Ice-peppered fjords ring with the thunderous sound of glacial ice crashing to the sea. Walrus raise their sleepy heads to observe us. And everyone holds their breath as a polar bear is spotted and cameras click wildly. Experience nature in its purest form in this High Arctic Island when you join us for one of our unforgettable Arctic cruises.

This is as far north as it is possible to travel without an icebreaker, and you’ll experience the legendary midnight sun. With our fully stabilized ice-class expedition cruise ship, we are able to probe the ice in search of wildlife. This Arctic cruise voyage is undertaken in the spirit of discovery. Nature is full of wonderful surprises and we are guided by her. Our pace is unhurried and our options are many, so the day-by-day itinerary below is a thoughtfully considered framework based on our long experience in this region.

Departures

National Geographic: An In-depth exploration of Arctic Svalbard itinerary:

DAY 1 — Oslo, Norway/Continental Hotel
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--hudnreds of life-size human figures set in rolling parklands. Next we visit the Polar Ship Fram Museum, dedicated to Norwegian explorers Nansen and Amundsen. The evening is free to try one of the harbor restaurants or turn in early. Overnight at the Continental Hotel, or similar. (B)

DAY 2 — Oslo/Longyearbyen/Embark Ship
Depart Oslo on our private charter flight (flights not included) over beautiful vistas to Longyearbyen. Embark our ship. (B,L,D)

DAY 3-8 — Exploring Svalbard
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 color and vitality to the High Arctic. (B,L,D)

DAY 9 — Longyearbyen/Disembark/Oslo
Disembark the National Geographic Explorer and explore Longyearbyen before we fly to Oslo. Overnight in the Radisson SAS Airport Hotel. (B,L)

DAY 10 — Oslo
Trip ends after breakfast. (B)

Map for National Geographic: An In-depth exploration of Arctic Svalbard

National Geographic Explorer

National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship, and the newest addition to the Lindblad fleet. It is a fully stabilized, ice-class vessel, enabling it to navigate polar passages while providing exceptional comfort. It carries kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac landing craft. An Undersea Specialist operates a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and sophisticated video equipment, extending access to the underwater world.

Capacity: 148 guests in 81 outside cabins.
Registry: Bahamas. Overall Length: 356 feet.
Public areas: Bistro Bar; Chart Room; Restaurant; Global Gallery; Library, Lounge with full service bar and state-of-the-art facilities for films, slideshows and presentations; Mud Room with lockers for expedition gear, and Observation Lounge. Our “Open Bridge” provides guests an opportunity to meet our Officers and Captain and learn about navigation.

Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with local flair.

Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes, private facilities and climate controls.

Expedition Equipment: Zodiac landing craft, kayaks, Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), hydrophone, SplashCam, underwater video camera, Crow’s Nest remote controlled camera, video microscope, snorkeling gear.

Special Features: A full-time doctor, Undersea Specialist, LEX Photo Specialist and Video Chronicler, Internet Cafe and laundry.

Wellness: The vessel is staffed by two Wellness Specialists and features a glass enclosed Fitness Center, outdoor stretching area, two LEXspa treatment rooms and Sauna.

Cabin layout for National Geographic Explorer