South Spitsbergen - Bear Island - Norway Expedition Cruise

You touch down in Longyearbyen, the administrative center of Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago. Enjoy strolling around this former mining town, whose parish church and Svalbard Museum are fascinating attractions. Though the countryside appears stark, more than a hundred plant species have been recorded here. In the early evening, the ship sails out of Isfjorden, where we might spot the first minke whale of the voyage.

We start the day by quietly cruising the side fjords of the spectacular Hornsund area in southern Spitsbergen, enjoying the scenery of towering mountain peaks. The mountain of Hornsundtind rises to 1,431 meters (4,695 feet), while the peak of Bautaen testifies to why early Dutch explorers gave this island the name Spitsbergen, meaning "pointed mountains." There are 14 magnificent glaciers in the area, and we have a chance of encountering seals and polar bears. The bird cliffs are now mostly quiet, with many species having departed aside from some first-year fulmars.

We arrive at the southeastern end of Bear Island, an excellent place for viewing the high cliff faces and "Perleporten."

Northward, in Kvalrossbukta, the opportunity to land and visit the remains of a whaling station from early in the previous century should present itself. We might also land in a shallow valley, such as Rendalen.

Sailing southward, we are likely to see whales in the surrounding sea, and when night falls again, we have a good chance to see the Aurora Borealis in the skies above.

Tromsø, also known as the gate to the Arctic, has been an important town from where Arctic expeditions set out to the north for centuries. From here, one can fly to Oslo and beyond.

Itineraries are subject to change.

Vessel Type: Polar Class Expedition Ship

Length: 107.6 metres

Passenger Capacity: 170

Built: 2019

Hondius is a purpose-built Polar Class 6 expedition ship designed to operate safely and efficiently in the Arctic and Antarctica. Its ice-strengthened hull, advanced navigation systems, and powerful twin engines support fast repositioning and reliable performance in challenging polar conditions. Interiors follow a clean, mid-century modern style, with accommodation for 170 guests across a wide range of cabin types, from suites with balconies to porthole cabins for groups. Public spaces include an expansive observation lounge and a dedicated lecture room used for workshops and briefings, reinforcing the vessel’s focus on education and discovery rather than traditional cruise entertainment.

The ship is engineered for low environmental impact, using modern power management, LED lighting, and biodegradable materials. Shore access is prioritised through two gangways, an indoor Zodiac boarding area, and a large fleet of rigid-hull inflatables that support quick landings and near-shore exploration. With 70 crew, guides, and staff on board, Hondius offers the comfort of a well-run hotel while maintaining the flexibility required for wildlife encounters, shifting ice, and rapidly changing weather, ensuring maximum time in the field and minimal time at sea.

Vessel Type: Expediton

Length: 91m

Passenger Capacity: 108-123

Built / Refurbished : 1989 / 2015

Ortelius is a fully ice-strengthened Polar Class UL1 vessel built for demanding expeditions in one-year and multi-year sea ice. Originally constructed in 1989 for the Russian Academy of Science, its robust engineering and wide open-deck spaces make it well suited to deep-field exploration in the Arctic and Antarctica. The ship carries 108 passengers and operates with a substantial team of nautical crew, hotel staff, expedition leaders, and lecturers, supported by a fleet of ten Zodiacs for frequent shore landings and wildlife access. Interiors are functional and comfortable, offering standard hotel amenities alongside a lecture room and bar.

The vessel is designed for maximum time ashore and flexible routing, prioritising nature observation over traditional cruise programming. Some cabins may have partially obstructed views due to structural requirements, but the best vistas are always outside on deck or from the bridge. Ortelius offers stable performance, reliable ice navigation, and a straightforward, expedition-focused environment, making it a strong choice for travellers who want direct contact with polar landscapes without unnecessary embellishment.

Vessel Type: Expedition

Length: 89 metres

Passenger Capacity: 108 - 116

Built / refurbished: 1976 / 2009

Plancius is an ice-strengthened expedition ship purpose-built for oceanographic work and later rebuilt for passenger exploration, giving it a solid, capable feel that suits remote polar travel. Its diesel-electric propulsion keeps vibration low, while wide open decks, a walk-around viewing level, and a large observation lounge support long hours of wildlife watching. Cabins are simple, functional, and consistent in layout, all with private facilities, while shared spaces such as the lecture room and bar-lounge form the centre of the ship’s educational and social life.

The vessel carries 108 passengers and a full expedition team, supported by a large, international crew that maintains steady operations even in challenging conditions. Zodiac capacity and dual gangways ensure efficient landings, maximising time ashore throughout Antarctica and the Arctic. Plancius is not styled as a luxury ship; its value lies in reliability, stability, and an expedition-first approach that prioritises learning, terrain access, and time in the field.