Svalbard Pioneer - Svalbard Circumnavigation Cruise

Our Svalbard circumnavigation cruise departs from the port of Longyearbyen in the afternoon. The overall schedule is flexible to allow us to see as much as possible and will be led by our highly experienced leader. Taking advantage of the beautiful 24-hour sunlight we will sail out of the Isfjord and towards Prins Karls Foreland where we will do shore landings and visit a walrus colony on day 2. Our plan is to sail north and attempt a clockwise circumnavigation of Spitsbergen.

As we head north we plan to call at the scientific community of Ny-Alesund, the most northerly inhabited settlement on earth which is home to an interesting historical site and museum. We will explore the majestic Kongsfjord and the fjords that branch into it. We will sail close to an impressive calving glacier face and there will also be an opportunity for hikes ashore with our expedition leader. If the conditions allow we will then sail north and attempt to reach the edge of the sea ice which extends all the way to the North Pole, a really impressive sight.

We will sail along the north coast of Spitsbergen keeping a lookout for wildlife including polar bears that inhabit the area. Depending on the sea ice conditions, we aim to continue along the north coast to reach the island of Nordaustlandet and cruise along the Austfonna Ice Cap, a truly breathtaking sight. If the sea ice doesn’t allow us access then the other option is to head south through the Hinlopen Strait. We aim to make shore landings on a daily basis to explore the majestic wilderness of this area.

We will follow the compass south and explore the region along the south coast of Spitsbergen. We will visit rarely visited landing sites and have lots of chances to take in the breathtaking nature, wildlife, and scenery. As we round the southern tip of Spitsbergen, we will enter the area around Hornsund where we will have a day to explore and do some wilderness hikes. We will then set sail north along the coast towards Longyearbyen.

Safely back in the port of Longyearbyen after our epic 14-day Svalbard circumnavigation cruise, we will enjoy a final breakfast together. We say our goodbyes and disembark in the morning after making new friends and sharing an incredible adventure together.

The above itinerary is a guide only. A part of any Arctic adventure is the flexibility to take advantage of the weather and ice conditions. Our expedition leader will make sure you see as much a possible.

Vessel Type: Ice Class Small Ship

Length: 45 meters

Passenger Capacity: 12

Explore the Arctic in style aboard our small expedition ship, the MV Freya. With a recently upgraded interior and a solid ice strengthened hull, this vessel is perfect for traversing Arctic waters, whilst retaining first class comforts. Originally used as a lighthouse-building vessel, MV Freya boasts spacious cabins and multiple viewing decks to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Arctic.

What we love about Freya

- The highest strength ice class hull ensures it is a go anywhere expedition ship.

- Classic style expedition ship with lots of space.

- All cabins have en-suite with comfortable beds.

- Large bridge area where guests are welcome to observe.

- On deck hot tub and sauna to warm up in after a day exploring.

- Multiple deck heights and viewing areas.

Key Features

- Accommodates 12 guests in 1 x double, 5 twin & 2 single cabins with windows and en-suite

- All cabins are spacious and cosy

- Large dining saloon with bar

- Passenger lounge with sofas.

- Equipped with 2 Zodiac landing crafts for shore landings

- Ample deck space to enjoy the view

- Fully staffed with experienced captain, crew and expedition leaders

Exterior

- On deck hot tub

- Multiple decks for wildlife viewing and photography with great vantage points

- Semi enclosed decks at the stern

- Accessible bow area 

- Open bridge policy with seating area to observe operations

Interior

- Guest lounge with comfortable sofas and library

- Large saloon with bar and dining area for 18 seated persons

- Classic style interior with a cosy charm

- Spacious cabins all above deck with ensuite

Vessel Type: Ice-Strengthened Expedition Vessel

Length: 41.8 m

Passenger Capacity: 12

Introducing MV Vikingfjord, a new ice-strengthened expedition vessel for 12 guests with great environmental credentials. MV Vikingfjord enters service in Svalbard for low impact expeditions in May 2023. She offers cruise ship comfort on a small ship with 9 ensuite cabins, an open plan saloon with rear facing windows, and on on deck hot tub and sauna.

What we love about Vikingfjord

• The most environmentally friendly small ship in the polar regions with a 95% reduction in NOX emissions.

• Large, open plan saloon and comfortable lounge located at the stern with sofas and large rear facing windows to enjoy the view. 

• 9 Spacious cabins with modern decor, comfortable beds and ensuite bathrooms with a choice between doubles, twins or singles.

• Enjoy a sauna or outdoor hot tub on the upper deck.  

• Lounge area on the bridge with a great view. 

• Ice strengthened hull with 1B rating for exploring the polar regions.

MV Vikingfjord Key Features:

• New energy efficient engine and NOX cleaning fitted in 2022 offering the best environmental credentials. 

• Rebuilt from the ground up in 2022 as a modern expedition vessel offering cruise ship comfort.

• Accommodates 12 guests in 9 ensuite cabins with windows that are all situated above the waterline.

• Modern interior finished to a high standard in 2023.

• Equipped with 2 x Zodiac landing crafts for shore landings

• Fully staffed with experienced captain, crew and expedition leaders.

Interior

• Large open plan guest area with lounge, dining and seating area located at the stern. Equipped with TV for presentations, mini bar and hot drink service. 

• Observation lounge area with seating area on the bridge. 

• Spacious cabins with ensuite toilet and shower. 

• Large mudroom and storage spaces for skis, and equipment.

Exterior

• Outdoor hot tub and sauna with a view on Deck 2. 

• Large viewing area on the bow.

• 4 open decks for lots of viewing options.

• Accessible bow deck.