Land of the Ice Bears: An In-Depth Exploration of Arctic Svalbard
July 23 - August 2
Experience nature in its purest form in the High Arctic. A remote archipelago situated just over 350 miles north of Norway's North Cape, Svalbard is a place of deep fjords, snow-capped mountains and massive sheets of ice. During summer, when the sun never sets, the tundra experiences a warm awakening. It is carpeted with a fleeting profusion of wildflowers. Ice-peppered fjords ring with the thunderous sound of glacial ice crashing to the sea.
This is as far north as it is possible to travel without an icebreaker. Join us for an Arctic expedition cruise under the midnight sun, aboard the fully stabilized ice-class expedition ship the National Geographic Explorer. Hike the rolling tundra in search of reindeer. Kayak around icebergs where walrus and seals reside.
The land and the sea welcome the animals that come in flocks, herds and pods to feast amid the plenty: huge herds of giant walrus; lone polar bears stalking the pack ice for seals; humpbacks, sperm whales, orcas and other species; herds of caribou ceaselessly grazing the tundra.
National Geographic Explorer
This state-of-the-art 1A ice-class expedition ship accommodates 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. It is fully stabilized, enabling it to navigate remote passages, and carries the most innovative tools for exploring polar and tropical regions as well as undersea. 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.
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 an observation lounge.
Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with a 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, Splash Cam, underwater video camera, Crow's Nest remote controlled camera, video microscope, and snorkeling gear.
Trip Details
Duration: 11 days
Activity Level: Moderately Active
Price: from $7,260 per person, double occupancy
Deposit: $1,000 per person payable to Lindblad Expeditions
Trip Partners: Alumnae Association of Smith College, Bryn Mawr Alumnae Association
Optional post-trip extensions to the Norwegian Fjords or Iceland are offered.