Arctic
Svalbard, Greenland & Iceland
Arctic
Arctic
Embark on a thrilling expedition from Bodø to Svalbard. Explore the Lofoten Archipelago, the majestic fjords of Tromsø, the bird colonies of Gjesværstappan and Nordkapp, before venturing into the sea ice and gargantuan glaciers of the High Arctic.
Duration: 10 days / 9 nights on board.
Starts: Bodø, Norway
Ends: Longyearbyen, Svalbard
Language: English speaking voyage
The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
$500/pp mandatory charter flight is added to every invoice
Ship Cruise More info about this activity
Not only we travel from one point to another and find our shelter on board the ship we chose. We also enjoy from incredible scenery, landscapes and interactions that only our noble vessel can provide.
Everyday the Bridge Team navigates the ship to position ourselves on the best posible spots, looking for unique opportunities.
Many times, this includes sainig through narrow passages, on the vicinity of glaciers or entering bays and fjords only approachable from the ship.
Enjoy this incredible places from the comfort of the common areas on board, open decks or your own private balcony!
Shore Excursion More info about this activity
Shore excursions are the backbone of almost all itineraries, with most ships making landfall at least once every day once they reach their destination. The weather plays a huge role in your daily itinerary, although given the sheer array of fantastic landing sites all over there are plenty of options your Captain and Expedition Leader can choose from. On-shore excursions allow you to visit scientific research stations, communities, prominent wildlife colonies and take hikes to elevated viewing points for fantastic photography.
Photo Workshop More info about this activity
The photography workshops are composed of onboard lectures and practical activities led by dedicated expedition guide. Each session is meant to give you additional skills you can put into immediate practice out in nature.
You'll become more familiar with your own camera equipment while also learning best practices for taking pictures of moving wildlife and wide-open terrain in typical polar conditions, such as dim lighting and falling snow.
Zodiac cruising More info about this activity
On board the Zodiac you will discover a world of possibilities; accessing the most exclusive landing sites, cruising the coast in search of wildlife or simply enjoying a tour in the calm of the polar regions in search of marine wildlife or bird colonies.
The blue ice an its intimate presence is experienced at its best on zodiac tours.
It is not uncommon to meet curious seals, or humpback whales feeding.
Enrichment Program More info about this activity
Expedition cruising must be one of the most incredible ways of travelling. Not only for the amazing places you visit and the unforgetable wildlife but for the wildlife, the sensory overload and the unimaginable memories.
But all of this needs a context in order to understand where you are and what you are experiencing.
On board your expedition vessell you will find a group of experts, naturalists, zodiac drivers and guides that that will translate the language of nature for you, telling you the stories of the places you are visiting, reviewing the historical, biological, ecological and geological aspects of your trips.
You will experience first hand what surrounds you and arrive back home wiser and loaded with new knowledge.
Citizen Science More info about this activity
There’s important work being done every day, at some of the most renowned climate research facilities around the world, to record and study the incredible changes happening in remote places like Antarctica and th Arctic. As you might imagine, gathering critical on-site data on a regular basis would be a virtually impossible task for these groups. So we do it for them, in partnership with different research facilities.
If you’d like to get a first-hand look at how climate change is impacting our birds, sea life, glaciers, oceans, and weather patterns, and help scientists better understand our evolving planet, you’re welcome to join our Citizen Science program. And don’t let the word “science” scare you. We make it informative, interactive, and fun.
Hiking More info about this activity
Hiking options include very easy beach hikes (good for photographers who need time for photography), easier short hikes, medium-difficulty extended hikes, and more challenging long hikes.
Charter Flights More info about this activity
In departures with charter flights, part of the air transport segment is covered by the operation of the trip as part of the itinerary.
Check in the inclusions and exclusions of the program which air sections are included in your itinerary.
Kayaking More info about this activity
The experience of sea kayaking in the humbling wilderness of Antarctica or the Arctic is guaranteed to stir your soul.
Sea kayaking is one of the highlights for any Polar Traveller, providing ice and weather conditions are assessed as safe by your Expedition Team.
This activity requires previous kayaking experience.
Embark on a thrilling voyage through the wilds of Norway and Svalbard – the wildlife paradise of the High Arctic. This carefully crafted voyage begins in the bustling Arctic city of Bodø before entering the legendary Lofoten Archipelago, after which we will sail through the magnificent fjords of Norway to arrive at Tromsø, capital of the Arctic. Next, we explore the incredible bird colonies of Gjesværstappan before visiting legendary Nordkapp from the charming village of Skarsvåg.
Our adventure continues as we strike out into the Arctic Ocean, exploring the wildlife-rich cliffs of Bear Island before arriving on Svalbard, Norway’s High Arctic nature paradise. Our voyage concludes with four full, jaw-dropping days exploring this Arctic jewel before finishing in Longyearbyen, one of Earth’s northernmost communities. From the fjords and fells of Norway to the glaciers and tundra of Svalbard, this is our most comprehensive Scandinavian itinerary ever!
Highlights:
Cruising the legendary Lofoten Archipelago and visiting the picturesque villages of Reine and Leknes.
Exploring the incredible bird colonies of Gjesværstappan and the world-famous Nordkapp plateau.
Zodiac excursions along the magnificent, wildlife-rich sea cliffs of Bear Island.
Four full days exploring the jaw-dropping glaciers, fjords, and tundra of Svalbard.
Venturing into the shifting Arctic sea ice in search of polar bears and other High Arctic wildlife.
Day 1: Embarkation
Gateway to the Arctic
Gateway to the Arctic and surrounded by dramatic peaks, Bodø is a lively coastal city where modern Norwegian life meets the edge of the wilderness. Just outside town lies Saltstraumen, one of the strongest tidal currents in the world, drawing seabirds and marine life to its churning waters. Your expedition vessel awaits in the harbor. After embarkation and a mandatory safety briefing and drill, join your Expedition Team on deck as we set sail north toward Norway’s legendary Lofoten Archipelago.
Day 2: Lofoten (Reine & Leknes), Norway
Granite peaks and crystal-clear fjords
Wake to the dramatic landscapes of Norway’s legendary Lofoten Archipelago, where towering granite peaks rise straight from crystal-clear fjords and colorful fishing villages cling to the shoreline. Our first stop is Reine, set against a backdrop of jagged mountains. We continue to Leknes, the vibrant heart of the archipelago, offering a taste of local culture, coastal tradition, white-sand beaches, and incredible hiking.
Day 3: Tromsø
Capital of the Scandinavian Arctic
The largest city in the Scandinavian Arctic, Tromsø is the unofficial capital of North Norway. The city sits on an island, where majestic bridges cross the fjord to hillsides holding attractions such as the Fjellheisen Cable Car and the Arctic Cathedral. The city has been the jumping-off point for many Arctic expeditions—a heritage visitors can discover at the Polar Museum near the main square.
Day 4: Gjesværstappan and Skarsvåg
Bird sanctuary and Nordkapp gateway
Near the fishing village of Gjesvær is a collection of rocky skerries and islets famed for their incredible birdlife. Join local boat captains to explore these islands, home to guillemots and white-tailed eagles. In the afternoon, we come ashore at the tiny fishing village of Skarsvåg, the northernmost fishing village on Earth and gateway to the world-famous Nordkapp plateau.
Day 5: Bjørnøya/Bear Island
Sea cliffs and polar history
The precipitous sea cliffs on Bear Island are home to enormous colonies of seabirds, especially fulmars, kittiwakes, and guillemots. Prowling Arctic foxes patrol the flatter areas of the island, so these birds cluster on the rocky cliffs. Join your Expedition Team aboard the Zodiacs to explore this magnificent sight from the water.
Day 6: South Svalbard
Lush fjords and green tundra
Our first landfall in the magnificent archipelago of Svalbard will be amid the lush green fjords of the south. This area is incredibly rich in wildlife and holds numerous historical sites, such as Bamsebu and Calypsobyen. Grassy tundra meadows, such as those found at Vårsolbukta, offer food for herds of diminutive Svalbard reindeer and barnacle geese.
Day 7: Northwest Svalbard
Northwest Spitsbergen National Park
Comprising the mountainous northwestern coast of Spitsbergen and countless fjords and islands, this region was once heavily degraded by whalers and trappers. Thankfully, nature has rebounded, and the whole region is now protected within Northwest Spitsbergen National Park, making it one of the most stunning, wildlife-rich regions in the Arctic.
Day 8: Into the Ice
Exploring Arctic sea ice
To the north of Svalbard lies the enormous, ever-shifting Arctic sea ice. Look closer and the wonders of this seascape reveal themselves: from tiny fish flickering between flakes of ice to flocks of fulmars, eiders, and guillemots, all the way up to snoozing seals and maybe even the legendary polar bear. Bundle up and join your Expedition Team on deck.
Day 9: Kongsfjorden Region
Breathtaking fjords and polar science
We sail into breathtaking Kongsfjorden, a vast fjord system backed by the Three Crowns mountains. The only settlement here is the research town of Ny-Ålesund, one of the world’s northernmost year-round communities, historically a base for explorers Roald Amundsen and Umberto Nobile.
Day 10: Longyearbyen, Disembarkation
Final morning of expedition
We arrive in the charmingly unusual town of Longyearbyen, one of Earth’s northernmost communities. Spend time exploring its excellent local shops, cafés, and restaurants. After a fond farewell to the Expedition Staff and Crew of Ocean Albatros, explore this remarkable town before returning to the airport with memories of a lifetime.
Day 1: Embarkation
Gateway to the Arctic
Gateway to the Arctic and surrounded by dramatic peaks, Bodø is a lively coastal city where modern Norwegian life meets the edge of the wilderness. Just outside town lies Saltstraumen, one of the strongest tidal currents in the world, drawing seabirds and marine life to its churning waters. Your expedition vessel awaits in the harbor. After embarkation and a mandatory safety briefing and drill, join your Expedition Team on deck as we set sail north toward Norway’s legendary Lofoten Archipelago.
Day 2: Lofoten (Reine & Leknes), Norway
Granite peaks and crystal-clear fjords
Wake to the dramatic landscapes of Norway’s legendary Lofoten Archipelago, where towering granite peaks rise straight from crystal-clear fjords and colorful fishing villages cling to the shoreline. Our first stop is Reine, set against a backdrop of jagged mountains. We continue to Leknes, the vibrant heart of the archipelago, offering a taste of local culture, coastal tradition, white-sand beaches, and incredible hiking.
Day 3: Tromsø
Capital of the Scandinavian Arctic
The largest city in the Scandinavian Arctic, Tromsø is the unofficial capital of North Norway. The city sits on an island, where majestic bridges cross the fjord to hillsides holding attractions such as the Fjellheisen Cable Car and the Arctic Cathedral. The city has been the jumping-off point for many Arctic expeditions—a heritage visitors can discover at the Polar Museum near the main square.
Day 4: Gjesværstappan and Skarsvåg
Bird sanctuary and Nordkapp gateway
Near the fishing village of Gjesvær is a collection of rocky skerries and islets famed for their incredible birdlife. Join local boat captains to explore these islands, home to guillemots and white-tailed eagles. In the afternoon, we come ashore at the tiny fishing village of Skarsvåg, the northernmost fishing village on Earth and gateway to the world-famous Nordkapp plateau.
Day 5: Bjørnøya/Bear Island
Sea cliffs and polar history
The precipitous sea cliffs on Bear Island are home to enormous colonies of seabirds, especially fulmars, kittiwakes, and guillemots. Prowling Arctic foxes patrol the flatter areas of the island, so these birds cluster on the rocky cliffs. Join your Expedition Team aboard the Zodiacs to explore this magnificent sight from the water.
Day 6: South Svalbard
Lush fjords and green tundra
Our first landfall in the magnificent archipelago of Svalbard will be amid the lush green fjords of the south. This area is incredibly rich in wildlife and holds numerous historical sites, such as Bamsebu and Calypsobyen. Grassy tundra meadows, such as those found at Vårsolbukta, offer food for herds of diminutive Svalbard reindeer and barnacle geese.
Day 7: Northwest Svalbard
Northwest Spitsbergen National Park
Comprising the mountainous northwestern coast of Spitsbergen and countless fjords and islands, this region was once heavily degraded by whalers and trappers. Thankfully, nature has rebounded, and the whole region is now protected within Northwest Spitsbergen National Park, making it one of the most stunning, wildlife-rich regions in the Arctic.
Day 8: Into the Ice
Exploring Arctic sea ice
To the north of Svalbard lies the enormous, ever-shifting Arctic sea ice. Look closer and the wonders of this seascape reveal themselves: from tiny fish flickering between flakes of ice to flocks of fulmars, eiders, and guillemots, all the way up to snoozing seals and maybe even the legendary polar bear. Bundle up and join your Expedition Team on deck.
Day 9: Kongsfjorden Region
Breathtaking fjords and polar science
We sail into breathtaking Kongsfjorden, a vast fjord system backed by the Three Crowns mountains. The only settlement here is the research town of Ny-Ålesund, one of the world’s northernmost year-round communities, historically a base for explorers Roald Amundsen and Umberto Nobile.
Day 10: Longyearbyen, Disembarkation
Final morning of expedition
We arrive in the charmingly unusual town of Longyearbyen, one of Earth’s northernmost communities. Spend time exploring its excellent local shops, cafés, and restaurants. After a fond farewell to the Expedition Staff and Crew of Ocean Albatros, explore this remarkable town before returning to the airport with memories of a lifetime.
INCLUSIONS
Arrival transfer to ship (Day 1).
General description: Shipboard en-suite accommodation (days/nights as per itinerary) in your selected and paid category
Waterproof Expedition jacket, yours to keep, and rubber style muck boots on loan for the duration of your expedition
English-speaking Expedition Team
Guided walks, nature hikes, Zodiac landings and excursions, as per itinerary, guided by our Expedition Team (excluding optional activities with cost)
Briefings and educational lectures by the Expedition Team
Citizen Science Program
All meals on the ship (full board): breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
Complimentary house wine, beer, and soft drinks at dinner (selected labels and brands)
From 2027: Complimentary house wine, beer, and soft drinks at lunch and dinner (selected labels and brands. Wine excluded at lunch)
24-hour access to tea, coffee, and ‘Grab and Go’ comfort food
Welcome and Farewell Cocktail Parties
Taxes and landing fees
1GB Complimentary WiFi for use on your personal device
Digital Expedition Memento, including a curated selection of photos, videos, expedition log and map, and wildlife list
Exclusive Suite Inclusions: Available on Ocean Albatros: Junior Suite (Cat A), Balcony Suite (Cat B), Brynhilde Suite & Freydis Suite only, and Ocean Victory: Junior Suite (Cat A), Balcony Suite (Cat B) & Freydis Suite only: Wine and fruit platter on arrival, restocked in-suite mini bar (non-alcoholic) and complimentary laundry service throughout your expedition
EXCLUSIONS
International or internal airfares unless listed in the itinerary
Excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Meals and beverages not listed as included
Voluntary gratuity for the crew and Expedition Team (we recommend USD 20 per person per day)
Personal expenses such as spa services, boutique purchases, bar, laundry, and communications unless specified
Mandatory travel insurance (must meet mandatory minimum coverage requirements for medical treatment and evacuation)
Visa, reciprocity, and passport fees
Medical care or emergency evacuation
Expedition Jacket and rubber muck-style boots outside of available sizes. Please enquire for more details.
Life jackets for selected minors. Please enquire for more details.
Anything not mentioned under ’Inclusions”
Post-voyage airport transfer
There are two Triple Staterooms on board Ocean Albatros featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they\\\\\\\'re close to the mudroom and loading platforms.
Triple staterooms are normally with twin beds however a double bed can be accommodated.
Triple Stateroom (Porthole) - 22 m2
Features
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
The standard Stateroom on Ocean Albatros is close to the Mudroom and has quick access to the Zodiac platforms for disembarkation during landings. This is very convenient if you have more limited mobility and would like a short distance to the Zodiacs. The State Rooms are perfect for those who wish a comfortable base during their stay onboard Ocean Albatros. The standard State Rooms all have a double bed or 2 single beds and a bathroom. The State Rooms are located on deck 3 and 4.
Albatros Stateroom (Porthole) - 13-22 m2
Features
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
The French Balcony Suite is a standard Stateroom with a French balcony, a double bed or two single beds, floor-to-ceiling windows and a bathroom. All French Balcony Suites are located on Deck 7.
French Balcony Suite 16 m2
Features
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
Superior Balcony Stateroom app. 24 m2, including the balcony
Features
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
The most abundant type of Stateroom on Ocean Albatros is located on decks 4 & 6. They have a balcony, a double bed or two single beds, a bathroom.
Several of the Balcony Staterooms also include a seating area complete with a table and chair. Additionally, a select few of the Balcony Staterooms are equipped with a sofa that can serve as a bed for a third occupant.
Balcony Stateroom - app. 18-22 m2
Características
Vistas exteriores
Zona de estar con sillas o sofá y mesa
Minibar de cortesía
Televisor de pantalla plana
Teléfono
Caja fuerte para guardar sus objetos de valor
Control de temperatura independiente
Artículos de tocador de lujo
Secador de pelo
Grand Balcony Stateroom app. 30 m2, including the balcony
Ocean Albatros has 6 Balcony Suites on board located on decks 4 & 6. The suites feature double or twin beds and a work desk, bathroom, and a large balcony. The balcony suites can host 2 people.
Features
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
Standard single Stateroom onboard, located on deck 3. This is a conveniently located State Room close to the Mudroom which facilitates access to the Zodiacs during embarkation and disembarkation to begin your adventures.
Single Stateroom (Porthole) - 14 m2
Features
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
Ocean Albatros has 6 Balcony Suites on board located on decks 4 & 6. The suites feature double or twin beds and a seating area, bathroom, and a large balcony. The balcony suites can host 2 people.
Two of the Category B Balcony Suites are larger in size and are equipped with HCP facilities, such as larger bathrooms and easy-access doorways.
Balcony Suite approximately - 25-32 m2
Features
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
The 4 junior suites aboard Ocean Albatros have a great view from their location high up on the ship on deck 7.
The suites feature a double bed or twin beds, sofa bed, seating area, a spacious bathroom and a private balcony. The suite can accommodate up to 3 people.
Junior suite - 39 m2
Features
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
The second largest of all the staterooms on board the Ocean Albatros is the Premium Suite. This 2-bedroom suite features a double bed (or twin beds), a sofa bed, table and chair, a balcony and a spacious bathroom. Located on deck.4.
Premium suite - 45 m2 – FS (Freydis Suite)
Features
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
The largest of all the staterooms on board the Ocean Albatros is the Family Suite. The Double-Bedroom, Family Suite is located on Deck 7, featuring two interconnecting French Balcony Suites, accommodating up to 5 people on two double beds and a sofa bed.
Family suite - 50 m2 – BS (Brynhilde Suite)
Features
Exterior views
Sitting area with chairs or sofa and table
Complimentary Mini-Bar
Flat Screen TV
Telephone
Safe to store your valuables
Independent temperature controls
Luxury toiletries
Hair dryer
* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.
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