Arctic & Alaska

Svalbard in Summer – Tundra, Whales and Wildlife

11 Days aboard Ocean Explorer. From AUD $18,095$14,146pp.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details

Overview

Our 11-day Svalbard in Summer: Tundra, Whales and Wildlife is a rare chance to explore the Arctic as it comes fully alive when plant life and wildflowers are at their maximum numbers. It’s also possible during the Arctic summer to observe polar bears, walruses, Arctic foxes, and potentially belugas. With warmer temperatures, endless daylight, and snow cover receding, you’ll have plenty of chances to explore onshore by foot and by Zodiac to completely immerse yourself in the Arctic environment.

Save up to A$1550 pp

Book by 31 December 2025

Itinerary Highlights

  • Spot iconic Arctic wildlife— walruses, reindeer, Arctic foxes, and the elusive polar bear
  • Hike the tundra
  • Witness tens of thousands of cliff-dwelling birds
  • Spot baleen whales
  • Zodiac cruise tidewater glaciers
  • Explore Svalbard on ice-class polar vessels.

Itinerary in Brief

  • Day 1: Arrive in Helsinki, Finland
  • Day 2: Fly to Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and embark
  • Day 3 to 9: Summer in the Svalbard wilderness
  • Day 10: Disembark in Longyearbyen and fly to Helsinki
  • Day 11: Depart Helsinki

This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.

Ship Information

For more information on the Ocean Explorer please view the ship page.

View Ocean Explorer

Travelling with Eclipse

Peace of Mind
  • Eclipse Travel is Australian owned and run, and an ATAS accredited travel agent.
  • 24/7 emergency numbers and local contacts provided for support while you’re abroad.
  • We provide all the information you need to organise your visas and vaccinations, making travel preparation stress-free.
  • No currency surcharges. Once your deposit is paid, your price is guaranteed.
Specialists
  • Our consultants are true destination experts, with firsthand experience and extensive travel in the regions we offer.
  • Expect quick, professional responses and dedicated service from our knowledgeable team.
  • We conduct regular checks on destinations, hotels, and services to ensure quality for every trip.
Authentic Travel
  • Tailor-made itineraries designed around your unique requirements.
  • Freedom to select your preferred style and standard of accommodation.
  • Unique itineraries that take you beyond the major highlights, immersing you in each location.
  • Committed to responsible travel: we reinvest in the environment and local communities across our destinations.

Day 1: Arrive in Helsinki, Finland

Arrive in the Finnish capital and make your way to the group hotel located right at Helsinki airport—included in your Charter Flight and Hotel Package You will have the rest of the day to explore explore the many museums, galleries and restaurants, relax at a Finnish sauna or wander the vibrant Design District. If you do plan to visit Helsinki city center, take advantage of the convenient 40-minute rail service from the airport.

Day 2: Fly to Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and embark

After breakfast, the group will transfer to the Helsinki airport and board our private charter flight to Longyearbyen, as part of the Charter Flight & Hotel Package. Our journey to the High Arctic now truly begins. You will see the coastal and birch forests of southern Scandinavia give way to taiga and tundra environments, the mountains of Norway and northern Sweden, and the convergence of the Norwegian and Barents seas. Approaching Svalbard, you may get your first views of a pure, snow-capped wilderness, complete with ridgelines, glaciers, and perhaps even sea ice in the distance. We land in Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s largest settlement, and transfer to the harbor where we will embark on our ship.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 3 to 9: Summer in the Svalbard wilderness

Svalbard is a true Arctic environment, where many iconic species spend their entire lives, entwined with the winter and spring sea ice. But with the arrival of summer—brief as it is—the archipelago bursts to life as countless migratory species settle in to take advantage of the season’s endless daylight and abundant food. Chief among Svalbard’s summer migrants are seabirds, waterfowl, and other birds, joined by marine visitors such as baleen whales—including the mighty blue whale. Though wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, these giants are sometimes observed foraging in the rich Arctic waters. Under the midnight sun, plant life also flourishes. While less diverse than in southern regions, Svalbard hosts hundreds of plant, lichen, and moss species, from hardy grasses to vibrant wildflowers. For a few brief months, snow and ice are replaced by pockets of green and splashes of color, framed by snowcapped peaks —a fleeting transformation of the High Arctic landscape. Throughout the summer, sea ice fractures, melts and disperses. Many species that depend on it shift north and east where ice lingers, or remain ashore until it returns in late fall. While ice may be less frequent, the open water offers greater access to the archipelago’s northern and eastern reaches. If we do encounter ice, we’ll pause to explore it. At this time of year, wildlife is more often spotted in the water, along shorelines, or gathered in bustling bird colonies clinging to the cliffs. Some terrain here is nearly vertical, with seabirds colonizing every possible ledge. Little auks, guillemots, and puffins nest in rocky crevices, spending the brief summer flying back and forth to feed themselves and their chicks before their f irst flights and plunges. Looking upward while seated in a Zodiac, the sky may seem alive with more birds than you can count, and sometimes we’ll explore near these cliffs on foot. Keep watch for other iconic species too, such as Arctic terns, common eiders, and the occasional king eider. The sounds are astonishing—an Arctic “silence” feels alive with nature’s calls. Standing beneath towering seabird cliffs renders visitors speechless. Summer offers the chance to step ashore and walk on bare ground, though patches of snow can linger. We may hike into foothills, valleys, and Arctic beaches— land shared with polar bears. While sightings are farther inshore, their paw prints in sand or mud tell their story. Take time to look around and underfoot, where hardy vascular plants and wildflowers bloom. You might also spot driftwood—not from ancient Svalbard forests, but carried here by Arctic currents from Siberia, where tree trunks and branches are swept up in the Arctic currents, ultimately coming to rest here. Additionally, we may see reindeer, as they busily forage on the bountiful summer plant life. Although the weather in midsummer is often cool—even crisp—in midsummer, it’s possible to enjoy reasonably warm days in Svalbard. It’s a surreal experience—feeling the warmth of the summer sun knowing you’re less than 700 nautical miles from the North Pole. As summer warms and sea ice recedes, glaciers come alive—meltwater hastening erosion, tidewater glaciers calving ice with thunderous force. From a Zodiac amid icebergs and brash ice, listen for the crackle of melting ice, the lap of currents, and Arctic terns calling overhead. During summer, if conditions align, it might also be possible to visit some of Svalbard’s residents, be they trappers or researchers. There are a number of trappers’ cabins dotted across the archipelago, and the stories their occupants tell bring forth a life wrapped in resourcefulness, grit, humor, and hints of something approaching the magic of nature. With seven full expedition days in Svalbard, we aim to explore a wide range of locations. The order of our journey will be shaped by sea ice conditions, which vary daily. Potential destinations include the spectacular fjord systems of Hornsund, Bellsund, Isfjorden, Krossfjorden, Smeerenburgfjorden, Raudfjorden, Woodfjorden, Sorgfjorden, and others. These fjords feature dramatic mountains rising directly from the sea, folding into endless layers. Glaciers spill from the highlands, many reaching the water’s edge where they calve into the sea. Throughout Svalbard, we may find previously mentioned seabird colonies and other wildlife, as they are distributed throughout the archipelago of islands.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 10: Disembark in Longyearbyen and fly to Helsinki

The time to say goodbye has come. Your adventure ends as it began, in the frontier settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your charter flight to Helsinki, and group hotel night. Both are included in your Charter Flight & Hotel Package.

Breakfast included.

Day 11: Depart Helsinki

After breakfast at your included hotel, make your way independently to the Helsinki airport for your onward flight home, or spend more time exploring the Finnish capital as prearranged.

This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.

Breakfast included.

Next Departure Date: 02 Jun 2027
DatesCabinFromAdditional
02 Jun 2027 - 12 Jun 2027 AUD$14146ppExpand to view prices - Includes specials!
Deluxe Veranda FwdAUD $18095pp AUD$14146ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Veranda StateroomAUD $18995pp AUD$14916ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Veranda SuiteAUD $20095pp AUD$15856ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Studio SingleAUD $23695pp AUD$18934ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Junior SuiteAUD $23695pp AUD$18934ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Studio Veranda SingleAUD $25595pp AUD$20559ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Penthouse SuiteAUD $27495pp AUD$22183ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
Owner's SuiteAUD $29395pp AUD$23808ppSave up to A$1550, Pay in full at the time of booking and save extra 5%, Save 10%
10 Jun 2027 - 20 Jun 2027 AUD$14317ppExpand to view prices - Includes specials!
18 Jun 2027 - 28 Jun 2027 AUD$14830ppExpand to view prices - Includes specials!
26 Jun 2027 - 06 Jul 2027 AUD$14830ppExpand to view prices - Includes specials!
04 Jul 2027 - 14 Jul 2027 AUD$14830ppExpand to view prices - Includes specials!
12 Jul 2027 - 22 Jul 2027 AUD$14830ppExpand to view prices - Includes specials!

*CHARTER FLIGHT & HOTEL PACKAGE INCLUDES:

  • Pre- and post-expedition hotel nights at Helsinki airport hotel, with breakfast
  • Charter flight from Helsinki to Longyearbyen
  • Arrival and departure transfers in Longyearbyen
  • Charter flight from Longyearbyen to Helsinki

Package Price: $1,495 USD

**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply

Cabin Details

Studio Single

Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Studio Single
Studio Single
Deluxe Veranda Fwd

Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Deluxe Veranda Fwd
Deluxe Veranda Fwd
Veranda Stateroom

Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

Veranda Stateroom
Veranda Stateroom
Veranda Suite

Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Veranda Suite
Veranda Suite
Junior Suite

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

Junior Suite
Junior Suite
Studio Veranda Single

Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Studio Veranda Single
Studio Veranda Single
Penthouse Suite

This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

Penthouse Suite
Penthouse Suite
Owner's Suite

This massive 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 443 sq. f (41.2 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom. The inner bedroom has a private en-suite with a bathdub, vanity and heated floor. The outer room is furnished with a sofabed, club chair and 4-seat dining table. Walk-out from either room to a triple sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and an additional private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor for the outer room.

Owner's Suite
Owner's Suite

Ocean Explorer Deckplan

deck plan

Specifications

  • Infinity class vessel delivered in 2021 by SunStone Maritime Group, the largest expedition-only shipbuilding provider in the world. 
  • 138-passengers. 
  • Built for polar expeditions with an Ice Class 1A and PC6 rating. 
  • Staff and Crew: 105
  • Length: 342 ft (104.4m)
  • Draft: 17.3ft (5.3m)
  • Lifeboats: 2
  • Ice Class: 1A, PC6
  • Registration: Bahamas
  • Zodiacs: 15
  • Cruising Speed: 16.5 knows, in open water

Ocean Explorer is among the most technologically-advanced ships in the industry—it features: 

  • Ulstein X-Bow - a unique inverted bow design to slice through rough seas, minimizing vibration for faster transits with lower fuel consumption. 
  • Zero-speed stabilizers that keep things smooth while sailing, but also level and steady when at rest. 
  • Safe Return to Port system, providing duplicate power to keep the operating and comfort systems working even in cases of engine failure 
  • Dynamic positioning is a computer-controlled system to automatically maintain a vessel's position and heading by using its own propellers and thrusters. 

What's included?

  • Parka to keep
  • Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities
  • All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program
  • All shore landings as per the daily program
  • Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
  • All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible.)
  • Free beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
  • Complimentary select beer, wines and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
  • Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
  • A photographic journal documenting the expedition
  • A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
  • Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data-intensive applications.) Note: Internet access in the polar regions is subject to geography, climate, and other factors beyond our control.
  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
  • All luggage handling aboard the ship
  • Transfers between Longyearbyen town center, port and airport embarkation and disembarkation day.

What's not?

  • Charter Flight & Hotel Package*
  • International airfare
  • Arrival and departure transfers in Helsinki
  • Passport and visa expenses
  • Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above
  • Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended
  • Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights
  • Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
  • Laundry, bar, and spa and other personal charges unless specified
  • Phone charges may vary by location
  • Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew
  • Additional overnight accommodation
  • Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities

Important notes and additional information

*CHARTER FLIGHT & HOTEL PACKAGE INCLUDES:

  • Pre- and post-expedition hotel nights at Helsinki airport hotel, with breakfast
  • Charter flight from Helsinki to Longyearbyen
  • Arrival and departure transfers in Longyearbyen
  • Charter flight from Longyearbyen to Helsinki

Package Price: $1,495 USD

Adventure Options

  • Sea Kayak: $1,795 USD
  • Paddling Excursion: $295 USD

Price Assurance

At Eclipse Travel, our expert destination knowledge and decades of travel planning experience come at no extra cost to you. While many think booking through a tour operator is more expensive than planning a trip independently, that’s not the case. We’re paid by our travel partners—such as hotels, activity operators, and cruise providers—via commissions, not by our clients.

Our team negotiates the best rates for you and ensures you receive unbiased advice, with no preference for any particular supplier. In fact, where we secure higher commissions, we often pass the savings on to you, giving us a competitive price edge.

Additionally, we lock in exchange rates at the time of your deposit, ensuring no surprise costs when it’s time for final payment. You can rest easy knowing we’ll handle the details with our suppliers. The only exceptions are national park fee increases or fuel surcharges imposed after your booking, though these are rare.

Take advantage of our team’s expertise and let us help you plan the perfect holiday—hassle-free!

Destination: Arctic

Viking history, Inuit villages and an abundance of wildlife are just some of the wonders you’ll discover in the Arctic. You’ll be amazed by the natural beauty that surrounds you. Search for Polar Bears while cruising through breathtaking fjords or around the nature lovers dream, Spitsbergen.

Downloadable travel guide

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Svalbard in Summer – Tundra, Whales and Wildlife

11 Days aboard Ocean Explorer. From AUD $18,095$14,146pp.