VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS
Like no other Polar destinaton, Greenland offers close interaction and unique cultural experiences together with breathtaking nature. In the Disco Bay area, colourful villages cling to rough, rocky hills surrounding the inland ice. 80% of Greenland is covered by ice and we recommend you always have your camera handy as icebergs of every imaginable shape and size may appear at any time.
The World's Biggest Island
Starting in Iceland, we sail to Greenland's southern coast where you have a chance to discover this rugged, mountainous land with the enormous Ice Sheet at its centre and welcoming people at its core. We will visit lush settlements in the South so you can experience the culture and way of life first hand
Explore the heart of Greenland
Then onwards to the highlights of Disco Bay. Greenland's arctic wilderness offers some of the most spectacular and pristine scenery anywhere on earth. It is the largest island on the planet, and its frozen coastline has witnessed the birth of some of nature's most breathtaking creations. Here the struggle for survival has imbued local culture with a healthy respect for the environment
See this unique interaction of man and nature first hand, as we sail through a landscape rich in culture, history and spectacular wildlife, towards the northern lands of the Midnight Sun. This expedition was created to introduce you to the amazing variety of Greenland from wonders of nature, to small villages and larger towns. Experience Greenland's fascinating culture, visit historical sites from the Viking era, and enjoy the beautiful Ilulissat Icefjord.
Departs From
Reykjavik, Iceland
The Journey begins
Location: Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland's capital Reykjavik is a vibrant city, rich with history and culture, while close to unparalleled natural beauty such as glaciers, waterfalls, geysers and mountains. Enjoy discovering Reykjavik on your own before you embark on MS Spitsbergen in the afternoon.
Explore
Location: The Denmark Strait
We leave Iceland behind and sail across the Denmark Strait to reach Greenland. The Denmark Strait connects the Greenland Sea to the Erminger Sea. This crossing was used by the Vikings to migrate from Iceland to South Greenland some 1,000 years ago, calculating their distance to land by tracking the direction of flight of sea birds. The Denmark Strait was also a WWII battleground, with the Royal Navy and German Kriegsmarine battling on the 24th of May 1941. The British battle ship HMS Prince of Wales fought the largest German battle ship, the Bismarck, which was attempting to reach the North Atlantic in order to attack the allied merchant marine.
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Location: Tasiusaq, Greenland
Tasiusaq is a small picturesque village in the Tasermiut fjord in South Greenland. The settlement is not connected to any other place via roads. In the Greenlandic language, the name of the settlement means "a bay with a small outlet". We will also spend time exploring the Tasermuit Fjord, a place that National Geographic considers to be among the top 10 most spectacular places in the world. With imposing cliffs, crystal-clear rivers, blue glaciers and majestic icebergs the area offers great opportunities for kayaking and hiking. In the end of the fjord you will see South Greenland’s largest hanging glacier.
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Location:Uunartoq and Qaqortoq
Come ashore on the uninhabited island of Uunartoq. This small island is blessed with natural hot springs warm enough to bathe in. Scattered around the island are a number of pools fed by hot springs bubbling up from the ground below, keeping the water temperature a balmy 34-38 degrees, even during the freezing winter. The springs are set in a completely natural environment, in the middle of a grassy field, surrounded by mountain peaks and drifting icebergs. Soak in the warm water and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. Many consider Qaqortoq one of the most beautiful towns in Greenland for it´s array of colourful houses. The excursions on offer here include an interesting visit to the only tannery in Greenland, a city walk with guide, and a kaffemik to meet the locals and share a traditional open-house coffee.
Explore
Location: Ivittuut
The abandoned mining town of Ivittuut is a stronghold for musk oxen. The settlement was built on top of the so-called Norse Middle settlement. More than a thousand years ago, Vikings settled the area with about twenty farms. It is the smallest and least well known of the Norse settlements on Greenland, and no written records of its residents have been found. This is why archaeologists believe it was the last one established, and the first to be abandoned. We might meet some of the hunters who return to seek shelter in the old houses by the sea
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Location: Kapisillit
Enjoy exploring the fjord Nuup Kangerlua, which is a 160 km (99.4 mi) It was formerly known as Godthaab Fjord, Gilbert Sound and Baal's River. It is the longest fjord on the Labrador Sea coast of Greenland, and one of the longest in the inhabited part of the country. Snow-capped mountains, towering waterfalls, and gleaming icebergs can all be found in its waters and coastlines. We will enter the eastern part of the fjord system and visit the small settlement of Kapisillit. Kapisillit means “salmon” in the Greenlandic language. The name refers to the belief that the only spawning-ground for salmon in Greenland is a river near the settlement. The village has less than 100 year-round residents, most of whom are hunters and fishermen.
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Location: Maniitsoq
Since Maniitsoq is situated in an archipelago, intersected by small natural canals, the locals have dubbed the town the “Venice of Greenland”. Still, situated between the rugged peaks of the Eternity Fjord and huge glaciers, this is where all comparisons to Venice end. The town name means “The uneven place” and refers to the many rocky knolls and small mountains shaping the structural layout of the town. Small roads and wooden stairs connect the colourful houses. The exhibitions at Maniitsoq Museum provide a good introduction to local culture and history. The town also has a supermarket, Brugseni, and a few smaller convenience stores. But it is the surrounding landscape that impresses the most, and the area is perfect for kayaking. In the ocean waters nearby, humpback whales are particularly playful and love to show off with aerial acrobatics and tail whips. Enjoy a day exploring this tiny town set in majestic nature.
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Location: Sisimut
Sisimiutis situated 40 km north of the Arctic Circle. The name means “the people living in a place where there are fox dens”. This is the second largest town in Greenland, a modern settlement that maintains ancient traditions. Our optional shore excursions include hikes, boat trips and sightseeing. You can also watch local artists sculpt jewellery and crafts from bone, leather and metal, or taste Greenlandic specialities in a local restaurant.
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Location: Camp Frieda
We will visit a location near Saqqaq, around 70°N, 51°W, that was without an official name until 2013. The place has special significance to Friederike Bronny, one of our Expedition team members. As a young geology student, she spent a year in a tent in this small valley. She also visited the spot several times later as an Expedition Leader. A few years ago, MS Fram was planning to land here, and the captain needed to inform the authorities. Unfortunately, this particular site didn’t have a name. So the captain said, ‘At Hurtigruten we call it “Camp Frieda”.’ Not long after, the authorities relayed back that, from that moment on, Camp Frieda would be the official name of the position.
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Location: Ilulissat
Ilulissat is set in the stunning scenery of the Ilulissat Icefjord. The area was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2004. Just outside the town, at the mouth of the fjord, you can often see enormous icebergs that have run aground. They originate from the Jakobshavn Glacier, one of the most productive glaciers in the Northern Hemisphere. These mighty icebergs are unique - no two are alike. Marvel at the changes in hue of the ice - from white and blue to shades of orange and red - when the iceberg surface is struck by the midnight sun. Hear the icebergs’ soundtrack of cracking and rumbling, as the sounds echo from one end of Ilulissat to the other. We offer a variety of optional shore excursions such as hikes, historic town walks and a boat tour to the Icefjord.
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Location: Qeqertarsuaq
Qeqertarsuaq is the only town situated on the volcanic island of Disco. Greenlandic legend says that two seal hunters were annoyed that the island stood in their way. Using a single hair from an infant, they towed the island up north behind their kayaks. A witch in Ilulissat did not like this lush, green island approaching, and cast a spell on it to run aground.\n \nThis verdant island in the midst of ice offers amazing Arctic experiences. Join optional excursions like a guided town tour, kayaking or an ice cruising boat trip. If you like archaeology and history, you should definitely pay a visit to the local museum. Feel free to stroll around the settlement on your own.
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Location: Itilleq
Itilleq means “the hollow”, and as its name suggests, this small settlement is situated in a hollow, majestically surrounded by high mountains and glaciers. Around 130 people live here, mainly engaged in hunting and fishing. The island has no freshwater, and for this reason Itilleq makes use of a facility for creating freshwater from seawater. The church here has an interesting history: It was built in Thule (Umanak- North Greenland) in 1930 and was moved to Itilleq in 1963. Itilleq can truthfully be called the Arctic Circle Village, as the Arctic Circle is indeed found only 200 metres to the south.
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Location: Nuuk
Nuuk is the oldest town in Greenland and is situated at the mouth of one of the largest and most spectacular fjord systems in the world. Today this is where old and new traditions meet, from picturesque historic buildings in ”Kolonihaven” to the centre for Greenland Home Rule. Being the capital, Nuuk also houses a university, a teachers training college, churches and the Greenland National Museum - home to the mummies from Qilakilsoq. City tours, hikes and possibly a scenic flight are amongst the optional excursions.
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Location: Paamiut
Continuing south, we enjoy the Greenlandic scenery as we head for Paamiut, an area where people have been living since around 1500 BC. The name Paamiut means “the people who live at the mouth”, a reference to its location at the mouth of the Kuannersooq Fjord. Strolling around in Paamiut is about appreciating the beauty in simple experiences, and meeting the friendly locals. Make sure you visit the church, one of the finest in Greenland, built in 1909 from wood in the Norwegian style. Stop along the colourful bridge in the town centre. Tour the old neighbourhood to observe picturesque buildings. Paamiut is known for its soapstone artists and their extraordinary national costumes of sealskin and thousands of beads. You can still see examples of these art forms as you walk around in the settlement. The white-tailed eagle is plentiful in Paamiut, and the townspeople feel a strong connection with it. It is said that good luck will come to anyone who sets eyes on this king of the sky. Join the Expedition team for a hike to the mountain peaks. On the way back to the ship, stop to pick the angelica that grows wild on the hillside..
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Location: Igaliku and Hvalsey
Igaliku is one of the most beautiful villages in Greenland. This is the oldest sheep farming settlement on the island, and on arrival you will see tall mountains with peaks covered by snow during summer, lush valleys with flowers and, of course, sheep. Sandstone houses give a distinct flavour to the area, as does the stunning view to the Igaliku fjord. Experience the tranquillity and peace of this historic settlement. Christianity was introduced to Greenland at the turn of the last millennium, with the first bishop being appointed way back in 1124. The impressive episcopal residence Garðar was established shortly after that date in Igaliku. A cathedral was built, the biggest of all churches in Greenland in the Middle Ages. For many years, the bishop’s palace was a focal point for the Norsemen and visitors from Iceland and Norway. The ruins of the cathedral and the bishop's palace have been renovated during recent years and today make up an attractive relic of the Viking period. Igaliku's 27 inhabitants are very proud of their community and are eager to guide you through the village. In Hvalsey, you will find some of the best-preserved ruins from the Norse period; Hvalsey Church was probably built in the 14th century. Erik the Red’s relatives established the farmstead late in the 10th century. In 1408, a wedding at the site's church is the last documented event to occur during the Norse settlement of Greenland. We use our PolarCirkel boats to come ashore to give you the chance to explore the area for yourself.
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Location: Qassiarsuk
In Qassiarsuk you will find green fields dotted with white sheep, lush vegetation and busy farmsteads; all this forms a colourful contrast to the icescapes at sea. Qassiarsuk is also where Viking Erik the Red built his Brattahlíð estate in 982 A.D. He was banished from Iceland and escaped to the land he called Greenland. Erik settled in Qassiarsuk because the area was considered the most fertile place in Greenland when he arrived. Join a guided walk through the settlement, where you will learn more about the history of the region. You can visit the reconstruction of Erik’s longhouse and the church that Erik’s wife Tjodhildur made him build. The walk will include a visit at the town´s current church. This is also a great area to try optional activities such as kayaking, hiking, or exploring the town on foot.
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Location: Narsarsuaq
This expedition ends in Narsarsuaq, a settlement in the Kujallew Municipality in Southern Greenland. Its immediate surroundings in Tunulliarfik Fjord hold incredible significance to Greenland’s history. The land where Narsarsuaq now stands earned Greenland its name. The Norse Vikings settled in this vicinity many centuries ago and gave Narsarsuaq a name that hints that an Arctic forest covered the large plain. Taking tales of verdant nature in a deep fjord home to their Nordic brethren, the Vikings called this country Greenland. Our disembarkation is followed by a boat transfer and a guided walking tour, before enjoying Greenlandic culinary specialities. Transfer to the airport and take a night flight to Copenhagen.
Journey Home
Location: Copenhagen, Denmark
You arrive in the Danish capital early in the morning and may even have the time to explore "Wonderful, Wonderful Copenhagen" before you head home.
Location
Copenhagen, Denmark
Pricing Info
Price includes
- Hurtigruten Expedition voyage in Cabin grade of your choice on Full Board basis
- Transfer ship to airport in Narsarsuaq including a Eirik the Red excursion and dinner
- Economy flight Narsarsuaq to Copenhagen
- Wind- and water-resistant jacket
- Landings with small boats and activities on board and ashore
- Professional English speaking Expedition team that gives lectures as well as accompanying landings and activities
- Free tea and coffee
Price does not include
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Luggage Handling
- Optional excursions and gratueties
Note
- Prices are in EUR (€) per person
- All planned landings are subject to weather and ice conditions
- All itineraries are subject to change
- Medical questionnaire mandatory
- Rubber boots rental service on board
Please note
Hurtigruten has a flexible pricing system and all prices are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Prices may change at any time before departure date. The applicable price will be quoted at the time of booking. Prices are in Euro per person.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
- Planned landings will depend on weather and ice conditions.
- We reserve the right to change the scheduled program and itinerary..
- The rental of rubber boots is available on board.
- We recommend purchasing travel and cancellation insurance
USEFUL INFORMATION
All prices include
- Wind and water-resistant jacket
- Landings with Polarcirkel boats and activities onboard and ashore
- Professional English speaking Expedition team that gives lectures as well as accompany landings and activities
- Free tea and coffee
- Suites include a range of additional complimentary amenities such as drinks with meals and a welcome gift.
Environment and green navigation
Our Captains take pride in route planning that minimises the load of the engines and reduces emissions. We never dump waste in the sea and we ask you not to leave any waste when you are on shore excursions. We ask you to respect the saying: 'Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures.'
What to bring
- Wind and water resistant trousers
- Shoes with a good grip sole
- Warm cap or headband
- Gloves/mittens
- Scarf
- Thermal underwear
- Warm sweaters/jacket
- Warm socks
- Swimsuit
- Sunscreen/sunglasses
- Small backpack
EXPEDITION TEAM AND WILDLIFE
To further enhance your experience, the Expedition Team on MS Fram will give presentations and lectures on the history, culture, traditions, navigation and wildlife. The Expedition Team consists of experts from numerous fields and backgrounds and they are always happy to answer your questions. Together with the crew they will make your time on board, and the landings we make, really worthwhile!
We will take advantage of the conditions at hand. On an expedition with MS Fram this means that the Captain and Expedition Leader monitors conditions at hand closely; where is the ice edge, how can we expect the ice drift, where is the ice landlocked, what is the prevailing winds and currents. We obviously have some wishes on where to go, but at this time of the year we have to expect weather- and especially ice conditions to be highly variable. The ice edge of the Arctic Ocean is now at its lowest latitudes – this is a highly productive area biologically as plankton and algae is growing beneath the ice. This cornerstone biological production is an immensely important part of the web of life and attracts all kinds of other animal- and birdlife that thrives here. At the top of this food web we find the big predators – including the polar bear.
Will we see polar bears?
Within the Svalbard Archipelago there are about 3000 polar bears – more than there are humans and probably one of the largest concentrations on Earth. That said; polar bears are solitude animals with no set colony or living area – they roam wherever they can expect to find food and only the pregnant females use denning areas during winter and only when they are expecting offspring.
However; the more eyes scouting through binoculars the higher is the chance of observing the King of the Arctic. The polar bear is a marine mammal hence it is more likely to observe it close to water or even in water. Whenever close to drift ice there is a chance that a polar bear uses this as a platform when at sea.
In very rare occasions dead whales or walrus drift ashore on Svalbard beaches. These tend to attract all kinds of wildlife – including polar bears.
Bottom line is that we often observe polar bears on this itinerary – not every day and seldom on very close range – there are no guarantees for sure. But; one of the biggest fascinations or this expedition is the chance of being really lucky spotting one.
One of the really nice “by-products” of looking for polar bears is that it sensitizes the observer to other wildlife such as birds and other marine mammals. You get a lot from observing sharply in Svalbard!
What about the walrus?
Since the protection of walrus in 1952 the Svalbard population has grown from being decimated down to only a few animals to a strong population with several haul outs scattered around the whole archipelago.
The two best ways to observe walrus is from the vessel when they are hauled out on ice flows or from shore, close to the well-established haul out places.
In order to understand where haul outs may be you’d have to understand that the walrus feeding method; they are shallow divers that feed on benthic fauna that are hiding in sediments on the bottom.
To find these shellfish and molluscs they use their hyper-sensitive whiskers to locate for then to suck in the food with high pressure with the mouth. Gently graduated beaches close to larger shallow areas are good habitats – a landing close to a walrus colony is an experience for all senses (in particular smell), but such places that are suitable for small boat operations are limited and often exposed to wind an swell. No guarantee – but we often see walrus on our expeditions in Spitsbergen.
Explorer Voyages Practical Information MS Spitsbergen
From Passport and VISA requirements to general on - board information get to know MS Spitsbergen before you embark on your explorer voyage.
Alcohol Policy
Guests are respectfully reminded that only beverages purchased from the ships’ restaurants and bars can be consumed on board. Alcoholic drinks purchased in ports-of-call and from our on-board shops will be stored by the ship and delivered to your cabin on the last day of the sailing .
Announcements
Announcements will be made over the public address system. Those cabins with a TV may set to the specific channel number
Bar Service
These ships have a bar with an excellent selection of spirits, wines, beers and soft drinks and a lounge with coffee service.
Cabins
There is a wide range of comfortable cabins on board. Please note that check-in at reception may open before your cabin is ready for use. You will be informed at check-in when your cabin is ready for use. You may expect some noise and vibration in some cabins. This varies depending on the location of your cabin. Please note that cabins on deck 6+7 on MS Spitsbergen may have passenger access to outside areas and possibly have an obstructed view due to other passengers walking past.
Cruise Card
A cruise card will be issued upon arrival on board as part of the check-in procedure in accordance with ISPS regulations. The card serves as a control system on the gangway. This card, in addition to being the key card for your cabin, is also your payment card on board. The card is the only means of payment for the on board facilities. To activate the cruise card account you must have a Visa, American Express, Diners or Mastercard. The credit card must be valid for more than three months after your stay on board. Please note that when using your credit card on board the ship, your account will be debited in NOK. The rate of exchange will be the one validated by your credit card company. The evening before the voyage ends the account will be totalled and settled on board, and a receipt brought to your cabin. We regret that there is no facility for cash withdrawals or currency exchange on board.
Electricity
The plugs in your cabins are all 220V/50hz. Suites have 110V for shavers. The plugs are continental two pin plugs. For which you will need to bring an adapter.
Entertainment
The emphasis on board is on relaxation and discovery and not on commercial entertainment which is so often a part of conventional cruises. Occasionally there may be some musical entertainment on board in the evenings.
Fitness Room, Sauna and Jacuzzi
On MS Spitsbergen deck 7 you can find a modern fitness room and comfortable sauna with a fantastic view of the landscape passing by. There are two outdoor Jacuzzis.
Gratuity Policy
We at Hurtigruten AS have learned that many of our guests wish to give a special thanks to our service crew on board. This is at your discretion to honour service rendered by the crew in bars, restaurants and cabins. In order to provide some guidelines, we recommend 70 NOK (approx 9 Euro, 12 USD) per guest per day as an average gratuity. Whatever amount you decide to give,
please fill in the form you will find in your cabin and give it to the receptionist two nights before the end of the cruise. The amount will then be debited from your cruise card account.
Information and Service
There are reception and expedition desk, where our staff are available to answer your questions.
Language
Announcements, lectures and written information are given in English.
Laundry
A laundry service is available on board MS Spitsbergen. No self-service or dry-cleaning is possible.
Lectures
The ships’ experienced lecturers command an in-depth knowledge of the areas in which we sail. They will conduct, on a regular basis, lectures on topics such as biology, history and geology throughout the voyage. The lecturing schedule will be announced everyday in the onboard daily programme.
Library
The ship has a small selection of books that are available to guests while on board.
Medical Certificate
A Medical Certificate needs to be submitted by all passengers joining our voyages crossing the Atlantic Ocean,due to the remoteness of these areas.
Observation Lounge
The observation lounges offer large panoramic windows, ample comfortable seats and on MS Spitsbergen there are even a pair of binoculars so you can view the wildlife and details of the everchanging landscape.
Outdoor Decks
Enjoy the views from the front or back of the ship. Both are perfect vantage points to sit back, relax and watch the world go by.
Mail
You can hand in your mail at reception, and for a limited amount covering service fee and stamps we will forward the post in every port where it is possible. The time from sending the postcard to when it gets to the receiver may be relatively long. Hurtigruten has no responsibility for lost mail.
Resident Photographer
Our resident photographer on board MS Spitsbergen will invite you to photography workshops and practical sessions out on deck to enable you to take the best possible pictures from your voyage..
Restaurant & Cuisine
Your voyage includes breakfast, lunch and dinner. The open seating for the breakfast and lunch buff et creates a relaxed atmosphere. Dinner varies between buffets, set meals and barbeques. The type of dinner is announced in the daily programme. Our head waiter will assign tables prior to arrival. Information about table number and meal times will be in your cabin upon arrival. Please provide information regarding special requests for seating arrangements. On some voyages we may serve the dinner divided into boat groups. Where possible, we plan our menus around seasonal ingredients, taking advantage of local produce to satisfy healthy appetites stimulated by the fresh sea air. Regular coffee/tea is complimentary throughout the whole voyage. Other beverages and refreshments during the day are not included but may be purchased on board in the restaurant, cafeteria and bar.
Room Service
Cabins are cleaned daily on board MS Spitsbergen. We regret that meals or drinks cannot be served in the cabins. The cabins will not be cleaned daily, but upon request. Fresh towels are available at all time.
Rubber Boot Rentals
On board you may borrow a pair of high quality boots free of charge to wear during landings and hikes. These boots will be kept on the ship’s tender deck, and you will have your own pair during the whole voyage. We also offer binoculars, walking sticks and a small selection of warm thermo suits for rent.
Sea Sickness
Seasickness pills are available to buy in the reception. If you are prone to seasickness it is recommended that you bring pills that you are familiar with. You may also buy ‘sea bands’ on board.
Shop
In our on board shop you may buy clothing suitable for Explorer voyages. Our Expedition Team will be happy to give you expert advice on how to dress properly in polar areas. We offer a range of both warm and practical clothing, using fabrics with natural fibres. We also offer souvenirs, handicrafts, and postcards. In addition we also stock a small selection of soap, toothpaste and other personal effects.
Shore Excursions
A selection of shore excursions are available to pre-book. Where available we will supply you with excursion information in advance, otherwise you will receive full details and prices on board..
Smoking
On board, smoking is only permitted in designated areas on deck. All cabins are non-smoking. To show respect for the environment, please use the provided ashtrays when smoking. Throwing cigarette ends overboard is strictly prohibited. A cleaning charge of 1,500 NOK will be applied for smoking in your cabin, to cover the cost of cleaning linen and curtains to return it to a non-smoking standard.
Water
The tap water in your cabin is drinkable, but we recommend buying bottled water or our self produced filtered water by the carafe in the restaurant for quality and freshness.
Walking On Board
We kindly remind you to be careful walking on board while at sea, especially venturing out on deck. Look out for the signs for warning of wet and slippery decks. Be aware some doors the outer decks are difficult in windy conditions. Please adhere to the signs and announcements when it is not advised to go outside. While walking inside, hold on to railings but not door frames to avoid injury.
Welcome Meeting
Upon arrival on board, there will be a mandatory passenger safety drill before departure. There will also be a welcome meeting where security information as well as practical information about the cruise will be given, along with an opportunity to meet some of the crew and be introduced to the key personnel on board
What's the population of Svalbard ?
The population of Svalbard is approximately 2,800. Longyearbyen is the largest settlement on the islands and also the seat of the governor. Spitsbergen is among the safest places on Earth, with virtually no crime. Barentsburg is the second largest settlement in Svalbard with about 500 inhabitants, almost entirely Russian and Ukrainian. The Russian-owned Arktikugol has been mining coal here since 1932, and during the Cold War, Barentsburg was a hotbed of activity. Ny-Ålesund is one of the world’s northernmost settlements, inhabited by a permanent population of approximately 30-35 people who work for one of the research stations or the logistics and supply company “Kings Bay AS”, which ‘owns’ and runs the research village. In the summer the activity in Ny-Ålesund is greatly increased to up to 120 researchers, technicians, and field assistants.
What weather should I expect?
Despite its northerly location, Spitsbergen has a relatively mild climate. Due to the Gulf Stream, Spitsbergen’s west coast is the world’s most northerly ice-free area. The average summer temperature is 6º C and the coldest winter month of March has an average temperature of -14º C. There is little rain, but the moist air from the sea can cause a light drizzle and fog during the summer.
What are the seasons of Spitsbergen ?
From around mid-April until late August, Longyearbyen has Midnight Sun. From late October until mid-February it is dark, and from mid-November until late November it is what we call polar nights, which means that it is quite dark and the sun is lower than 6º above the horizon.
What's the History of svalbard ?
Since Willem Barentz’ discovery of Svalbard in 1596, several nationalities have explored, hunted and managed industries in this Arctic Archipelago. The Svalbard treaty dated 1920, signed by 40 member countries, gives Norway sovereignty over Svalbard.
What nature and wildlife will I see?
In order to preserve nature and wildlife on Svalbard, 65 % of the Archipelago is protected through national parks, nature reserves and bird sanctuaries. There are only three land mammals on Svalbard: polar bear, Svalbard reindeer and the Arctic fox. In the sea however there are walrus, ringed seals, bearded seals, Greenland seals, hooded seals, whitenose dolphins, narwhales, white whales and killer whales. There is a rich bird life on the island and more than 100 species have been registered. Surprisingly the flora is very diverse for somewhere this far north.
Are the polar bear dangerous ?
The polar bear does not usually attack humans but it can be lethal. On all our voyages and activities, safety is maintained by experienced guides carrying weapons, and giving warning shots if necessary. The authorities on Svalbard, together with the travel industry, advise and make recommendations to travellers taking part in organised activities in order to protect both visitors and the polar bear population. On organised trips the guide will always be responsible for safety and will carry a weapon and equipment.
what shoes should I bring ?
On Svalbard it is a tradition to take off your shoes when entering private houses, hotels and certain shops and public offices. On board the ships as well as in the hotel we advise you to bring a pair of shoes to use indoors. It is important that the shoes have good grip (no slippery sole).
What currency should I bring ?
Svalbard is a tax-free area which means that many commodities are cheaper here than on the Norwegian mainland. Longyearbyen has a variety of shops selling everything from perfumes to outdoor- and sports equipment, gifts and souvenirs. Norwegian Kroner (NOK) is used all over Svalbard, also in the Russian settlement Barentsburg. Major credit cards are accepted in Longyearbyen as well as on board MS Fram. Please note credit cards payments will all be processed in NOK on MS Fram. Credit cards that are used to make payments on board have to be valid for at least three months after the journey has ended. There is also a cash dispenser in the center of Longyearbyen. In Barentsburg they only accept cash in Norwegian Kroner (NOK), USD or Euro. We do recommend our guests to bring cash in NOK for use ashore.
How can I contact family / friends while onboard ?
Mobile phones can be used in Longyearbyen and Barentsburg only. There is no coverage for mobile phones during the voyage at sea. We have contact with MS Fram with satellite telephones. If your family back home need to get in touch with you in an emergency, please give them the telephone numbers for Spitsbergen Travel, tel. +47 79 02 61 00, or Radisson BLU Polar
Hotel Spitsbergen, tel. +47 79 02 62 34 50. Via these numbers they can deliver urgent messages that will be forwarded to you.
What customs regulations are in place ?
Visitors can buy a certain amount of tax-free alcoholic drinks. Tourists have to show their airline ticket when shopping and are allowed to buy in total:
- 2 bottles containing more than 21% alcohol
- 1 bottle of wine containing 14-21% alcohol
- 24 cans/bottles of beer
Wine (up to 14%) can be bought without producing an airline ticket. Not all of the above can be taken tax-free to the mainland.
Each person is only allowed up to 2 litres, e.g.:
- 1 litre of alcohol (more than 21%) and 1 litre wine (14 to 21%) - or
- 2 litres of wine (14 to 21%) - or
- 2 litres of wine (less than 14%)
It is possible to buy more but you will have to pay duty on it. In total, visitors are allowed to shop for NOK 6,000 of goods without paying taxes.
Is there access for wheelchairs/disabled passengers?
Wheelchair passengers may travel on the MS Fram to Spitsbergen as the ship is handicap accessible, however, unfortunately, excursions and landings are not adapted for handicapped travellers.
What happens in case of a medical emergency?
In case of a medical emergency, outside Longyearbyen the only means of evacuation is by helicopter to Longyearbyen Hospital. If any condition cannot be treated here, the patient is sent to the Norwegian mainland. This is very expensive and dependent on favourable weather conditions, therefore, comprehensive travel/health insurance is essential.
