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Spitsbergen: Realm of the Ice Bear

No solo supplement* on this all-inclusive expedition cruise from Oslo return

Oslo return

8 days / 7 nights

Expedition Cruising

Solo Traveller

Douglas Mawson

Departs 17 Aug 2027

Focusing on the largest island of the Svalbard Archipelago, navigate through pack ice in search of walrus and bearded seals, sailing along spectacular fjords framed by jagged, sky-piercing mountains. Keep watch for majestic polar bears hunting on the ice, while guillemots nest high on cliffs beyond the reach of Arctic foxes. Explore tundra landscapes adorned with vibrant flora and discover historic camps once used by early explorers and hunters.

Highlights

  • Discover the thrill of seeing walrus, seals, whales, reindeer, arctic fox, guillemots and puffins
  • Cruise along blue glacier fronts and through stunning fjords
  • Enjoy tundra hikes amid stunningly beautiful scenery
  • Venture close to 80° north, watch for polar bears on pack ice

About Aurora Expeditions

Aurora Expeditions places adventure at the heart of every journey. Since inception, the company has remained dedicated to exploring some of the world’s most remote and untamed destinations, sharing these remarkable experiences with like-minded travellers. Small-group expeditions allow for deeper connections—to nature, expert guides, and fellow expeditioners.

Led by world-class remote area specialists, each voyage is enriched with engaging lectures and insights that bring destinations vividly to life. Whether embarking on a first expedition or returning for another journey, the focus remains on delivering immersive, unforgettable experiences that inspire a lasting connection to the natural world.

*Advertised pricing is based on solo occupancy in an Aurora stateroom superior on 17 August 2027 departure, correct as of 26 June 2026. Offer valid for a limited time only.

  • All transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Oslo on Day 1
  • Sightseeing tour of Longyearbyen on Day 2, prior to embarkation (time permitting)
  • Return charter flights between Oslo and Longyearbyen
  • Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service
  • All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during voyage
  • Beer and house wine with dinner
  • Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages
  • All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises
  • Educational lectures and guiding services provide by Expedition Team
  • Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation)
  • One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket
  • Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage
  • Comprehensive pre-departure information
  • Port surcharges, permits and landing fees
  • Gratuities during excursions and enrichment program for local guides, drivers, venues and local sites
  • Wi-Fi. Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable

Included Activities

  • Bird Watching
  • Lectures on wildlife, our environment, history and destinations
  • Marine Mammal Spotting
  • Photography
  • Polar Plunge
  • Scenic Cruising
  • Trips Ashore
  • Walking
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Zodiac Cruising

Cabin Features

  • A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person
  • Private Ensuite
  • Porthole Window
  • Closet Space
  • Room-controlled Thermostat
  • Room Safe
  • 42" Flat-Screen TV

Day 1 | Arrive in Oslo
Upon arrival in Oslo, make your way to the group airport hotel, located just a five-minute walk from the International Terminal. At the hotel, visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to collect luggage cabin tags and speak with the ground operations team, who may provide information about pre-embarkation, dining options, cash withdrawal, or purchasing last-minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket.

The remainder of the day is at leisure. All meals today are at own expense.
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Airport Hotel, Oslo Gardermoen

Day 2 | Fly to Longyearbyen, Embarkation
This morning, ensure cabin luggage is fitted with clearly labelled cabin tags including name and cabin number. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before walking to the airport for the charter flight to Longyearbyen for embarkation. Keep valuables and personal items on hand throughout the day.

On arrival in Longyearbyen, enjoy a guided tour of the town. Following the tour, transfer directly to the pier for embarkation in the late afternoon. Settle into the cabin before attending important safety briefings, then experience the excitement of departure as the ship sets sail.

Note: The excursion is contingent on the arrival time of the charter flight to Longyearbyen.

Days 3–7 | Spitsbergen
Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard Archipelago, showcases Arctic wilderness at its finest. The experienced Expedition Team will tailor the daily itinerary based on weather conditions, sea ice, and wildlife opportunities.

Dramatic fjords, striking mountain ranges, and fossil-rich polar desert landscapes set the scene for stories of early exploration. Wildlife sightings may include walrus resting on sea ice or beaches. On land, guided walks explore tundra alive with colourful wildflowers. Visits to towering bird cliffs reveal colonies of guillemots, puffins, and little auks.

Optional activities, such as kayaking, are offered when conditions permit. For those wishing to participate in a polar plunge, announcements will be made when suitable conditions arise, offering an unforgettable Arctic experience.

Day 8 | Disembark in Longyearbyen, Fly to Oslo
In the early morning, the ship returns to Longyearbyen. After disembarkation, bid farewell to the Expedition Team and enjoy some free time before transferring to the airport for the return charter flight to Oslo.

Note: Arrival time in Oslo is dependent on the approved flight schedule for the charter service to and from Longyearbyen, expected to be confirmed in March 2027.

Booking terms and conditions apply.

* Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.

Destinations featured in this deal

Europe Norway Oslo Longyearbyen

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Please note Your booking is subject to availability and supplier confirmation. You will be contacted within one business day by a Phil Hoffmann Travel consultant to verify your information, confirm your booking or discuss alternatives. Your deposit is fully refundable if the specified package is no longer available. Normal Terms and Conditions apply to your deposit once your booking is confirmed by your PHT Consultant. I understand this is a deposit only, to be deducted from the final balance. Further supplier deposits may also be required at a later date. A copy of our PHT terms and conditions can be found here https://www.pht.com.au/terms-and-conditions

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