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Svalbard vacation idea
Svalbard Odyssey: Polar Bears, Fjords & Pack Ice
An 11-day Svalbard polar expedition with charter flights from Oslo, Zodiac exploration, glacier fjords and chances to see polar bears and walrus.
Length11 days / 10 nights
FormatSmall-ship polar expedition
ActivityLight to moderate with Zodiac outings and tundra walks
Route
Oslo • Longyearbyen • Svalbard Archipelago • Pack Ice near 80°N • Longyearbyen • Oslo
Why This Trip Stands Out
This High Arctic expedition is built around wildlife, sea ice and the dramatic landscapes of Svalbard. Long summer days give the expedition team time to search for polar bears, walrus, whales and Arctic foxes while exploring glacier fronts, tundra and remote fjords.
- Travel deep into Svalbard and venture toward 80° north when conditions allow.
- Watch for polar bears, walrus, seals, whales, reindeer and Arctic foxes.
- Explore by Zodiac, on foot and through scenic cruising along glaciers and fjords.
- Begin and end through Oslo with included charter flights to Longyearbyen on the selected itinerary.
What the Journey Feels Like
Svalbard rewards flexibility. There is no rigid port-to-port schedule once the expedition is underway because the team follows wildlife, weather and sea-ice conditions. That makes this a strong fit for travelers who care more about genuine Arctic exploration than checking off a fixed sightseeing list.
What You Get
What’s Included
- One pre-expedition hotel night in Oslo with breakfast
- Roundtrip charter flights between Oslo and Longyearbyen
- Transfers specified in the itinerary
- Expedition ship accommodation with daily cabin service
- Meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during the voyage
- Beer and house wine with dinner
- Expedition Team lectures and wildlife interpretation
- Zodiac cruising, shore visits, walking, photography and wildlife-watching activities when conditions allow
Your Stay
Where You’ll Stay
The itinerary includes one hotel night in Oslo and accommodation aboard a modern expedition vessel. Cabin categories and ship vary by departure.
Getting Around
Transportation
The trip combines roundtrip charter flights between Oslo and Longyearbyen with an expedition ship and Zodiac boats for remote Arctic exploration.
Food & Dining
Meals & Dining
Breakfast is included at the Oslo hotel, with meals, snacks and selected beverages included during the expedition voyage.
More to Add
Optional Experiences
Sea kayaking is available on select departures for an additional charge and must be reserved in advance. A polar plunge may be offered when conditions are suitable.
Stay a Little Longer
Extensions Available
Extra time in Oslo or Longyearbyen can be coordinated before or after the expedition, along with additional Norway or Scandinavia travel.
Make It Yours
Ways to Customize It
The expedition itself follows a fixed departure, but I can coordinate international airfare, pre- and post-trip hotels and a broader Norway or Nordic itinerary around it.
Group Details
How the Group Works
The expedition ships are designed for small-ship polar travel, with approximately 130 expedition guests depending on the vessel and departure.
A Good Match?
Who This Trip Is Best For
Wildlife-focused travelers who want a true High Arctic expedition with polar bear potential, small-ship exploration and long summer days.
Before You Choose It
A Few Things to Know
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, and the route changes with weather and sea-ice conditions. Zodiac boarding and shore walks may involve uneven terrain. Optional sea kayaking requires advance booking.
Interested in This One?
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Pricing & availability: Prices shown are starting prices from the applicable tour operator and were available when last verified. Unless noted otherwise, pricing is per person based on the occupancy shown above. Availability, taxes, fees, supplements, promotions, and supplier terms can change. Your exact price and availability will be confirmed before booking. Nothing is confirmed until payment is applied.