Day 1 - Welcome to Norway
Your Arctic adventure begins with your flight to Oslo, where you'll settle into your comfortable hotel for two nights. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a welcome drink and dinner. D
Day 2 - Discovering Oslo's Charms
Accompanied by our expert local guide, we'll explore Norway's captivating capital, beautifully positioned at the head of the stunning Oslo Fjord. A city tour reveals architectural gems including the striking Opera House where you can walk on the roof, the bustling Karl Johans gate main thoroughfare, the historic Akershus Castle, and the elegant Royal Palace. We’ll stop at Holmenkollen, home to the fascinating Ski Museum and spectacular viewing platform offering panoramic city vistas. Here, we'll delve into Norway's skiing heritage and marvel at artifacts from legendary polar expeditions – a perfect prelude to our upcoming Arctic journey. Our Oslo experience culminates with a visit to the remarkable Fram Museum, where we'll step aboard the actual wooden vessel that carried brave explorers to both poles. Walking the ship's historic decks, you'll feel the excitement of polar exploration stirring within you. We’ll round off the day with a memorable dinner cruise along Oslo Fjord, savouring a delicious three-course meal while admiring the city's stunning waterfront architecture from this unique perspective. B,D
Day 3 - Journey to the Arctic
Today we’ll travel from the Norwegian capital to the Arctic wilderness. We’ll fly north to Longyearbyen, the remarkable settlement on Spitsbergen island in the Svalbard archipelago. In July, you'll witness the magical phenomenon of midnight sun, where daylight stretches endlessly across the Arctic landscape, meaning the sun never sets. After transferring to your hotel, enjoy dinner and rest before tomorrow's polar adventure begins. B,D
Day 4 - Gateway to the wilderness
We start our morning exploring Longyearbyen, in the company of our Holiday Director. This fascinating Arctic town tells its story through the excellent Svalbard Museum, where we’ll discover the unique culture and history of life at 78 degrees north. Later, the moment you've been waiting for arrives - boarding the Expedition Ship for seven nights of Arctic exploration, settling into your comfortable cabin as anticipation builds. B,D
Day 5 - 10 Arctic Expedition Experience
Our six-day polar expedition unfolds across one of Earth's most pristine wilderness areas. Navigate through ice-laden seas, penetrate deep fjords framed by breathtaking mountain scenery, and witness massive glaciers cascading dramatically into the ocean. Our flexible itinerary explores Svalbard's stunning coastline, and the expectation is we’ll explore Ny-Ålesund, Bellsund, Hornsund, and Northwest Spitsbergen National Park - though each day adapts to ice and weather conditions for optimal experiences.
From the ship's deck, marvel at the everchanging seascape of sea ice, fjords leading to thundering glaciers, and sculptural icebergs. Wildlife encounters create unforgettable memories – watch for elusive Arctic foxes, hardy Svalbard reindeer, marine mammals, and the region's ultimate prize, the magnificent polar bear. Your expedition team strategically positions the ship near towering cliffs where seabirds nest in thousands, and along continental edges where nutrient-rich waters attract whales. With only 128 passengers aboard, the Expedition Ship accesses remote areas larger ships cannot reach. This could mean venturing deep into glacier-fed fjords or cruise the ice edge in sturdy Zodiacs, bringing you remarkably close to seals and walruses in their natural habitat. The goal is two off-ship experiences daily - whether landing ashore to explore historical sites and tundra landscapes, or Zodiac excursions revealing Arctic secrets up close. Your onboard expedition team comprises passionate specialists in ornithology, marine biology, glaciology, and polar history.
These experts lead every Zodiac adventure and deliver captivating lectures, sharing their deep knowledge through engaging educational programs that enrich your understanding of this extraordinary environment. B,L,D
Day 11 - Homeward bound
Your Arctic adventure concludes as you disembark, carrying memories of pristine wilderness, incredible wildlife encounters, and the unique camaraderie formed with fellow adventurers. We’ll transfer to the airport for our return flight to the UK via Oslo, taking with you stories of one of the world's last great wilderness areas. B