Somewhere in the High Arctic, between 76 and 80 degrees latitude North, Spitsbergen, meaning "pointed mountains”, awaits you for seven days of unforgettable travel looking out for wild life. You will lift the anchor in Longyearbyen, where colourful wooden homes dot the landscape with a human presence that will certainly be the last you see for a while.
Arctic & Alaska
Fjords and glaciers of Spitsbergen (2026)
8 Days aboard Le Lyrial. From NZD $14,584pp.
Details
Overview
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Itinerary Highlights
- A cruise to discover the riches of Svalbard, in search of mysterious wild fauna, in the comfort of an exceptional ship.
- Discovering the incredible geology of Spitsbergen, easily observable with the naked eye due to the archipelago’s short vegetation.
- Landscapes: rugged mountains, icebergs, ice caps, deep valleys, striated cliffs, vertiginous walls, gigantic glaciers, glacier fronts, tundra and the possibility of observing the ice floe.
- Wildlife: polar bears, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, walruses, bearded seals, harbour seals, Arctic fulmars, Arctic terns, black-legged kittiwakes, eiders, guillemots, blue whales, minke whales, orcas.
Itinerary in Brief
- Day 1: Embarkation day - Paris/Longyearbyen
- Day 2 and 3: South-West Region of Spitsbergen
- Day 4: Sailing toward the ice floes
- Day 5 and 6: North-West region of Spitsbergen
- Day 7: Ny-Alesund, Spitsbergen
- Day 8: Disembarkation Day - Longyearbyen/Paris
This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.
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: Embarkation day - Paris/Longyearbyen
After arriving in Paris, you will board your flight to Longyearbyen. The flight will take approximately 4.5 hours to reach the remote town. At 6 p.m., you will transfer to the pier to board the vessel that will take you on your expedition.
Longyearbyen is the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, located on Svalbard’s main island, and is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet. With winter temperatures dropping to below 40°C, the landscapes of this mining town are simply breathtaking. The glaciers, the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the untouched nature, make you feel like you’re in completely unexplored territory.
Dinner included.
Day 2 and 3: South-West Region of Spitsbergen
Set sail for southwest Spitsbergen, immerse yourself in this environment unlike any other and explore its unexpected riches. In this natural sanctuary, the polar light combines with the changing weather of the Arctic, a big blue sky, the horizon scattered with clouds, the enveloping mist erasing the border between the land and the sea. Follow in the footsteps of the first explorers and admire the majestic fjords and glaciers sculpting the breathtaking landscapes, their icy waters shimmering beneath the midnight sun. The fjords, veritable cathedrals of ice, reveal their millennial secrets, while the glaciers, like sleeping giants, move slowly towards the sea, setting free sparkling icebergs. On the water, you might spot belugas and rorquals, while on the shores, seals and Arctic foxes add a touch of mystery to this living tableau, where the steep cliffs become breeding grounds for thousands of seabirds, like guillemots. Southwest Spitsbergen is an ode to nature in its rawest and purest form.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 4: Sailing toward the ice floes
Your captain will sail right up to the limit of the ice, to the edge of the ice floe. Weather conditions and state of the ice allowing, you will be able to go out in a zodiac dinghy for a unique experience in the middle of these floating slabs of ice. In addition to this grandiose journey through the middle of these floes with their cut and blue-tinged edges, sometimes over 2 metres thick, it is also often an opportunity to see a particular kind of fauna, totally dependent on the ice floe: birds, seals and polar bears.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 5 and 6: North-West region of Spitsbergen
A kingdom of contrasts and natural marvels dotted with islands and peninsulas, northwest Spitsbergen fascinates with its preserved beauty. On these pristine lands, infinity unveils itself, treating the eyes to beauty sculpted by nature and enhanced by the changing light. The fjords bathed by icy waters, the jagged mountains and the imposing glaciers stand majestically before you, like monumental sculptures. In these lands, where souls are filled with deep serenity, only the murmur of broken ice, bearing mysteries and legends, disturbs the calmness. Aboard our Zodiacs and in the company of naturalist-guides, get as close as possible to this unique fauna and discover this centre for scientific expedition departures. In the distance, majestic whales glide silently through the glacial waters, whereas seals, walrus and Arctic foxes add a playful touch of life. As Svalbard reindeer wander the vast expanses, Arctic terns liven up the polar sky with their gracious flight and polar bears, which you may be lucky enough to see, patrol magnificently along the icy shores.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 7: Ny-Alesund, Spitsbergen
During your cruise, discover Ny-Ålesund, a former mining town that has been transformed into a scientific base. Founded in 1916, this small town was the departure point for many Arctic expeditions, including those of the famous explorer Roald Amundsen. Don't miss a visit to the museum and its famous post office, considered to be the most northerly in the world!
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 8: Disembarkation Day - Longyearbyen/Paris
Longyearbyen is the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, located on Svalbard’s main island, and is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet. With winter temperatures dropping to below 40°C, the landscapes of this mining town are simply breathtaking. The glaciers, the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the untouched nature, make you feel like you’re in completely unexplored territory.
On the final day of your adventure, we invite you to enjoy an early morning breakfast. It's time to disembark from the ship and make your way to the airport. A flight from Longyearbyen (approximate flight duration: 4.5 hours) takes us to the heart of the City of Love, Paris.
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: 27 Jun 2026
| Dates | Cabin | From | Special Offer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 Jun 2026 - 04 Jul 2026 | NZD$14584pp | ||
| Superior Stateroom | NZD$14584pp | Contact us | |
| Deluxe Double Stateroom | NZD$15551pp | Contact us | |
| Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4 | NZD$16933pp | Contact us | |
| Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5 | NZD$17618pp | Contact us | |
| Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6 | NZD$18438pp | Contact us | |
| Deluxe Suite | NZD$24483pp | Contact us | |
| Prestige Suite - Deck 5 | NZD$32056pp | Contact us | |
| Privilege Suite | NZD$33562pp | Contact us | |
| Grand Deluxe Suite | NZD$38112pp | Contact us | |
| Grand Privilege Suite | NZD$44573pp | Contact us | |
| Owner's Suite | NZD$67045pp | Contact us |
**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply
Cabin Details
Superior Stateroom
21m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, french bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.
Deluxe Double Stateroom
18m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4
18m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5
18m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6
18m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service, WiFi access and butler service.
Deluxe Suite
27m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.
Prestige Suite - Deck 5
36m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, 8m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.
Privilege Suite
36m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, 8m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, bathtub, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.
Grand Deluxe Suite
45m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, 10m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, bathtub, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.
Grand Privilege Suite
54m², 4 single beds or 2 king beds, 12m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower and bathtub, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.
Owner's Suite
54m², located on deck 6, 2 single beds or 1 king bed, french design, panoramic views, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service, WiFi access, 1 private transfer (round trip: airport - hotel - port) and 1 free hour of spa treatments.
Deluxe Single Stateroom
18m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.
Le Lyrial Deckplan
Specifications
- Length: 466 feet
- Beam: 59 feet
- Draft: 15.3 feet
- Cruising Speed: 14 knots
- Ice Class: 1C
- Classification: Bureau Veritas
- Flag: French
- Guest Decks: 6
- Guest Capacity: Up to 260 pax
- Guest capacity Antarctica: 200 pax
- Normal Crew Size: 140
- Fleet of Expedition Zodiac®: Mark V HD
- Gross Tonnage: 10,992 UMS
- Electric Motors: 2 x 2300 kW
- Installed Power: 7,200 kW
- Construction: Fincantieri-Ancône-Italy
What’s included?
- Economy class flight from Paris to Longyearbyen.
- Economy class flight from Longyearbyen to Paris.
- Transfers mentioned in the programme.
- English-speaking assistance.
- Accommodation in your selected stateroom
- Landings and zodiac outings
- A full meal plan
- Open Bar: beginning with boarding, and during the duration of the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, Charles Heidsieck champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served on request and at any time of the day. Certain premium alcoholic beverages on the menu are not included in the Open Bar.
- Free Wi-Fi internet access 24 hours a day
- Port taxes
What’s not included?
- Personal expenses.
- Any other service not mentioned in the programme.
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.
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