Svalbard - Last Stop Before the North Pole
8 Days - Ocean Albatros
Enjoy the immense beauty of Svalbard on this Arctic adventure cruise among whales, walruses, polar bears and millions of sea birds. Experience high summer in the Arctic with Ocean Albatros - one of the few ice-class expedition ships built to withstand the North Pole’s pack ice.
from NZD $8095pp
Subject to availability
Home » 8 Day Ocean Albatros: Svalbard – Last Stop Before the North Pole
Itinerary Highlights:
- Sail aboard one of the world’s only ice-class expedition ships built to meet the North Pole pack ice.
- Reach 80° north, when we cruise towards Sjuøyane, close to the pack ice.
- Cruise close the spectacular Alkefjellet and witness a miracle of nature with hundreds of thousands of birds.
- Experience the polar desert landscape at Torrelnesset which is home to walruses amongst other wildlife.
- See whales, walruses, seabirds and other amazing wildlife up close.
- Very good chances of seeing polar bears as well their main prey, seals.
- Zodiac cruises in the fjords and nature walks on the tundra.
Itinerary in Brief:
- Day 1: Longyearbyen, Spitsbergeb. Embarkation
- Day 2: Regnardneset and Lilliehöök Glacier
- Day 3: Former Whaling Station at Smeerenburg and Ytre Norskøya
- Day 4: Amazing Birdlife at Alkefjellet, Polar Desert Landscape at Torrelnesset
- Day 5: Cruising towards the pack ice and Sjuøyane, Polar bear country at 80 degrees around Eastern Svalbard
- Day 6: Liefde Fjord with Monaco Glacier and Texas Bar
- Day 7: Ny ålesund and Ny London
- Day 8: Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen. Disembarkation
Day 1: Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen. Embarkation
Arrival to Longyearbyen, Capital of Svalbard – possibly the northernmost ‘real’ town in the world.
Our vessel is docked close to the town center. After boarding and a welcome drink, the Expedition Leader will provide information about the voyage, the ship's daily routines and the various security and safety procedures. Before sailing, there will be a mandatory safety drill. The Captain then takes the ship out of Advent Fjord and our Arctic adventure commences.
Day 2: Regnardneset and Lilliehöök Glacier
During the ‘night’ (what is night, when the sun never sets?), we have passed Prins Karls Forland and have arrived in the magnificent Krossfjord. Our visit to Svalbard is in the middle of the arctic summer and at this time of year the migrating birds are very active. The months of June and July offers the best chances of spotting exotic and fantastic birds. We plan on making a landing during the morning at Möllerhamna or in another suitable location. The majestic landscape around Regnardneset in the innermost area of Krossfjorden give us our first taste of what has enticed the early explorers of these lands in the far north.
In the afternoon, we continue further north into the fjord system, and depending on the ice situation, we may do a Zodiac cruise along the Lilliehöök Glacier front… or enjoy a lecture.
With some arctic luck we will be able to navigate past the magnificent scenery in the bay of Fjortende Juli, where the glacier Fjortende Juli-breen calves into the fjord. A fitting end to a day full of scenic views and arctic wildlife.
Day 3: Former Whaling Station at Smeerenburg and Ytre Norskøya
We have now entered North West Svalbard, which was declared a national park in 1973. The day could begin with a cruise in Danskergattet, looking for seals in Virgohamna, before crossing from Danskøya to Amsterdamøya to make a landing at Smeerenburg, the legendary whaling town of 17th century. 200-plus men were living – and quite often dying – here in the heyday of blubber production.
There are several interesting places to visit in this northwestern corner of Spitsbergen. If conditions allow we’ll make a landing on Ytre Norskøya, where whalers would have their lookout posts.
Day 4: Amazing Birdlife at Alkefjellet, Polar Desert Landscape at Torrelnesset
In the morning we arrive and cruise slowly by the famous Alkefjellet. If the weather is on “our side” we will have a good view of the steep cliffs. The whole area is home to a dense congregation of Brünichs guillemots. There is so many of the birds, that hardly an inch is free. During the summer the breeding pairs offer a wild view of frantic activity, both along the cliffs and in the sea in front.
More wildlife awaits us as we land at the polar desert landscapes of Torrelnesset. The beach here is home to a host of walruses that lay amongst each other. They feed on the clams and any other molluscs that they can find in the shallows of Svalbard’s waters.
Day 5: Cruising towards the pack ice and Sjuøyane, Polar bear country at 80 degrees around Eastern Svalbard
During the night the ship will steer far north towards the edge of the polar pack ice. How far north only time and weather will tell, but the main target for us is just the ‘edge’, possibly at 80 degrees north! This is the kingdom of the polar bear! As the pack ice retreats during summer, polar bears ride the floes north, as this is where their prey - the seals - resides. Bears who for unfortunate reasons do not ‘catch’ the ice moving north, are stranded on Svalbard all summer, and will have to sustain on berries, eggs and whatever whale cadavers they can find. A hard life indeed!
During the day, lectures on polar mammals, environment and/or culture can be enjoyed on board in the Viking Theater. Should we get into the pack ice where the sea usually is calm, our captain will cruise slowly between the floes and look for wildlife.
A part goal of the day is to also reach the island Nordaustlandet and hopefully its 7 (or 9, depending on how you count) smaller islands Sjuøyane in the far north of Svalbard. The almost vegetation-free, rocky islands are located around 1000 km more northernly than mainland Norway’s famous Nordkapp.
Weather permitting, we will land and walk these most northern landmasses. The high Arctic islands are quite barren, only with moss and lichens covering the stones. The birdlife is rich in this area and some of the rarer gulls frequent these islands. So bring your binoculars.
At the end of the day, we will start cruising towards the Liefdefjord and its landscapes which we will see tomorrow.
Day 6: Liefde Fjord with Monaco Glacier and Texas Bar
During the night we head to Wood Fjord and its branch, the Liefde Fjord. Our plan is to slow cruise along the broad glacier front of Monacobreen. This gives a unique insight of the glacial forces and the unlimited forms of icebergs. The ice front is named after Albert I of Monaco, who was a major sponsor of Svalbard research.
Many trappers historically hunted and trapped in these areas. Some of them stayed over the winter and built cabins. The cabin known as Texas Bar is said to be named after the US state of Texas. This cabin was built in 1927. We plan to visit the area around the cabin and enjoy the scenery that surrounds us.
Day 7: Ny ålesund and Ny London
Today we enter the beautiful Kongs Fjord known for the former mining settlement and simply being one of the most amazing fjord areas in all of Svalbard. Our first landing will be at Ny Ålesund. This settlement is in fact further north than Longyearbyen, making it THE northernmost town. But… is a group of scientific stations, a post office and a single shop open for a few hours a real town? You will have to judge for yourself. The setting is nice, the scientific projects are very interesting, and so is the town history. The Captain will try to get alongside, so we can enjoy an easy walk through the area.
On the opposite side of the fjord we find the abandoned marble mining settlement Ny London. Its history is short but hectic, as the marble deposits allowed for an almost Klondike like rush to mine the resources. Wars and failing financial viability ended the adventure only 9 years after it started. We take a walk amongst the ruins of workshops, locomotives and cranes, testament to the great but failed investments.
After the visit, we are southbound towards the entrance to the Isfjord. On our way towards Longyearbyen, we hope to get our last glimpses of wildlife as well as the truly unique landscapes of Svalbard.
Day 8: Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen. Disembarkation
Early in the morning the ship has returned to our starting point in Longyearbyen. After breakfast and farewell greetings to the expedition team and crew, disembarkation will take place. Transfer is arranged to the airport.
Please note that all the outings and landings rely on weather, sea and ice conditions being favorable both for the ship to access the areas, as for the zodiacs and kayaks to maneuver under adequate conditions, ensuring the safety of all our passengers and staff.
For this reason, during moments of harsh weather and throughout the entire trip, our ships have excellent public areas, such as wellness/sauna, restaurant, bar and a library for our passengers to spend their spare time. Our ships are staffed by experts in the field who will also share great lectures along the way, ranging from exploration history to biology, geology, ice and wildlife.
Dates | Cabin | From | Special Offer |
---|---|---|---|
06 Jun 2025 - 13 Jun 2025 | NZD $8095pp | ||
Triple Porthole Cabin (F) | NZD $8095pp | Contact us | |
Albatros Stateroom Cabin (D) | NZD $10681pp | Contact us | |
French Balcony Suite (E) | NZD $11543pp | Contact us | |
Balcony Stateroom Cabin (C) | NZD $11888pp | Contact us | |
C SP, Superior Balcony Stateroom | NZD $12578pp | Contact us | |
C XL, Grand Balcony Stateroom | NZD $13095pp | Contact us | |
Single Porthole Cabin (G) | NZD $13784pp | Contact us | |
Balcony Suite (B) | NZD $15681pp | Contact us | |
Junior Suite (A) | NZD $19302pp | Contact us | |
Premium Freydis Suite | NZD $21888pp | Contact us | |
Family Brynhilde Suite | NZD $24302pp | Contact us | |
05 Jun 2026 - 12 Jun 2026 | NZD $8683pp | Save 20% | |
Triple Porthole Cabin (F) | NZD $8683pp | Save 20% | |
Albatros Stateroom Cabin (D) | NZD $10063pp | Save 20% | |
French Balcony Suite (E) | NZD $10614pp | Save 20% | |
Balcony Stateroom Cabin (C) | NZD $10890pp | Save 20% | |
C SP, Superior Balcony Stateroom | NZD $11442pp | Save 20% | |
C XL, Grand Balcony Stateroom | NZD $11993pp | Save 20% | |
Single Porthole Cabin (G) | NZD $12683pp | Save 20% | |
Balcony Suite (B) | NZD $14338pp | Save 20% | |
Junior Suite (A) | NZD $18338pp | Save 20% | |
Family Brynhilde Suite | NZD $20545pp | Save 20% | |
Premium Freydis Suite | NZD $20545pp | Save 20% | |
12 Jun 2026 - 19 Jun 2026 | NZD $8683pp | Save 20% | |
Triple Porthole Cabin (F) | NZD $8683pp | Save 20% | |
Albatros Stateroom Cabin (D) | NZD $10063pp | Save 20% | |
French Balcony Suite (E) | NZD $10614pp | Save 20% | |
Balcony Stateroom Cabin (C) | NZD $10890pp | Save 20% | |
C SP, Superior Balcony Stateroom | NZD $11442pp | Save 20% | |
C XL, Grand Balcony Stateroom | NZD $11993pp | Save 20% | |
Single Porthole Cabin (G) | NZD $12683pp | Save 20% | |
Balcony Suite (B) | NZD $14338pp | Save 20% | |
Junior Suite (A) | NZD $18338pp | Save 20% | |
Family Brynhilde Suite | NZD $20545pp | Save 20% | |
Premium Freydis Suite | NZD $20545pp | Save 20% |
Until end of ANT season 24/25:
- Cat. C and Cat A can be converted into triple staterooms. Third person in the same stateroom is at 50% off.
- Cat C and Cat F: Solo guests of the same gender can share the stateroom to avoid paying single supplement.
From Arctic season 2025 onwards:
- Cat. C-SP and Cat A can be converted into triple staterooms. Third person in the same stateroom is at 50% off.
- Cat C-SP and Cat F: Solo guests of the same gender can share the stateroom to avoid paying single supplement.
**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply
Cabin Details
Single Porthole Cabin (G)
14 m2
Standard single Stateroom onboard, located on deck 3. This is a conveniently located State Room close to the Mudroom which facilitates access to the Zodiacs during embarkation and disembarkation to begin your adventures.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Triple Porthole Cabin (F)
22 m2
Solo guests of the same gender can share this stateroom to avoid paying single supplement.
There are two Triple Staterooms on board Ocean Albatros featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms.
Triple staterooms are normally with twin beds however a double bed can be accommodated.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included
French Balcony Suite (E)
14 m2
The French Balcony Stateroom is a standard Stateroom with a French balcony, a double bed, floor-to-ceiling windows and a bathroom. All French Balcony Staterooms are located on Deck 7.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Albatros Stateroom Cabin (D)
13-22 m2
The standard Stateroom on Ocean Albatros is close to the Mudroom and has quick access to the Zodiac platforms for disembarkation during landings. This is very convenient if you have more limited mobility and would like a short distance to the Zodiacs. The State Rooms are perfect for those who wish a comfortable base during their stay onboard Ocean Albatros. The standard State Rooms all have a double bed or 2 single beds and a bathroom. The State Rooms are located on deck 3 and 4.
Please note the cabin layout and size may vary.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Balcony Stateroom Cabin (C)
18-22 m2
This stateroom can be converted into a Triple stateroom with the third person sleeping on a sofa bed. Third person will have 50% discount. Valid until end of Antarctica season 2024/2025. From Arctic season 2025, this will apply to Stateroom C-SP.
Solo guests of the same gender can share this stateroom to avoid paying single supplement.
The most abundant type of Stateroom on Ocean Albatros is located on decks 4 & 6. They have a balcony, a double bed or two single beds, a bathroom.
Several of the Balcony Staterooms also include a seating area complete with a table and chair. Additionally, a select few of the Balcony Staterooms are equipped with a sofa that can serve as a bed for a third occupant.
If you prefer to book two staterooms with connecting doors, this is possible under this category upon request.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Balcony Suite (B)
25-32 m2
Ocean Albatros has 6 Balcony Suites on board located on decks 4 & 6. The suites feature double or twin beds and a seating area, bathroom, and a large balcony. The balcony suites can host 2 people.
Two of the Category B Balcony Suites are larger in size and are equipped with HCP facilities, such as larger bathrooms and easy-access doorways.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Junior Suite (A)
39 m2
This stateroom can be converted into a Triple stateroom. Third person will have 50% discount.
The 4 junior suites aboard Ocean Albatros have a great view from their location high up on the ship on deck 7.
The suites feature a double bed or twin beds, sofa bed, seating area, a spacious bathroom and a private balcony. The suite can accommodate up to 3 people.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Premium Freydis Suite
45 m2
The second largest of all the staterooms on board the Ocean Albatros is the Premium Suite. This 2-bedroom suite features a double bed (or twin beds), a sofa bed, table and chair, a balcony and a spacious bathroom. Located on deck.4.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
Family Brynhilde Suite
50 m2
The largest of all the staterooms on board the Ocean Albatros is the Family Suite. The Double-Bedroom, Family Suite is located on Deck 7, featuring two interconnecting French Balcony Suites, accommodating up to 5 people on two double beds and a sofa bed.
All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.
C SP, Superior Balcony Stateroom
App. 24 smq, incl. Balcony. Featuring an additional seating area or sofa bed.
From Arctic season 2025, this stateroom can be converted into a Triple stateroom with the third person sleeping on a sofa bed. Third person will have 50% discount.
C XL, Grand Balcony Stateroom
App. 30 smq, incl. Balcony. Extra-large cabins, now incorporating the two wheelchair-accessible cabins from the current Category B's.
Ocean Albatros Deckplan
Specifications
- Year Built: 2020
- Passengers: 186
- Crew: 100
- Length: 104.4m
- Breadth: 18.4m
- Draft: 5.1m
Whats included?
- 8-day/7-night cruise with accommodation in a stateroom with private facilities
- Charter flights Oslo-Longyearbyen-Oslo (2024 only)
- English-speaking expedition staff
- Guided walks with the expedition team
- Nature hikes and Zodiac cruises per itinerary
- Information briefings and lectures by the expedition team
- Special photo workshop
- Full board on the ship
- Dinner drink package
- Free coffee, tea, and afternoon snacks on the ship
- Welcome and farewell cocktails
- Taxes, tariffs, and landing fees
- Digital visual journal link after the voyage, including voyage log, gallery, species list, and more
What’s not included?
- International flights
- Extra excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Hotel accommodation in embarkation/disembarkation locations
- Single room supplement and cabin upgrades
- Meals not on board the ship
- Beverages (Other than coffee and tea and dinner-drink package)
- Tips for the crew (We recommend USD 14 per person per day)
- Personal expenses
- Transfer to/from the ship
- Travel, cancellation, and senior insurance
- Anything not mentioned under ’Inclusions’
Notes
Optional Excursions:
- Kayaking