Svalbard Adventure Mini-Cruise | 2026
Embark on the ultimate Spitsbergen cruise, perfect for those eager to explore the heart of Svalbard’s pristine wilderness.
Begin your journey with a stay in Longyearbyen before boarding the MS Serenissima for an unforgettable voyage along Spitsbergen’s stunning west coast, where you’ll encounter majestic glaciers, dramatic fjords, and an abundance of Arctic wildlife.
Journey to the top of the world. We attempt to cross the 80th parallel and explore the breathtaking wonders of the Arctic.
Included embarkation tour. Visit the award-winning Svalbard Museum and wilderness centre Camp Barentz, where you’ll meet our cheerful huskies and enjoy an engaging presentation on polar bears in Svalbard.
Step into Arctic history. Visit former whaling stations, mines, and trappers’ cabins, as well as the research settlement of Ny-Ålesund, with expert guidance from our knowledgeable expedition team.
Expertly guided in multiple languages. All our voyages are led by experienced guides and include in-depth guiding during landings in Scandinavian, English, German, and French.
Tentative itinerary
The day-by-day programme offers a glimpse of what you can expect during your voyage, but please remember that this itinerary is just a guide. As with any adventure, the elements are in charge, and weather conditions may lead to changes along the way.
Day 1: Arrive in Longyearbyen
Arrival in Longyearbyen. Explore the town and enjoy a two-course dinner at your hotel restaurant. Overnight stay at either Radisson Blu Polar Hotel or Funken Lodge, depending on your cabin category.
Day 2: Explore Longyearbyen and its surroundings
Spend the day exploring Longyearbyen and the beautiful landscapes that surround it. You’ll have time to visit local galleries, learn about Svalbard’s history in the museums, or join an optional excursion, such as a dog wagon ride, a guided tour of the historic Mine 3, or a boat trip to the nearby bird cliffs. All meals are included, so you can relax and enjoy the day at your own pace.
Day 3: The exploration begins
Today marks your first landing, taking you to remote areas beyond the reach of day trippers, where soaring mountains, abundant birdlife, and sites of historical significance await. Possible locations include Alkehornet and Magdalenefjorden.
Day 4: Towards 80° North
Explore the diverse landscapes of north-west Spitsbergen. If conditions permit, we will sail beyond 80° North and approach Moffen Island, renowned for its walrus population.
Day 5: Fjords, glaciers and research
Discover the scenic Kongsfjord area, home to towering glaciers, thriving birdlife, and centuries of Arctic history. This region is rich in stories – from hunters and trappers to misguided marble miners, coal operations, and daring early expeditions towards the North Pole.
A visit to Ny-Ålesund offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and present: once a mining town, later a base in the race to the Pole, and today a hub for international Arctic research – complete with the world's northernmost post office.
Day 6: Flying home from the Arctic
Today marks the end of your Arctic adventure. You’ll transfer from the ship to Longyearbyen, with time for a final stroll through town or to pick up a few souvenirs before heading to the airport for your flight home.
Not quite ready to leave? You have the option to add extra nights to your package and make the most of your time in Longyearbyen.
What's included?
Accommodation and transfers: A one- or two-night stay in Longyearbyen before your voyage, depending on your chosen departure date, including transfers between Longyearbyen Airport, your hotel, and the vessel.
Food and drink: Full board as per the programme (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with complimentary tea and coffee.
Activities: A three-hour sightseeing tour in Longyearbyen including entrance to Svalbard Museum and a visit to Camp Barentz, guided landings with small expedition boats during the voyage, onboard lectures, and informal gatherings.
Expedition team: Local expert guides fluent in English, German, Norwegian, and French ensure an informative and enjoyable trip.
Equipment: To help you stay warm and dry during your voyage, we’ll provide waterproof boots, a windproof and waterproof jacket, and a lifejacket. You can also borrow a thermal suit for use on deck and walking sticks for landings. All borrowed items must be returned at the end of your trip.
What’s not included
International and domestic flights
Travel insurance
Luggage handling
Additional activities or extended stays in Longyearbyen
Beverages other than tea and coffee
Notes
The minimum age to join the mini-cruise is 2 years
All planned activities are subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions
No gratuities are expected
A true digital detox – there is no Wi-Fi, internet access or mobile signal during the voyage (except in Longyearbyen and Ny-Ålesund)
Embarkation and disembarkation in Longyearbyen: When embarking or disembarking the ship in Longyearbyen, the vessel will either be docked alongside the harbour or anchored in the fjord. This means you may board or leave the ship directly from the quay, or via Zodiac boat transfer. As docking alongside cannot be guaranteed, all guests must be physically able to use stairs and embark/disembark via Zodiac.
Hurtigruten Svalbard is ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 certified, ensuring top-quality and safety standards. As a member of Visit Svalbard and AECO, we are committed to delivering exceptional experiences while prioritising environmental responsibility in the Arctic.
Activities onboard the ship
Your safety is our priority. Our experienced and highly trained expert guides from Svalbard will accompany all excursions, equipped with the knowledge and tools to handle encounters with polar bears. All planned activities are subject to change based on weather and ice conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all passengers.
Landings
Depending on weather and ice conditions, our Expedition Team will use Zodiac boats to attempt various landings throughout our sailing.
Onboard Lectures
You can enjoy onboard lectures by the Expedition Team, who will tell you more about Svalbard and the areas we are exploring. They will also lead daily recaps and preparation for the next day.
Wildlife watching
As we sail there will be plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, with the chance to spot seals, reindeer, walruses and if you are lucky - the king of the Arctic, the iconic polar bear.
Don't miss out on exciting activities and culinary experiences in Longyearbyen!
Extend your stay and explore unique land-based activities and dining. Our local travel designers can create a personalised package just for you. Reach out to us for an unforgettable adventure.
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