Cruise along Spitsbergen’s west coast on a comfortable and upscale small ship for 8 days. On this Expedition, cruise to the heart of the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, in the company of specialist teams, to discover the exceptional flora and fauna that lives in these extreme conditions where temperatures reach -86°F in winter. Expeditions venture to remote locales and include regular Zodiac landings lead by a team of naturalist guides, plus possible added-cost activities.

Discover Hornsund, one of Spitsbergen’s most beautiful fjords, which boasts an impressive glacier front, as well as Bellsund, whose lush valleys are sure to delight. Explore Nordvest-Spitsbergen National Park, following the footsteps of the former whalers who once settled in the sites that are now home to the graves of many sailors and are frequented by various species of cetaceans. Experience the world’s northernmost small town, Ny-Alesund, an international research base and former mining city that once was the departure point for many expeditions to the North Pole. Finally, reach the sumptuous Kongsfjorden glaciers and the last islands before the North Pole. During this unforgettable expedition, sail to latitudes of 80° north. Watch for walruses and polar bear along the way.

A sister ship cruises the icy waters of the Arctic on this once-in-a-lifetime expedition: Le Lyrial. Travel in style aboard this 264-guest, luxury French expedition ships (capped at 200 guests for her Arctic cruises) that offers refined and attentive service, a plethora of onboard activities and unrivaled elegance. Appreciate understated sophistication, an international feel and top-notch guides aboard this ship on her Svalbard cruises.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises and Arctic expedition trips.

Northbound Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen Itinerary

Fly From Paris, France to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen & EmbarkLongyearbyen, Spitsbergen, Fly to Paris, France & Depart

The 8-day Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen voyage cruises round-trip from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, bookended by charter flights connecting to Paris, France. Northbound departures first cruise north to explore the ice floes, before exploring southern Spitsbergen. These Expeditions include regular Zodiac landings lead by a team of naturalist guides, plus possible added-cost activities.

Route map of northbound Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen Arctic voyage round-trip from Longyearbyen, Svalbard with bookend flights connecting to Paris, France.

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 -86°F, 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 provide the feeling of being in completely unexplored territory.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Lyrial
MEALS Dinner

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!

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Lyrial
MEALS Breakfast

Despite the name given to the place, you are neither in Texas nor in a bar; it is actually an unusual place in the High Arctic. Texas Bar is a former trapper’s hut that was used by arctic fox and polar bear hunters in the past. The hut, still in place, has a rudimentary interior with bunkbeds and kitchen utensils. Located at the entrance to Liefdefjorden (the “fjord of love”), it stands peacefully in a landscape of hills covered with moss, lichen and flowers. The cliffs with their changing colors, very frequented by birds, complete the beauty of the panorama. Take a little hike up the slopes and admire the superb view over the Monaco Glacier, which is further south.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Lyrial
MEALS Breakfast

The 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, 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 6.5 feet 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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Lyrial
MEALS Breakfast

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 Zodiacs and in the company of naturalist guides, get as close as possible to this unique fauna and discover this center 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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Lyrial
MEALS Breakfast

The vast Isfjorden is one of the main fjords in Svalbard. These different branches reach the heart of the island of Spitsbergen. Located deep inside the Billejforden, the Nordenskiöld Glacier with its front of ice, nearly 3 miles (5km) wide, is one of the most spectacular in the Svalbard Archipelago. You will perhaps have the opportunity to discover the ghost town of Pyramiden. Constructed at the foot of a mountain in the form of a pyramid, this former mining town, founded by Sweden at the beginning of the 20th century before being sold a few years later to the Soviet Union, and abandoned in 1998, has conserved all the buildings from its glory days, when it lived off coal mining.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Lyrial
MEALS Breakfast

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 -86°F, 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 provide the feeling of being in completely unexplored territory.

ACCOMMODATIONS n/a
MEALS Breakfast

Included

All meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); evening entertainment and events; room service; highly qualified bilingual French/English expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; Zodiac and shore excursions; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise; visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen voyage begins and ends in Paris, France (CDG). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Round-trip Economy class group charter flights between Paris, France and Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen is included with this trip’s itinerary. The charter flights are unique per departure and details will be confirmed in advance. There is a luggage limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 18 lbs (8 kg) cabin baggage for Economy class. Additional Economy class baggage allotment can be requested and purchased and is based on availability. Business Class seating is available upon request and may incur an additional charge. The luggage limit for business class is two 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 22 lbs (10 kg) cabin baggage.

Activities

Various optional activities may be available on your Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen cruise at the following per person costs: kayaking for 350 euros (one outing with no experience required, up to 20 guests, must be pre-booked). Additional activities include practicing photography, Zodiac cruising, walking, hiking and museum visits. In addition to these off-ship excursions, a multitude of onboard activities keep guests engaged, including live music, dance and theater; spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; specialty food, wine and cocktail tastings; organized games; and lectures by guides and possible special guests.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining capacity per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 6 years and older at time of travel are welcomed on this expedition. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditionswildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

Southbound Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen Itinerary

Fly From Paris, France to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen & EmbarkLongyearbyen, Spitsbergen, Fly to Paris, France & Depart

The 8-day Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen voyage cruises round-trip from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, bookended by charter flights connecting to Paris, France. Southbound departures first cruise south to explore southern Spitsbergen, before exploring the ice floes of northern Spitsbergen. These Expeditions include regular Zodiac landings lead by a team of naturalist guides, plus possible added-cost activities.

Route map of southbound Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen Arctic voyage round-trip from Longyearbyen, Svalbard with bookend flights connecting to Paris, France.

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 -86°F, 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 provide the feeling of being in completely unexplored territory.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Lyrial
MEALS Dinner

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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Lyrial
MEALS Breakfast

The 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, 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 6.5 feet 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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Lyrial
MEALS Breakfast

Despite the name given to the place, you are neither in Texas nor in a bar; it is actually an unusual place in the High Arctic. Texas Bar is a former trapper’s hut that was used by arctic fox and polar bear hunters in the past. The hut, still in place, has a rudimentary interior with bunkbeds and kitchen utensils. Located at the entrance to Liefdefjorden (the “fjord of love”), it stands peacefully in a landscape of hills covered with moss, lichen and flowers. The cliffs with their changing colors, very frequented by birds, complete the beauty of the panorama. Take a little hike up the slopes and admire the superb view over the Monaco Glacier, which is further south.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Lyrial
MEALS Breakfast

Raudfjorden means “red fjord,” from the color of the sandstone of the surrounding mountains. Along the west coast of this 12-mile (20km) fjord, dissected by many shallow bays, you will be able to admire some of Spitsbergen’s most spectacular ice formations. At the extremity of the fjord, two offshoots lead to the magnificent glaciers of Chauveaubreen and Raudfjordbreen which is 2 miles (3km) wide. To the east, Alicehamna Beach in Bruceneset Bay has seen trappers, fishermen and explorers arrive for centuries, as evidenced by the “Raudfjordhytta” – the cabin of a Swedish trapper built in 1927.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Lyrial
MEALS Breakfast

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!

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Lyrial
MEALS Breakfast

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 -86°F, 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 provide the feeling of being in completely unexplored territory.

ACCOMMODATIONS n/a
MEALS Breakfast

Included

All meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); evening entertainment and events; room service; highly qualified bilingual French/English expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; Zodiac and shore excursions; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise; visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen voyage begins and ends in Paris, France (CDG). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Round-trip Economy class group charter flights between Paris, France and Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen is included with this trip’s itinerary. The charter flights are unique per departure and details will be confirmed in advance. There is a luggage limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 18 lbs (8 kg) cabin baggage for Economy class. Additional Economy class baggage allotment can be requested and purchased and is based on availability. Business Class seating is available upon request and may incur an additional charge. The luggage limit for business class is two 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 22 lbs (10 kg) cabin baggage.

Activities

Various optional activities may be available on your Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen cruise at the following per person costs: kayaking for 350 euros (one outing with no experience required, up to 20 guests, must be pre-booked). Additional activities include practicing photography, Zodiac cruising, walking, hiking and museum visits. In addition to these off-ship excursions, a multitude of onboard activities keep guests engaged, including live music, dance and theater; spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; specialty food, wine and cocktail tastings; organized games; and lectures by guides and possible special guests.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining capacity per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 6 years and older at time of travel are welcomed on this expedition. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditionswildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

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Learn About The Luxury Small Ship On Your Itinerary

Le Lyrial is a refined, luxury expedition ship cruising Antarctica, the Arctic & the East Coast. Enjoy her private yacht atmosphere, understated elegance and culinary delights, paired with an engaging program of lectures, onboard entertainment and off-ship adventures.

Luxury 244 GUESTS 466 FEET

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