Travel the Arctic and East Africa in sophistication and relaxed luxury aboard the Aqua Lares. Enjoy an abundance of social spaces, including an onboard cinema, plus daily off-ship activities and personalized service from her crew of 33.
Aqua Lares Svalbard & the Arctic Circle
Discover the best of Svalbard from the only superyacht sailing there. The 30-guest Aqua Lares offers a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio, kayaks and paddleboards, wellness amenities and an upscale feel.
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
FROM
$12,550
USD
PER PERSON
/
Discovering the best of Svalbard can mean taking a new route every week. Weather, sea and ice conditions define every journey, and sailing on board a small ship like Aqua Lares comes with the flexibility to alter course at a moment’s notice. Whether it’s polar bear sightings on a nearby island or migratory whales breaching the water’s surface, the ship’s expert guides and captain are always on the lookout to show you Svalbard at its finest.
The highlights are many on this Svalbard yacht expedition, regardless of route. Observe iconic Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, reindeer and arctic foxes in their natural habitats. Visit historic whaling stations and trapper cabins that reveal the legacy of early Arctic exploration. And sail through dramatic fjords and past calving glaciers, alive with seabirds such as guillemots and Arctic terns.
Sail aboard the luxurious 30-guest Aqua Lares, an ice-strengthened super yacht with more crew than guests, for superior service. Purpose-built for exploration, she features spacious design cabins and a range of social spaces including lounges, an exercise area, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, a sauna, a massage room, and a sundeck. Travelers can enjoy kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding Svalbard’s secluded fjords, alongside twice-daily off-ship excursions into the vast Arctic wilderness.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises, Spitsbergen & Svalbard cruises and Arctic trips.
Svalbard & the Arctic Circle: Itinerary A
Longyearbyen, Svalbard to AlkehornetLongyearbyen, Svalbard
The A itinerary is one possible route, operating round-trip from Longyearbyen with unique visits to the Hinlopen Strait’s bird cliffs of Alkefjellet and massive Brasvellbreen glacier, and historic Sorgfjorden.
Board Aqua Lares in Longyearbyen, the northernmost town in the world, and settle into your luxurious cabin. In the afternoon, visit Alkehornet, a dramatic bird cliff where thousands of guillemots and kittiwakes nest. The tundra below often attracts grazing reindeer and, with luck, arctic foxes on the prowl.
Begin the day at Gravneset, a headland surrounded by glaciers and mountains, where a historic whaling cemetery tells tales of early arctic explorers. In the afternoon, your adventure continues to Smeerenburg Fjord and Sorgattet, once the center of 17th-century Dutch whaling. Step ashore at the historic site, surrounded by arctic terns, geese, and the stark beauty of the high Arctic coast.
After an overnight voyage from Smeerenburg, venture into the drifting pack ice, a silent expanse stretching toward the horizon. Head out on a tender excursion in search of polar bears, bearded seals and ivory gulls in their natural habitat—some of the rarest wildlife encounters on the planet. In the afternoon, take part in a polar plunge and immerse yourself in the frigid Arctic waters.
Start the day exploring one of Svalbard’s most famous bird cliffs. Its basalt walls rise steeply from the sea and are home to over 60,000 pairs of Brünnich’s guillemots during the summer breeding season. The cliffs provide nesting ledges for the birds, while arctic foxes and glaucous gulls are often seen below, preying on eggs or chicks. Later in the day, sail along the Bråsvellbreen glacier front, an outlet of the Austfonna ice cap. Stretching nearly 111 miles (180km), this is one of the longest glacier fronts of the northern hemisphere. During summer, meltwater streams pour down its face in striking seasonal waterfalls, a distinctive feature of this vast ice wall.
In the morning, navigate Hinlopenstretet, the strait separating Spitsbergen from Nordaustlandet. The passage is bordered by steep cliffs and several tidewater glaciers, an important summer habitat for Brünnich’s guillemots, which nest on the cliffs, and the waters may hold bearded seals and drifting pack ice. Polar bears are often sighted in this region, particularly along the ice edge. In the afternoon, possibly land at Torellneset, a gravel spit that’s a well-known walrus haul-out site, where groups of Atlantic walrus rest on the beach between feeding bouts in the surrounding shallow waters.
Arrive at Sorgfjorden, located at the northwestern tip of Spitsbergen. The fjord is famous for its dramatic historical events, most notably the naval battle of 1693, when French warships clashed with Dutch whalers. Along its shores, traces of the whaling era remain visible, including graves and blubber ovens from the 17th century. Svalbard reindeer and arctic foxes are sometimes spotted along the shoreline, while walrus may gather at haul-outs near the fjord entrance. In summer, arctic terns, geese and other migratory birds add to the seasonal life of the high Arctic coast.
In the morning, explore Krossfjorden, where the immense Lilliehöökbreen Glacier stretches for more than 7 miles (12km). Seals often haul out on the drifting ice, and flocks of kittiwakes soar above. Later in the day, head onwards to Kongsfjorden, one of the most beautiful fjords in Svalbard. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and sweeping glaciers, the fjord has long drawn explorers and scientists, its dramatic landscapes offering some of the most striking scenery in the archipelago.
Bid farewell to Aqua Lares and the crew after a hearty breakfast on board.
Included
All meals while on board; non-alcoholic beverages, house wines and beer; all excursions; laundry; satellite internet (limited connection); complimentary parka to keep; waterproof boots on loan during the cruise.
Exclusions
All air tickets; visas; transfers; spirits and premium wines; spa services, boutique purchases and items of a personal nature; guide and crew gratuities; insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 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 are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $500 service charge
120 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 Svalbard & the Arctic Circle cruise begins and ends in Longyearbyen, Svalbard (LYR). Plan flights to arrive to Longyearbyen at 7:15pm for the group transfer to the pier for embarkation (7:00-9:00pm). On Day 8, disembarkation in Longyearbyen is at 4:00pm. Plan flights to depart Longyearbyen no earlier than 6:00pm on Day 8. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include: tender rides, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (drysuits provided on board), hikes/walks, a polar plunge and wildlife viewing from the ship.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount.
Families & Children
Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Save 20% per child under the age of 12 years old. A child under 12 years old sleeping as the third person on a sofa bed pays $830(2026 & 2027) per night.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. 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
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Svalbard & the Arctic Circle: Itinerary B
Longyearbyen, Svalbard to AlkehornetLongyearbyen, Svalbard
The B itinerary is one possible route, operating round-trip from Longyearbyen with unique visits to the peaks and glacier-filled Liefdefjorden and Raudfjord, the historic mining center of Calypsobyen, the small-ship-only site of Van Keulenfjorden, the famous trapper’s cabin at Gnålodden, and the tidewater glaciers of Burgerbukta.
Board Aqua Lares in Longyearbyen, the northernmost town in the world, and settle into your luxurious cabin. In the afternoon, visit Alkehornet, a dramatic bird cliff where thousands of guillemots and kittiwakes nest. The tundra below often attracts grazing reindeer and, with luck, arctic foxes on the prowl.
Begin the day at Gravneset, a headland surrounded by glaciers and mountains, where a historic whaling cemetery tells tales of early arctic explorers. In the afternoon, your adventure continues to Smeerenburg Fjord and Sorgattet, once the center of 17th-century Dutch whaling. Step ashore at the historic site, surrounded by arctic terns, geese, and the stark beauty of the high Arctic coast.
After an overnight voyage from Smeerenburg, venture into the drifting pack ice, a silent expanse stretching toward the horizon. Head out on a tender excursion in search of polar bears, bearded seals and ivory gulls in their natural habitat—some of the rarest wildlife encounters on the planet. In the afternoon, take part in a polar plunge and immerse yourself in the frigid Arctic waters.
Sail into Liefdefjorden, a fjord framed by jagged peaks and glaciers that tumble directly into the sea. At the rustic Texas Bar hunter’s hut, join a guided walk across the surrounding tundra, following reindeer trails and taking in glacier-streaked vistas. In the afternoon, continue to Raudfjord, where towering cliffs and blue-tinged glaciers dominate the landscape. Explore the shoreline alive with seabirds, and then venture inland to admire the silent grandeur of this remote Arctic wilderness.
In the morning, explore Krossfjorden, where the immense Lilliehöökbreen Glacier stretches for more than 7 miles (12km). Seals often haul out on the drifting ice, and flocks of kittiwakes soar above. Later in the day, head onwards to Kongsfjorden, one of the most beautiful fjords in Svalbard. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and sweeping glaciers, the fjord has long drawn explorers and scientists, its dramatic landscapes offering some of the most striking scenery in the archipelago.
Arrive in Bellsund to explore Calypsobyen, once a center of mining and beluga hunting. After lunch on board, head to Van Keulenfjorden, which features steep mountains rising from the sea and landing sites accessible only by small ships such as Aqua Lares. The fjord’s rich history and raw natural beauty combine to create one of Svalbard’s most memorable anchorages.
In the morning, land at Gnålodden, home to one of the best-known trapper’s cabins in Svalbard, set beneath towering cliffs alive with seabirds. The site offers a vivid glimpse into the lives of those who endured the harsh Arctic seasons in this remote wilderness. In the afternoon, sail into Burgerbukta, where massive tidewater glaciers calve into the sea.
Bid farewell to Aqua Lares and the crew after a hearty breakfast on board.
Included
All meals while on board; non-alcoholic beverages, house wines and beer; all excursions; laundry; satellite internet (limited connection).
Exclusions
All air tickets; visas; transfers; spirits and premium wines; spa services, boutique purchases and items of a personal nature; guide and crew gratuities; insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 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 are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – full refund except for $500 service charge
120 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 Svalbard & the Arctic Circle cruise begins and ends in Longyearbyen, Svalbard (LYR). Plan flights to arrive to Longyearbyen at 7:15pm for the group transfer to the pier for embarkation (7:00-9:00pm). On Day 8, disembarkation in Longyearbyen is at 4:00pm. Plan flights to depart Longyearbyen no earlier than 6:00pm on Day 8. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include: tender rides, kayaking, hikes/walks, a polar plunge and wildlife viewing from the ship.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Third person sleeping on sofa bed will receive a 20% discount.
Families & Children
Kids 5 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Save 20% per child under the age of 12 years old. A child under 12 years old sleeping as the third person on a sofa bed pays $830(2026 & 2027) per night.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. 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
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Loading rates & dates…
No upcoming departures available at this time.
Sort
No departures match your filters.
USD
Per Person
Per Person
Sail through East Africa and the Arctic aboard the luxury superyacht Aqua Lares. With 33 crew members for 30 guests, this boat is sure to dazzle with her service and attention to detail. This ice-class expedition ship pairs stability at sea with upscale, mid-century modern design and a relaxed atmosphere. Come aboard for unique suites, fine dining and plenty of social spaces across an expansive 6 guest decks.
Aqua Lares Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Aqua Lares review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel that we offer. Find the detailed ship description and deck plan below. Then contact our experts to compare the Aqua Lares with other small luxury cruise ships and upscale yachts offering Africa cruises, Arctic cruises (including Spitsbergen & Svalbard cruises) and private charter cruises.
Choose the Aqua Lares superyacht for her blend of elegant interiors, expansive space, over 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio and regular opportunities for off-ship activities (including diving in warm climates). This Arctic and East Africa ship carries the refinement and class of her sister ships worldwide, and is poised to deliver the eloquent experience that Aqua Expeditions is known for.
History, Safety & Design
Built by IHC Verschure (Netherlands) in 1920, refit in 2020 and refurbished in 2025, the Aqua Lares is an experienced vessel. Her Rolls Royce Aquarius 50 stabilizers ensure a smooth ride in open ocean. She is SOLAS-certified and carries all necessary emergency equipment, including radio and satellite communication, life rafts and jackets, signals and flares.
Aqua Lares treats her guests to an onboard atmosphere of European and African influence, with upscale materials including sparkling marble, warm wood veneers, soft leather, modern metal, gleaming brass and clean beige palettes. Dedar-brand textiles and Gaya Ceramics dishware mix with antique maps and framed wildlife prints for a feeling that's both high-end and adventurous.
Onboard Facilities
The Aqua Lares yacht offers a plethora of social spaces across her 6 decks, allowing travelers options for shared camaraderie or private moments. The superyacht features a variety of lounges, an exercise area, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, a sauna, a massage room, an open bridge and a sundeck. High-speed satellite internet is available whenever a connection exists, binoculars are available on board, and laundry service (including pressing but no dry cleaning or delicates) is also included.
Dining
Aqua Lares guests are treated to world-class meals served family-style, with options for both indoor and outdoor dining. The Main Saloon offers a sophisticated setting with one long dining table beside an all-day hosted bar. Just outside is a shaded dining area with a second long table, for those who prefer to dine al fresco.
Fare is international and aims to incorporate guest preferences. With advance notice, the talented Aqua Lares chefs can accommodate special requests and dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free. Pair the gourmet onboard dishes with a selection of complimentary house wines and beer, or add a handcrafted cocktail to your experience.
Aqua Lares' menu offers selections from Michelin-starred Consulting Chef Karime López. Creole is a central component to Chef López's menu on board, alongside rich Mediterranean flavors of her Mexican heritage and time spent in prestigious kitchens across Italy, Spain, Mexico, Peru and Japan. Guests can expect locally sourced, sustainable ingredients and five-star flavors, textures and pairings, alongside regional feature dishes.
Lounges & Bars
A variety of lounges and bars invite guests to relax and share stories from the day's activities. The Sun Deck Lounge and bar provides panoramic views from the ship's top deck, perfect for canapes and sundowners followed by star gazing. The aft-facing Heli Deck is the uppermost spot to sun bathe on a chaise lounger or gather with friends on plush couches.
Also aft-facing, the partially covered Outdoor Lounge provides tables, couches, chairs and another bar for a space protected from wind. Inside from the Outdoor Lounge is the Indoor Lounge, with another bar and plenty of couches and chairs to either gather together or enjoy your own space.
Cinema & Boutique
At the heart of Aqua Lares is a small-screen movie theater, equipped with a curated selection of films and documentaries. The ship's boutique is stocked with unique gifts inspired by the Arctic and East African cultures and coastlines through which she sails.
Wellness Ammenities
Travel aboard Aqua Lares is both adventurous (off ship) and pampering (on board). Via the Lower Deck spa, guests can relax in the onboard sauna, indulge in a therapeutic massage, and be rejuvenated by the indoor Jacuzzi—all ideal options after hiking, snorkeling or diving. The Main Deck features a large, aft outdoor Jacuzzi with excellent views and easy access to the swim platform (ideal for a quick dip into the Indian Ocean). Finally, the Owner's Deck offers an exercise room fitted with equipment to maintain fitness routines.
Activities & Expeditions
Activities are all-inclusive while sailing aboard Aqua Lares, with regular opportunities for snorkeling and diving (East Africa only), kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and exploring in the ship's 2 Rib tenders and/or 3 Zodiacs. The ship is equipped with all the necessary gear, including wetsuits, masks and fins. Back on board, guides enrich each day's excursions with educational lectures, for additional insights.
Expect to generally get off the ship twice daily, accessing East Africa's hidden coves and lagoons or Svalbard's remote fjords, plus uncharted shorelines. East Africa activities may include snorkeling along pristine beaches, spotting rare migratory birds and endemic wildlife along guided coastline trails, and hikes through ancient forests and historic ruins. Arctic activities involve hiking, Zodiac cruising and exploring the stunning fjords and historic sites found along Svalbard's remote coastline.
Crew & Guides
Aqua Lares's generous 33 crew members help ensure a highly personalized experience for each of her 30 guests. Included in the crew are a Cruise Director and English-speaking naturalist guides. Expect deluxe service, such as available porters to move luggage at both the airport and the pier.
Cabins & Aqua Lares Deck Plan
Every suite aboard Aqua Lares is unique. Each exquisite space is individually designed and custom furnished with high-end materials. Suites differ in their maximum guest count, size, style, bedding configurations and exterior light (large portholes or windows—please note that neither open). However, every suite is equipped with air conditioning and an electronic safe, plus a deluxe ensuite bathroom with a spacious shower, professional hair dryer, organic hair and bath amenities (shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, hand sanitizer and toothpaste), plus travel essentials including tissues, cotton pads and swabs, a shower cap, razor, ear plugs, toothbrush, comb and slippers.
Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect
-
Expert Review: What to Expect on a Polar Bear Cruise
A travel expert lends her Arctic cruise insight on what you can expect aboard a small ship polar bear cruise in the Arctic Svalbard region.
Trips You Might Also Like
View All Svalbard Cruises
Save up to 20%
+1
Icelandic Mosaic Cruise
Luxury voyage with included shore excursions & onboard entertainment
Save up to 30%
Northern Lights Explorer Cruise
Iceland, Greenland, Norway & Jan Mayen with choose-your-own excursions
West Greenland’s Disko Bay to Uummannaq: Icebergs, Whales & Inuit Culture
West Greenland micro cruise for Disko Bay & remote Uummannaq fjords
Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise
View All Svalbard Cruises
Expedition Svalbard
Circumnavigation via the region's smallest ships with included Longyearbyen hotel
Svalbard Odyssey
Classic Arctic wildlife voyage with modern amenities & pre-cruise hotel
Save up to 20%
+1
Fjords & Glaciers of Spitsbergen Cruise
Svalbard by French-inspired luxury ship with included flights
Our experts will save you hours.
A single conversation with us is worth hours of internet scrolling. Find your next best trip with ease, then book with the confidence of our 20+ year experience.
