Svalbard Express: North to the Midnight Sun
Cruise through Svalbard in high summer, when reindeer and arctic foxes prepare for winter and seabird cliffs teem with life. Board 192-guest Ocean Albatros for a 7- or 8-day expedition.
Come aboard 192-guest Ocean Albatros for an unforgettable Arctic expedition through Svalbard’s breathtaking wilderness. For 7 or 8 days, cruise among whales, walruses, polar bears and millions of seabirds, on an ice-class vessel specially built to navigate the polar pack ice.
Experience the high summer in the Arctic, when reindeer and arctic foxes prepare for winter and seabird cliffs teem with life. This expedition aims to sail as close as possible to the northern pack ice, the favored summer habitat of polar bears, while also visiting accessible locations along Svalbard’s west coast kept navigable by the warm Gulf Stream. From wildlife hotspots to eerie historical sites, glittering icebergs to breathtaking glaciers, this voyage offers a true immersion into nature’s high-Arctic paradise, blending staggering scenery, wildlife-watching and historical discovery.
Tick off a number of bucket list items on this northern Svalbard expedition. Visit a former whaling station at Smeerensburg and Ytre Nozrskøya. Take in amazing birdlife at Alkefjellet. Experience the polar desert landscape at Torrelnesset. Mail a postcard from one of the northernmost post offices at Ny Ålesund. And soak up the beauty of Liefde Fjord with its Monaco Glacier and Texas Bar.
Purpose-built Ocean Albatros serves as your floating basecamp. This 192-guest ice-breaker polar ship features modern technology, state-of-the-art efficiency, a smooth ride and nimble design for active off-ship excursions. Her fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks, plus citizen science equipment, keep travelers active outside the boat. And her inviting lecture room and library, plus relaxing wellness amenities, keep guests engaged between excursions.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises, Spitsbergen & Svalbard cruises and Arctic trips.
Svalbard Express Itinerary
The 7-day Svalbard Express cruise operates round-trip from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, focusing on the northern portions of the archipelago. The 7-day itinerary does not attempt to reach the pack ice or travel north of Nordaustlandet.
Begin your journey in Norway and arrive in Longyearbyen, Svalbard—the northernmost town on Earth. Despite its remote Arctic location, Longyearbyen offers warm Nordic hospitality. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by crisp polar air, dramatic mountain views and a polar bear warning sign reminding visitors of their wild new location. Your expedition ship awaits you in the harbor; toast your departure from civilization as you sail into the Arctic wilderness, on course for adventure!
Northwest Svalbard, a National Park since 1973, preserves a rich history of early Arctic exploration and whaling. First visited by William Barents in 1596, the area became a hub for Dutch and English whalers. Their haunting remnants, such as the blubber ovens and graves of young sailors at Smeerenburg, remain visible. Now heavily protected, the region has been reclaimed by nature, hosting arctic flowers, seabirds, walrus and polar bears, making it once again a pristine wilderness and haven for wildlife.
In the morning, the expedition enters the icy wilderness of northeastern Svalbard, a stark polar desert shaped by the absence of warming ocean currents. Here, vast glaciers descend into ice-choked waters, surrounding rugged landscapes which appear barren, yet teem with life. Arctic foxes prowl the chilly shores, while hundreds of thousands of seabirds nest on cliffs above. These cold coastal waters are rich in shellfish, attracting the walrus, which are common in the area. Your exploration plans depend on rapidly changing sea, wind and ice conditions, embodying the dynamic and unpredictable essence of true polar adventure.
Next, strive for some of the northernmost pieces of land on Earth–stark landscapes almost permanently beset by ice. With luck, you may reach the polar desert island of Nordaustlandet, or the smaller islands of Sjuøyane in the far north of Svalbard. The almost vegetation-free, rocky islands are located around 3,280 feet(1,000km) further north than mainland Norway’s famous Nordkapp. Weather permitting, land and walk upon these most northern landmasses. These high Arctic islands are quite barren, and only moss, hardy tundra plants and lichens cover the stones. The birdlife is rich in this area, with scampering shore birds and nesting terns and skuas–keep your binoculars handy! At the end of the day, start cruising towards the Arctic ice pack which stretches from Svalbard to the North Pole and beyond.
The Arctic ice pack north of Svalbard is a vast, ever-changing wilderness stretching to the North Pole and beyond to Alaska and Siberia, forming one of Earth’s largest and most dynamic habitats. Though it appears empty at first, this icy realm conceals abundant wildlife—from tiny cod-like fish to seabirds and seals, belugas, bowhead whales, and the elusive polar bear, the region’s apex predator. The ship can navigate these narrow ice channels, offering a rare glimpse into this mysterious, shifting environment where nature’s secrets unfold with patience and careful observation.
During the Arctic “night,” sail into the stunning Kongsfjord, a vast fjord system framed by glaciers and the dramatic Three Crowns mountains. Here you will visit Ny-Ålesund, Earth’s northernmost settlement, known for its scientific stations and historic role as a base for legendary polar explorers such as Amundsen and Nansen. This remote outpost continues to support vital research amid its breathtaking surroundings, blending the frontiers of science and exploration.
On the final morning of your expedition, arrive back in Longyearbyen. Even this small town will feel like a metropolis after days of isolation in the wilderness of the Arctic! After exploring Longyearbyen and bidding a fond farewell to the crew and fellow Arctic explorers, return to Svalbard Airport and join your flight back to the Norwegian mainland-with memories to last a lifetime.
Included
Arrival transfer from airport to ship (Day 1); shipboard accommodations; waterproof expedition jacket, yours to keep, and rubber style muck boots on loan for the duration of your expedition; English-speaking expedition team; guided walks, nature hikes, Zodiac landings and excursions, as per itinerary (excluding optional activities with cost); briefings and educational lectures; citizen science program; all meals on the ship (full board): breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks; complimentary house wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner (selected labels and brands, no wine at lunch); 24-hour access to tea, coffee and ‘Grab and Go’ comfort food; welcome and farewell cocktail parties; taxes and landing fees; 500MB Complimentary WiFi for use on your personal device; digital expedition memento.
Exclusions
Mandatory charter flight package ($1,000 in 2027, see Internal Flights for details); international or internal airfares unless listed in the itinerary; excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary (such as optional, added-cost activities); meals and beverages not listed as included; voluntary gratuity for the crew and expedition team; personal expenses such as spa services, boutique purchases, bar, laundry and communications unless specified; mandatory travel insurance and insurance of any kind; visa, reciprocity and passport fees; medical care or emergency evacuation; expedition jacket and rubber muck-style boots outside of available sizes (inquire for more details); life jackets for selected minors (inquire for more details); premium alcohol and any alcohol not mentioned in Inclusions; WiFi from personal devices in excess of the 500 MB provided.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 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 fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 181 days – $1,250 cancellation fee
180 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 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 Express cruise begins and ends in Oslo, Norway (OSL), with mandatory charter flights linking travelers to the embark/disembark point of Longyearbyen, Svalbard. Charter flights are unique per departure, inquire with your Adventure Specialist for details, but in general plan flights to arrive to Oslo any time before Day 1 of the itinerary. Transfers in Longyearbyen are included. The estimated disembarkation time from the vessel is 8:00am on the last day of the itinerary, followed by a mandatory return charter flight to Oslo. We recommend booking your flight from Oslo for the day after disembarkation, in case of unintended delays due to weather or sea conditions. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
Mandatory group charter flights between Oslo and Longyearbyen are part of this trip’s itinerary (see Exclusions for pricing). Detailed information is available approximately 11 months prior to departure. The flight to Longyearbyen is expected to depart early on Day 1 of the itinerary. A group transfer from the Longyearbyen airport to the ship is part of the package. On the final day of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier around 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with a transfer to the airport for the return charter flight to Oslo.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your Svalbard Express cruise. Per-person prices for the 2027 season: discover kayaking $350; photography, citizen science, trekking, the polar plunge and Zodiac cruises included. For the discover kayaking program, the minimum required age is 14 and all kayakers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; weight limit is 260 pounds per person. Discover kayaking one-time paddling excursions are available for those who want something less in-depth than the immersive kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s discover kayaking excursion may be pre-booked or booked on the ship. Note: Activities are capacity-controlled; book early via your Adventure Specialist to reserve your space. A nonrefundable deposit of 20% of the activity fee is required per person at time of booking.
Room Configuration
Single travelers (18+ only) wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Aboard Ocean Albatros and Ocean Victory, third person rates are available at 50% reduction of the double occupancy rate, in Junior Suites and Deck 4 Superior Balcony Suites (inquire for pricing).
Families & Children
Children must be at least 12 years of age to participate in an Arctic voyage. However, on a case-by-case basis, children ages 7-11 may be accepted with additional screening prior to booking. Children under 18 years old must room with a responsible adult who is designated as the lead passenger on the booking.
Travel Insurance
Medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $150,000 USD per person. This plan must cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, evacuation expenses and pre-existing medical conditions. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. 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 conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.
Svalbard: North to the Midnight Sun Itinerary
The 8-day Svalbard: North to the Midnight Sun cruise operates round-trip from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, focusing on the northern portions of the archipelago. The 8-day itinerary adds a day exploring Northwest Svalbard.
Begin your journey in Norway and arrive in Longyearbyen, Svalbard—the northernmost town on Earth. Despite its remote Arctic location, Longyearbyen offers warm Nordic hospitality. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by crisp polar air, dramatic mountain views and a polar bear warning sign reminding visitors of their wild new location. Your expedition ship awaits you in the harbor; toast your departure from civilization as you sail into the Arctic wilderness, on course for adventure!
2027: Begin with a mandatory charter flight from Oslo, Norway.
Northwest Svalbard, a National Park since 1973, preserves a rich history of early Arctic exploration and whaling. First visited by William Barents in 1596, the area became a hub for Dutch and English whalers. Their haunting remnants, such as the blubber ovens and graves of young sailors at Smeerenburg, remain visible. Now heavily protected, the region has been reclaimed by nature, hosting arctic flowers, seabirds, walrus and polar bears, making it once again a pristine wilderness and haven for wildlife.
In the morning, the expedition enters the icy wilderness of northeastern Svalbard, a stark polar desert shaped by the absence of warming ocean currents. Here, vast glaciers descend into ice-choked waters, surrounding rugged landscapes which appear barren, yet teem with life. Arctic foxes prowl the chilly shores, while hundreds of thousands of seabirds nest on cliffs above. These cold coastal waters are rich in shellfish, attracting the walrus, which are common in the area. Your exploration plans depend on rapidly changing sea, wind and ice conditions, embodying the dynamic and unpredictable essence of true polar adventure.
Next, strive for some of the northernmost pieces of land on Earth–stark landscapes almost permanently beset by ice. With luck, you may reach the polar desert island of Nordaustlandet, or the smaller islands of Sjuøyane in the far north of Svalbard. The almost vegetation-free, rocky islands are located around 3,280 feet(1,000km) further north than mainland Norway’s famous Nordkapp. Weather permitting, land and walk upon these most northern landmasses. These high Arctic islands are quite barren, and only moss, hardy tundra plants and lichens cover the stones. The birdlife is rich in this area, with scampering shore birds and nesting terns and skuas–keep your binoculars handy! At the end of the day, start cruising towards the Arctic ice pack which stretches from Svalbard to the North Pole and beyond.
The Arctic ice pack north of Svalbard is a vast, ever-changing wilderness stretching to the North Pole and beyond to Alaska and Siberia, forming one of Earth’s largest and most dynamic habitats. Though it appears empty at first, this icy realm conceals abundant wildlife—from tiny cod-like fish to seabirds and seals, belugas, bowhead whales, and the elusive polar bear, the region’s apex predator. The ship can navigate these narrow ice channels, offering a rare glimpse into this mysterious, shifting environment where nature’s secrets unfold with patience and careful observation.
During the Arctic “night,” sail into the stunning Kongsfjord, a vast fjord system framed by glaciers and the dramatic Three Crowns mountains. Here you will visit Ny-Ålesund, Earth’s northernmost settlement, known for its scientific stations and historic role as a base for legendary polar explorers such as Amundsen and Nansen. This remote outpost continues to support vital research amid its breathtaking surroundings, blending the frontiers of science and exploration.
On the final morning of your expedition, arrive back in Longyearbyen. Even this small town will feel like a metropolis after days of isolation in the wilderness of the Arctic! After exploring Longyearbyen and bidding a fond farewell to the crew and fellow Arctic explorers, return to Svalbard Airport and join your flight back to the Norwegian mainland-with memories to last a lifetime.
2027: End with a mandatory charter flight back to Oslo, Norway.
Included
Arrival transfer from airport to ship (Day 1), for guests arriving on charter flight(optional in 2026, mandatory in 2027) or recommended flight(optional in 2026; inquire for details); shipboard accommodations; waterproof expedition jacket, yours to keep, and rubber style muck boots on loan for the duration of your expedition; English-speaking expedition team; guided walks, nature hikes, Zodiac landings and excursions, as per itinerary (excluding optional activities with cost); briefings and educational lectures; citizen science program; all meals on the ship (full board): breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks; in 2026, complimentary house wine, beer and soft drinks at dinner (selected labels and brands), or in 2027 and beyond, complimentary house wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner (selected labels and brands, no wine at lunch); 24-hour access to tea, coffee and ‘Grab and Go’ comfort food; welcome and farewell cocktail parties; taxes and landing fees; 500MB Complimentary WiFi for use on your personal device; digital expedition memento.
Exclusions
Optional 2026 return transfer charter flight package($700) or mandatory 2027 charter flight package($1,000) (see Internal Flights for details); international or internal airfares unless listed in the itinerary; excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary (such as optional, added-cost activities); meals and beverages not listed as included; voluntary gratuity for the crew and expedition team; personal expenses such as spa services, boutique purchases, bar, laundry and communications unless specified; mandatory travel insurance and insurance of any kind; visa, reciprocity and passport fees; medical care or emergency evacuation; expedition jacket and rubber muck-style boots outside of available sizes (inquire for more details); life jackets for selected minors (inquire for more details); premium alcohol and any alcohol not mentioned in Inclusions; WiFi from personal devices in excess of the 500 MB provided.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 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 fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 181 days – $1,250 cancellation fee
180 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 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
2026, No Charter Flights: The Svalbard: North to the Midnight Sun cruise begins and ends in Longyearbyen, Norway (LYR). Plan flights to arrive to Longyearbyen by 12:30pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. An arrival transfer is included if arriving on the recommended arrival flight (inquire for details). The estimated disembarkation time from the vessel is 8:00am on the last day of the itinerary. We recommend booking your return flight as late in the day as possible, avoiding any flights departing before 10:00am, in case of unintended delays due to weather or sea conditions. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
2026, Optional Charter Flights: The Svalbard: North to the Midnight Sun cruise begins and ends in Oslo, Norway (OSL), with charter flights linking travelers to the embark/disembark point of Longyearbyen, Svalbard. Charter flights are unique per departure, inquire with your Adventure Specialist for details, but in general plan flights to arrive to Oslo any time before Day 1 of the itinerary. Transfers in Longyearbyen are included. The estimated disembarkation time from the vessel is 8:00am on the last day of the itinerary, followed by the return charter flight to Oslo. We recommend booking your flight from Oslo for the day after disembarkation, in case of unintended delays due to weather or sea conditions. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
2027, Mandatory Charter Flights: The Svalbard: North to the Midnight Sun cruise begins and ends in Oslo, Norway (OSL), with mandatory charter flights linking travelers to the embark/disembark point of Longyearbyen, Svalbard. Charter flights are unique per departure, inquire with your Adventure Specialist for details, but in general plan flights to arrive to Oslo any time before Day 1 of the itinerary. Transfers in Longyearbyen are included. The estimated disembarkation time from the vessel is 8:00am on the last day of the itinerary, followed by the return charter flight to Oslo. We recommend booking your flight from Oslo for the day after disembarkation, in case of unintended delays due to weather or sea conditions. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
Optional(2026) or mandatory(2027) group charter flights between Oslo and Longyearbyen are part of this trip’s itinerary (see Exclusions for pricing). Detailed information is available approximately 11 months prior to departure. The flight to Longyearbyen is expected to depart early on Day 1 of the itinerary. A group transfer from the Longyearbyen airport to the ship is part of the package. On the final day of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier around 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with a transfer to the airport for the return charter flight to Oslo (as part of the package).
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your Svalbard: North to the Midnight Sun cruise. Per-person prices for the 2026 & 2027 season: discover kayaking $350; photography, citizen science, trekking, the polar plunge and Zodiac cruises included. For the discover kayaking program, the minimum required age is 14 and all kayakers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; weight limit is 260 pounds per person. Discover kayaking one-time paddling excursions are available for those who want something less in-depth than the immersive kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s discover kayaking excursion may be pre-booked or booked on the ship. Note: Activities are capacity-controlled; book early via your Adventure Specialist to reserve your space. A nonrefundable deposit of 20% of the activity fee is required per person at time of booking.
Room Configuration
Single travelers (18+ only) wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Aboard Ocean Albatros and Ocean Victory, third person rates are available at 50% reduction of the double occupancy rate, in Junior Suites and Deck 4 Superior Balcony Suites (inquire for pricing).
Families & Children
Children must be at least 12 years of age to participate in an Arctic voyage. However, on a case-by-case basis, children ages 7-11 may be accepted with additional screening prior to booking. Children under 18 years old must room with a responsible adult who is designated as the lead passenger on the booking.
Travel Insurance
Medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $150,000 USD per person. This plan must cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, evacuation expenses and pre-existing medical conditions. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. 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 conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.
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The Ocean Albatros accommodates 192 guests and 104 crew members, offering a high level of service and comfort. It’s also Arctic- and Antarctica-maximizing, designed for total comfort and safety in even the roughest seas. And its superior 1A Super ice rating and Polar Class 6 mean it can push through deeper ice and deliver access to ever more remote and elusive areas. On board enjoy spacious rooms, everywhere visibility, and seamless access to Zodiacs, all joining forces to ensure a one-of-a-kind experience that will exceed your highest expectations. Our experts can help compare this ship to her nearly identical sister Ocean Victory.
Ocean Albatros Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Ocean Albatros ship 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 in Antarctica and the Arctic. Please read our Ocean Albatros review below then contact our experts to compare the Ocean Albatros with other Antarctica ships and ice-class expedition ships operating Antarctica cruise itineraries and Arctic cruises, including Svalbard cruises and Greenland small ship cruises.
Choose the Ocean Albatros for her superior comfort and modern feel. Beneath the sleek exterior of the Ocean Albatros lies decades of learning and adaptation to the harsh Antarctic environment. Her patented X-BOW offers unprecedented stability and comfort; her many onboard amenities are designed to maximize your Antarctic experience; and her spacious heated mudroom with four exterior doors makes Zodiac boarding quick, safe and effortless.
Design and Sustainability
The Ocean Albatros is powered by two diesel and two electro engines, controlled electronically to optimize speed and fuel efficiency. Compared to traditional expedition ships, this technology allows the ship to reduce its carbon footprint by 50% and by implementing the Green Initiative Program, the ship and guests enjoy the highest standards of both comfort and sustainability.
Onboard Facilities
The Ocean Albatros is designed to keep the polar world front and center, from wake-up to lights out. A variety of observation decks are accessible from multiple indoor spaces. Two hydraulic platforms can be lowered to offer unprecedented near-water-level views–and rare photograph opportunities. Even the two outdoor Jacuzzis provide 360 views of the mesmerizing landscape that surrounds you. Ocean Albatros also offers superior observation decks, for the best views of the polar landscapes.
Aboard the Ocean Albatros, guests can indulge in a variety of activities to enhance their polar expedition. World-class cuisine and live entertainment provide delightful moments, while the observation area offers stunning panoramic views. Enrich your mind in the lecture room or community library, and explore the wonders of science in the citizen science laboratory. Stay active in the fitness center and unwind in the panorama sauna (an amenity not available on sister ship Ocean Victory) or Albatros Polar Spa. Guests can also enjoy the Albatros Ocean Boutique, the infinity pool and the Jacuzzi.
Dining & Bars
The main dining room (Jens Munk Restaurant, Deck 5) offers an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere with options for made-to-order hot and cold dishes, multiple entrée choices and scrumptious desserts. For a more casual experience, the Bistro on Deck 8 ("specialty restaurant") offers everyday favorites from a buffet as well as menu items inspired by dishes being served in the main dining room. For guests on the go, a 24/7 self-serve station at the Deck 5 bar is stocked with quick bites. Several bars and lounges provide a wide selection of beverages, potentially including curated wine lists and tasting menus, alongside cocktails, beers and non-alcoholic drinks.
Activities & Expeditions
Ocean Albatros invites her passengers to take part in the Citizen Science Program, uniquely with a custom-built Citizen Science laboratory. Citizen Science is a way to harness the power of thousands of travelers around the world to observe, record and report on natural phenomena. A variety of activities engage guests in supporting important research projects across major disciplines. For example, the data collected contributes to a better understanding of climate change and how it’s affecting the Antarctic Continent.
Increased storage space aboard Ocean Albatros translates into more adventure equipment aboard, including kayaks, dry suits, neoprene gloves, and camping gear consisting of insulated sleeping bags and pads, sleeping bag liner, dry bags and four-season mountaineering tents or bivy sacks. More activity equipment allows more guests to participate in added-cost activities. This expedition ship provides all guests with excursions in Zodiacs, loaded and unloaded via the stern’s Zodiac launching platform.
Cabins & Ocean Albatros Deck Plan
Every stateroom provides a generous view, and most include private balconies. Your stateroom is serviced daily with a provided turn-down service. Suites will have VIP services. All staterooms feature a sitting area with chairs or sofa and table, a complimentary mini-bar, flat-screen TV, telephone, safe to store your valuables, independent temperature controls, luxury toiletries and a hair dryer. All Suites include wine and fruit on arrival, restocked mini-bar (non-alcoholic), laundry service, and an in-room espresso machine.
Carrying just 140 guests, the Discoverer: Polar Latitudes is purpose-built for an intimate, highly personalized experience. Her size and agility enable access to smaller landing sites and remote coastlines beyond the reach of larger vessels. Outward-facing staterooms and a wraparound walkway on Deck 6 are designed to maximize views and maintain a constant connection to the surrounding ice, wildlife and sweeping polar horizons.
Discoverer: Polar Latitudes Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Discoverer review includes a detailed description of the small ship, including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our Discoverer: Polar Latitudes ship review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Discoverer with other Antarctica ships and small cruise ships and ice-class expedition ships sailing Antarctica cruises, Arctic cruises and Svalbard cruises.
Choose the Discoverer: Polar Latitudes for a spacious expedition ship that blends modern design with a strong expedition heritage. Her layout balances small-ship access with upgraded public spaces, lounges and amenities, creating a welcoming onboard atmosphere. The result is a vessel that feels expedition-first at its core, with a refined level of comfort shaped by years of operating in remote polar environments.
Design
With a recent refurbishment and a fresh, contemporary interior throughout, the Discoverer: Polar Latitudes blends modern expedition design with enhanced guest comfort. Her Ice Class 1A rating and Polar Code compliance ensure safe, capable and responsible navigation in some of the world’s most remote polar regions.
Onboard Facilities
A range of thoughtfully designed spaces aboard Discoverer: Polar Latitudes allow guests to relax, connect and immerse themselves in the journey. The ship provides easy access throughout via forward and mid-ship stairways and elevators.
At the top of the ship, Deck 7 offers expansive outdoor viewing areas designed for uninterrupted scenery and fresh air immersion. Just below, Deck 6 serves as the ship’s social and wellness hub with an observation lounge and wellness center. The spa facilities include a gym, sauna, steam room and treatment room. This deck also offers outdoor Jacuzzis and a grill area, creating inviting spaces to unwind between excursions.
Deck 5 is home to key gathering points, including the main lounge, boutique and bridge area, while Deck 4 brings together dining and fitness, with the ship’s restaurant and workout facilities located here. On Deck 3, essential expedition services are centralized, including the reception area, medical center, mudroom and expedition office—ensuring guests are fully supported throughout their voyage.
Across the ship, these spaces blend comfort and functionality, offering a boutique-style onboard experience while remaining closely connected to the expedition environment.
Off-Ship Activities
The Discoverer: Polar Latitudes remains a true expedition vessel at heart. An ice-strengthened hull, a fleet of Zodiacs for shore landings and wildlife cruising, and expansive outer decks—including a wrap-around walkway on Deck 6, ideal for wildlife viewing and photography—make the ship perfectly suited for exploring remote polar environments. This expedition capability opens the door to a range of optional off-ship experiences, including kayaking, camping, snowshoeing, and guided photography activities (available at an additional cost), allowing guests to engage with the polar regions in a more active and personal way.
Crew, Guides & Expedition Leaders
The team combines warm hospitality with expert expedition knowledge, ensuring guests feel well cared for while gaining deeper insight into the landscapes and wildlife encountered throughout the voyage. The expedition staff play a central role in the experience, offering guidance on deck, during shore excursions and bringing the polar environment into sharper focus at every stage of the journey.
Cabins & Discoverer Deck Plan
The Discoverer: Polar Latitudes cruise ship offers a range of thoughtfully designed accommodations across 9 categories, including 59 cabins and 10 suites. Each stateroom features a comfortable lounge area with sofa or chairs, a writing desk, a flatscreen TV with interactive media library, ample storage, and a private ensuite bathroom with a shower.
All accommodations are outward-facing, with many offering private balconies or Juliet balconies. Rooms are equipped with a mini bar (stocked with complimentary soft drinks, juice and sparkling water) and refrigerator, WiFi and direct-dial telephone, individually controlled air conditioning, a personal safe, luxury bath amenities, bathrobes and slippers, a hair dryer, and 110/220V power outlets, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the voyage.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
The 2023-built, Ocean Albatros offers refined spaces, a relaxed atmosphere, state-of-the-art technology, and design optimized for smooth and efficient cruising. Come aboard this polar ship for amenities like Jacuzzis and a sauna, plus tenured guides.
The Discoverer: Polar Latitudes expedition ship offers an intimate yet well-rounded experience, combining welcoming social spaces, expansive viewing decks and modern comforts with an Ice Class 1A rating for capable exploration of remote polar regions.
Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect
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Iceland Circumnavigation Cruise
Classic circumnavigation with choose-your-own excursions & included hotel
Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise
View All Svalbard Cruises
Svalbard Circumnavigation: The Ultimate Arctic Quest
Circumnavigation via an elegant ship with flexible cabins
Save up to 30%
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Spitsbergen: Realm of the Ice Bear Cruise
Svalbard via modern ship with flexible cabins & pre-cruise hotel
North Spitsbergen
Smart-value, shorter Svalbard cruise with unique activities
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