The M/V Hondius was built exclusively for cruises in Antarctica and the Arctic. She is one of the strongest ice-strengthened vessels currently cruising in the polar regions.
Photo by: Markus Eichenberger
South Spitsbergen Explorer
Cruise south Spitsbergen aboard 108-guest Ortelius for large seabird colonies, historic whaling and trapper sites, and some of the least-visited sites in the Arctic. Various fjords and majestic shorelines provide opportunities to view arctic foxes, polar bears, numerous species of whale and more.
Jun
Jul
Sep
FROM
$3,250
USD
PER PERSON
/
On this 6- to 10-day East Spitsbergen – Home of the Polar Bear itinerary, experience arctic seabird colonies, ancient Pomor ruins and some of the least-visited locations of the high Arctic. Explore multiple key wildlife sites around the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard. While viewing all the amazing landscapes and ice formations, you will also get the chance to see polar bears, walrus haul-outs and flourishing seabird nesting areas.
The 6-day itinerary positions southbound from Svalbard to Tromso, Norway, at a time when northern lights are possible, with two sea days and the opportunity for added-cost diving. The 8-day itinerary aims to access the bear-rich east Svalbard plus enjoy opportunities for long hikes and a beach clean up. And the 10-day itinerary follows a similar route to the 8-day but adds a visit to the seabird-rich Bear Island.
Cruise south Spitsbergen aboard 108-guest Ortelius or 170-guest Hondius, each an ice-strengthened vessel designed for polar expedition with modern renovations. AdventureSmith Explorations’ crew of award-winning Arctic small ship cruise experts have personal experience sailing in the High Arctic. Contact us to discover more about this Arctic cruise and other options to suit your travel interests and timeline.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises, Svalbard & Spitsbergen Cruises and Arctic trips.
South Spitsbergen, Bear Island & Mainland Norway - Aurora Borealis Itinerary
Longyearbyen, SvalbardTromso, Norway
The 6-day South Spitsbergen, Bear Island & Mainland Norway – Aurora Borealis cruise operates southbound from Longyearbyen, Svalbard to Tromso, Norway, exploring the lesser-visited southern end of the archipelago, with a rare visit to Bear Island with its large seabird colonies en route to Tromso. This itinerary travels at a time of year when northern lights are possible.
Touch down in Longyearbyen, the administrative center of Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago. Enjoy strolling around this former mining town, whose parish church and Svalbard Museum make for fascinating attractions. Though the countryside appears stark, more than a hundred species of plant have been recorded in it. In the early evening, the ship sails out of Isfjorden, where you might spot the first minke whale of the voyage.
Start the day by quietly cruising the side fjords of the spectacular Hornsund area in southern Spitsbergen, dominated by towering mountain peaks. The mountain of Hornsundtind rises to 4,695 feet (1,431m), while the peak of Bautaen testifies to why early Dutch explorers gave this island the name Spitsbergen, which translates to “pointed mountains.” There are 14 magnificent glaciers in the area, and you have a fair chance of encountering seals and polar bears. All bird cliffs, which teemed with seabirds earlier in the season, have now departed, except some late fulmars. You will have the opportunity to take a Zodiac excursion to mighty Hornbreen and to set foot on Treskelen. Late in the evening, depart from Hornsund.
This is a good day to look for whales, seals and migrating seabirds as you voyage south. Your route follows the limits of the Norwegian and Barents seas, both rich in marine life. It depends on the weather how fast the ship will proceed to Bear Island and sight its shores. From now on, darker skies provide opportunities to see the Aurora Borealis and the stars.
Early in the morning, arrive at the southeastern end of Bear Island. You can expect to see gannets and fulmars here. It is a good time to see migratory arctic birds moving south. Sail northeast by Sörhamna, where all breeding ledges are deserted, to Revdalen, where you’ll land and may still encounter great skuas, large seabirds known to be fiercely territorial. From there, you may climb some way up to the bird mountain at the coast for great views.
In Kvalrossbukta, land at the remains of a whaling station from the early 19th century. As you continue a little north along the (usually calm) east side of Bear Island, look for other good landing spots. Depending on the weather, you may also approach Bear Island from the northeast and sail south along the east coast. Late afternoon, depart for Norway.
This is another good full sea day to look for whales and migrating seabirds as you sail toward Norway. The nights grow ever-longer, making displays of the Northern Lights more frequent and vivid. At the end of the day, you may glimpse the first sign of land in the south.
In the early morning, sail through straits and fjords to Tromsö, the capital of the northern province of Troms. There are many reasons Norway’s fjords are world-renowned, and today you get a glimpse of them. Say goodbye with memories made!
Included
Voyage aboard the indicated vessel in the itinerary; all meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea; all shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac; program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff; free use of rubber boots and snow shoes; transfers and baggage handling between the airport, hotel and ship only for those passengers on the group flights to and from Longyearbyen; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; AECO fees and governmental taxes; comprehensive pre-departure material; basic WiFi up to 1.5GB per 24 hours (additional data available for purchase on board).
Exclusions
Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights; pre- and post-cruise land arrangements; transfers to/from the vessel outside Spitsbergen; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; meals ashore; baggage and cancellation insurance; personal insurance (mandatory); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges; the customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be 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 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 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 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 South Spitsbergen, Bear Island & Mainland Norway – Aurora Borealis voyage begins in Longyearbyen, Norway (LYR) and ends in Tromso, Norway. Longyearbyen is only accessed via flights from Oslo, Norway (OSL). Some flights arrive very early in the morning, before standard hotel check-in; in these cases, we recommend booking an extra hotel night or arranging a day room option. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues.
Plan flights to arrive to Longyearbyen by 3:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Embarkation time is between 4:00 and 5:00pm on day of departure, with a 6:00pm departure. Transfers in Longyearbyen are provided on specified group flights. Travelers arriving on independently arranged flights should make their own way to the port on day of embarkation and to the airport upon disembarkation. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 6 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Tromso no earlier than 6:00am on Day 6. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your South Spitsbergen, Bear Island & Mainland Norway – Aurora Borealis voyage. Guided shore excursions, walks, wildlife spotting and Zodiac cruises are included in the fare and will be offered to all passengers during each voyage. Every day there will be excursions on land, weather and ice permitting. The landings will take 3 to 6 hours per day over untracked area. According to circumstances (the weather, the ice-situation or the passengers’ wishes) the program can sometimes be adjusted. Ample time will be devoted to wildlife, vegetation, geography and history.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x the per-person Twin or Superior listed rates. Single travelers wishing to book on a “sharing basis” may do so at no additional cost in Twin, Triple or Quadruple categories upon availability.
Families & Children
Upon request (some voyages may be excluded), children under 16 years old with parents may receive a 40% discount in the following cabins: Grand Suite, Superior, Triple (1 child sharing with 2 parents/adults) and Quadruple (1 child sharing with 3 parents/adults, or 2 children sharing with 2 parents/adults). Parents are entirely responsible for their children at all times, on land and on board; there is no onboard day care or nursery facility.
Travel Insurance
Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 per person. 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.
East Spitsbergen - Home of the Polar Bear, Including Long Hikes & Cleaning the Shores Itinerary
Longyearbyen, SvalbardLongyearbyen, Svalbard
The 8-day East Spitsbergen – Home of the Polar Bear cruise operates round-trip from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, exploring the lesser-visited southern end of the archipelago, with opportunities for full-day hikes and a beach clean up.
Touch down in Longyearbyen, the administrative center of Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago. Enjoy strolling around this former mining town, whose parish church and Svalbard Museum make for fascinating attractions. Though the countryside appears stark, more than a hundred species of plant have been recorded in it. In the early evening, the ship sails out of Isfjorden, where you might spot the first minke whale of the voyage.
Start the day by quietly cruising the side fjords of the spectacular Hornsund area in southern Spitsbergen, enjoying the scenery of towering mountain peaks. The mountain of Hornsundtind rises to 4,695 feet (1,431 meters), while the peak of Bautaen testifies to why early Dutch explorers gave this island the name Spitsbergen, meaning “pointed mountains.” There are 14 magnificent glaciers in the area, and you have a fair chance of encountering seals and polar bears. The nearby cliffs of Sofiakammen are also home to thousands of pairs of nesting kittiwakes and little auks, and in the evening, you might see thousands of harp seals rutting on ice floes at Sørkapp.
Long hike – If conditions permit, land at Treskelodden, then walk from Treskelen to Adriabukta. From there, walk west to Hyrneodden and north to the glacier in Wibewika (about 10 miles/16km), where you will be picked up. The other guests will have their program in Brepollen (morning) and Luciakammen or Sofiakammen (afternoon). You might also do this program in reverse.
After navigating the drift ice of Storfjorden, where harp seals are sometimes seen, land in northwest Edgeøya at the northern bank of Rosenberdalriver. Here on the raised beach, have the opportunity of walking to Rosenbergdalen, which is teeming with grazing reindeer. Afterward, plan to walk by a cliff with nesting black guillemots on your way to Stretehamna, where a herd of walruses is often found on the beach near an octagonal trapper’s cabin built in 1905. You can also see the remains of a 19th-century Pomor house as well as the bones of walruses hunted in previous centuries.
Long hike – If conditions permit, land at Blankoddden, near a large kittiwake colony in a beautiful canyon, then walk north along the coast to Kapp Lee (about 12.4 miles/20km) or to the south side of Rosenbergdalen (about 10.6 miles/17km), where you will be picked up. You might also do this program in reverse. If this long hike is not possible, then an alternative hike on Day 4 may be offered.
Sailing into the waterway of Freemansundet, plan to land at the tundra lowland of Sundneset, on the island of Barentsøya. Visit the hut of a German scientific expedition (Würzbugerhütte) from 60 years ago, then take a brisk walk across the tundra in search of Spitsbergen reindeer and barnacle geese. After that, go on a Zodiac cruise near Freeman Glacier and visit a kittiwake colony in a canyon close by. In case of heavy ice in Freemandundet, however, you will instead sail to Negribreen, one of the most extensive glacier fronts on the east side of Spitsbergen. Here you can take a Zodiac cruise and land on Walrus Island, which became ice-free at the end of last century.
Long hike – If conditions permit, land in Barentsøya, near small lakes with wildfowl and waders, then walk east along the coast of Barentsøya to Freemanbreen. After about 6.2 miles (10km), pass a colony of kittiwakes. After another 6.2-mile (10km) walk, be picked up at the west side of Freemanbreen. This is a good area to spot polar bears. You might also do this program in reverse.
Today, sail to the east side of west Spitsbergen (west side of Storfjorden). Here, plan to walk to breeding places for ivory gulls in Agardhfjellet, which stands about 980 feet (300m) high. The valley leading to the outcrops that house the nests is littered with fossils of belemnites and ammonites.
Today, aim to land at the mountain of Stellingfjellet, near the largest colony of Brünnich’s guillemots in Spitsbergen. Later in the day, make landings at the rarely visited coast of south Spitsbergen, at the bay of Isbukta.
Continue your voyage in Bell Sund, one of the largest fjord systems in Svalbard. The ocean currents make this area slightly warmer than other areas in the archipelago, which shows in the relatively lush vegetation. Here there are excellent opportunities to enjoy both history and wildlife.
A possibility is Ahlstrandhalvøya, at the mouth of Van Keulenfjorden, where piles of beluga skeletons can be found. These remains of 19th-century whale slaughter are a haunting reminder of the consequences of rampant exploitation. Fortunately, belugas were not hunted into extinction, and you have a good chance of coming across a pod. Alternately, while cruising the side fjords of Bellsund, you can explore tundra where reindeer like to feed as well as rock slopes where little auks are breeding.
Long hike – If conditions permit, land at Recherchelagune and walk along the eastern shore of Recherchefjord, by Laegerneset (17th century whaling station). The goal is to reach Ahlstrandhalvøya, and from there to Ingebrigtsenbukta. If need be, your Zodiacs can help at the mouth of the river. You might also do this hike in reverse or land at Ingeborgfjellet, then walk along the coast to the west side of van Muydenbukta, along a shore with many whale skeletons.
Even the greatest journeys must eventually come to an end. Disembark today in Longyearbyen, taking home memories that will accompany you wherever the next adventure lies.
Included
Voyage aboard the indicated vessel in the itinerary; all meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea; all shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac; program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff; free use of rubber boots and snow shoes; transfers and baggage handling between the airport, hotel and ship only for those passengers on the group flights to and from Longyearbyen; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; AECO fees and governmental taxes; comprehensive pre-departure material; basic WiFi up to 1.5GB per 24 hours (additional data available for purchase on board).
Exclusions
Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights; pre- and post-cruise land arrangements; transfers to/from the vessel outside Spitsbergen; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; meals ashore; baggage and cancellation insurance; personal insurance (mandatory); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges; the customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be 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 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 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 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 East Spitsbergen – Home of the Polar Bear voyage begins and ends in Longyearbyen, Norway (LYR). Longyearbyen is only accessed via flights from Oslo, Norway (OSL). Some flights arrive very early in the morning, before standard hotel check-in; in these cases, we recommend booking an extra hotel night or arranging a day room option. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues.
Plan flights to arrive to Longyearbyen by 3:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Embarkation time is between 4:00 and 5:00pm on day of departure, with a 6:00pm departure. Transfers in Longyearbyen are provided on specified group flights. Travelers arriving on independently arranged flights should make their own way to the port on day of embarkation and to the airport upon disembarkation. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 8 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Longyearbyen no earlier than 6:00am on Day 8. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Select departures offer special long hikes. These guided all-morning, point-to-point treks are up to nine miles over tundra, rivers, rocky shoreline, low hills and rugged backcountry, with boots provided and rest stops and lunch along the way. After a full day (up to 6 hours) of hiking, meet the ship at its second activity stop for the day. Ask your Adventure Specialist to reserve your spot for this included activity at time of booking.
Various optional activities may be available on your East Spitsbergen – Home of the Polar Bear voyage. Added-cost polar diving ($640 per person in 2026) is available for 8-24 divers and you must be experienced in dry suit and cold-water diving. Guided shore excursions, walks, wildlife spotting and Zodiac cruises are included in the fare and will be offered to all passengers during each voyage. Every day there will be excursions on land, weather and ice permitting. The landings will take 3 to 6 hours per day over untracked area. According to circumstances (the weather, the ice-situation or the passengers’ wishes) the program can sometimes be adjusted. Ample time will be devoted to wildlife, vegetation, geography and history.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x the per-person Twin or Superior listed rates. Single travelers wishing to book on a “sharing basis” may do so at no additional cost in Twin, Triple or Quadruple categories upon availability.
Families & Children
Upon request (some voyages may be excluded), children under 16 years old with parents may receive a 40% discount in the following cabins: Grand Suite, Superior, Triple (1 child sharing with 2 parents/adults) and Quadruple (1 child sharing with 3 parents/adults, or 2 children sharing with 2 parents/adults). Parents are entirely responsible for their children at all times, on land and on board; there is no onboard day care or nursery facility.
Travel Insurance
Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 per person. 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.
South Spitsbergen Explorer - Bear Island - Diving Itinerary
Longyearbyen, SvalbardLongyearbyen, Svalbard
The 10-day South Spitsbergen Explorer – Bear Island – Diving cruise operates round-trip from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, exploring the lesser-visited southern end of the archipelago, including a rare visit to Bear Island with its large seabird colonies and an opportunity for diving (added-cost).
Touch down in Longyearbyen, the administrative center of Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago. Enjoy strolling around this former mining town, whose parish church and Svalbard Museum make for fascinating attractions. Though the countryside appears stark, more than a hundred species of plant have been recorded in it. In the early evening, the ship sails out of Isfjorden, where you might spot the first minke whale of the voyage.
Start the day by quietly cruising the side fjords of the spectacular Hornsund area in southern Spitsbergen, enjoying the scenery of towering mountain peaks. The mountain of Hornsundtind rises to 4,695 feet (1,431 meters), while the peak of Bautaen testifies to why early Dutch explorers gave this island the name Spitsbergen, meaning “pointed mountains.” There are 14 magnificent glaciers in the area, and you have a fair chance of encountering seals and polar bears. The nearby cliffs of Sofiakammen are also home to thousands of pairs of nesting kittiwakes and little auks, and in the evening, you might see thousands of harp seals rutting on ice floes at Sørkapp.
Today, venture along the west side of Bear Island, heading toward the southeast- an excellent place for viewing large seabird colonies. The nearby nesting cliffs are part of an extensive nature reserve where shore landings are not permitted. Afterward, sail northeast into Sörhamna, where you can get closer to the seabird cliffs. Chiefly, Brünnichs guillemots, kittiwakes and fulmars nest here.
Just northeast of this is Revdalen where, at a safe distance, you can watch breeding great skuas, large seabirds known to be fiercely territorial. From there, you may climb some way to the bird mountain at the coast. In Kvalrossbukta, land at the remains of a whaling station from the early part of the previous century. As you continue north along the east side of Bear Island, look for other good landing and activity spots.
Sailing northward, you may still encounter sea ice, where you have a good chance of spotting polar bears as well as various species of whales, seals and seabirds. Sailing along the western side of the Tusenøyane, you may see polar bears, walruses and belugas.
Land at a beach dotted with bones of prehistoric bowhead whales and walk to a canyon with over 10,000 pairs of breeding kittiwakes on both sides, and often arctic foxes preying on eggs, and sometimes a polar bear. The valley south of the colony is inviting for long walks.
Land at the east coast of Spitsbergen at the mouth of Skjolddalen river, where ivory gulls gather to breed. Then, a relaxed walk takes you to the summit of Fleinskallen (about 985 feet/300m high), with some tens of breeding Ivory Gulls spread along the ridges. Here it pays to keep one eye on the ground at your feet – the area is very rich in fossils, such as belemnites.
The area around Boltodden is famous for its preserved dinosaur fossil tracks. Behind these are the steep bird mountains of Kvalvaagen, home to many thousands of Brünnich’s Guillemots and other seabirds. At Kvalbreen, you have a good opportunity for a Zodiac cruise and seal observations. Polar bears are not uncommon in this area, so keeping your camera handy here is a must.
Bellsund is one of the largest fjord systems in Svalbard. Here, there are excellent opportunities to enjoy both history and wildlife. A possibility is Ahlstrandhalvøya, at the mouth of Van Keulenfjorden, where piles of beluga skeletons can be found, remains of poorly managed 19th-century whaling. Thankfully, belugas were not hunted to extinction, and you have a good chance of encountering a pod. Alternatively, while cruising the side fjords of Bellsund, you can explore the tundra where reindeer like to feed, as well as rock slopes where little auks breed, near Vaarsolbukta.
Even the most remarkable journeys must eventually come to an end. Disembark today in Longyearbyen, taking home memories that will accompany you wherever the next adventure lies. Here, you can further explore the town or prepare for your onward flight.
Included
Voyage aboard the indicated vessel in the itinerary; all meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea; all shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac; program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff; free use of rubber boots and snow shoes; transfers and baggage handling between the airport, hotel and ship only for those passengers on the group flights to and from Longyearbyen; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; AECO fees and governmental taxes; comprehensive pre-departure material; basic WiFi up to 1.5GB per 24 hours (additional data available for purchase on board).
Exclusions
Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights; pre- and post-cruise land arrangements; transfers to/from the vessel outside Spitsbergen; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes; meals ashore; baggage and cancellation insurance; personal insurance (mandatory); excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges; the customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be 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 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 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 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 South Spitsbergen Explorer – Bear Island – Diving voyage begins and ends in Longyearbyen, Norway (LYR). Longyearbyen is only accessed via flights from Oslo, Norway (OSL). Some flights arrive very early in the morning, before standard hotel check-in; in these cases, we recommend booking an extra hotel night or arranging a day room option. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues.
Plan flights to arrive to Longyearbyen by 3:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Embarkation time is between 4:00 and 5:00pm on day of departure, with a 6:00pm departure. Transfers in Longyearbyen are provided on specified group flights. Travelers arriving on independently arranged flights should make their own way to the port on day of embarkation and to the airport upon disembarkation. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 10 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Longyearbyen no earlier than 6:00am on Day 10. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your South Spitsbergen Explorer – Bear Island – Diving voyage. Added-cost polar diving ($640 per person in 2027) is available for 8-24 divers and you must be experienced in dry suit and cold-water diving. Guided shore excursions, walks, wildlife spotting and Zodiac cruises are included in the fare and will be offered to all passengers during each voyage. Every day there will be excursions on land, weather and ice permitting. The landings will take 3 to 6 hours per day over untracked area. According to circumstances (the weather, the ice-situation or the passengers’ wishes) the program can sometimes be adjusted. Ample time will be devoted to wildlife, vegetation, geography and history.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x the per-person Twin or Superior listed rates. Single travelers wishing to book on a “sharing basis” may do so at no additional cost in Twin, Triple or Quadruple categories upon availability.
Families & Children
Upon request (some voyages may be excluded), children under 16 years old with parents may receive a 40% discount in the following cabins: Grand Suite, Superior, Triple (1 child sharing with 2 parents/adults) and Quadruple (1 child sharing with 3 parents/adults, or 2 children sharing with 2 parents/adults). Parents are entirely responsible for their children at all times, on land and on board; there is no onboard day care or nursery facility.
Travel Insurance
Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $100,000 per person. 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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Oceanwide Expeditions is providing ongoing public updates regarding the situation aboard their vessel, m/v Hondius. For the latest operator communications and official updates, please refer directly to Oceanwide Expeditions’ press page.
Hondius is a 170-passenger expedition ship, built exclusively for polar cruises. The 350-foot vessel is the first to be built to ice class LR PC6, making her one of the strongest ice-strengthened vessels in the polar regions. Her name honors cartographer Henricus Hondius (Amsterdam 1597–1651) and his father Jodocus Hondius (Wakken, Belgium 1563–Amsterdam 1612).
Why Sail Aboard Hondius
Choose the Hondius as your true basecamp for active adventure and modern-minded explorers, with activities that include hiking trips, kayaking, overnight field camping, astronomy workshops, birding and even scuba diving. This modern ship pairs strength, high-tech stabilizers, the utmost in safety standards and two main engines with a combined 4,200kW of power that generate a speed of 15 knots. The vessel was built by Croatia shipbuilder Brodosplit. Hondius is a stunning addition to the current fleet of expedition ships operating in polar waters. This fast and flexible ship is designed to respond to fluctuating polar conditions and adapt quickly.
Like her predecessor ships Plancius and Ortelius, Hondius is primarily defined by an exploratory educational travel program, with guests spending as much time ashore as possible. Uniquely the Hondius boasts special interactive workshops, captivating exhibitions and vibrant performances on board as well as on land.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard the MV Hondius firsthand. Read our dedicated MV Hondius review or consult this page further for a detailed description of Hondius including her competitively priced cabins and high quality. Then contact our polar cruise experts to compare the Hondius with other Antarctica ships and small cruise ships sailing Antarctica cruises and Arctic cruises including cruises to Greenland.
Safety & Sustainability Aboard Hondius
Built to LR PC6, similar to the previous Finnish-Swedish ice-class notation “1A-Super,” Hondius meets the latest and highest demands of Lloyd’s Register for “Polar Class 6” vessels, the highest Polar Class notation for ice-strengthened vessels. She is also built according to the latest requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), in particular concerning the safety of the life at sea (SOLAS) and the prevention of pollution from ships (MARPOL) for passenger vessels. Hondius is also equipped with IcySea, a software providing near-real-time ice information to ensure safe navigation.
The protection of the environment is of major importance and efforts extend from construction to sailing. The propulsion system consists of two medium-speed main engines and one adjustable pitch propeller. The flexible power management (in combination with a shaft generator instead of operating a diesel-driven generator) permits the lowest possible fuel consumption and CO2 emission and therefore a minimum possible impact on the environment.
Further efforts to protect the environment include the use of biodegradable lubrication oils and hazardous-free coating and paint, avoiding the use of toxic/hazardous materials during the vessel's construction. Also she employs steam for heating purposes on board while keeping electrical heating at a minimum, equips interior and exterior lighting with LED lights which reduces 60% of power compared with conventional lighting and reuses waste heat (such as cooling water for the main engines) for the production of fresh water. Additional existing requirements and restrictions, while at sea and in the polar regions, will be strictly followed.
Common Areas & Amenities Aboard Hondius
The vessel offers a deluxe standard and at the same time a distinctive, cozy and informal atmosphere. An entire deck, Deck 5, on board is reserved for an observation lounge and a separate lecture room in order to offer simultaneous or multi-language lectures and presentations. There are computers in the lecture room for photo sharing so it can be helpful to bring a USB stick to save shareable images. The Observation Lounge hosts most gatherings, and also offers activities in between, such as boardgames.
A separate library creates opportunities to relax and learn while aboard. Between the large viewing windows and the multiple external viewing decks, viewing wildlife and epic landscapes is easily possible. An infirmary and gear room are available just a few steps from the Zodiac launching area. Smoking in designated areas only. Hondius features numerous outdoor spaces, including an open-air 8th deck popular with walkers. Bench seating is found in many of these al fresco spaces.
Refreshments from the fully provisioned bar and souvenirs will be charged to each cabin. Bills may be settled the day before departure with the Hotel Manager and paid by credit card (Visa or MasterCard) or cash (euro or US dollar). The prices and standard currency on board Hondius is the euro. Other currencies may be accepted at the discretion of the Hotel Manager at prevailing rates.
Hondius offers complimentary internet access via a voucher for a daily allowance of 1.5GB of internet activity, which resets every 24 hours. Additional internet data is available via supplementary vouchers which may be purchased on board. Additionally, laundry is available for a small fee.
Dining Aboard Hondius
In addition to satisfying the intellect and soul through her powerful experiences, the Hondius sets out to satisfy gastronomically. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style (hot and cold) while dinner is a four-course meal (selected at lunch each day) with meat, fish and vegetarian options. Menus are international with both comfort foods and fresh healthy options, and special diets can often be accommodated with advance notice.
The dining room's walls of windows ensure travelers won't miss any wildlife sightings. Seating is unassigned and the atmosphere is casual, with options of 2-tops, cozy booths and even 12-guest high-top tables. The dining room and all of Hondius's other common areas foster a sense of conviviality, community, togetherness and enjoyment thanks to her cozy and friendly atmosphere.
Between meals, guests can still access fruit, bread and assorted snacks. Coffee, tea and water are included, however alcohol and soft drinks are additional. A self-serve espresso, coffee, tea and hot chocolate machine is available around the clock, and daily happy hour can be enjoyed in the Observation Lounge (complete with a wine-dispensing machine).
Crew & Guides Aboard Hondius
While cruising, 76 crew and staff members (including a doctor, expedition and hotel staff) are at the passengers’ service. An international team of seasoned polar experts and field guides are assembled to share their enthusiasm and in-depth knowledge through evening recaps, lectures, briefings and field excursions. The science-minded professionals aboard cover major topics like marine biology, geography, geology, glaciology, ornithology and history. When it comes to excursions, the staff have all been trained and qualified in their respective activity. These scientists, lecturers and expedition guides work hard not just for safety but also to highlight all sorts of examples of the unique elements of these intriguing polar regions. Expect an expertly led morning and afternoon excursion of 2-3 hours each (weather depending) while traveling aboard Hondius.
Activities Aboard Hondius
Hondius's philosophy is to keep sea legs short and to focus on fast and effective access to shore and near-shore activities for all nature- and wildlife-minded passengers. Her interactive, experiential and informative activities are designed to engage while on and off the ship. A powerful fleet of 15 Zodiacs guarantees quality outings and swift landing operation for all passengers at the same time. A speedy Zodiac embarkation is enhanced with two separate gangways and in addition, sheltered indoor platforms for easy Zodiac embarkation at water level. During passenger excursions the vessel will be at anchor but Hondius is also very capable to drift and/or to remain at the same position with the support of her bow and stern thrusters. On board, the Hondius treats guests to interactive workshops that explore topics such as photography and videography, astronomy, navigation and botany.
Guests will appreciate the on-loan waterproof muck boots and waterproof dry bags for off-ship excursions, but note that parkas are not provided aboard Hondius (also not provided, but required, are waterproof pants). Travelers should bring their own trekking poles and daypacks if desired, as well as binoculars for use away from the ship-provided ones in the Bridge.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Hondius
Hondius offers accommodations for 170 passengers in 8 cabin categories all with stylish modern mid-century decor. Every one of the 81 cabins offers a private shower and toilet, heated towel rack, flatscreen TV, desk and chair, telephone and WiFi access, hair dryer, cabinet, safe, thermostat and rotating HEPA air purifier. Bedding is fixed in each cabin so cannot be reconfigured. The electrical supply aboard the ship is 220v, 60Hz. A coffee and tea maker is available in Twin Deluxe cabins and above. Electrical outlets are standard European with two thick round pins. A 220v/110v converter may be needed; packing adaptors with USB ports can be helpful as your cabin may not have any.
The M/V Ortelius is an ice-strengthened small ship designed for polar expedition cruises in the Arctic and Antarctica. At only 108 passengers and 50 cabins, she assures a flexible polar experience with maximum wildlife opportunities.
In 2025, Ortelius was equipped with IcySea, a software providing near-real-time ice information to ensure safe navigation, as well as new bronze propeller blades and a resurfaced hull. In Summer 2019, one engine on the Ortelius ship was replaced and an extra engine was added, ensuring swift and secure operations. A $1.5 million cabin reconfiguration in 2014 (Deck 5) and 2016 (Deck 4) completed the vessel’s refurbishment program, creating a modern, clean design similar to her sister vessel Plancius. Refurbishments included upgrades to cabin beds, wardrobes, desks and chairs, as well as new carpets, ceilings, piping and wallpaper throughout the ship.
Ortelius Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Ortelius review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our polar experts have been aboard the Oceanwide Ortelius firsthand. Please read our review below then contact our polar cruise experts to compare the Ortelius ship with other Antarctica ships and small cruise ships sailing Antarctica cruises and Arctic cruises including cruises to Greenland.
Choose the M/V Ortelius for exploring the polar regions on a small, stable ship that offers passengers a quality exploratory wildlife program. The Oceanwide Ortelius makes for an excellent ship for active-, adventure- and wildlife-minded modern explorers as she is designed for travelers to spend as much time ashore as possible. Her polar cruises are primarily defined by an exploratory educational travel program that offers activities that are designed to accommodate a wide range of experience and fitness levels. She also offers sea routes that are short and direct, allowing for maximum shore time.
Ortelius History
The Ortelius ship was built in Gdynia, Poland in 1989 and served as a special purpose vessel for the Russian Academy of Science under her original name: Marina Svetaeva. The vessel was renamed Ortelius after the Dutch/Flemish cartographer Abraham Ortelius (1527-1598) who published the first modern world atlas in 1570. Among her many polar achievements, the vessel is known in pop culture for hosting Metallica aboard in December 2013 for their no-amplification, 7th-continent performance at the heliport of the Argentine Antarctic Base Carlini.
Common Areas & Amenities Aboard Ortelius
The M/V Ortelius offers a comfortable on-board experience with ample public areas including two dining areas that accommodate all passengers at the same time, a bar/observation lounge with six large windows, theater-style lecture room and several observation areas on multiple decks. This small expedition ship has a spacious bridge which is open to visits by guests. She also has one of the highest possible ice-class notation (UL1 equivalent to 1A) and is therefore very suitable to navigate in solid one-year sea ice and loose multiyear pack ice.
Ortelius offers complimentary internet access via a voucher for a daily allowance of 1.5GB of internet activity, which resets every 24 hours. Additional internet data is available via supplementary vouchers which may be purchased on board.
Dining Aboard Ortelius
Dinners are a plated affair with three courses serving meat, fish or vegetarian dishes. Breakfast and lunches are served buffet style. Coffee, tea and water are included, however alcohol and soft drinks are additional.
Crew & Guides Aboard Ortelius
The Oceanwide Ortelius has 24 highly experienced nautical crew members, 20 international hotel staff, 8 expedition staff (1 expedition leader and 7 guides/lecturers) and 1 doctor. An international team of polar experts and field guides are assembled to share their enthusiasm and in-depth knowledge through lectures, briefings and field excursions. The science-minded professionals aboard cover major topics like marine biology, geography, geology, glaciology, ornithology and history. When it comes to excursions, the staff have all been trained and qualified in their respective activity. These scientists, lecturers and expedition guides work hard not just for safety but also to highlight examples of the unique elements of these intriguing polar regions.
Activities Aboard Ortelius
The Ortelius ship's expert crew and nimble maneuverability allow for safe passage, speedy disembarkation and supremely flexible itineraries assuring for maximum wildlife opportunities. She carries 10 Zodiacs with 60hp Yamaha motors. Nine Zodiacs are in use and one is on reserve. As an activity-focused ship, the M/V Ortelius offers quality equipment and supplies to create safe, fun and comfortable exploration experiences. Numerous activities are available aboard Oceanwide Ortelius depending on the voyage: kayaking, snowshoeing, mountaineering, skiing, scuba diving, hiking, camping, photography workshops and more. Helicopters are aboard select Ortelius cruises for remote landscape exploration.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Ortelius
The Ortelius ship has five cabin categories located on three decks. Cabins range from simple affordable quadruple, triple or double rooms to more spacious deluxe and superior cabins with view windows. All cabins are roomy outside cabins with a sink, private shower and toilet, hairdryers, desk and chair, ample storage space and a minimum of two portholes or windows per cabin. The electrical supply aboard Ortelius is 220v, 60Hz. Electrical outlets are standard European with two thick round pins, so a 220v/110v converter may be needed.
Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary
The M/V Ortelius is an ice-strengthened small ship designed for polar expedition cruises in the Arctic and Antarctica. She offers passengers a quality exploratory wildlife program to spend as much time ashore as possible.
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