SVALBARD AND THE NORWEGIAN ARCTIC

SHIPS OFFERING THIS ITINERARY

Swan Hellenic Diana

The newest addition to the Swan Hellenic fleet, SH Diana, combines cutting-edge technology with stylish, sophisticated design. The ship’s special ice-resistant PC6 hull means it’s able to visit some of the world’s most inaccessible regions. This new generation polar class ship features elegant interiors, wide unobstructed views, a spectacular grand staircase, and dedicated expedition facilities, so you can explore the world in style and comfort. Whether you’re taking in remarkable scenery from the panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or unwinding in your sumptuous stateroom, this outstanding 5-star ship has you covered.

Day 1 Tromso, Norway

The Arctic gateway, Tromso at 69 degrees north, is renowned for the midnight sun in summer and the Northern Lights in winter. The Arctic Cathedral, with stained-glass windows, hosts midnight concerts. The Fjellheisen cable car offers panoramic views from Mount Storstei­nen, while the historic centre features old wooden houses. The Polar Museum chronicles early polar explorations, and the thriving Alpine Botanic Garden adds to Tromso’s charm.

Day 2 Skarsvåg and Nordkapp (North Cape)

Skarsvåg, Europe’s northernmost fishing village on Magerøya Island, is a short journey from Nordkapp (North Cape)—Europe’s northernmost point above the Arctic Circle, marked by a striking globe monument. Only Svalbard stands between here and the North Pole. Along the coast, Atlantic puffin colonies and over a million seabirds nest, including arctic skuas, razorbills, northern gannets, white-tailed eagles, common eider ducks and great cormorants.

Cruising to North Cape promises an awe-inspiring encounter with nature’s grandeur and a glimpse into the Arctic’s captivating allure. In summer, North Cape basks in the ethereal glow of the midnight sun, a surreal phenomenon where the sun never fully sets.

Days 3 – 10 Svalbard

Svalbard is the kingdom of the polar bears, deep in the Arctic Circle, featuring varied polar landscapes and gargantuan glaciers. Beyond magnificent fjords in the north, the remaining sea ice serves as prime hunting grounds for polar bears. Closer to Longyearbyen, tundra and beaches replace snow and ice. Alongside 600 polar bears, this Arctic hotspot is home to walrus, Svalbard reindeer, ringed seals and arctic fox.

Day 11 Longyearbyen

Disembark in the world’s most northerly town, Longyearbyen. It’s home to The North Pole Expeditions Museum chronicling early pole-reaching efforts by air. Arctic waters around are populated by whales, including bowheads and narwhals, while walruses are regularly seen hauling out. Farewell your fellow passengers and continue on your onwards journey.