We're open today till 5:30 PM 020 8758 4722 020 8758 4722
Get in touch
Sun, sea and savings on summer 2025 holidays. View our latest offers here
Circumnavigating Svalbard: The Ultimate Expedition with HX Expeditions
Overview
Introduction
Going further east and deeper into polar bear territory than any of HX Expedition to Svalbard, the goal is to fully circumnavigate the Svalbard archipelago – ice conditions permitting. Whether you opt to experience the ever-changing icescape of early summer, or see the kaleidoscope of colour later in the season, you’ll be immersed in incredible scenery and see iconic wildlife, with several days dedicated to exploring.
Highlights include:
- From an icy wonderland to a rugged land bursting with life, you will attempt to circumnavigate the entire Svalbard archipelago during the Arctic summer.
- Venturing above the 80th parallel and east around Nordaustlandet, you’ll sail through dramatic fjords, past sparkling glaciers and soaring mountains over several days in the archipelago.
- Discover Northwest Spitsbergen National Park, explore the ever-changing ice edge, and look out for Arctic wildlife including whales, reindeer and the elusive polar bear.
Included in your cruise:
- Return flights from the UK to Longyearbyen (via Oslo or Tromso)
- All transfers in Longyearbyen
- Accommodation in Longyearbyen as detailed
- Full board as per the programme
- Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
- All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
- Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests (only on MS Fram)
- A complimentary Ocean Bottle water bottle to refill on board and take home
- A wind and waterproof expedition jacket for you to keep. It is also possible to loan boots, trekking poles and other necessary equipment for activities.
- Excursion programme. A daily briefing is provided by the expedition team. All planned activities are subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions
- Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer. The photographer is also on hand to give tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
- Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
- Use of sauna, hot tubs, fitness room, lounges and more
- Gratuities included.
- Gratuities are not expected
- Embarking or disembarking will be either straight onto dry land or via a Zodiac
- Opportunities for wildlife watching include seals, reindeer, walruses and if lucky polar bears
Important note: Sailings in Svalbard are in true expedition style. Your destination, excursion programme and experiences are determined by the weather and nature. If weather, sea or ice conditions does not allow the planned navigation, the experienced onboard crew will deliver an adapted itinerary. Please travel with an open mind and rest assured that you are in the hands of a very experienced crew.
Board Basis: Full BoardAgenda
Day 1 - Day of arrival
On arrival at Longyearbyen Airport, transfer to Funken Lodge for your overnight stay.
A colourful frontier settlement where people are outnumbered by snowmobiles, Longyearbyen is a unique place on the edge of the Arctic wilderness. If you have time, head out to explore this special town, before enjoying a relaxing evening at your leisure.
Overnight at Funken Lodge, Longyearbyen.
Reindeer in the heart of Longyearbyen, Svalbard
Day 2 - Longyearbyen Adventures
After breakfast, it’s time to experience Longyearbyen. The town is perfect for exploring on foot. Stroll down the main street and you might see Svalbard reindeer saunter by. Although wild, they're curious and tame.
Before boarding your ship in the afternoon and continuing your Arctic discovery, join an included excursion and get a glimpse of this amazing polar bear–inspired region at the top of the world. And if you’d like to discover even more of Longyearbyen’s special surroundings, why not consider arriving earlier and spending more time in this remarkable destination.
Overnight onboard MS Fram.
MS Fram, Svalbard
Day 3 - Sailing to Ny-Alesund
Today you’ll discover the serenity of Ny-Alesund and neighbouring fjords such as Krossfjord and Kongsfjord. Disconnect and enjoy a day without distractions as the Norwegian Mapping Authority’s nearby geodetic station means we must switch off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
One of the northernmost settlements and a former mining town, Ny-Alesund was the starting point for Roald Amundsen’s expeditions north with the airship ‘Norge’. Now a hub for global science and climate research, you can still see remnants of the town’s history. You’ll be immersed in rugged, glacial scenery as we explore the fjords around Ny-Ålesund. Be ready for adventure; we’ll seize any opportunity to launch our small expedition boats, go ashore to hike or cruise by majestic glaciers.
Overnight onboard MS Fram.
Ny-Alesund, Svalbard
Day 4-5 - Northwest Spitsbergen National Park
Over the next three days, you'll explore the natural beauty and rugged tundra of Northwest Spitsbergen National Park. In this wilderness of steep mountains, stark glaciers and beautiful offshore islands, we’ll scan for animals of the Arctic – whales, seals, walruses and reindeer. If we’re really lucky, we might even see the elusive polar bear from the Observation Deck of the ship. In stunning Kongsfjord, you may see impressive glaciers calving into the sea.
Be ready for adventure; we’ll seize any opportunity to launch our kayaks or use our small expedition boats and go ashore to hike or participate in a beach clean up.
Overnight onboard MS Fram.
Northwest Spitsbergen National Park, Svalbard
Day 6-7 - Ice edge attempt
If conditions allow, we’ll sail north and cross the 80th parallel to explore the ever-changing ice edge. The transition zone between the ice cap and the sea is a magical yet ephemeral place where the waters are filled with ice floes and drifting pack ice. From the ship there are great opportunities here for spotting wildlife, such as seals and walruses who lounge photogenically on the sparkling ice. And if the conditions are right, we’ll lower our expedition boats into the water and enjoy an unforgettable close-up experience amid the floating ice.
The ice edge isn’t a fixed boundary, and it moves depending on the season and conditions, so visiting it will be an attempt rather than a certainty. From May to August, as summer progresses, it retreats further towards the pole, meaning it may be out of reach for us. If this is the case then we’ll instead explore the no-less-impressive deep fjords, mighty glaciers and enchanting scenery of the Svalbard coast. In late July and into August, this is a time when the wildflowers appear, blanketing the landscape with a blaze of beauty and colour.
Overnight on MS Fram.
Walrus, Ice edge attempt, Svalbard
Day 8-11 - Exploring the east
Be ready for anything as this stage of your voyage continues to be truly adventurous. If sea ice permits, we’ll continue east, exploring the pristine wilderness of northeast Svalbard before heading south in our attempt to fully circumnavigate the archipelago. Perhaps we’ll head to the immense Brasvellbreen glacier to see waterfalls tumbling into the icy depths, or lower our small boats around Kvitøy. Every day in the east will be a new opportunity to look for polar bears roaming the ice. Continuing south, we may head to Freemansundet and Kapp Lee or take our small expedition boats to Edgeøya or Barentsøya.
In true expedition style, exactly where we’ll go will depend on the conditions on the day. Channel your inner explorer on exhilarating landings, hikes and kayak trips, and look out for wildlife like polar bears, walruses, guillemots and gulls. And if the ice doesn’t allow us to pass to the east, you’ll experience just as much adventure: we’ll delve deeper into the wonders of western Svalbard or attempt to circumnavigate Spitsbergen through the Hinlopen Strait. We’ll take a flexible route through deep fjords and by soaring mountains, seeking out remarkable Arctic wildlife.
Overnight onboard MS Fram.
Polar bear, Svalbard
Day 12-13 - Hornsund and Bellsund
Your expedition cruise continues south towards Hornsund – one of Svalbard’s most beautiful fjords. Rich, colourful vegetation makes way for towering mountains along this picturesque waterway. Head out on deck to spot seals and whales, Mount Hornsundtind, and glaciers calving into the sea.
Then we head to Bellsund, whose cliffs are home to large colonies of auks, guillemots and Northern Fulmars, along with Arctic foxes and Svalbard reindeer below. Look out for the early mining settlements here and learn about Wanny Woldstad, the first female trapper. Our activities today will be determined by the ever-changing weather conditions of Hornsund and Bellsund. Your Expedition Team will decide on the best possibilities for exploring on the day.
Overnight onboard MS Fram
Whale, Svalbard
Day 14 - Return to Longyearbyen
Your Arctic adventure comes to an end back in Longyearbyen. A transfer will take you to the airport for your flight to Oslo. You'll return home knowing more about Arctic animals, history, polar ice and climate change than you arrived with – and memories of an incredible experience.
An extended stay in Longyearbyen or onward travel to Tromso (and beyond) can be arranged on request.
Longyearbyen, Svalbard
Accommodation
Funken Lodge - Night 1 to 1
Funken Lodge (formerly the Spitsbergen Hotel) offers accommodation of the highest standard and some of the best views in Longyearbyen, from its elevated position at the back of the town. Whether looking towards the lofty mountain peaks that form the town’s natural protection, the world’s northernmost church or over the colourful houses that lead down to the fjord, the scene is one to enjoy and which changes, like the seasons, before your eyes.
Funken Lodge (formerly the Spitsbergen Hotel) offers accommodation of the highest standard and some of the best views in Longyearbyen, from its elevated position at the back of the town. Whether looking towards the lofty mountain peaks that form the town’s natural protection, the world’s northernmost church or over the colourful houses that lead down to the fjord, the scene is one to enjoy and which changes, like the seasons, before your eyes.
For us, Funken Lodge is set apart from other hotel offerings in the city due to its rich heritage and connection with the Spitsbergen Coal Company; a history that, even today, can be felt and experienced. Yes, the property is modern but the pictures and artefacts which line the public areas and guest rooms ensure that its 70 year story will never be forgotten.
A highlight is the property’s abundance of public areas, from cosy nooks to spacious libraries and a welcoming bar. The ambience is one of comfort and warmth, with dark woods blending with leather furnishings, woollen throws and scatter cushions. A piece of art by Queen Sonja of Norway forms a focal point. These are spaces in which you feel inclined to while-away the hours between sightseeing and excursions.
The hotel’s panoramic Funktionærmessen restaurant has justly built a reputation for the quality of its dining experience. Sharing plates, featuring the best Norwegian Ingredients and created with an international flare, are served. The style is reminiscent of leading ‘foodie’ capitals and yet you will be enjoying these intricate dishes only 1300km from the North Pole
Accommodation:
- 88 rooms including single and standard rooms and suites
Amenities / Leisure:
- Bed & Breakfast
- Restaurant with panoramic views over Longyearbyen
- Wine and champagne bar. Tastings available on request (payable locally)
- Lounge
- Library
- Sauna. Open 14:00-22:00
- Small fitness room
- Lift
- A short walk to the centre of Longyearbyen
- Year round activities available
MS Fram - Night 2 to 14
Purpose-built as an expedition cruise ship, MS Fram is an exceptional base camp for explorers. On board, comfort is a top priority, so after a day of exploration you can relax in a hot tub, dine in your choice of two restaurants or at the outdoor BBQ and catch up with your fellow guests with a cocktail in hand as you watch the scenery glide past in the Explorer Lounge & Bar. In the Science Centre, at the heart of the ship, you’ll discover more about the places you sail to and listen to talks by the Expedition Team.
Named after the most famous explorer ship of its time, the MS Fram (pronounced frahm, which is Norwegian for “forward”) is a purpose-built upscale expedition vessel. The 7-deck vessel can carry up to 318 passengers but her capacity is limited to 200 passengers for expeditions in the Antarctic. Her facilities include two restaurants, a panoramic observation lounge, sauna, outdoor hot tubs, a well-equipped gym, a science centre and an elevator.
Built in 2007, the Fram polar ship was fully upgraded in summer 2022 with a fresh Nordic look showcasing blond woods. Fabric colours are rich: royal blue and brick red with calmer colours for the carpeting. Numerous commissioned artworks adorn the interior, reflecting both the Arctic and Antarctic with photos of the early expeditions, paintings of snow-capped peaks and pictures of penguins, adding an extra sense of inspiration to your Antarctic voyage. There is also an exhibition of historic Fram artifacts on loan from the Fram Museum in Oslo, Norway.
The Fram cruise ship’s 125 cabins and suites come in seven different categories, all with comfortable beds, most of which feature flexible sleeping arrangements with a double bed that can be divided into two single beds. All have a flat screen TV, mini refrigerator and private en-suite bathroom with shower. The Expedition Mini Suites aboard the Fram include sitting areas and mini bar, and for the Grand Suites you can expect a private balcony.
Outside of your cabin, catch up with your fellow guests as you watch the stunning white scenery, icebergs and seascapes gliding by in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, or get warm and cosy as you watch the outside world through the windows of the sauna on the top deck. Take in the scenery as you soak in one of the two steaming outdoor hot tubs on Deck 7. Work out in the gym with its panoramic views, which will hopefully motivate you to maintain your fitness regime.
Be sure to spend some time in the Science Centre, with its high-tech equipment, a library and interactive computer screens. Here you’ll find spaces to enjoy fascinating lectures and workshops. The Expedition Team, including a group of scientific experts, will share their deep knowledge of the wildlife you’ll be observing and the places you’ll be visiting. Every enrichment presentation is concluded with a question-and-answer session.
Key Features:
- Built for polar conditions and perfectly suited for the explorer who wants to enjoy the thrill of discovery in an intimate setting.
- The spacious outside decks include access to the very front of the ship, which is the best place to observe Antarctic wildlife.
- The ship carries a fleet of Polarcirkel boats, known for their ease of embarkment & disembarkment and comfortable ride experience.
Your comfortable expedition ship has a range of cabin categories to choose from. All have private bathrooms with a shower, a bathrobe, toiletries, TV, safe, mini bar (charges may apply), European two-pin plug sockets and tea & coffee making facilities.
Accommodation
- 15 Polar Inside Cabins
- 40 Polar Outside Cabins
- 14 Arctic Superior Cabins
- Expedition Suites (including 14 Mini Suites and 6 Grand Suites)
Amenities/Leisure
- Two restaurants
- Explorer Lounge & Bar
- Reception and Expedition Desk
- Boutique shop
- Lecture Theatre
- Science Centre
- Fitness room
- Sauna
- Hot tubs
For full details of HX Hurtigruten Expeditions fleet of ships including deck plans - click here.
Route Map
Best time to go
- JAN
- FEB
- MAR
- APR
- MAY
- JUN
- JUL
- AUG
- SEP
- OCT
- NOV
- DEC
Time Difference
GMT +1 hours
Currency
Norwegian krone
Language
Norwegian
Average flight times
13 hours 20 minutes ( via Oslo)
-
Average temperature
Average rainfall
- JAN
- FEB
- MAR
- APR
- MAY
- JUN
- JUL
- AUG
- SEP
- OCT
- NOV
- DEC