Embark on an enchanting journey on board the classic 12-passenger ship M/S Stockholm, exploring some of Norway's most captivating and scenic locations. Our voyage along the Norwegian coast includes the majestic Storfjord, the enchanting town of Ålesund, and the idyllic Nusfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure.

We venture onward to the secluded Bear Island, a haven for a myriad of seabirds in the heart of the Barents Sea. The pinnacle of our expedition is one of the world’s most magnificent wildernesses: Svalbard. Early in the season, Svalbard is a realm of serene pastel skies and pristine winter landscapes. Here we keep our eyes peeled for polar bears, walruses, and other iconic wildlife, while immersing ourselves in the breathtaking nature that surrounds us - ice formations and snow-capped mountains, glittering glaciers, and fjord ice.

Please note: All itineraries are for guidance only. Our exact route will depend on the ice, weather conditions, wildlife and government regulations. The places mentioned are just examples of some of the many sites Svalbard has to offer. We always strive to maximise your experience. Please remember that flexibility is the key to a successful expedition!

Itinerary

day 1 | Bergen

The great journey begins in the city of Bergen, beautifully surrounded by high mountains and deep fjords. We stay the night at a centrally located hotel.

day 2-9 | Northern Norway

We enjoy lunch together, and in the afternoon we embark the beautiful M/S Stockholm and head toward the scenic passage of Alversund. During our adventure along the Norwegian coast we hope to visit some of the following places:

Ålesund

Upon reaching Ålesund we explore this small town, built in a true Art Nouveau style, enjoying its delightfully decorated facades, towers and pinnacles.

Geirangerfjorden

We get to know the majestic Storfjorden and pay a visit to the UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjorden, which is characterised by deep blue water and lush mountain plains with beautiful waterfalls.

Grip

This deserted fishing village is now popular with summer guests. Its original and colourful wooden buildings are well preserved. We visit the beautiful church and we also pass by the small and very dramatically situated lighthouse.

Torghatten

On our way north we sail past famous natural attractions like the mountain peaks known as the Seven Sisters, followed by Torghatten – a rock with a big hole, that the ice sheet once created, or according to the legend; the hole a giant created in despair from a broken heart.

Kerringøy

Kjerringøy is a real gem on the Norwegian coast. Here we encounter a diverse landscape of mountains, white sandy beaches and small farming communities, but the island is most famous for its old trading post. This is a unique heritage consisting of 15 well-preserved houses, which gives the visitor a great insight into what it was like to live in this northern trading town in the 1800s.

Reine

We hope to visit the picturesque fishing village of Reine. This charming village, with characteristic wooden houses overlook Kirkefjord with high mountain tops in the background. It is not difficult to see why it was once voted Norway’s most beautiful place.

Nusfjord

Nusfjord is a well-preserved and authentic fishing community with focus on cod fishing. The village is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage list of unique wooden houses with a charming old fashioned shop well worth a visit. We sail further along what is known as the Lofoten wall. In the evening we enter magical Trollfjorden and later set course towards Tromsø.

Tromsø

In Tromsø we visit the prestigious Polar Museum and learn more about the first polar explorers, who went north to seek fame and fortune. The city is known as Paris of the North, which derives from its vast cultural offerings.

day 10 | At sea

We set sail towards the remote Bear Island, situated in the middle of the Barents Sea. (The exact day of the crossing can change and is depending on the weather.)

day 11-16 | Bear Island & Svalbard

On the 400-meter high cliffs of Bear Island, hundreds of thousands of seabirds are nesting – puffins, guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes among others. If wind and weather allows, we aim to do a spectacular Zodiac cruise along the impressive bird cliffs and set foot on this rarely visited island.

We then continue our journey and sail over night. Our next destination is Svalbard – one of the world’s most magnificent wildernesses. It is spring in the Arctic and it is a powerful experience to witness the archipelago spring to life. We enjoy the stunning nature that surrounds us – sparkling ice formations, snow covered mountains and glistering glaciers. Where we can travel depends on the drift ice that often accumulates here at this time of year. We may explore the majestic Hornsund, which consists of several fjords where glaciers calve out shimmering blue icebergs. In Bellsund, we hope to reach Vårsolbukta, where tens of thousands of little auks nest.

day 17 | Longyearbyen

We disembark in Longyearbyen and begin our journey home.

Ships

MS Stockholm

The M/S Stockholm is a classic vessel, originally built in 1953 for the Swedish National Maritime Administration. In 1998, she underwent a complete refit and embarked on her new journey as a comfortable polar expedition ship. The M/S Stockholm accommodates up to 12 passengers in cozy twin cabins equipped with bunk beds, private facilities, and small windows (portholes).

With her beautiful brass details and wooden decks, M/S Stockholm stands as a stunning piece of maritime history, cherished by many for her charm and elegance. On board, you'll enjoy delicious meals in the company of like-minded travelers who share a fascination for the Arctic's captivating nature, wildlife, and history. The food on board is of high standard and all beverages are included in the price. The intimate setting, akin to a private yacht, ensures a personalized and unforgettable experience.

A classic expedition ship loved by many.

The crew's genuine enthusiasm for the Arctic's unique wildlife and pristine environments is a key to the authentic expedition cruises offered on the M/S Stockholm. Boasting 25 years of navigating Svalbard's challenging waters, the M/S Stockholm has proven her capability to reach remote sites that are inaccessible to larger ships. A journey through these northern waters, with its unparalleled wildlife and untouched landscapes, is an experience of a lifetime! To enhance exploration, the ship is equipped with two Zodiacs and staffed by two knowledgeable guides.

25 years exploring Svalbard
Accommodates only 12 guests
All bevarages included
1 guide for every 6 guests
Brass details and wooden decks
Immersive historical charm

What's included

Included in the price:

15 nights on board M/S Stockholm
1 hotel night in Bergen incl. breakfast
Lunch day 2
All meals on board
All beverages on board
1 Expedition Leader and 1 guide
Guiding on board and ashore
All excursions with Zodiacs
Slideshow from the trip
Full carbon offset

Not included in the price:

Flights to Bergen and from Longyearbyen
Travel and cancellation insurance
Gratuity to the ship’s crew

Practical information

The best time to visit Svalbard is between May and September, when the Arctic ice has melted enough to allow ship access. Each part of the season offers something unique:

May – Early Season: Pristine snow-covered landscapes and the chance to see polar bears on sea ice.
June & July – Midnight Sun: 24-hour daylight, active wildlife, and the best time for birdwatching.
August & September – Late Season: Stunning autumn colors, peak whale watching, and increased access to fjords.

Svalbard is one of the best places to see Arctic wildlife, including:

Polar Bears – The king of the Arctic, often spotted hunting on the ice.
Walruses – Large herds resting on ice floes and beaches.
Whales – Beluga, Humpback, Blue, and Minke Whales.
Seals – Bearded, Ringed, and Harp Seals.
Arctic Foxes & Reindeer – Unique to Svalbard’s tundra.
Seabirds – Thousands of Puffins, Arctic Terns, and Guillemots nest on cliffs.

Svalbard is part of Norway, but it has a unique visa policy.

Most travelers do NOT need a visa for Svalbard, but if you transit through Oslo or Tromsø, you may need a Norwegian Schengen visa depending on your nationality.
Schengen residents must carry a valid passport, as other forms of ID (such as national ID cards) are not sufficient for entry into Svalbard.
Polar Quest will provide necessary permits for landing in protected areas.

Svalbard’s Arctic climate is cool but variable, with temperatures ranging from:

May - June: -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)
July - August: 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F)
September: 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F)

Despite the cold, summer in Svalbard can feel mild, especially with proper clothing.

Packing properly for your Svalbard expedition is key to staying warm, dry, and comfortable in the Arctic environment. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Clothing & Footwear

Layering is essential – opt for wool, silk, or synthetic fabrics rather than cotton.
Waterproof & Windproof Outerwear – a warm winter jacket and wind/water-resistant trousers or ski pants (some cruises require waterproof pants for landings and Zodiac excursions).
Thermal Base Layers – long-sleeved tops and leggings made of wool or synthetic materials.
Warm Mid-Layers – wool jumpers and fleece jackets for insulation.
Gloves & Mittens – a combination of fleece and wool for maximum warmth
Warm Hat or Headband – protects against Arctic winds.
Scarf or Fleece Tube – for extra warmth around the neck.
Warm Socks – wool socks to keep your feet insulated.
Regular Indoor Shoes – for comfort while onboard.
Sturdy Hiking Shoes – for exploring on land.
Sunglasses with UV Protection – essential for the Midnight Sun.
Sleeping Mask – to block out 24-hour daylight and help with sleep.

Expedition Gear & Accessories

Small Waterproof Backpack – useful for landings and carrying essentials.
A Good Pair of Binoculars – great for wildlife viewing (ask the Cruise Norway team if they are included in your cabin).
Camera & Extra Memory Cards – the Arctic landscapes and wildlife are breathtaking.
Extra Batteries & Power Banks – cold temperatures can reduce battery life.
Chargers, Electrical Adapters & Converters – check your travel documents for ship-specific requirements.
Sea Sickness Medication – the Arctic waters can sometimes be rough.

Personal Care & Essentials

Your Passport & a Copy of It
Cash in the Applicable Currency – check your travel documents for information about onboard payments.
Sun Protection – high-SPF sunscreen and UV lip balm to protect against intense Arctic sunlight.
Moisturizer – cold, dry air can be harsh on the skin.
Enough Medication & Essentials – bring extra in case of unforeseen delays.

While Arctic waters are generally calmer than the Drake Passage, conditions can vary. Some areas, like the Barents Sea, can be choppy. Seasickness medication is recommended for those prone to motion sickness.

No, the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are only visible in Svalbard between October and March, when the region experiences polar night. Cruises operate during the summer (May - September), when the Midnight Sun keeps the skies bright 24/7.

For an Arctic Northern Lights experience, consider visiting Svalbard in winter on a land-based tour.

Svalbard is home to an estimated 3,000 polar bears, and while sightings are not guaranteed, Swan Hellenic’s expert expedition guides maximize your chances of spotting them in their natural habitat.

Polar bears are often seen hunting on sea ice, resting on shorelines, or swimming in Arctic waters. Your guides will ensure safe and responsible viewing from Zodiacs and onboard observation decks.

The Midnight Sun is a natural phenomenon where the sun never sets, providing 24-hour daylight from late April to late August in Svalbard.

This extended daylight allows for longer excursions, wildlife spotting at any hour, and breathtaking Arctic scenery under golden light.

Arctic weather is unpredictable, and landings are always subject to conditions. If a scheduled landing isn’t possible, the expedition team will:

Adjust the itinerary to find an alternative landing site.
Offer an extended Zodiac cruise in sheltered areas
Provide enrichment lectures, photography sessions, or wildlife viewing from the ship.

Polar Quest’s’ small expedition ships allow for maximum flexibility, ensuring a full experience despite changing conditions.