This luxury expedition cruise travels from Tromsø to Longyearbyen, following a route through some of the Arctic’s most remote and visually striking regions. The journey begins in Tromsø, a historic Arctic hub surrounded by mountains and fjords, before heading north along Norway’s dramatic coastline toward North Cape, the northernmost point of mainland Europe. Here, sheer cliffs rise above the Arctic Ocean, often illuminated by the midnight sun

Highlights

Watch for polar bears, walruses, ringed seals and other Arctic mammals as they roam in their natural habitat

View nesting Arctic seabirds such as guillemots, razorbills, little auks, fulmars and gulls

Navigate through sea ice in the Arctic Ocean, including cruising close to towering tidewater glaciers

Itinerary

day 1 | Tromsø

With its centre located on the island of Tromsø, the municipality of Tromsø is more than five times the size of Norway’s capital, Oslo, and is the world’s northernmost university city. Lying 200 miles inside the Arctic Circle, it is known as the 'Gateway to the Arctic' because it was used as a starting point for hunters looking for Arctic foxes, polar bears and seals. In the 19th century it was a base for explorers on Arctic expeditions – a history that is remembered in the city’s Polar Museum, which you can visit on an excursion. Also commemorated in the area is the history of Norway’s indigenous people, the Sami. Visitors can learn about the traditions, heritage and modern preservation of the Sami culture at the Tromsø Museum. Nowadays, Tromsø is a charming mix of old and new, with wooden buildings sitting alongside contemporary architecture such as the impressive glacier-like Arctic Cathedral, which features one of the largest stained glass windows in Europe. Looking down on the city is Mount Storsteinen, and a cable car runs to the top, giving wonderful views over the surrounding countryside of forested peaks and reindeer pastures.

day 2 | Skarsvåg

For those who like to travel far (very far) off the beaten track, then you have found your Nordic nirvana in Skarsvag. Large, sparsely populated (there are just 60 human year-round residents), and a joy to all those who revel in stark, unbridled beauty, Skarsvag also enjoys the auspicious title of being the world’s most northerly fishing village. But rolling hills, prolific birdlife, and arctic fjords aside, Skarsvag is above all famous for its proximity to the North Cape. Found on the island of Magerøya, the most northernmost point of Europe above the Arctic Circle is a bucket list basic. Stand beneath the massive metal globe and gaze out onto the Barents Sea, where the only land between you and the North Pole is the Svalbard archipelago. This is truly the land of the midnight sun – in fact, you are so far north that the sun doesn’t even dip beneath the horizon between May and mid-July. The island’s famous bird cliffs are quite spectacular, and home to thousands of puffins, gannets, and cormorants. Those willing to hike to Cape Knivskjellodden, the northernmost point on Magerøya, will be rewarded with stunning cliff-face views of the North Cape Plateau. Before leaving, head into the impressive North Cape Hall for exhibitions on the North Cape’s history. Travelers have been visiting since 1664, when Italian priest Francesco Negri arrived, so there are some tales to tell! More intriguingly, a tunnel has been hewn into the rock, leading down to the cliff face, complete with a chapel.

day 2 | Cruising North Cape

North Cape (Nordkapp), the northernmost tip of Europe in Norway, where the Arctic Ocean meets the rugged coast, is a majestic headland that has fascinated explorers for centuries. 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

day 3 | Bear Island

The greatest bird cliff in the Barents Sea is on Bear Island, or Bjørnøya, Svalbard’s southernmost island. Atlantic puffins, northern gannets, glaucous gulls, great skuas, black-legged kittiwakes, little auks, common guillemots, and Brünnich's guillemots, nest on the steep cliffs near Kapp Kolthoff, south of Sørhamna. The ocean has sculpted sea stack rock columns, sea caves and tunnels, with a notable tunnel at Perleporten

day 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 10-11 | Longyearbyen

The world's most northerly town, Longyearbyen, on Spitsbergen, Svalbard's largest island, also claims the most northerly high street and pub. 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

Ships

SH Diana

SH Diana is the largest vessel in the Swan Hellenic fleet, a 5-star expedition ship built to accommodate 192 guests across 96 staterooms. Constructed in Helsinki, it is engineered for extreme environments with a PC6 ice-resistant hull and specialized expedition facilities. The design marries modern Scandinavian aesthetics with functional luxury, featuring refined interiors, exclusive onboard artwork. Engineered for both exploration and comfort, the ship utilizes expansive, unobstructed views to ensure guests are always connected to the environments they visit. Read about Cruise Norway’s expedition cruise experience on board SH Diana in Svalbard. Read Cruise Norway’s review of “The Mysteries of Carthage and Moors” on board Swan Hellenic’s SH Diana

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.
Swan Hellenic 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, but Swan Hellenic’s stabilized ships and experienced crew ensure a comfortable journey. 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.

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