Day 1: Embarkation in Longyearbyen

Longyearbyen is the largest inhabited settlement in Spitsbergen and the world’s most northerly inhabited town with more than 1000 inhabitants. We recommend travelling into Longyearbyen the day before you are due to join the boat as flights can often be delayed due to the Arctic fog and weather conditions. Discover the town’s fascinating history and maybe take a wildlife safari on land before joining Noorderlicht on the ‘floating pier’. You can drop luggage off during the day if needed; the floating pier is a short ten-minute shuttle or taxi ride from the airport and a short 15-minute walk into the town centre.

Once everyone is aboard, it’s a prompt 4pm departure as the Captain cruises out of the bay while the crew show guests their cabins and gives some safety briefings and operational introductions.

The aim of the first 24 hours is usually to get as far north as possible so the boat will be travelling into the night and dropping anchor in the early hours. There is no watch system aboard so after dinner, you are free to do as you wish.

Day 2-4: Dalbreen glacier, Kongsfjord and Moraine

Awake to the distant noise of glaciers creaking in the midnight sun and Arctic Terns swooping the shoreline – elegant but fierce. Perhaps head ashore and explore the Dalbreen glacier before heading towards Sarstangen to watch the Walrus colony snoozing after lunch. Depending on the wind, the crew will always take the opportunity to get the sails up as often as possible, and they are always on the lookout for wildlife spots and polar bears!

Spend some time exploring Kongsfjord and enjoy breakfast surrounded by the Arctic mist, shrouding the Lilliehookbreen glacier in mystery. The cracking of the ice adds some allure for an afternoon adventure ashore. 

This area is mountainous terrain or “moraine”, as it is called. Moraine is the material left behind by a moving glacier made up of soil and rock. Often soft and spongy to walk on and full of geological delights and coral fossils. Explore small lakes and rocky mountains, climbing a gentle ridge to watch Arctic terns and puffins in the bay. An afternoon in front of the glacier gives those who wish the opportunity to climb the rigging, reaching the crow’s nest with impressive views of the icy bay.

Cruise through the evening to reach Mollerhamna, a small glacier bay ready for a morning walk ashore.

Day 5-9: Ny Alesund, Seals and geological wonders

During your Arctic Summer expedition, you’ll have the chance to visit a variety of fascinating locations. Explore an old hunter’s cabin nestled along a remote beach, where fur seals can often be seen lounging by the shore. You may also visit an abandoned marble mine, a hidden gem that tells the story of the region’s industrial past.

One of the highlights is the research town of Ny Alesund, a hub of scientific activity. Here, you can dive into the history of polar expeditions, visit a quaint museum, and explore a small local shop. While in the area, take in the incredible fjord scenery, with opportunities to spot majestic wildlife like whales and polar bears.

As the journey continues, you might cross the channel to Prins Karls Forland and Forlandet National Park, a place rich in natural beauty. Seals bask in the bay, reindeer roam the hills, and geological wonders await discovery along the shore. This peaceful landscape invites reflection as you beach-comb or simply relax by the water.

Finally, experience the thrill of a glacier hike in Ymerbukta, where the glacier meets the shoreline. You can walk along the glacier’s edge and ascend a small ridge, rewarded with panoramic views across the bay. The journey culminates in Longyearbyen, where you’ll dock and enjoy a farewell dinner, sharing stories and memories from your Arctic adventure.