An Arctic Wildlife Expedition in Svalbard

Set amid an island-strewn fjord, this art-forward Norwegian capital serves as your gateway to Arctic adventure.

Catch your charter flight to Longyearbyen, capital of Svalbard. A sovereign archipelago of Norway, Svalbard spans nine main islands, all secluded well north of the Arctic Circle. Longyearbyen is located on Spitsbergen, the largest of these islands, and is home to some 2,000 year-round inhabitants.

Awake to your first morning aboard as your vessel cruises up the Svalbard coast. The Expedition Team takes advantage of the best opportunities for Zodiac excursions and shore landings along the way. Back aboard, enjoy a welcome dinner hosted by the Captain.

Your captain plans the day’s activities according to wind and weather conditions, and today may find you exploring Monacobreen, a glacier frequented by harbor and bearded seals, as well as a multitude of seabirds.

Settle into the rhythm of life as you continue to explore Svalbard’s sweeping fjords, towering coastal cliffs, breathtaking mountains and stunning ice forms. Birders are in for a special treat, with Brünnich’s guillemots, auk diving birds and numerous species of kittiwakes among the frequent sightings along the route.

Conditions permitting, you may set out on a Zodiac excursion along steep cliffs harboring vast colonies of auk diving birds. This afternoon, your Captain and Expedition Team may take advantage of sea conditions and arrange an invigorating and scenic hike ashore. After the day’s excitement, sip cocktails in the lounge and recap your discoveries with the Expedition Team.

Your expedition continues as you take in breathtaking mountains, glaciers and icebergs while keeping watch for seals and whales.

Note: The Svalbard Environmental Act requires all guests and crew to keep a minimum distance of 300 meters from polar bears once spotted.

Your Expedition Team continues to seek out the best opportunities for landings, Zodiac excursions, wildlife sightings and hikes on the ice itself. After the day’s excitement, sip cocktails in the lounge and recap your discoveries with the Expedition Team.

Disembark Le Lyrial in Longyearbyen and take a charter flight back to Oslo for your homebound departure.