Svalweek summer - 7 days (Summer)
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ABOUT THE TRIP
Svalweek Summer: Dive into a 7-Day Arctic Adventure in Svalbard!
Dreaming of a full week in one of the most enchanting places on Earth? Svalweek Summer is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the raw beauty and adventure of Svalbard. This 7-day journey captures the very best of the Arctic’s summer season, designed for explorers who want it all—from heart-pounding activities to peaceful wildlife encounters.
What’s in Store for You:
- Epic Fjord Cruises: Sail through stunning Arctic fjords and gaze at massive glaciers and towering cliffs. Each boat trip is an unforgettable journey, taking you up close to ice formations and giving you a chance to spot Svalbard’s diverse marine life, including seals and even whales!
- Breathtaking Hikes through Arctic Landscapes: Trek across surreal tundra and ancient valleys, surrounded by views that stretch for miles. Discover hidden spots, explore rocky trails, and feel the energy of the untouched Arctic wilderness as you breathe in the crisp, fresh air.
- Wildlife Encounters with Svalbard’s Majestic Creatures: Bring your camera for this one! From the chance to spot the elusive polar bear to seeing reindeer grazing freely and Arctic foxes darting across the terrain, Svalbard is a wildlife haven. The summer season brings even more animals into view, with rich birdlife and marine species.
- Sunlit Days and Midnight Sun Magic: With the 24-hour daylight of the Arctic summer, you’ll experience an ethereal natural light that brings an entirely new dimension to your adventure. Enjoy every activity without the limits of nighttime—hike at midnight or catch an early morning boat ride without missing a beat!
Why Svalweek is the Ultimate Svalbard Experience:
This week-long escape is packed with variety, flexibility, and adventure, ensuring you get the full Arctic experience! Whether you're an adventurer at heart or a nature lover eager to capture breathtaking moments, Svalweek offers something for everyone. From adrenaline-pumping activities to serene moments with wildlife, this journey lets you live Svalbard to the fullest.
Ready for your ultimate Arctic adventure? Svalweek awaits—let’s explore every corner of Svalbard together!
Start Your Journey Here!
Reserve online
Schedule
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DAY 1 - Arriving in SvalbardList Item 1
You arrive in Svalbard! Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience?
After landing, you can take your time exploring the special town of Longyearbyen, taste the delicious food the town's restaurants offer, don't miss it!
After a good meal, take a stroll down the snowy lanes and enjoy Longyearbyen's fascinating mountains and the beautiful ocean near town.
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DAY 2 - Trip to the Bird Cliffs and a Coastal Boat ExperienceList Item 2
Boat Trip to the Bird Cliffs
Our journey commences by charting a course westward on Isfjorden, leading us to the iconic Fuglefjella, or the 'Bird Mountain'. Nestled between Longyearbyen and Barentsburg, this majestic bird cliff towers above a narrow stone beach, soaring 500 meters high and serving as a seasonal home to thousands of migratory birds. Among the most prolific inhabitants are the Brünnich’s Guillemots, with colonies exceeding 100,000 pairs scattered across the archipelago.
Our next destination unveils the enigmatic ruins of the abandoned Russian mining town, Grumant, frozen in time since 1961. It's a surreal experience to envision the remnants of what was once the largest settlement on Svalbard, nestled amidst the rugged mountainside. Following a brief interlude at Grumant, we journey onward to Hiorthhamn, situated across the fjord from Longyearbyen.
Hiorthhamn, another abandoned mining town, harbors echoes of its bustling past with remnants of barracks, a blacksmith, stores, and other mining infrastructure. With a touch of imagination, you can conjure the vibrant community that once thrived here. Depending on timing and weather conditions, we may disembark here before commencing our return voyage to Longyearbyen
Captains Favourite Coastal Boat Trip
Every month in Svalbard brings its own charm. A journey under the midnight sun in May differs from one as the polar night descends in October. Early in the season, snow blankets the mountains, and fjords may still be adorned with sea ice. From June onward, the landscape transforms, bursting with vibrant hues of green and yellow. Wildlife sightings are a possibility, from reindeer and seals to whales, and if we're exceptionally lucky, polar bears may grace us with their presence. Along the way, we'll pass cultural landmarks and historical sites, ensuring an unforgettable sensory experience guided by our knowledgeable staff.
You'll embark on this voyage aboard the hybrid electric catamaran MS Bard. Engineered to minimize noise and vibration, this vessel brings you closer to nature while minimizing disturbance to the surrounding wildlife.
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DAY 3 - Sea to Summit Hike and a Wilderness EveningList Item 3
Sea and Summit Hike Experience
Your excursion begins with a hotel pickup, followed by a short drive to our expedition center. Here, you'll be outfitted with all the necessary gear, including flotation suits, life jackets, and goggles, in preparation for our maritime voyage. Boarding an open polar circle boat, we set sail across the fjord, soaking in the breathtaking vistas along the way. After a brief 10-minute journey, we disembark at Revneset, a picturesque spot north of Longyearbyen, where our on-foot exploration commences.
Our route leads us through the enchanting valleys of Louisedalen and Carolinedalen, where verdant vegetation thrives—a rare sight in the Arctic landscape. Along the way, we encounter remnants of the area's mining history, offering glimpses into the early industrial endeavors of Advent City. As we ascend towards Forkastningsfjellet, a majestic mountain offering sweeping views of Isfjord, we pause to appreciate the panoramic splendor before us. From Nordenskiöldbreen in the north to the tranquil bays of the west, the landscape unfolds like a magnificent tapestry, adorned with glistening glaciers and rugged terrain.
Traversing the lofty ridge of Forkastningsfjellet, we savor a light lunch and warm beverages provided by our guide, relishing in the tranquility of our surroundings. Following our rejuvenating break, we begin our descent back to town, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel, enriched by the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking vistas encountered along our journey
Wilderness Evening
A bus will collect you from your hotel. As we depart from town and journey through the expansive Adventdalen (the ‘Advent Valley’), the excitement builds. After a brief 10-15 minute drive, we arrive at Camp Barentz, a small cluster of cabins, including a replica of the shelter where Willem Barentz, the discoverer of Svalbard, spent the winter of 1596 on Novaya Zemlya.
Our knowledgeable host for the evening, carrying polar bear protection due to the cabin’s remote location, greets us warmly. Inside, around a roaring campfire, we are treated to drinks, hearty homemade reindeer bidos, coffee, and dessert.
Following the meal, it’s time to explore the world of the Arctic’s King. Gathered around the fire, our host shares captivating information and photographs about polar bears, Svalbard’s iconic inhabitants. You’re sure to learn intriguing new facts and hear some personal anecdotes. After the talk, there will be an opportunity to take photos of the breathtaking landscape. In this secluded spot, sightings of Svalbard reindeer are common, and with luck, you might even spot grouse and foxes. Finally, the bus will return to pick us up, bringing us back to Longyearbyen
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DAY 4 - ATV Safari and Walrus Watching
ATV Safari (Driver's License Required)
Our route takes us into the heart of Adventdalen, also known as the Advent Valley, towards the majestic mountain of Breinosa and the historic Mine 7. Along the way, we'll make several stops at cultural monuments that bear testament to Svalbard's rich mining heritage, providing insights into a century-long era of industrial activity. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of the Svalbard reindeer, which often graze in the nutrient-rich soil of the surrounding swamp area. Additionally, be on the lookout for the elusive Arctic fox, known to frequent the region in search of food among the nesting birds and their eggs.
Despite its seemingly barren appearance, the swamp area is teeming with beautiful, small plants, offering a surprising contrast to the rugged Arctic landscape. At the viewpoint atop Breinosa, we'll pause to take in the
Walrus Safari to Borebukta onboard Kvitbjørn
Our adventure begins with a crossing of the majestic Isfjorden (the ‘Ice Fjord’). After approximately one hour, we'll reach the tranquil bay of Borebukta. Known for its serenity and calm waters, Borebukta is a favored spot for walrus colonies. In this bay, we'll utilize the electric motor for silent propulsion, providing us with a unique opportunity to observe wildlife without disturbance.
Walruses can be spotted year-round in Svalbard. While they often rest on ice floes, during the summer and autumn, they also frequent beaches and small islets in colonies. These colonies typically gather in specific locations where access to food and resting spots are conveniently situated. Walruses are highly social animals, often appearing in groups. After foraging in the sea, they haul themselves onto land or ice floes to rest alongside their herd, often lying close together or even atop one another.
Throughout the tour, we'll remain on the boat but spend ample time outside on the aft deck, providing you with an up-close encounter with nature. After indulging in hot beverages and freshly baked buns, we'll set our course back to Longyearbyen
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DAY 5 - Wildlife and Glacier Boat Trip and a Special Dinner Cruise
Wildlife and Glacier Cruise onboard MS Bard
A bus will collect you and transport you to the harbor, where MS Bard awaits. Conditions on Svalbard vary greatly throughout the year, offering unique experiences in the beautiful Svalbard nature, whether under the midnight sun in May or as the polar night approaches in October.
Traveling aboard the hybrid electric catamaran MS Bard ensures minimal noise and vibration, allowing for a closer connection to nature while minimizing disturbance to wildlife.
Early in the season, parts of Billefjorden may still be blanketed in ice. Utilizing only the electric motor, we silently follow the ice edge, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. Along the way, we'll marvel at the breathtaking glacier front of Nordenskiöldbreen. Additionally, we'll catch a distant glimpse of the ghost town Pyramiden and pass by Skansbukta, a bay steeped in intriguing history
Dinner Cruise Under the Midnight Sun
From April to August, Svalbard experiences 24-hour sunlight. The sun shines brightly both day and night, creating an unusual and captivating experience. On this evening tour, we'll sail out on Isfjorden, cruising past endless mountain vistas. Alongside a delicious dinner in these stunning surroundings, there's a good chance you'll spot some wildlife. The fjords are typically teeming with seabirds, and if we're lucky, we might even see a whale or two.
You'll travel on the hybrid electric catamaran MS Bard. Its specially designed engine and propellers minimize noise and vibrations, allowing us to get closer to nature and ensuring minimal disturbance to the surrounding wildlife.
During the cruise, you'll be served a three-course dinner. The meal is enjoyed indoors, where you can take in the breathtaking views through large panoramic windows. You’re also welcome to explore several outdoor decks, which offer comfortable seating areas.
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DAY 6 - Seed Vault Hike and a Kayaking Trip
Global Seed Vault Hike in Blomsterdalen
Our adventure begins with a pickup from your accommodation, setting the stage for an immersive experience ahead. As we set out on foot, our path leads us towards the summit of Blomsterdalshøgda, offering panoramic views of Adventfjorden and the surrounding landscape. Along the way, we encounter remnants of Svalbard's mining legacy, including the iconic cable car trestles and the historic Mine 3
At the pinnacle of our journey stands the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, nestled deep within the mountain. While we won't venture inside on this tour, our guide will illuminate the significance of this extraordinary facility, which serves as a vital safeguard for the world's agricultural biodiversity
Half-day Kayak on Adventfjorden
Your guide will meet you at your hotel and drive you to the kayak base by the sea, where you'll receive your kayaking gear for the day. After gearing up, we’ll head to the shore for a quick paddling tutorial and a comprehensive safety briefing before launching off.
Leaving Longyearbyen’s coastline behind, we glide into the fjord, with the impressive Hiortfjellet (or “Hiorth Mountain”) directly ahead. We'll pause along the way for short breaks, during which you’ll learn about the mining history of Longyearbyen and the historic site of Hiorthamn across the fjord. Keep an eye out for seabirds floating nearby as you paddle by; from a kayak, you get a remarkably close view of the wildlife and water’s surface. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the landscapes we pass, making each pause a memorable one.
After an incredible journey through the fjord, we paddle back toward town, where your guide will bring you safely back to your hotel, rounding off a true Arctic adventure.
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DAY 7 - Departure from SvalbardList Item 4
You leave Svalbard after an unforgettable trip :)
After seeing the beautiful scenery of Svalbard, the unique wildlife and animals home to the archipelago (and hopefully a polar bear), you had back to the airport, with a smile full of experiences and a satisfied mind.
What's Included?
Included
- Transfer from/to accommodation in Longyearbyen
- A simple expedition lunch
- Hot drinks and biscuits
- Guide with all necessary safety equipment
- Search and rescue insurance
- Loan of flotation suit, life jacket and goggles (if needed)
Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Travel Insurance
- Luggage handling