North Spitsbergen Explorer - Versatile landscapes, sea ice & wildlife

Eight day North Spitsbergen Explorer - Versatile landscapes, sea ice & wildlife aboard the m/v Hondius with Oceanwide Expeditions

  • Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

  • Itinerary: 8-day North Spitsbergen Explorer - Versatile landscapes, sea ice & wildlife

  • Departing/Returning: Longyearbyen/Longyearbyen

  • Ship name: m/v Hondius

  • Passengers: 108 *

  • Departures: 9 Jun - 16 Jun, 2025

Dates and Details.

This expedition focuses on the versatility of north Spitsbergen’s visually stunning landscapes, vast spans of sea ice, and many opportunities to spot whales, polar bears, seabirds, walruses, and other such wildlife. Enjoy the fantastically beautiful landscapes, adventurous landings, and shoreline hikes. For additional activities, check the tour description.

Trip Description.

  • Day 1: Largest town, biggest island

    You touch down in Longyearbyen, the administrative center of Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago. Enjoy strolling around this former mining town, whose parish church and Svalbard Museum make for fascinating attractions. Though the countryside appears stark, more than a hundred species of plant have been recorded in it. In the early evening the ship sails out of Isfjorden, where you might spot the first minke whale of your voyage.

    Day 2-7: North Spitsbergen’s natural beauty, wildlife, and pack-ice

    This voyage will take you into the pack ice and along the remote shorelines of rugged north Spitsbergen. Places we might visit include the following:

    Raudfjord

    On the north coast of Spitsbergen, you can enjoy this expansive fjord spilling with glaciers – and maybe even visited by ringed and bearded seals. The cliffs and shoreline also support thriving seabird colonies, rich vegetation, and the possibility of polar bears. We will try to land at Alicehamna or Buchananhalvøya.

    Monaco Glacier

    Depending on the weather and sea ice, we could sail into Liefdefjorden, land at Texas Bar and cruise within sight of the 5-kilometer-long (3.1 miles) face of Monaco Glacier. The waters in front of this precipitous glacier are a favorite feeding spot for thousands of kittiwakes, and the base of the ice is a popular polar bear hunting ground. If ice conditions prevent us from sailing here early in the season, we may sail along the west coast of Spitsbergen.

    Highlights of Hinlopen

    We aim to sail into Hinlopen Strait, home to bearded seals, ringed seals, and polar bears. At the entrance, there is even the possibility to spot blue whales. After cruising among the ice floes of Lomfjord in the Zodiacs, you can view the bird cliffs of Alkefjellet, with their thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots. On the east side of Hinlopen Strait, we may attempt a landing on Nordaustlandet. Here we may see reindeer, pink-footed geese, and walruses. We can take an alternate route if ice prevents entry into Hinlopen.

    The Seven Islands

    The northernmost point of the voyage may be north of Nordaustlandet at Chermsideøya or Phippsøya, in the Seven Islands. Here we may reach 80° north, just 870 km (540 miles) from the geographic North Pole. Polar bears inhabit this region, so the ship may park for several hours among the pack ice before wheeling around west again.

    Sailing the continental shelf

    While retracing our route west, keep watch for polar bears and elusive Greenland (bowhead) whales. About 40 nautical miles west of Spitsbergen, we sail the edge of the continental shelf. Here fin whales forage during the summer in the upwelling zones (where cold, nutrient-rich water wells up from below the sea’s surface) that run along the Spitsbergen banks. At the mouth of Kongsfjorden, you have a good chance of sighting minke whales.

    Forlandsundet, St. Johns Fjord, or Alkhornet

    Walruses sometimes haul out in Forlandsundet at Sarstangen or Poolepynten. Alternatively, we might sail into St. Johns Fjord or south to the mouth of Isfjorden, landing at Alkhornet. Seabirds nest on these cliffs, Arctic foxes search below for fallen eggs and chicks, and reindeer graze the sparse vegetation.

    Day 8: There and back again

    Even great adventures must eventually come to an end. The vessel arrives back in Longyearbyen in the early morning, and bus transportation to the airport will be provided.

  • Snowshoeing

    Explore your way inland from the Polar shorelines with a wide variety of snowshoeing expeditions built for everyone.

    Kayaking

    Kayaking is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the beautiful blue-and-white world of the peaceful polar seas

    Sjuøyane

    Isfjord

    The second longest fjord in Svalbard, Isfjord lies on the west side of the principal island of Spitsbergen

    Minke Whale

    Though the smallest of the fin whales, these migrating mammals can let out a cry as loud as a plane taking off

    Polar Bear

    Awe-inspiring icons of the circumpolar north, polar bears are majestic to behold, terrifying to confront, and as essential to the Arctic as ice and snow

    Walrus

    Spending two thirds of their lives in the water, these "tooth-walking sea horses" cuddle their calves in the same fashion as human mothers

    Svalbard reindeer

    Saved from the brink of extinction by dedicated recovery programs, these small reindeer have a dramatically variable birth rate

  • INCLUSIONS

    • Voyage aboard the indicated vessel as indicated in the itinerary

    • All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea.

    • All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac.

    • Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff.

    • Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes.

    • Transfers and baggage handling between the airport, hotels and ship only for those passengers on a selection of flights (advised by Oceanwide) to and from Longyearbyen.

    • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the programme.

    • AECO fees and governmental taxes.

    • Comprehensive pre-departure material.

    EXCLUSIONS

    • Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights

    • Pre- and post- land arrangements.

    • Passport and visa expenses.

    • Government arrival and departure taxes.

    • Meals ashore.

    • Baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (which is strongly recommended).

    • Excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges.

    • The customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be provided).

  • A deposit of 25% is required to hold your spot within 14 days of being invoiced and final payment is due 90 days before departure. Payment can be made via bank transfer or debit and credit card. Cards accepted are Visa or Mastercard.

Voyage Map.

Your Arctic voyage begins in Longyearbyen, the gateway to Spitsbergen. Sailing through Isfjorden, you may spot minke whales before heading north to explore the icy landscapes of Raudfjord, home to glaciers, seals, seabird colonies, and possibly polar bears. In Liefdefjorden, the towering Monaco Glacier attracts thousands of kittiwakes and roaming polar bears. Hinlopen Strait offers encounters with seals, polar bears, and the dramatic bird cliffs of Alkefjellet. Further north, the Seven Islands bring you close to the Arctic pack ice. Retracing west, you may see Greenland and fin whales along the continental shelf before reaching Forlandsundet, St. Johns Fjord, or Alkhornet, where walruses, Arctic foxes, and reindeer roam. The journey concludes back in Longyearbyen.

Available Add-on Activites

  • Kayaking

    Basic kayaking experience is of advantage, but it is not a requirement. Physical fitness is essential. Kayaking is subject to weather and prevailing ice conditions.

    $470 USD per Person

  • Snowshoeing

    Snowshoe walking is easy and does not require any technical skills. The snowshoes will fit all boot sizes and can be used in combination with Oceanwide’s rubber boots

    FREE


  • Will we get off the ship?

    Yes!!! Once we arrive in North Spitsbergen’s it will be the ultimate goal of the Captain, Expedition Leader, and the Expedition Team to make sure we get off the ship as much as possible. You’ll participate in landings, zodiac cruises, and any additional activities you’ve signed up for. Check the “Detailed trip itinerary” below for more details on each outing.

  • Are there additional taxes and fees?

    The price shown is the "all-in” price after all taxes, fees, port fees, and permits required; which are handled by the tour operator. The only main additional costs will be mandatory travel insurance, optional gratuity, canned beverages and alcohol, and additional activities. See the full list of inclusions/exclusions below.

  • Do I pay extra if I'm a solo traveler?

    Not necessarily, no! Our group trips are usually made up of around 50% solo travelers! Prices are always per person, per bed. If you’re a solo traveler, we will match you with a same-gender roommate from our group to share your cabin with. There is also the option for solo cabin availability on certain trips. Please send us a message about solo cabins if that’s your preference.

Cabin types


Currently $1,000 off!

Quadruple Porthole

Features features two portholes, upper and lower berths, a small sofa, and is equipped with a private shower and toilet for convenience. It includes a flatscreen TV, desk and chair for entertainment and work needs, alongside a telephone and WiFi (with additional charges). Personal care amenities such as a hair dryer are provided, and belongings can be stored in a cabinet, safe deposit box, or the wardrobe. This cabin is ideal for families with children or passengers seeking a practical option beyond a twin or more luxurious accommodation.

was $4,300
now $3,300


Triple Porthole

Features two portholes, one upper and two lower berths, making it ideal for families with children or passengers not seeking a twin or more luxurious option. It includes a small sofa, a private shower and toilet, a flatscreen TV, a desk and chair, supplemented telephone and WiFi, a hair dryer, a cabinet, a safe deposit box, and a wardrobe for comfort and convenience.

was $5,350
now $4,350


Twin Window

Features a window (with potential partial obstruction due to ship design), two single beds, a small sofa, private shower and toilet, flatscreen TV, desk with chair, telephone, supplemented WiFi, hair dryer, cabinet, safe deposit box, and a wardrobe. Please note, cabin layouts and surface area may vary, and may not exactly match the photos provided.

was $6,450
now $5,450


Twin Porthole

Features two portholes, twin single beds, a compact sofa, and a private bathroom with a shower and toilet. Amenities include a flatscreen TV, desk and chair, telephone, and WiFi (for an additional fee), alongside a hair dryer, cabinet, safe deposit box, and wardrobe for storage. Please note that cabin layouts and sizes may vary, and might not exactly match the photos provided.

$5,950


Twin Deluxe

Features two windows, single beds, and a sofa, along with a private shower and toilet for convenience. Guests can enjoy a flatscreen TV, desk and chair for work or leisure, and a telephone and WiFi (with an additional charge). Additional amenities include a refrigerator, coffee and tea maker, bathrobe, hair dryer, cabinet, safe deposit box, and a wardrobe for storage.

$6,800


Superior

Features two windows, a double bed, a sofa, and a private shower & toilet. It is equipped with a flatscreen TV, a desk & chair, a telephone, and WiFi (supplemented). Additional amenities include a refrigerator, coffee & tea maker, bathrobe, hair dryer, cabinet, safe deposit box, and a wardrobe for your convenience.

$7,750


Ship Details.

Hondius is the world’s first-registered Polar Class 6 passenger vessel, making her among the most structurally fortified and technologically advanced polar cruise ships on the seas.

Surpassing the requirements of the Polar Code adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Hondius represents the most flexible, advanced, innovative touring vessel in the polar regions, thoroughly optimized for exploratory voyages that provide you the utmost first-hand contact with the Arctic and Antarctica.

The Hondius carries 170 passengers in 80 cabins

  • Happier polar passengers, healthier polar environment

    Not only will the numerous amenities and on-board entertainments help make your Hondius voyage truly memorable, this ship also gives you the peace of mind that comes with choosing one of the most environmentally friendly vessel on the polar seas. Hondius uses LED lighting, steam heating, bio-degradable paints and lubricants, and state-of-the-art power management systems that keep fuel consumption and CO2 levels minimal. This means that when you sail aboard Hondius, you get to enjoy the exotic landscapes and wildlife as much as possible while impacting them as little as possible.

    Hotel comfort, expedition class

    Please be aware that a small number of cabins may have a partially obstructed view due to the size of the windows and the design requirements of the ship. For example, some windows may be partly obstructed in the lower half by a gangway. The best view is always on the outer deck or the bridge. Hondius offers high-quality accommodation for 170 passengers in six grand suites with balconies (27 square meters, 291 square feet), eight junior suites (19 to 20 square meters, 205 to 215 square feet), eight superior cabins (20 to 21 square meters, 215 to 226 square feet), 11 twin deluxe cabins, (19 to 21 square meters, 205 to 226 square feet), 14 twin window cabins (12 to 14 square meters, 129 to 151 square feet) as well as 27 twin porthole cabins, two triple porthole cabins, and four quadruple porthole cabins that vary in size from 12 to 18 square meters, or 129 to 194 square feet. One deck consists of a large observation lounge and separate lecture room, which are reserved for a wide variety of interactive workshops, exhibitions, and performances particular to Hondius. Though elegantly designed in stylish mid-century modern décor, this vessel holds true to Oceanwide’s distinctive cozy and informal atmosphere.

    Swift & safe ship-to-shore operations

    It is our philosophy to keep sea time short so that we can focus instead on fast, effective access to shore and near-shore activities. To give you the maximum contact with the nature and wildlife you traveled so far to see, we employ a tough fleet of rigid-hull inflatable Zodiac boats that guarantee swift and safe landing operations for the passengers. Hondius has two separate gangways and a sheltered indoor Zodiac boarding are that can also be used for special outdoor activities, such as kayaking.

    The fast, flexible, friendly heart of the polar regions

    Our top priority is taking advantage of every wildlife and terrain opportunity as it occurs. To keep our itineraries flexible itineraries and our response time rapid, Hondius is equipped with advanced stabilizers and two main engines capable of powering the vessel up to 15 knots. But Hondius sacrifices no warmth to achieve its keen polar edge: You will have 70 crew and staff members (including expedition and hotel staff) at your service while on board, ensuring that what little time you do spend on the ship you will spend comfortably entertained.

    Age and nationality

    Passengers on a typical voyage range from in their 30s to their 80s, with the majority usually between 45 ― 65. Our expeditions attract independent travelers from around the globe who are characterized by a strong interest in exploring remote regions. The camaraderie that develops on board is an important part of the Oceanwide experience, and many passenger groups include several nationalities.

    What to wear

    In keeping with the spirit of expedition, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing for all activities, and keep in mind that much of the scenery can be appreciated from deck ― which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with no-slip soles, and make sure your parka is never far away in case one of our crew shouts “Whales!” over the loudspeaker and you have to dash outside in a moment’s notice. Opt for layers, as it is comfortably warm aboard the ship though often cold on deck.

    How to pay

    Refreshments and souvenirs will be charged to your cabin. The day before departure you can settle your bill with the hotel manager, paying by credit card (Visa or MasterCard) or cash (euro, or in some cases dollar). We cannot, however, accept checks. Though the prices and standard currency on board is in the euro, other currencies may be accepted at the discretion of the hotel manager, at prevailing rates.

    Electric current

    The electrical supply aboard ship is 220v, 60Hz. Electrical outlets are standard European with two thick round pins, so some passengers may need a 220v/110v converter.

    Gratuities

    The customary gratuity to the ship’s service personnel is made as a blanket contribution at the end of the voyage and is divided among the crew. Tipping is a personal matter, and the amount you wish to give is at your sole discretion. As a generally accepted guideline, we suggest 8 ― 10 euros per passenger per day. It is better for the crew if you give cash.

    Non-smoking policy

    We have a non-smoking policy inside all our vessels, though you can smoke in certain designated areas. We ask that you please respect the wishes of non-smokers.

    Your physical condition

    You must be in good overall health and be able to walk several hours per day. The expedition is ship-based and physically not very demanding, but we spend as much time as possible on shore. You are, however, welcome to remain aboard the ship if you prefer. To join most excursions you must be able to get up and down the steep gangway ― from the ship to the water level ― to board the Zodiacs. Staff will assist you in and out of the boats, and boarding will become progressively easier with practice, but conditions on shore can be slippery and rocky. Remember, you will be traveling in remote areas without access to sophisticated medical facilities, so you must not join this expedition if you have a life-threatening condition or need daily medical treatment.