VOYAGES - SVALBARD (SPITSBERGEN), 2008

Spitsbergen is Dutch for "pointed mountains", an evocative name for the largest island of the High Arctic group properly called Svalbard. It has a fascinating history of arctic exploration and whaling. Snowy peaks rise majestically through huge ice-caps, glaciers creep down valleys to the sea and sparkling ice walls enclose deep fjords. All this is surrounded by the glistening pack-ice. When summer comes the land can be brilliant with orange lichens and flowering plants. The surrounding seas support numerous birds, seals, Walruses, dolphins and whales. Polar Bears, of which Svalbard holds more than 20 per cent of the world's population, patrol the shores and ice-floes.

North Spitsbergen

Around Spitsbergen

South Spitsbergen

North Spitsbergen

As the pack-ice retreats northwards we aim to sail as far as we can round the north coast of Spitsbergen and in later voyages may reach the entrance to the Hinlopen Strait. These early voyages are the best time to see relics of the 17th Century whaling industry, rich vegetation, birds nesting - colonies of little auks, guillemots, geese and many more. There may be opportunities to see walruses, polar bears and rare ivory gulls. Three voyages will be available on the sailing ship Noorderlicht.

*These cruises include programmes for scuba divers. Contact us for details.

Around Spitsbergen

The pack-ice should now have receded sufficiently to allow us to sail through the Hinlopen Strait. We therefore hope to visit the islands to the east and cruise completely around Spitsbergen. This part of Spitsbergen provides the best opportunities for seeing seals, polar bears and reindeer, as well as seabird colonies. If ice conditions are favourable it may be decided to sail around Nordaustlandet. We also visit places with relics of early exploration, including Ny Ålesund, the world's most northerly settlement where there is also a modern research station.

*These cruises include programmes for scuba divers. Contact us for details.

Four voyages will be available on Noorderlicht around South Spitsbergen. Although too late in the season for flowers and most birds, these voyages offer the possibility of spectacular views of the High Arctic combined with a good chance of seeing many of the larger sea mammals. Prices are lower for the 2 later voyages.