Trip Reports
Duration
10 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
3 Ports
9 May
Setting sail from Longyearbyen
This is the world's northernmost city and the base for tourism in Svalbard. A bit quirky, as you would expect from somewhere that spends four months of the year in near darkness, Longyearbyen doesn't take long to explore. Its brightly coloured wooden houses are built on stilts, as the ground in Svalbard is permafrost. When you enter a building, you are normally asked to remove your shoes, and leave your gun at the door. Gun carrying is more or less essential for the locals, as with 3,000 local hungry polar bears, it is said that you never know when you might need protection. That said, we visited safely without a gun!
Our tip
Don’t die here – it’s illegal. There have been no new burials for over 70 years, because the permafrost prevents bodies from decomposing.
10-18 May
Svalbard and Jan Mayen: Spitsbergen
Spitsbergen is the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, a land of snowy peaks, frozen tundra and glassy seas. You’ll likely have no fixed itinerary here, due to the unpredictable nature of an Arctic expedition; be prepared to drop everything and rush up to the top deck for the chance of a polar bear sighting!
19 May
Arriving in Longyearbyen
Don't miss
At the so called heart of the city, Huset has long been the centre for culture and community. Go there for great food and to sample one of the largest wine cellars in Europe!
Your home from home
Ultramarine is Quark's most exciting polar ship yet, equipped with two twin-engine helicopters and offering an amazing array of innovative excursions.
What we love
Ultramarine is Quark's first ever new-build, and promises to deliver the most comprehensive polar expedition experience at sea. You can expect fantastic included excursions, active adventures ashore and a superb onboard expedition team. The ship also features more outdoor wildlife viewing space than any other vessel this size, stylish public spaces and the latest environmentally-sensitive technology.
| Capacity |
199 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 140 Staff |
| Style |
Comfortable and inviting, with a real focus on in-depth polar exploration and active pursuits such as kayaking and hiking. |
| Inclusions |
|
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Longyearbyen
There’s really not much choice! Go for the Radisson Blu.
Explore Spitsbergen
Travel out of Longyearbyen by snow scooter or dog sled to take a look at the amazing scenery and hunt for wildlife.
