Exploration and wildlife observation in Spitsbergen
Duration : 19 days
Norway, Svalbard
Level : easy
from 5500 € / p. from 6 to 10 persons
Infos & Booking
Description
I propose you an amazing trip of exploration and wildlife observation in Spitsbergen aboard the comfortable boat Kamak. The objectives of this cruise are to explore the north-western and northern fjords and, if conditions allow, to attempt a circumnavigation of the Spitsbergen archipelago.
The main activities will be easy hiking and observation of Spitsbergen's wildlife and landscapes.
Located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, Spitsbergen represents Norway's Arctic crown. One might assume its climate to be extremely cold, but thanks to the warm current extending the Gulf Stream, the Svalbard archipelago enjoys a fairly mild, if highly changeable, climate, with distinct seasons.
This allows a rich fauna to develop there, all the more so as it is well protected by some twenty nature reserves and 7 national parks covering 65% of its territory. Svalbard is one of the best places to observe polar bears in their natural environment. Kamak's size makes it possible to get close to them in a way that would be impossible on a conventional cruise or on a larger boat. On land, we'll try to meet reindeer, polar foxes and the many birds present on the island.
We'll also go kayaking, fishing and perhaps see blue and humpback whales swimming in the distance. We can also visit scientific and former Russian bases.
If you like this kind of adventure, I also offer other trips with the Kamak boat:
- exploring the fjords of Greenland's east coast,
- ski touring in the Lofoten Islands, from Bodø to Tromsø,
- ski-mountaineering and wildlife observation in Spitsbergen,
- ski touring and sailing in Finnmark.
Program
- We'll leave Longyearbyen in the Isfjord and head for the north-western fjords, which we'll explore.
- We'll continue to the high latitudes to take advantage of the countless possibilities for discovery in the northern fjords.
- Here, the continuation of our tour of the archipelago will depend on sea and ice conditions. We'll adapt to these conditions so as to be able to live this adventure with peace of mind.
- If the tour is feasible, the southern fjords, and Hornsund in particular, will provide new territories for exploration.
- If not, the north and north-west will be our playground, to everyone's delight.
The price includes
- Supervision and preparation of the trip by the mountain guide.
- All expenses related to the use of the boat.
- Copious, quality food and full board.
- Wine and drinks within reason.
The price does not include
- Flights, stopover fees and associated transports.
- Search, repatriation and cancellation insurance.
- Strong alcohol.
- Personal expenses.
- Anything not mentioned in "The price includes".
Accommodation
- On Kamak boat.