Land of the Polar Bear
Svalbard Islands
July 6 to July 19, 2026
Private Trip Available Safari Overview
⚡ Limited Time Offer
Save $1,500 on Svalbard July 2026
Book by March 1, 2026 and save $1,500 per person
New bookings only • Only a few spots remaining • Cannot be combined with other offers
Embark on a journey to the Arctic’s crown jewel—the Svalbard Archipelago—a breathtaking gem nestled between mainland Norway and the North Pole. Here, glaciers glitter under the midnight sun, and polar bears roam freely across vast, ice-draped landscapes. This pristine wilderness is a haven not only for polar bears, but also home to other iconic Arctic wildlife, including walruses, reindeer, large seabird colonies, and numerous whale species. Cruise past towering fjords, glimmering icebergs, and expansive tundra while soaking in the untouched beauty of the Arctic.
This Svalbard polar bear expedition offers intimate Arctic wildlife encounters on a small-ship cruise designed for wildlife photography, with expert guides and access to remote fjords larger vessels cannot reach.
WHY CHOOSE THIS EXPEDITION?
- View Iconic Arctic Wildlife: Witness polar bears, walruses, Arctic foxes, and Svalbard reindeer in their breathtaking natural surroundings. Thrill as various whale species glide past through the icy waters.
- Discover Unforgettable Landscapes: Experience the untouched beauty of massive glaciers, shimmering fjords, and striking ice formations illuminated by 24 hours of daylight.
- Enjoy Unique Experiences: Explore remote inlets and narrow straits aboard Zodiac boats, accessing hidden corners of the Arctic wilderness. Observe seabird colonies in their natural habitats, filling the skies with their vibrant activity.
- Immersive Photography Opportunities: Perfect your Arctic photography skills with expert guidance from an accomplished wildlife photographer specializing in Arctic expeditions.
- Travel in a Small Group: Navigate the Arctic aboard a small expedition ship designed for intimate exploration, offering flexibility to adapt to changing conditions for unforgettable experiences
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The trip was very well managed from start to finish. Accommodations and food were good. The boat was very comfortable. The guides were highly skilled, warm, and always open to helping with photography. The crew was great. The wildlife experiences were what I had hoped for and the scenery was more striking than I had expected. I came away learning new things, making some new friends, and looking forward to future adventures with Cheesemans’.” – Jennifer Black |
TRIP MAP
NOTABLE EXPERIENCES
Want to learn more? Check out our blog post from our 2023 trip!
Itinerary Updated: March 2025
Ship Info FAQ Print Trip
| Date | Description | Lodge | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 6 | Travel to Norway. | ||
| Jul 7 | Arrive in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway. Arrive from home in time to explore this gateway to the Arctic Circle. | Radisson Blu Polar Hotel Spitsbergen, Longyearbyen | |
| Jul 8 | Board your Ship. Do some morning exploration of the town, then embark on your ship in Longyearbyen and begin your exploration of the Arctic wilderness. | Aboard your ship | B, D |
| Jul 9-17 | Explore the Svalbard Archipelago. Voyage throughout the Svalbard Archipelago with Zodiac cruises and landings for unbelievable Arctic photography and wildlife viewing in the pristine Arctic environment | Aboard your ship | B, L, D |
| Jul 18 | Leave for Home. Disembark in Longyearbyen and bid farewell to the Arctic as you board your flights homeward, carrying memories of once-in-a-lifetime experiences. | B | |
| Jul 19 | Arrive home. |
Get the Full Daily Itinerary
Our Trip Leaders
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Milo Burcham
Milo BurchamMilo is a seasoned wildlife biologist with a lifelong passion for animals, having worked extensively with bears, moose, and elk, while maintaining a keen interest in all forms of wildlife—from birds to reptiles. An accomplished wildlife photographer for over 40 years, his work has been featured in National Geographic, Audubon, Time, and Ranger Rick. Based in Cordova, Alaska for more than two decades, Milo brings a deep understanding of Arctic and Antarctic environments and has guided expeditions to both Svalbard and Antarctica for Cheeseman’s since 2023. When not guiding, he enjoys outdoor pursuits such as hiking, backcountry skiing, wild ice skating, fishing, and traveling to remarkable wildlife destinations.
Ship Information
Svalbard Ship
We chose the most well-equipped and comfortable vessel in the small ship class to ensure an exceptional experience. This ship offers both comfort and rugged capability, ideal for travelers seeking intimate exploration with top-tier amenities. Its ice-strengthened hull and shallow draft allow access to channels and inlets larger ships simply can't reach. These features enable rare wildlife encounters and amazing photo opportunities in remote, less-traveled areas.
A fleet of sturdy Zodiacs takes you ashore and into narrow bays for close-up exploration. Guides launch these boats quickly for flexible, safe, and exciting off-ship adventures. Wildlife viewing thrives on the large, dual-level observation deck positioned perfectly at the bow. You’ll spot whales, seabirds, and glaciers in comfort, thanks to the ship’s stable and open viewing areas. Inside, you’ll enjoy panoramic views through large windows in the social lounge and dining areas.
The spacious lounge invites you to relax, edit photos, and attend talks by our expert naturalist guides. After excursions, guests often gather here to share stories, learn, and review the day’s experiences. Each guest stays in a private lower-deck cabin or shared main-deck cabin with private bathroom facilities. Cabins are cozy, quiet, and well-designed for comfort throughout the voyage.
Only twelve passengers join each departure, creating a personal and peaceful expedition. Small group travel allows more time ashore, better wildlife experiences, and a closer connection to nature. This ship explores quiet, hidden places far from commercial cruise routes. You’ll find the experience deeply rewarding, both in scenery and in connection with fellow travelers. Expect exploration, comfort, and close-up access that large ships simply can’t deliver. Every element—ship size, expert crew, and flexible itinerary—makes this voyage ideal for adventurous nature lovers.
More Information
- Cost & Payments
- Included
- Not Included
- FAQ
- Climate
- Fitness Level
- Motion Sickness
- Flights
Conservation- Conditions
Cost & Payments
Costs (in US$)
| Type | Cost Per Person |
|---|---|
| Trip Cost, single occupancy on lower deck* | $15,400 $13,900 |
| Trip Cost, double occupancy on main deck | $15,400 $13,900 |
| *Single occupancy aboard the ship, but double occupancy at Longyearbyen hotel. |
Share the Experience – Earn Travel Credit
Know someone who would love this trip? Refer a friend and you’ll both benefit—you get credit toward a future adventure, and they receive a discount on their first trip with us. See how our Referral Program works ›
Costs are per person, single occupancy for lower deck cabins and double occupancy for main deck cabins, not including airfare. See Included and Not Included sections for more details.
If you are a single traveler, we will find a roommate for you at the hotel in Longyearbyen, but if we cannot find you a roommate, we may charge you a single supplement. If you prefer a single room for your included night in the hotel, it costs the same as an additional night and is subject to availability.
We cannot guarantee a specific cabin number, but if changes occur, we will assign a cabin of equal or greater value.
Payment Schedule
| Payment | Due Date | Amount Per Person |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit | Due now to reserve your space | $6,000 |
| Final | January 27, 2026 | Remaining Balance |
Payments are due based on the schedule above. All reservations require a deposit to confirm reservation of your space.
Cancellations
Refunds are given depending on the time left before departure according to the following table. Through November 26, 2025, the cancellation fee of $300 per person can be applied toward another trip if reserved within six months of the cancelled trip’s departure date. Cancellations are non-transferable.
| Dates | Forfeited Amount per Person |
|---|---|
| On or before November 26, 2025 | $300 |
| November 27 to December 26, 2025 | 10% of trip cost |
| December 27, 2025 to January 26, 2026 | 40% of trip cost |
| On or after January 27, 2026 | 100% of trip cost |
Included
- Carbon offsets for the duration of this trip.
- All leaders, transport, park entry fees, landing fees, and permits for all activities unless described as optional.
- Accommodations (double occupancy, singles extra) for the night of July 7 in Longyearbyen.
- Ten nights on board your ship.
- Meals from breakfast on July 8 through breakfast on July 18, except meals listed in Not Included section.
- A group transfer on July 8 from the Radisson Blu Polar Hotel to the ship and a group transfer on July 18 from the ship to the airport or into town.
- Trip Planning Materials – information about flights, packing, entry and departure requirements, airport transfers, gratuities, etc.
Not Included
- All airfare, airport and departure taxes, and excess baggage fees. Round-trip airfare is approximately $1,500 to $3000 between the US and Longyearbyen, depending on origin.
- Passport and visa fees.
- COVID tests.
- Lunch on July 8 in Longyearbyen.
- Transfer from the airport to the hotel upon arrival in Longyearbyen.
- We can arrange extra hotel nights for an extra cost.
- Gratuities – tipping is always discretionary. However, we suggest budgeting about $300 to $350 per participant to be distributed equally among the ship’s crew and guides.
- Mandatory emergency evacuation insurance.
- Optional trip cancellation insurance.
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone calls, medical costs or hospitalization, room service, alcoholic and other beverages, items not on the regular menu, etc. If you have special dietary needs, please indicate them on your Traveler Form.
Climate
You will visit the Arctic during its summer with 24 hours of daylight. Weather patterns may be highly variable, so bring appropriate attire and gear to handle a mix of conditions including wind, snow, rain, and sun. Expect temperatures in the 40s°F (4 to 8°C) during the day and in the 30s° (0 to 4°C) at night, but weather fronts can cause temperatures to either drop further or rise to the 50s and low 60s°F (10 to 17°C).
Fitness Level
You must be able to get in and out of the Zodiacs, from the ship, via a six-foot ladder with staff assisting above and below you. Once ashore, you must be also able to get in and out of the Zodiacs onto the beach. You’ll have opportunities for a range of activities from easy, short hikes to longer, more vigorous hikes for those interested. Please contact us if you have any health concerns that may make this trip challenging.
Flights
Detailed logistical information is included in the Trip Planning Materials we will send you.
Flights you book
- Arrive in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway (LYR) anytime on July 7.
- Depart from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway (LYR) after 11:00am on July 18, as you disembark from the ship at 9:00am and we recommend at least one hour to check in before departure.
FAQ
Why travel on a small ship?
With only twelve passenger cabins, our ship is smaller than most ships in Svalbard, allowing you to travel farther into smaller inlets than other ships. Our small group size gives you the flexibility to seize the moment and enjoy special wildlife encounters. With two leaders and only twelve passengers, you will receive plenty of individual attention. And, with two Zodiacs, you have plenty of room for you and your photography gear.
Why do we sail in June and July?
June and July represent the peak months of the short but incredibly productive Arctic summer in Svalbard. In addition to polar bears, it is during these months we see a peak of summer animal activity including the amassing of significant bird colonies, the beginning of the short season of wildflower blooming, the potential to discover arctic fox families with their new pup additions, and ice-free access to various walrus haul out locations. It is also during the short summer that the pack ice breaks up enough to allow further exploration of the far north fjords and coastline that is otherwise inaccessible due to ice during the winter and early spring months.
Is there a big difference between the June and July trips?
Because our two expeditions visit the archipelago back-to-back, spanning four weeks, your wildlife encounters will not vary much, but the July expedition may have slightly more opportunities for wildflowers and less ice.
What are the new environmental regulations in Svalbard, and how do they affect expeditions?
As of January 1, 2025, Norway has introduced stricter environmental regulations to protect Svalbard’s Arctic ecosystem. Key changes include limiting landings to 43 designated sites, enforcing stricter drone usage, reducing speeds near wildlife, and increasing wildlife viewing distances (e.g., 300–500 meters for polar bears, dependent on the time of year). Small-ship expeditions like ours, with just 12 guests, can still access all permitted sites. These rules ensure meaningful exploration while safeguarding the region’s fragile environment.
How do these regulations promote sustainable Arctic tourism?
The updated measures reduce stress on wildlife, protect sensitive habitats, and prioritize low-impact travel. Restrictions on speed, sea ice navigation, and onshore activities help preserve Svalbard’s pristine wilderness. Our conservation-focused approach already aligns with these standards, ensuring visitors experience the Arctic’s untouched beauty while contributing to its long-term protection.
Accommodations
Motion Sickness
Don’t let a fear of motion sickness keep you away! Even those who have experienced seasickness reported that the incredible wildlife and overall experience were well worth the temporary discomfort. If you are susceptible to seasickness or are concerned that you might be, please come prepared! The key to avoiding seasickness is to act before you experience nausea. Do your own research and consult your doctor before taking any medications. A good night of sleep, eating well, limiting alcohol, and using your favorite seasickness remedy is sufficient for most travelers. Find more information on our Coping with Seasickness webpage (this information is applicable to any form of motion sickness) and contact us if you have any questions.
Transportation
Conservation
Our company ethos has always regarded conservation as inseparable from responsible tourism. We struggle with the dilemma that traveling worldwide expends climate-changing carbon. However, we wholeheartedly believe that traveling with us will cultivate your passion for conserving our beautiful world while stimulating each destination’s local economy. We encourage you to explore the various ways in which Cheesemans’ operates within this context:
- Ecotourism and Conservation for Svalbard.
- Cheesemans’ Trips are Carbon Neutral.
- Offsetting your Travel to/from our Trip: We ask you to pledge to offset the carbon emissions for your travel to and from our trips. You can purchase offsets with most airlines (Delta includes them automatically), use our handy carbon calculator and donate to Sustainable Travel International, or contribute to your favorite offsetting organization.
Conditions
Read our current Terms and Conditions.