Through the North Atlantic- Scotland to Svalbard
Discover the untouched Arctic islands of the North Atlantic aboard the Ocean Atlantic Antarctic and Arctic Cruises
Length
11 Days
Ship category
Premium
Ship type
Mid-Sized Ship
Capacity
132 Passengers
Through the North Atlantic- Scotland to Svalbard
Trip highlights
24-hour daylight
Lookout for Polar Bears
Beerenberg Volcano
Bird and whale watching
The Polartours experience
Special Photo Workshop
Learn from Polar experts
Your booking contributes to our Conservation Project
Digital Visual Journal
Get ready to embark on an early summer's cruise from Aberdeen to the lush green Shetland isles, the Faroe Islands small capital Tórshavn and the North Atlantic to the Arctic islands of Jan Mayen and Svalbard. You will travel north along with the migrating birds, and hopefully spot the polar bears hunting from the sea ice in the 24-hour daylight.
The cruise starts in Aberdeen on the Scottish East Coast. Here you'll embark the comfortable Ocean Atlantic, which is your home for the next 11 days. The first stop is cozy Lerwick on “main” Shetland, then you'll venture further north to Tórshavn on the Faroe Islands. After a day at sea spotting for seabirds and whales you'll reach the enigmatic and isolated island of Jan Mayen with its looming 2,200-meter high volcano of Beerenberg. Heading north with the spring and 24-hour daylight until you reach the snow-covered mountains of Svalbard. Sea ice will still cover many fjords, but with an ice class of 1B you are in good hands on board the Ocean Atlantic. From the panorama deck your guides will try to spot the iconic polar bear on the ice and feel the Arctic nature close to us in smaller Zodiac vessels. You'll venture further north into Kongsfjorden and Ny Ålesund, to Smeerenburg and hopefully as far as Yttre Norskøya in the far North west corner of Spitsbergen Island. Weather and ice conditions will often dictate the course, but each landing with Zodiac-boats will still be unique and adventurous.
After 11 fantastic days you will disembark in Longyearbyen for your homebound flight.
Your ship: Ocean Atlantic
Ocean Atlantic is the perfect vessel for expedition cruising in Antarctic and Arctic waters! Newly renovated in 2016 and with an international ice class rating of 1B, she is one of the strongest ships operating in Antarctica. Her high maneuverability, shallow draft and strong engines allow for extended voyages into isolated fjords, creating exciting adventures for any Antarctica and Arctic traveler.
Ocean Atlantic is newly renovated (2016) with elegant common areas and accommodation for 198 passengers. The ship was built in 1985 and underwent an extensive rebuild in 2010. With a length of 140 … Read more about Ocean Atlantic
Cabins
Amenities
Fitness Center
Bar
Mudroom
Lecture Theater
Observation Deck
Pool
Zodiac Fleet
Observation Lounge
Gift Shop
Sauna
Medical Services
Library
Food & Drinks
The bright, spacious restaurant prepares 4-star international cuisine. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in your tour price. All meals are served in the restaurant where you can enjoy the spectacular views. You have free seating at all meals.
Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style, while dinner is a la carte. Meals, including daily snacks, are prepared by a professional chef. Coffee, tea, and water are free during the entire cruise; other drinks can be purchased in the restaurant and at the bar. In the event you are not onboard at lunch time, we will prepare a lunch bag for you in the morning, which you can take ashore. In the afternoon, we offer tea and coffee in the lounge. We also offer a midnight snack between 10 pm and 12 am.
We only prepare seafood that is either caught or farmed in ways that consider the long-term vitality of harvested species and the well-being of our oceans, as well as the livelihoods of fisheries-dependent communities. The hotel management uses MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) to ensure the purchase of species approved as sustainable.
Map
Itinerary
Keep in mind this is an expedition cruise, so your itinerary will depend greatly on the weather, amount of ice and wildlife breeding behavior.
Day 1
Embark your new home, the Ocean Atlantic, and start your journey!
Our journey begins in Aberdeen in North East Scotland, where your Expedition cruise ship is located by a dock in the Dee River. Boarding is in the afternoon, where the staterooms are designated. After the mandatory security review and drill, we sail out through the mouth of the Dee River towards the North Sea.
Day 2
Shetland Islands with the harbour and fishing village of Lerwick
Ocean Atlantic approaches Lerwick near the "Main Land" of Shetlands in the morning.
Once securely docked at the port, we depart through Lerwick towards Scalloway for a short scenic drive. From the elevated position, we can enjoy the view of the charming village and the imposing Scalloway Castle. After a short photo stop, we continue eastwards through the area that is locally known as the “Black Gates” – an area where peat is still cut to use as fuel.
Following the road northwards, our main destination of Clickimin Broch is only a short drive. There will be free time to discover this well-preserved and restored Broch and learn more about life in the Iron Age.
Day 3
Faroe Islands, Tórshavn, and the North Atlantic
We arrive after breakfast at Tórshavn, possibly the smallest capital in the world, ruling the scattered 18 islands that make up the Faroes. Centered around the charming grass-roofed Parliament on Tinganes, Tórshavn is now an almost bustling modern city with shops, cafés and even three traffic lights!
By midmorning, you can participate in an optional bus excursion where we will try to look a bit back in history. We drive out of the capital and over the mountains to the south.
We arrive in Kirkjubøur, the most important historical site on the islands. Kirkjubøur was in medieval times the Episcopal centre of the Faroe Islands, and also its undisputed cultural centre. We visit the ruins of the impressive Magnus Cathedral that perhaps never was completed, and the St. Olav church – the only remaining medieval church on the Faroe Islands. Upon Tórshavn, you can go for a leisurely stroll through the old citadel near the harbor. A visit to the Art museum and the Nordic House is also very recommendable.
(The excursion is part of the excursion package and is not included in the price of the trip).
The sailing northwards towards Jan Mayen will probably go through Vestmanna Sound, along the west-facing shore of Streymoy and the south side of Mykines. But the route depends on winds, sea and comfort. We spend day number 6 at sea and enjoy the ship’s many facilities.
Day 4
At sea towards Jan Mayen
Listen to a lecture from our experienced expedition staff, see a film about Arctic nature – or go out on deck to catch glimpses of migrating birds and hopefully some whales.
Day 5
Jan Mayen & Zodiac landings
Jan Mayen Island
Approximately in the middle of the North Atlantic lies the enigmatic volcanic island of Jan Mayen. And if not exactly in the middle, at least it is located precisely on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the reason for its volcanic existence. And enigmatic it is not only because of its isolation, but also due to the almost perpetual clouds and fog that hovers above it.
Jan Mayen belongs to Norway, and the mountain Beerenberg is one of the highest of Norway 300 summits above 2,000 meter. The island is inhabited by only 18 people, running the meteorological station and the Norwegian Defense.
We will try to go ashore at the narrowest part of the island, from either south or north, depending on the prevailing wind and surf. The volcanic origin is visible all over with cinder cones, lava flows and the Mount Fuji like appearance of Beerenberg looming above.
After a pleasant stroll on the narrow isthmus, we board the Zodiacs and our ship to continue our voyage north.
Day 6
At sea towards Svalbard
Enjoy expert lectures, movies or maybe a game during this day at sea.
Day 7
Northern Svalbard & Whale Watching
We are getting closer towards the islands of Svalbard, and it should be possible to spot the largest island, Spitsbergen during the afternoon.
Our route for this day and next depend on conditions, with pack ice and glaciers ahead. Our vessel has an ice class of 1B and the Captain should be able to safely approach the edge of the ice to give us opportunity to spot our first polar bear, hunting for seals.
At night, the ship will sail north along the coast of Spitsbergen.
Day 8
ÅLESUND, KONGSFJORDEN AND BLOMSTRANDHALVØYA
Our visit to Svalbard is in the early summer, and this is both the challenge and gift of this special voyage. Winter ice will possibly block the inner waters of many fjords, but this will give us the best opportunities to observe the omnipresent – but still elusive – polar bear, hunting for seals in its prime habitat. At this time of the year, the migrating birds have just arrived. They are all eager to settle and feed to get the best start for the coming hectic summer months.
Our first landing will be at Ny Ålesund. This settlement is in fact further north than Longyearbyen, making it THE northernmost town. But is a group of scientific stations, a post office, and a single shop open for a few hours a real town? You will have to judge for yourself. The setting is nice, the scientific projects are very interesting, and so is the town history. The Captain will try to get alongside, so we can enjoy an easy walk through the area.
Continuing our exploration of Kongsfjorden, Ocean Atlantic will anchor behind Blomstrand Peninsula. Blomstrand is now an island - the Blomstrand Glacier has receded, revealing a shallow water strait. We will cruise through this on our Zodiacs and make a landing on the island.
Day 9
Former Whaling Station at Smeerenburg and Ytre Norskoya
We have now entered North West Svalbard, which was declared a national park in 1973. The day could begin with a Zodiac cruise in Danskergattet, looking for seals in Virgohamna, before crossing from Danskøya to Amsterdamøya to make a landing at Smeerenburg, the legendary whaling town of 17th century. 200-plus men were living – and quite often dying – here in the heyday of blubber production.
There are several interesting places to visit in this northwestern corner of Spitsbergen. If conditions allow, we’ll make a landing on Ytre Norskøya, where whalers would have their lookout posts.
Day 10
Walrus Watch & Prince Karls Foreland
During the night we have entered Forlandssundet, that separates Prince Karls Forland from Spitsbergen. Our destination is Poole-pynten (Poolepoint), a small headland named after the British whaler Jonas Poole. Today the area is inhabited by herds of walruses, who can be seen (and smelled!) from a distance. The large mammals flaunt their tusks and whiskers, as well as their considerable bulk.
After the visit, we are southbound towards the entrance to the Icefjord.
On our way towards Longyearbyen as we cruise through the Icefjord, we hope to get our last glimpses of wildlife as well as the truly unique landscapes of Svalbard.
Day 11
Disembark in Longyearbyen for your chartered flight to Oslo
Early in the morning the ship has returned to our starting point in Longyearbyen. After breakfast and farewell greetings to the expedition team and crew, disembarkation will take place. Transfer is arranged to the airport. From here you will board your chartered flight to Oslo.
Info
Single Cabin Supplement
When booking online, you can choose the option to "Upgrade to single occupancy". This will guarantee you the whole cabin to yourself, for an additional fee. If you don't select this option, then another traveler of the same sex might be placed into the same cabin with you.
What's included
11-day/10-night cruise in a shared outside double stateroom with private bathroom/toilet
Chartered domestic flight from Longyearbyen to Oslo
English-speaking guides
Zodiac landings
Near-port town walks with expedition team
Information briefings and lectures by expedition team
Full board on the ship
Free coffee, tea and afternoon snacks on the ship
Airport transfer from ship to airport in Longyearbyen
Taxes, tariffs and AECO fees
Guiding and lectures by our experienced expedition leader and team
Special photo workshop
Welcome and farewell cocktails
Digital visual journal link after voyage, including voyage log, gallery, species list and more!
What's not included
International flights to Aberdeen/from Oslo
Hotel accommodation before/after the voyage.
Travel insurance.
Cancellation insurance.
Extra excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
Single room supplement.
Meals not on board the ship.
Beverages (other than coffee and tea).
Tips for the crew (we recommend USD 14 per person per day).
Personal expenses.
Anything not mentioned under 'Price includes'.
FAQ
Should I Cross the Drake Passage by Ship or Fly to Antarctica?
When it comes to traveling to Antarctica, one of the first questions that often arises is, "Can I fly to Antarctica?". The answer is: Yes, you can. Most trips start in Patagonia (Ushuaia and Punta Arenas) and cross the Drake Passage by ship, but there are also trips that use planes to cross that infamous sea passage. Here are the Pros and Cons for each method:
Flying to Antarctica:
Pros: Flying to Antarctica is the quickest way to reach the continent. It offers convenience and is often the choice for those with very limited time.
Cons: There are limited commercial flights to Antarctica, and these are primarily reserved for research and expedition purposes. Tourist accessibility is limited, and it can be costly. Also, as not many trips include flights, you'll be limiting your choice a lot if you decide to only look for such trips.
Crossing the Drake Passage by ship:
Pros: If you choose to cross the Drake Passage by ship, you embark on an incredible adventure. This journey is not just a means of transportation; it's an expedition in itself. The crossing takes 1.5 - 2 days, which are filled with scientific lectures that prepare you for the experience. You'll witness diverse wildlife, including penguins and whales, as your anticipation starts building up. To us, the crossing is a quintessential experience of a true Antarctic explorer.
Cons: Crossing the Drake Passage takes some time, and the seas can be rough. It's not the quickest way to reach the continent, and you need to allocate more time for your expedition.
In conclusion, when it comes to traveling to Antarctica, you have these two choices. Flying offers efficiency and direct access, perfect for specific purposes. Crossing the Drake Passage by ship provides an unmatched adventure and connection with Antarctica's unique environment. Consider what truly matters to you, and you'll find the Antarctic transportation choice that suits your goals and spirit of exploration.
What activities can I expect on a Polar Cruise?
All cruises in the polar regions operate to itineraries that are more-or-less fixed. We say "more or less", because wildlife (breeding, seasonality) and weather always play an important role in routing. Most cruises will offer a range of land-based and water-based activities that you will enjoy at various points in your cruise, including:
- Land excursions (including hiking trails, visitor centers, time relaxing on beaches, observing animals, etc.)
- Bird Watching
- Snorkeling (from ship or beaches)
- Dinghy rides
- Kayaking
- Diving (on ships with diving itineraries)
- Naturalist presentations. These usually take place every evening - on board the bigger ships also with help of projectors, microscopes etc.
All boats carry English speaking, scientifically trained guides. They will lead you on your excursions, allowing you to learn as much as possible about the unique wildlife and habitats of the Polar Regions.
How to choose the right ship?
Choosing the right ship for a cruise to Antarctica or the Arctic seems difficult, but it doesn't have to be. Our fleet is over 30 vessels, we are sure that there is the perfect one for you. Please, follow these simple steps, and you will be able to find your ideal ship:
- Determine your budget and desired level of comfort: Are you looking for luxury or more budget-friendly options? On our website you can set the price range.
- Consider ship size: Large ships offer more amenities and facilities, but they can also feel crowded and impersonal. Smaller ships offer a more personal experience, but may not have as many amenities.
- Look at the cabins: Although you probably won’t spend much time in your cabin, look at the photos and read the descriptions to make sure you're happy with the one you choose.
- Consider the activities on board: Are you interested in kayaking, camping, diving or a photography workshop? Or maybe you want to take part in a Citizen Science Program? These activities can enhance your overall experience. See what our ships have to offer.
- Read customer reviews: Learn about other travelers' experiences by reading reviews.
- Ask your Polar Specialist: Feel free to contact your Polar Specialist. They are happy to share their knowledge and are always ready to help.
In addition: We work with responsible partners who provide a great experience for their passengers. All of our providers are committed to sustainability and to preserving the beauty of the polar regions. You don’t need to worry about the impact of your cruise, because we’ve already taken care of it.
What is the booking process for a Polartours Cruise?
We love to help people find their dream vacation to the Arctic and Antarctic. Whether you give us a call, contact us via email, or use our website inquiry form, one of our Polar travel experts will be more than happy to answer any questions, recommend ships and itineraries, and walk you through the whole process!
Step 1: Find your perfect trip. If you have already started looking for Polar Cruises, you will have quickly noticed that the sheer amount of options can be quite overwhelming. To help you navigate the countless departures and itineraries that our fleet offers, we have put together a great filter page for Antarctic and Arctic Expedition Cruises. Use this page to filter all trips by price, date, ship category, and even destinations you wish to visit. We update all dates, prices, and availabilities daily, and are proud to host what is doubtlessly the world's most complete collection of information.
Step 2: Found something you love? We'll hold your spaces, free of charge! If you find a cruise you like, you can either inquire directly with us or make an unbinding booking online. We will then reach out to the shipowners to put a hold on your spaces for a limited time, free of charge. Once we have confirmed your block with the ship, we will send you a written confirmation of your reservation and include full payment details in an invoice. Typically, we are able to hold unpaid reservations for up to 1 week*. This gives us time to clarify all your remaining questions, and also ensures that no other passengers can book your spaces, while we continue our conversation.
Step 3: Confirm your booking. In order to confirm your booking, we ask for a deposit payment. You can pay via bank transfer or credit card. Keep in mind, that we can only hold your spaces for a limited amount of time. If we don't receive your payment after this time, we can no longer guarantee that the places will be available or that the price won't increase. To prevent disappointment, we will automatically cancel your reservation if we don't receive your deposit by the due date stated on your booking reservation.
Step 4: Booking confirmation & Payment. As soon as we have received your deposit and a completed passenger information form, we will be pleased to send your booking confirmation and updated invoice, along with your trip itinerary, important information, and other great tips for your cruise.
Step 5: Final payment. In your initial invoice, we will define a final payment date by when you need to pay us the remaining amount of your trip. Once we have received your final payment we'll send you your cruise documents and voucher. As your trip approaches, we make sure to pass along all necessary information, so you feel super prepared and stress-free.
*For last-minute bookings, we might not be able to hold your spaces for so long. We will also require the full payment of your cruise upon booking.
When is the best time to book?
An expedition cruise to Antarctica or the Arctic is a big deal! Most people plan for this type of trip at least 8 months in advance. This means the earlier you book, the better chance you'll have to reserve your prefered cabins. Early bird discounts are also popular and a great way to get 10-30% off your cruise.
Most expedition cruises offer optional activities like camping and kayaking, but the spaces are limited. A cruise with 120 passengers can have only 10-15 spaces for kayaking. These are reserved on a first come first served basis. The earlier you book, the higher your chance of grabbing a spot.
Even though last minute deals do occur, keep in mind that the airline prices will be much higher if you purchase them last minute. You may save a few hundred on your cruise, but you may end up paying the most for airfare.
What can i do to avoid seasickness?
If you are prone to motion sickness then here are a few hints to help you.
Firstly, book a cabin in the middle of the ship. The middle of the ship will move less, both in roll and in pitch. Secondly, chose a larger ship. Bigger vessels typically are more stable, and some of them are even equipped with "stabilizers", fins under water that remove the rolling in the swells. Thirdly, take medical advice on anti-seasickness medication. Some traditional remedies are said to be very effective, such as taking ginger or using commercially-available acupressure wristbands.
Watch this informative video about life onboard an expedition ship and seasickness from our expert guide and Polartours Brand Ambassador, Kevin.
Through the North Atlantic- Scotland to Svalbard
Price
Upon Request
