Tromso - Longyearbyen Expedition Svalbard circumnavigation via Kvitoya - a remote beauty

High in the north of Europe lies an expedition destination that evokes a unique sense of longing in explorers: Svalbard – a blend of myth and adventure. In these nautically challenging waters, the HANSEATIC nature truly shines: small, agile, and equipped with the highest ice class for passenger ships. When conditions permit, it charts a path via the "outer route" through Kvitøya, attempting a circumnavigation. Majestic glaciers, deep fjords, and untouched wilderness: this is the realm of polar bears, Arctic foxes, whales, and walruses. It’s an environment that stirs the spirit of discovery within you. The route remains flexible, dictated by weather and ice conditions, and the captain and crew adjust the itinerary accordingly. The journey begins with the breathtaking sight of Samarinbreen glacier in Hornsund, framed by imposing mountains – the first of many unforgettable memories. Surrounded by steep mountains and glaciers, Kvalbagen serves as a sheltered bay east of Forlandsundet, providing refuge for many animals such as walruses, ringed seals and seabirds. 

At Barentsøya, you may observe reindeer in a blooming natural setting, and possibly even catch a glimpse of the largest and heaviest animal in the world: the blue whale. The voyage continues through the narrow Freemansund between Barentsøya and Edgeøya. Exploring with Zodiacs, you will land on Nordaustlandet, largely covered by ice caps. On a walk through the stark tundra, you may spot reindeer and Arctic foxes, along with Svalbard poppies and red saxifrage. Our route then takes us to the remote Lomfjord – a place where the Arctic shows its artistic side. The mountain slopes glow in vibrant colours, shaped by fascinating geology that captivates the eye: delicate structures, layered like an open history book of the Earth. The captain and officers will constantly look for impressive scenes such as the cliffs of Alkefjellet: the “bird mountain” is inhabited by thousands of birds from numerous species, including thick-billed murres, kittiwakes, glaucous gulls, Arctic terns and eider ducks. Once the ice clears the way, one thing is certain: you will be part of the history of exploration, just like the Swedish polar explorer Salomon August Andrée in 1897, when you pass the “white island” of Kvitoya. Remoteness in its most beautiful form, covered in ice and with a rocky peninsula to the east – an Arctic dream. People rarely come here, but polar bears do. 

With its steel-reinforced hull, the HANSEATIC nature safely forges ahead to offer more adventures in northwest Svalbard. Beverlysundet is known for its wildlife and historical sites from past expeditions. The spiky mountains flank the Liefdefjord, culminating in the magnificent Monaco Glacier. The chances are high that you will spot polar bears safely from the deck throughout your Svalbard expedition. Arriving at Ny-Ålesund, you reach one of the world’s northernmost settlements. Once a coal mining town, it now hosts international scientists dedicated to meteorology, climate change studies, and research on the northern lights. When you enjoy the view from the Zodiac of the mighty 11 km (7 mi.) long ridge of Lilliehook Glacier, one of Svalbard’s largest glaciers, you will feel the silent power of the Arctic – because it leaves no one untouched. To cap off your expedition, with a bit of luck, on the small island of Prins Karls Forland, you can witness impressive wildlife observations: herds of magnificent walruses often gather here. Standing alongside explorers like Barents, Amundsen, and today’s researchers, you now join the ranks of Svalbard’s discoverers.