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Voyage to the Arctic and Spitsbergen - MV Ocean Albatros

Voyage to the Arctic and Spitsbergen - MV Ocean Albatros

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Voyage to the Arctic and Spitsbergen - MV Ocean Albatros

10 Days Starting and ending in Oslo, Norway

Visiting: Oslo, Longyearbyen, Krossfjorden, Smeerenburgbreen, Alkefjellet, Torellneset, Sjuøyane, Monacobreen, Ny-Ålesund

Tour operator:

Riviera Travel

Tour code:

AR

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Please contact Riviera Travel if you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility.

Age range:

18-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Please contact Riviera Travel with specific dietary requests.

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours, Sailing

Tour Overview

This cruise is so popular it has currently sold out!


Imagine gazing out over an empty landscape of vast creaking glaciers surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the sea around you dotted with small icebergs and the huge black tailfins of humpback whales as they dive.


On land the low tundra vegetation is dotted with bright flowers taking advantage of the short summer warmth and look carefully to catch sight of an Arctic fox or some Svalbard reindeer, or perhaps a colony of walruses on the pristine beaches. As our ship skirts the pack ice, we may be lucky enough to spot a polar bear and her cub on their constant hunt for seals. All this and more awaits on a true Arctic adventure aboard the brand new four-star MV Ocean Albatros!


Launched in 2023, this magnificent vessel spends its summer seasons sailing Northern Waters. Starting in the small Norwegian town of Longyearbyen, explore these magnificent inshore waters and fjords, and visit spectacular cliffs inhabited by thousands of seabirds.


June is the perfect time to spot the amazing wildlife of one of the world’s most fascinating and remote polar regions; we’ll aim to voyage around 80 degrees north to meet the edge of the pack ice and spot polar bears in their preferred habitat. Located well inside the Arctic Circle, you’ll also experience the spectacular midnight sun.


On our first and last nights, you’ll stay in Norway’s capital Oslo – a charming small city, with its futuristic waterside opera house and pedestrianised main street just 5 minutes by train from your hotel.


Highlights

  • Visit the vast glaciers, icebergs and stunning fjords of Spitsbergen & experience the midnight sun from within the Arctic Circle.

  • Sail around the Svalbard archipelago and along the rim of the Arctic pack ice and discover the most northern small rocky islands of Sjuøyane - almost vegetation-free they are located some 1000 km further north than the North Cape (conditions dependent).

  • Be amazed by the huge variety of wildlife, from polar bears, walruses and whales to arctic foxes and thousands of seabirds and visit former whaling stations and the northernmost settlement of Ny Ã…lesund.

  • Enjoy a programme of fascinating lectures by the on-board team of knowledgeable expedition guides.

  • Encounter the charming small city of Oslo with its futuristic waterside opera house on a guided tour.

Itinerary

Expand All

DAY 1

Location: Oslo

Arrival in Oslo

DAY 2

Location: Longyearbyen

Embarkation in Longyearbyen - We fly from Oslo to Longyearbyen, the northernmost "real" town in the wold and largest inhabited settlement of Svalbard. Here we board the MV Ocean Albatros and begin our exciting Arctic voyage.

DAY 3

Location: Krossfjorden

Regnardneset & Lilliehöök Glacier - During the night (although the sun doesn’t set), we will have passed Prins Karls Forland and have arrived in the magnificent Krossfjord. We plan on making a landing during the morning at Möllerhamna or in another suitable location. The majestic landscape around Regnardneset in the innermost area of Krossfjorden give us our first taste of what has enticed the early explorers of these lands in the far north.In the afternoon, we continue further north into the fjord system, and depending on the ice situation, we may do a Zodiac cruise along the Lilliehöök Glacier front, or enjoy a lecture.With some Arctic luck we will be able to navigate past the magnificent scenery in the bay of Fjortende Juli, where the glacier Fjortende Juli-breen calves into the fjord. A fitting end to a day full of scenic views and Arctic wildlife.

DAY 4

Location: Smeerenburgbreen

Arctic cruising - We have now entered Northwest Svalbard, which was declared a national park in 1973. The day could begin with a cruise in Danskergattet, looking for seals in Virgohamna, before crossing from Danskøya to Amsterdamøya to make a landing at Smeerenburg, a legendary whaling town of the 17th century. 200-plus men were living (and quite often dying) here in the heyday of blubber production.If conditions allow we will also make a landing on Ytre Norskøya, where whalers would have their lookout posts.

DAY 5

Location: Alkefjellet, Torellneset

Arctic cruising - In the morning we arrive and cruise slowly by the famous Alkefjellet (subject to weather conditions). The whole area is home to a dense congregation of Brünichs guillemots and you will have a good chance of seeing their frantic activity both along the cliffs and in the sea in front.More wildlife awaits us as we land at the polar desert landscapes of Torrelnesset. The beach here is home to a host of walruses that lay amongst each other. They feed on the clams and any other molluscs that they can find in the shallows of Svalbard’s waters.

DAY 6

Location: Sjuøyane

Cruising Towards the Pack Ice & Sjuøyane - During the night the ship will steer far north towards the edge of the polar pack ice in search of polar bears! As the pack ice retreats during summer, polar bears ride the floes north, as this is where they hunt for food.During the day, lectures on polar mammals, the environment and local culture can be enjoyed on board in the Viking Theatre. Should we get into the pack ice where the sea usually is calm, our captain will cruise slowly between the floes and look for wildlife.A part goal of the day is to also reach the island Nordaustlandet and hopefully its 7 (or 9, depending on how you count) smaller islands Sjuøyane in the far north of Svalbard. The almost vegetation-free, rocky islands are located around 1000 km more northernly than mainland Norway’s renowned Nordkapp. Weather permitting, we will land and walk these most northern landmasses, an area rich in birdlife.

DAY 7

Location: Monacobreen

Liefde Fjord with Monaco Glacier & Texas Bar - During the night we sail towards Wood Fjord and its branch, the Liefde Fjord where we hope to slow cruise along the broad glacier front of Monacobreen. This gives a unique insight of the glacial forces and the numerous forms of icebergs. The ice front is named after Albert I of Monaco, who was a major sponsor of Svalbard research.Many trappers historically hunted and trapped in these areas and some built cabins to stay over the winter. The cabin known as Texas Bar built in 1927, is said to be named after the US state of Texas. Weather permitting, you can visit the area around the cabin and enjoy the surrounding scenery.

DAY 8

Location: Ny-Ålesund, Longyearbyen

Ny Ã…lesund & Ny London - Today, enter the beautiful Kongs Fjord known for the former mining settlement and stunning scenery. The first landing will be at Ny ?lesund - further north than Longyearbyen it makes it THE northernmost town consisting of scientific stations, a post office and a single shop.On the opposite side of the fjord, find the abandoned marble mining settlement Ny London. Its history is short but hectic, as the marble deposits allowed for an almost Klondike like rush to mine the resources. Wars and failing financial viability ended the adventure only 9 years after it started.Wander amongst the ruins of workshops, locomotives and cranes, testament to the great but failed investments. After the visit, we begin to head south towards the entrance to the Isfjord back towards Longyearbyen.

DAY 9

Location: Oslo, Longyearbyen

Disembarkation & Oslo - Disembark and board our flight back to Oslo. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to the hotel for your overnight stay. Why not make the most of the evening sunshine and take a stroll down to the beach or enjoy dinner at one of the numerous excellent restaurants in the city centre.

DAY 10

Location: Oslo

Oslo & return home - This morning, enjoy an inclusive sightseeing tour around Norway's capital city. A scenic drive will take you past the modern Opera house, Karl Johans gate, Akerhus Castle and Fortress and the Royal Palace. You will also be taken for views of the city from Holmenkollen ski jump and for a visit to Vigeland Park to see some of the 200 sculptures cast in bronze, granite and iron by Gustav Vigeland.This afternoon, it's time to say goodbye and return home.

What's Included

  • The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room/cabin and includes:

  • Domestic return flights from Oslo to Longyearbyen

  • International flights between Oslo and the UK

show more

What's Not Included

  • Meals

    Meals are not explicitly mentioned as included, so they may not be covered.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not mentioned as included and is likely not covered.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional excursions, and other personal purchases are not included.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on this Arctic voyage?

    During the voyage, you can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife including polar bears, walruses, whales, arctic foxes, and thousands of seabirds. The area is also home to reindeer and a dense congregation of Brünnich's guillemots.

  • Are there any educational opportunities during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a programme of fascinating lectures by the on-board team of knowledgeable expedition guides. These lectures cover topics such as polar mammals, the environment, and local culture.

  • What kind of activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes shore excursions by Zodiac dinghies, weather permitting, and lectures by the on-board expedition team. There are also opportunities for guided tours, such as a sightseeing tour around Oslo.

  • Will there be opportunities to explore historical sites during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes visits to historical sites such as the former whaling town of Smeerenburg and the abandoned marble mining settlement of Ny London. You will also visit Ny Ã…lesund, the northernmost settlement with scientific stations.

  • What is the significance of the midnight sun during the tour?

    The midnight sun is a natural phenomenon that occurs in the Arctic Circle, where the sun remains visible at midnight. This unique experience allows you to enjoy the incredible light as it skims the horizon, providing a wonderful time of 'day' even at night.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For almost 40 years

  • I have reduced mobility; can I still travel?

    We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns

  • Do I require travel insurance?

    It is a condition of booking that you carry suitable travel insurance.

  • What is my luggage allowance?

    You will receive details of your luggage allowance with your final travel documents, which are sent approximately 10 days prior to your date of departure.

Reviews of this operator

Darren Graham (Google Reviewer)  

This was our 2nd Riviera...

20-Apr-2025

This was our 2nd Riviera Cruise and we thoroughly enjoyed it. We did the Seine 7 day cruise to Rouen, Bayeux & the D-Day landings. Staff were excellent, food was spot on and the excursions were very interesting and well organised. It helped that weather was very good for time of year and the drinks package was thrown in. Our cabin was on the lower deck and was slightly smaller than our last cruise on the Oscar Wilde (we were on the Jane Austin). I would definitely recommend this cruise if you like your history, however the D-Day/Bayeux excursion is a very long day (8.30-18.30), so be prepared.

David Clarke (Google Reviewer)  

This review is for the...

08-Aug-2023

This review is for the italian Lake Como trip Aug 1-8 Wow what a trip. Riviera from start to finish were excellent the booking and help line answering questions were very good and clear. The travel booklet you get is laid out that it is simple to read and follow with step by step info from booking in to flights to meeting the guides. Our guide Matt Purse was just the best guide and real credit to Riviera with his knowledge and straight forward approach to running the trips. Matt kept us informed and told us all the sort of info you want to know without going over the top....This chap should teach other reps ..thank you so much. The coaches they use are all clean and well equipped with usb chargers and have aircon. The places chosen to visit were well researched even down to where coaches park or drop you off. The Bernina Express was the highlight for our family and matts photo tip was welcomed. The only down point was the hotel,a little dated and evening meal in main restuarant was a bit of a let down. I think we were lucky with our room on level 7 and with balcony as the walls are very thin and noise travels. We would book again with riviera

Sharon Wal (Google Reviewer)  

Riviera are amazing attention to...

24-Mar-2025

Riviera are amazing attention to detail fantastic, staff and crew can't do enough for you. Food excellent drinks package great, cannot fault, definitely cruise with them again

Barbara Shillaker (Google Reviewer)  

I have been on three...

11-Jan-2024

I have been on three trips with Riviera Travel so far, with two more booked during 2024. Highly recommended. Excellent tour guides. Great program of visits. Great hotels used.

Dawn Curzons (Google Reviewer)  

Just returned from my first...

18-Oct-2024

Just returned from my first Riviera tour ,Valencia and the orange grove coast for solo travellers an̈d despite challenges due to two public holidays and things closing, it was managed excellently by the tour manager. Would not hesitate to use Riviera again. Pleased to find a replacement after very bad service from Titan in the past.

Julie Berry (Google Reviewer)  

What a fantastic holiday to...

29-May-2024

What a fantastic holiday to Canada on the Rocky Mountaineer & Alaska Cruise. If you are thinking of booking this do it right now. From start to finish everything was great. The hotels, the transport and the cruise. The rep was absolutely fabulous. If you have ‘B’ as your rep you will make a friend. She is so full of knowledge. We went on this trip with strangers and left it as friends.

Mrs Bodnarec (Google Reviewer)  

Thankyou Riviera and all the...

28-Apr-2024

Thankyou Riviera and all the staff on the William Wordsworth Danube River cruise. My husband and i have just travelled on the Danube to celebrate my husbands 60th and we had such a lovely experience. We were younger than most of the travellers but we met so many lovely people so this wasnt a problem. The staff were so lovely and professional. The service we experienced was so high. The boat was beautiful, the food amazing and the excursions were informative and well managed. I would definately recommend riviera as a company. In fact we are now considering their Japan holiday.

David Chard (Google Reviewer)  

We have just returned from...

06-Feb-2025

We have just returned from the most wonderful holiday in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Sri Lanka is such a fascinating place to visit; the people, the sights, the food, the wildlife are extraordinary. Riviera have created a super itinerary which includes notable sights including visits to an Elephant Sanctuary and Yala National Park, whilst staying at top notch hotels. The Maldives leg - 7 days on a boat visiting numerous deserted islands and sandbanks, night time fishing expeditions, snorkelling, barbecue on the beach etc.....it was simply out of this world. i cannot praise Riviera too highly. Thank you.

Jean Libaert (Google Reviewer)  

Fantastic small boat cruise from...

29-Sep-2024

Fantastic small boat cruise from Split to Porec and then by catamaran to Venice. Well done Riviera for another wonderful holiday. Would recommend this company and all their small boat cruises (just completed our 3rd!).

Barbara Parkes (Google Reviewer)  

Presently in Croatia staying at...

22-Sep-2023

Presently in Croatia staying at Arauana Hotel, supposedly a 4 star property, but wouldn't give it any star rating. Rooms are small and dirty. Wallpaper blistering. Meals served in a shed like lean-to. Food like warm, greasy and always self service. Second holiday with Riviera this year and neither at standard advertised. Have travelled with them previously and everything was fine, but standards have really dropped. Have booked a holiday with them next year and now dreading it. Certainly don't provide the standard advertised. We have never stayed in such a hovel and have visited youngsters in back packers accommodation which was far better than this supposedly 4 star accommodation. There are no indoor bars or lounges only a shed as a so called restaurant. Absolutely disgusting. Won't be boking with them again

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Riviera Travel requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 101 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of riviera travel charges.

    Up to 101 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 100 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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