Journey from the dramatic coast of northern Norway to the wild shores of Svalbard on an expedition that brings together two distinct Arctic worlds. Explore Lofoten’s jagged peaks, fishing villages and deep-rooted coastal culture before discovering the rugged landscapes of Senja. After crossing the Norwegian Sea, spend five flexible expedition days among Svalbard’s glaciers, tundra and wildlife-rich waters, where each day is shaped by conditions and the strongest opportunities available.
Experience two contrasting Arctic worlds - from the fjords of Norway to the glaciers and tundra of Svalbard
Sail through the spectacular Lofoten Islands - where jagged peaks rise from the sea above colourful villages
Spend five flexible expedition days in Svalbard - searching for Arctic wildlife
Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.
M/V Sylvia Earle
Grade: Premium Boat
Polar travel requires a degree of flexibility, and our itinerary can change at short notice. While we'll always aim to visit our planned landing sites, weather and other factors might affect the running order of this trip. Our expert leaders and captain will have the final say.
Occasionally, during extreme weather, we might be unable to do Zodiac landings. There is a gym, sauna, and library onboard, so there's plenty to keep you busy.
It goes without saying it's going to get chilly! We recommend appropriate clothing, including waterproof outerwear and base layers - a recommended packing list will be provided beforehand.
While we hope to see polar bears and other Arctic wildlife during this trip, sightings can't be guaranteed.
That being said, if we're lucky enough to spot a polar bear, it's important to follow the instructions of your expedition guides.
It's worth noting that this trip isn't exclusive to Explore, and you'll be travelling with passengers from other companies.
GMT+02:00
Type E/F (European Schuko) - Two round pins + ground contacts
Christianity (Lutheran)
Type B (North American) - Two flat prongs + ground pin
There are a variety of optional activities available on board such as kayaking, snowshoeing, camping, amongst others, depending on the voyage. These will often need to be booked and paid for in advance, as places are limited. Please contact the Polar sales team for prices and options on board your voyage.
Parka and Boots
An Expedition parka will be provided on the voyage and is yours to keep. Rubber-style muck boots, are on loan for the duration of your expedition.
Gloves
Keeping your hands warm and dry can be a challenge. Thin polypropylene gloves can be worn underneath warm outer gloves. This allows you some protection from the cold when removing your gloves to operate your camera etc. We strongly recommend that you bring more than one pair of gloves, in case one gets wet (or lost).
Hat/Cap
Warm, woollen hat/cap to protect your ears, as well as a scarf, neck gaiter or other face protection, such as a balaclava.
Trousers
Water-resistant trousers of coated nylon or, even better, Gore-Tex® are essential for your comfort. They can be worn over your regular clothes to keep you warm and dry. We suggest that you purchase trousers a few sizes larger than you normally wear as you will be wearing them over other clothing. Gore-Tex® or similar fabrics are excellent for keeping out wind and water without trapping excess heat. Rain gear and Gore-Tex® products can be found in any outdoor sport clothing store. In addition to your waterproof trousers, warm ski pants are suggested if you have them. Warm trousers such as jeans, corduroys etc are also good.
Socks
Warm wool socks worn over a thin pair of silk, polypropylene socks should provide enough warmth and insulation for your feet. Bring several pairs of socks, since you will inevitably get your feet wet.
Outer Clothing Woollen, knit or cotton sweaters/tops, polar fleece tops (medium weight), several cotton turtlenecks and T-shirts for layering on and off the ship.
Underclothing
Thermal underwear is highly recommended as it will keep you warm without adding bulk.
Complimentary waterproof boots will be supplied on-board. However, if you have extra small or large feet, you are advised to bring your own. Also ensure you take good walking boots and trainers for relaxing.
One main piece of baggage and daypack. Remember you are expected to carry your own luggage so don't overload yourself.
Sunglasses and sun cream
Insect repellant
Personal toiletries
A refilllable water bottle
Books/reading material
Camera and memory cards
Seasickness remedy
The suggested amount is USD $15 per person per day spent on board. Tipping is a personal choice and is purely discretionary.
The Sylvia Earle is a 104 metre ship, purpose-built for expedition travel and built to world-class polar standards.With just 130 passengers, guests will enjoy the same added comforts as its sister ship, the M/V Greg Mortimer, such as spacious stateroom cabins, a large mud room and easy boarding access. A distinguishing feature of the Sylvia Earle is the glass-fronted atrium which offers excellent viewing opportunities from the interior of the ship. On-board facilities include a library, a two-level science centre, wellness centre with a gym, sauna, spa, outdoor Jacuzzi and a multimedia room. There is also a swimming pool on the outer deck.
The lead-in prices on our website are based on triple outward facing, Stateroom cabins. All staterooms have private bathrooms, ample storage, with twin beds. Many of the stateroom categories, have floor to ceiling windows that offer prime observation opportunities around the clock. Additionally, there are private balconies in most of the staterooms, allowing you to watch the world float past and take in the salty air of the open ocean. A full layout of the deck plan can be found under the Polar Ships section on our website. Your confirmed cabin type will appear on your Booking Confirmation, which will be sent on receipt of your deposit payment.
Meals are served in the large, spacious dining room with an open seating arrangement, perfect for swapping stories with your extended expedition family. A range of courses is offered at each meal time and you can enjoy a variety of house wines, beers and soft drinks which are included with your evening meal. Complimentary coffee, tea and snacks are available throughout the day and any additional drinks can be purchased at the fully-stocked bar.
A premium selection of spirits, cocktails, beer, wine and liqueurs are included throughout your voyage.
Meals are served in the large, spacious dining room with an open seating arrangement, perfect for swapping stories with your extended expedition family. A range of courses is offered at each meal time and you can enjoy a variety of house wines, beers and soft drinks which are included with your evening meal. Complimentary coffee, tea and snacks are available throughout the day and a premium selection of spirits, cocktails, beer, wine and liqueurs are included throughout your voyage.
Norway: Entry visas NOT required by UK, AUS, NZ, USA, CAN Citizens. Other nationalities should consult the relevant consulate.
All visa information is subject to change. You should confirm all visa related issues with the relevant Embassy prior to departure.
Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.
Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information. You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.
Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both. The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.
Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.
If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking. For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here
Explore can arrange your flights for you, to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.
You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.
We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.
On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.