My Seabourn Expedition Cruise from Svalbard
First Impressions of Svalbard
Flying into Longyearbyen, the largest settlement on the archipelago, was already an adventure in itself. Snow-dusted mountains rose out of the sea, and the air felt crisp and untouched. Boarding the ship, I was greeted by warm smiles, champagne, and a sense of excitement that seemed to ripple through every guest. We all knew we were about to experience something truly extraordinary.
Days of Discovery
Each day in Svalbard unfolded like a new chapter in a story. Mornings often began with a call from the expedition team: “We’ve spotted polar bears on the ice—grab your binoculars!” Sure enough, we’d gather on deck, bundled up against the chill, and watch in awe as these magnificent creatures prowled across the frozen landscape.
One afternoon, I boarded a Zodiac with a handful of fellow travellers. We drifted quietly along a fjord, the icebergs glowing in shades of turquoise and white. At one point, the silence was broken by a glacier calving—an enormous sheet of ice crashing into the sea with a thunderous roar. It was both humbling and exhilarating.
Stepping Ashore
Going ashore was equally unforgettable. Our guides led us across tundra alive with tiny bursts of wildflowers, while Arctic terns wheeled overhead. In one quiet bay, we came across a walrus colony, the great creatures piled together on the sand, snorting and shuffling in the sunshine. To stand just meters away, knowing they were completely undisturbed by our presence, felt incredibly special.
Life Onboard
After days filled with adventure, returning to the ship was like coming home. My suite was a haven of comfort, with panoramic views that constantly reminded me where I was. Evenings were spent enjoying beautifully prepared meals and listening to fascinating talks from the naturalists, who deepened my understanding of everything we had seen that day. There was a lovely balance between luxury and exploration, it never felt like I had to give up one for the other.
The Magic of the Midnight Sun
Perhaps what struck me most was the light. The sun never set during my time in Svalbard. Instead, it hung low on the horizon, bathing glaciers, mountains, and sea ice in golden hues at 2 a.m. A Journey I’ll Never Forget
Looking back, my Seabourn expedition from Svalbard was more than a holiday, it was a profound experience. To witness the Arctic in all its wildness, to share those quiet moments with polar bears, walruses, beluga whales, arctic foxes and endless stretches of ice, felt like a privilege. And to do it while being so wonderfully cared for onboard made the journey truly unforgettable.
It’s a part of the world that stays with you. Even now, I can close my eyes and hear the crack of the ice, see the shimmer of the sun at midnight, and feel the thrill of being at the very edge of the world.