Quark Expeditions Svalbard Expedition Cruise Review - Spitsbergen Explorer: Wildlife Capital of the Arctic
Polar Bear in the background as I snap a "selfie"
Participated in the "Polar Plunge" at just over 80 Degrees North. Yes, that is ice in the water.
Quark Expeditions Ultramarine in Longyearbyen
Quark Expeditions Parka
Exploring the Arctic aboard Quark Expeditions' Spitsbergen Explorer: Wildlife Capital of the Arctic was a journey that I will never forget.
We began our adventure in Helsinki, Finland staying at the Hilton Helsinki Airport. Here we checked into the hotel for an included stay and met two Quark Expeditions team members who gave us our health declaration to complete, our luggage tags and our updated schedule for the following day (time for breakfast, check out, luggage drop time in the lobby and our “group” time for walking over to the airport for check in. The following morning after our included breakfast, our luggage was transported for us to the airport, we checked into our flight and we flew to Longyearbyen on a charter flight (only passengers for our sailing was onboard). Longyearbyen is the northernmost town in the world, where we boarded the Ocean Adventurer. (Quark Expeditions will soon replace the Ocean Adventurer with the Ultramarine and possibly the Ocean Explorer on this itinerary in 2025 and beyond).
During our expedition, I encountered five polar bears, arctic foxes, beluga and minke whales, walruses, reindeer, puffins, harbour and bearded seals, and countless seabirds. The highlight for me was seeing the polar bears and participating in the polar plunge at 80 degrees north. Being on a smaller vessel meant everyone could explore quickly and efficiently whenever wildlife was spotted.
Key Takeaways I Learned While Onboard
A great chance to view arctic wildlife sightings included polar bears, whales, and various seabirds. This is up to chance however. Some sailings (like the one after us), never saw any polar bears. The expedition team does their best to spot wildlife, however they are wild animals, sometimes you see them, sometimes you don’t.
Packing for an expedition cruise is different than an ocean cruise. Waterproof pants are necessary for zodiac cruises; Quark Expeditions provides everyone an included parka (with a removable, included down jacket) and muck boots rentals for free.
Smaller vessels under 200 passengers are the best for expedition cruises in the polar regions as they offer swift access to landings and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Svalbard is amazing for wildlife viewing as all animals are protected here and are not hunted. Greenland and Northern Canada still unfortunately hunts polar bears and wildlife.
Expedition Overview
The Svalbard Expedition Cruise was an adventure filled with wildlife encounters and polar experiences. The Ocean Adventurer provided a comfortable base for exploring the Arctic, and important changes are coming for future trips, this vessel is being retired and replaced by the Ultramarine and Quark’s newest ship, Ocean Explorer.
Journey Highlights
The expedition began in Helsinki, at the Hilton Helsinki Airport. The next day, we flew to Longyearbyen, the world's most northern town. Once there, we were transferred by bus to the port where we boarded the Ocean Adventurer.
During the cruise, I saw five polar bears, arctic foxes, beluga and minke whales, walruses, reindeer, puffins, harbour and bearded seals, and many other seabirds. The highlight for me was seeing the polar bears relatively up close.
I also participated in the polar plunge at just over 80 degrees north, which was an exhilarating experience. Quark Expeditions provides parkas, and complimentary muck boot rentals, ensuring everyone was well-prepared for zodiac cruises and landings.
Ending back in Longyearbyen, I visited the Svalbard Museum (highly recommend visiting!), sent postcards from the world’s most northern post office, shopped for souvenirs, and enjoyed a coffee at Cafe Huskies.
Wildlife Encounters
During my Spitsbergen Explorer expedition, I witnessed remarkable wildlife. The diverse range of animals, from majestic polar bears to playful seabirds, made the experience unforgettable. As this is an Expedition Cruise, seeing the wildlife is by chance in their natural environment, there is never a guarantee to see anything during your voyage. The Expedition Team on with Quark Expeditions was fantastic, they were constantly on the search for wildlife with many of the team on “spotting duty” as we were cruising along. The knowledge that the expedition team had was also amazing. Each person had their specialty onboard, which made for some wonderful and insightful presentations during the day, at our daily briefing and after dinner. They were more than happy to chat at dinner (or any other time you saw them) about any questions or topics related to their specialty you had.
Polar Bear Sightings
Seeing polar bears in their natural habitat was a dream come true. I observed five polar bears during the cruise. These magnificent creatures, often regarded as the kings of the Arctic, were seen roaming the ice, cleaning themselves on the snow and feeding on a carcass of a walrus.
One of the most memorable moments was watching a mother bear with her cub. They were spotted near another polar bear feeding on a walrus (we actually initially thought it was two cubs of the bear feeding and resting in the distance, however when that bear finished we saw it was a mother and a cub in the background), this provided amazing photo opportunities. Having the chance to witness their behaviour up close was fascinating and awe-inspiring.
The experts on board also shared valuable information about the polar bears' diet, behaviour, and the challenges they face due to climate change. Their insights added a new level of appreciation for these incredible animals and highlighted the importance of protecting their habitat and what we can do to help protect their numbers and environment.
Marine Life and Bird Watching
The cruise offered incredible chances to see various marine life. I spotted beluga and minke whales swimming gracefully in the cold Arctic waters. These whales are not only majestic but also curious, often approaching our Zodiac boats for closer looks.
Walruses, with their impressive tusks, were another highlight. We found them lounging on ice floes or swimming in the sea. They displayed social behaviour, huddling together in large groups, and were truly fascinating to watch.
In addition to marine mammals, the skies and cliffs were alive with birdlife. Puffins, with their colourful beaks, were a crowd favourite. I also saw numerous other seabirds, including gulls and auks, diving for fish or nesting on rocky outcrops.
Being surrounded by such diverse wildlife made the journey magical, and reinforced the importance of conserving these unique Arctic environments.
Optional Activities
This sailing also offered Sea Kayaking and Paddling opportunities at an additional cost. Other expedition cruise sailings with Quark Expeditions in other polar regions offer heli sightseeing, heli hiking, camping and so many other activities. It just depends on where the ship is located as to the activities they can offer. Here in Svalbard, just the Sea Kayaking and Paddling opportunities are offered due to local regulations.
What to Expect Onboard an Expedition Cruise
An expedition cruise with Quark Expeditions offers an unparalleled adventure to some of the most remote and pristine corners of the Earth. Expect to journey through the icy wilderness of the Arctic or the rugged beauty of Antarctica, where you'll witness breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and stunning natural phenomena like the Northern Lights or massive glaciers calving into the sea. Quark Expeditions is renowned for its expertise in polar exploration, providing guests with immersive experiences led by seasoned expedition leaders, naturalists, and scientists. Whether you're kayaking among icebergs, visiting research stations, or encountering penguins and/or polar bears in their natural habitats, every day promises a new discovery. These expedition cruises are designed for the intrepid traveler seeking not just luxury, but a meaningful connection with the planet's last great frontiers.
Itinerary
Quark Expeditions doesn't provide a day-by-day itinerary like traditional cruise lines because polar expedition cruises are inherently unpredictable and driven by the ever-changing conditions of the polar regions. The adventurous nature of these expeditions requires flexibility, as weather, ice, and wildlife encounters can vary dramatically from day to day. Rather than adhering to a rigid schedule, Quark Expeditions prioritizes maximizing your experience by adapting to the environment, ensuring that you witness the most extraordinary sights and have the most meaningful interactions with the polar landscape. This dynamic approach allows for spontaneous moments of discovery, such as an unexpected sighting of (like in our case, three polar bears near the shore line), a huddle of walruses, a pod of whales or a rare opportunity to land on an untouched piece of ice, making each expedition a truly unique and unforgettable adventure.
A Day in the Life Onboard an Expedition Ship…
Below is an example of what a day onboard an expedition ship could look like. Sometimes even with the printed “itinerary” posted the night before, sometimes the itinerary for the day changed. It really does depend on weather, safety and wildlife. For instance, we were scheduled to visit Monacobreen Glacier in the morning one day and a walk in the afternoon. As we sailed into the inlet, we were woken by a shipwide announcement at 6:30am that three polar bears were sighted where we were supposed to walk in the afternoon. Breakfast was going to be served early and zodiacs would be launched into the water during that time. It’s all part of the adventure with an expedition cruise.
Practical Information
Preparation is key for a successful expedition. It’s important to pack wisely and take advantage of the included gear from Quark Expeditions. Here’s what you need to know…
Packing Essentials
For a trip in the Arctic, having the right gear is crucial. Waterproof pants are vital for the zodiac cruises, they will check and if you don’t have the correct type of pants, you can purchase some onboard at the shop. Waterproof pants can be either just a waterproof over layer or ski pants that are waterproof. To check if your pants are waterproof, blow into the pants with your hand underneath. If you can feel your breath come through the material, they aren’t considered waterproof. I recommend packing layered clothing including thermal underwear, marino wool base layers, insulated jackets and/or vests, and warm hats. Gloves and a scarf or neck warmer are a must. It is very casual onboard for dinner, so you don’t need to bring a dress or suit unless you felt inclined for the Captain’s dinners (usually a welcome and farewell dinner).
Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting and a good camera with a zoom lens to capture the stunning landscapes and animals. Toiletries, and any personal medications are also important. If you have any medical or dietary needs, there will be a form that you will fill out prior to your departure and after booking your cruise. Depending on how you answer the questions on the form, you might need to provide a doctor’s note to clear you for your expedition sailing.
Don’t forget a pair of sunglasses and sunscreen as the Arctic sun can be surprisingly intense. As I cruised at the end of May into June, we experienced Polar Day which meant that the sun never set. So even at 3:00am the sun was high in the sky, I did bring a eye mask for sleep, but felt the curtains did a good enough job for me personally.
Included Expedition Gear
On the cruise, Quark Expeditions provides several essential items. Each guest receives a parka, which you can take home as a souvenir (or you can donate it at the end to some of the more vulnerable people in communities they visit in Greenland and Northern Canada later in the year). This parka is a 2 in 1, so it has the waterproof outer layer and a removable puffy jacket, which can be worn separately. Muck boots are available for complimentary rental, which are perfect for staying dry and comfortable during wet landings and hikes.
Additional items like trekking poles, and mandatory life vests for zodiac cruises are also available. The gear provided by Quark Expeditions ensures comfort and safety, making it easier to enjoy the incredible Arctic scenery and wildlife opportunities.
Personal Experience and Services
During my Quark Expeditions Svalbard cruise, I had many amazing personal experiences and learned valuable insights. I also offer professional services to help you book your own expedition cruise.
Polar Plunge and Local Insights
The polar plunge at 80 degrees north was a thrilling highlight of the journey. I jumped into the icy Arctic Ocean, which was a memorable, adrenaline-filled experience. This activity was safe, with plenty of support from the expedition crew and medical staff on hand.
In Longyearbyen, I took advantage of the free time to explore the area. The Svalbard Museum offered a rich history of the archipelago. I also sent postcards from the world's northernmost post office—a unique way to share my adventure with friends and family. Strolling through the local grocery store gave me a glimpse into daily life in this remote town. At the end of my walk, I enjoyed a relaxing coffee at Cafe Huskies.
Booking Your Expedition
As a travel advisor, I can help you arrange this once-in-a-lifetime journey. Booking a smaller vessel like the Ocean Adventurer ensures that everyone can quickly get out to see wildlife or land activities. It makes the most of opportunities to spot polar bears, whales, and other Arctic animals.
Quark Expeditions provides essential gear, including parkas and muck boots. Ensure you pack true waterproof pants for the zodiac cruises. I can offer a "must pack" checklist to help you prepare. By booking through me, you'll have access to expert advice and insider tips to make the most of your expedition cruise. Let me help you embark on an unforgettable Arctic adventure, click here to schedule a free consultation with me.
Trip Conclusion and Final Thoughts
My expedition to Svalbard with Quark Expeditions was a remarkable journey. The wildlife sightings were beyond my expectations. Seeing five polar bears, countless sea birds, and even doing the polar plunge at 80 degrees north were experiences I will never forget.
One of the key benefits of this trip was the small ship size. With fewer people, we could quickly disembark and make the most of every wildlife sighting. The crew's efficiency and knowledge enhanced the experience.
As a travel advisor, I can help book this journey and other exciting expedition cruises. Embarking on an adventure like this is a unique way to connect with the beauty of the Arctic.
Make sure you're well-prepared with these must-pack items:
True waterproof pants
Layers of warm clothing
Good quality socks (I wore two pair inside my boots, which kept me warm and for extra comfort)
Gloves, a hat or ear warmers and a scarf or neck warmer
Camera and binoculars
Personal medication and toiletries
Medications (it is recommended to bring two weeks extra worth), including a mini first aid kit with sea sickness/motion sickness tablets, etc.
Contact me to start planning your next unforgettable expedition cruise by clicking here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get ready for a thrilling adventure with stunning wildlife, top-notch gear, and seamless navigation in the Arctic.
What can you expect to see on a Svalbard Expedition Cruise?
On this journey, I saw incredible wildlife such as five polar bears, Arctic foxes, beluga and minke whales, walruses, reindeer, puffins, harbour and bearded seals, and many sea birds. As this is an Expedition Cruise, seeing the wildlife is by complete chance in their natural environment, there is never a guarantee to see anything during your voyage.
What are the advantages of booking a smaller cruise vessel for an Arctic expedition?
Booking a smaller vessel means everyone can quickly get on land or out to see wildlife. This ensures you don't miss any sightings. Smaller ships are also more maneuverable to get into smaller fjords and areas for landings. You’ll also have a better chance to get to know your fellow passengers (great if you’re a solo traveller) and the expedition team.
What essential gear should you pack for a Zodiac cruise in the Arctic?
For Zodiac cruises, make sure to pack true waterproof pants. Staying dry is crucial in the chilly Arctic waters. They will check and if you don’t have the correct type of pants, you can purchase some onboard at the shop. Waterproof pants can be either just a waterproof over layer or ski pants that are waterproof. To check if your pants are waterproof, blow into the pants with your hand underneath. If you can feel your breath come through the material, they aren’t considered waterproof.
How does Quark Expeditions cater to guests’ clothing needs for polar climates?
Quark Expeditions provides parkas, which you can take home, and complimentary muck boot rentals to ensure you're well-prepared for the cold.
What activities are available during the post-cruise stay in Longyearbyen?
In Longyearbyen, you can visit the Svalbard Museum, send postcards from the World's Most Northern Post Office, check out the local grocery store, shop for souvenirs, and have coffee at Cafe Huskies. They will drop you off in the centre of town, give you some free time to explore Longyearbyen. Depending on your charter flight time, this can be before or after your expedition cruise. We were given three hours of free time before our flight departing Longyearbyen to explore.
How much luggage can I bring on my expedition cruise?
You will be advised in your final documents from Quark Expeditions of your luggage allowance. For my sailing it was a 23 KG limit on checked baggage (1 piece per person) and 5 KGs for your carry on baggage. In regards to the carry on bag weight, they were a bit more lenient on this as our charter flight was not full. They also know that people travel with cameras, lenses, computers, etc for these types of sailings.
Is there a shop onboard where I can buy items I might have forgotten at home?
There is a shop available on each of the Quark Expeditions ships. Keep in mind that the shop is quite small and limited on their stock. It’s a good idea to bring about two weeks extra worth of medications, including a mini first aid kit with sea sickness/motion sickness tablets, etc. They do have some toiletries (deodorant, feminine hygiene products, toothbrushes, etc) to be able to purchase onboard, however there are some legality limitations on selling over the counter medications in some areas, so it is best to bring your own supply if possible. In the shop I did purchase a few souvenirs to take home. It was well stocked with local flora and fauna books, stickers, expedition badges, jewelry, Yeti travel mugs, binoculars, sunglasses and a variety of clothing (base layers, thermal underwear, gloves, hats, buffs, rain jackets, t-shirts, hoodies, waterproof pants, etc).
Is there a doctor and medical facilities onboard?
Yes, there is a medical center and a doctor onboard. Keep in mind these facilities are for medical emergencies. I strongly recommend a comprehensive travel policy that includes trip disruption, trip delay, trip cancellation and medical emergency (with emergency medevac).
Does Quark Expeditions provide bottled water in your stateroom?
In keeping with sustainability measures, they do not provide bottled water in your stateroom. They do provide you however with a bottle that you can refill at water refilling stations throughout the ship during your voyage (and take it home with you as a souvenir).
Is internet included?
Currently, this does depend on the vessel you are sailing on. As of the Antarctica 2024 season (which starts in November 2024), each Quark Expeditions guest will be able to log onto the ship’s Wi-Fi service (one device at a time) at no cost. This complimentary Wi-Fi service will permit basic Internet browsing, texting, emails, posting on social media and voice applications. Premium packages are available for purchase for more data-intensive applications.
Are drinks included?
Another addition starting with the Antarctic 2024 sailing season is that beer, standard wines and spirits, as well as cocktails, will be available to guests at no charge during bar service hours and dinner as part of Quark Expeditions “Raise a Glass and Stay Connected” campaign. This complimentary bar service is available to all guests of legal drinking age.
What are the gratuities to be paid onboard?
Gratuities are at each passengers' discretion, though Quark Expeditions recommends $10 to $15 USD per person, per day. On my sailing there were two sets of gratuities, one for the ship’s crew and one that went towards the Expedition Team.
Is there laundry available?
There is no laundromat for guests to use onboard. You would need to use the laundry service bag that is in your stateroom and inform your room attendant that you would like to have laundry done. You will find a price list with the laundry bag, depending on your stateroom.
Vessel Transition Timeline
The expedition took place on the Ocean Adventurer, which is being phased out as of this Fall 2024. Quark Expeditions plans to replace this ship with the Ultramarine and possibly the Ocean Explorer for future trips. This transition to newer vessels promises improved dining experiences, amenities and enhanced experiences for adventurers.
These newer ships are designed to allow everyone to get out quickly to see wildlife when spotted. The small vessel size means more intimate and flexible excursions. Booking a smaller vessel is valuable in ensuring maximum wildlife encounters and land explorations. Some expedition cruise operators also have “passenger caps” and do not fully book their ships so you can take advantage of “quick launches”, however not all operators do this.
The transition timeline is set to enhance future Svalbard expeditions, making them even more comfortable and exciting for travellers. By understanding these changes, you can better prepare for upcoming Arctic adventures.
Why should someone book their expedition cruise through a travel advisor specialist?
As a travel advisor, I can help you book your journey and provide expert advice on the best expedition cruises, ensuring a smooth and remarkable experience. As I’ve experienced sailing on an expedition cruise myself, I can offer first hand knowledge of what to expect, give some practical tips on what to pack and what to expect. I’d love to help you plan your polar expedition, please reach out for a free travel consultation by clicking here.
I hope you enjoyed this review of my expedition cruise with Quark Expeditions! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me by clicking here.
Coming soon… YouTube Videos on this expedition! Click here to subscribe to my YouTube channel.