FROM Tromso TO LONGYEARBYEN

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. 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 to the uninhabited Wilhelmøya, conditions permitting. Exploring with Zodiacs, you will land on Nordaustlandet, largely covered by ice caps. On a hike through the stark tundra, you may spot reindeer and Arctic foxes, along with Svalbard poppies and red saxifrage. If the ice allows passage, you could follow in the footsteps of Swedish polar explorer Salomon August Andrée, who ventured here in 1897, and reach the "white island" of Kvitøya. This secluded, ice-covered land with its rocky peninsula to the east is an Arctic dream, rarely visited by humans but often home to polar bears. With its steel-reinforced hull, the HANSEATIC nature safely forges ahead to offer more adventures in northwest Svalbard. Following Kvitøya, the journey takes you to Storøya and further north to the archipelago’s northernmost point, Sjuøyane, also known as the Seven Islands. Here, you will witness Arctic landscapes of glaciers and fjords, with the potential for fascinating wildlife encounters. 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. Among the more than 2,000 glaciers, the spectacular Fourteenth of July Glacier stands out. Nearby slopes bloom with Arctic flowers while kittiwakes and thick-billed murres nest on the cliffs. 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. 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.