Hurtigruten
Welcome to Hurtigruten - The Norwegian Coastal Voyage
This section features our summer voyages to Spitsbergen. If you are interested in a land based winter holiday on the pristine Spitsbergen archipelago then please see Spitsbergen in our Northern Lights section.
Remote, mysterious and extreme, the Norwegian island of Spitsbergen is the
European gateway into the High Arctic; a land forged by ice and wind, ocean and snow that presents us with a spectacular range of unforgettable adventures.
The kingdom of the majestic polar bear, these frozen landscapes of Arctic desert and towering glaciers herald a staggeringly rich diversity of natural and cultural highlights, from the remote mining and research communities that line the rugged coastline, to the spectacular fjords, icebergs and jagged peaks that offer the most breathtaking of backdrops.
These incredible voyages follow in the footsteps of Arctic pioneers and intrepid whalers, taking in remarkable towns like Longyearbyen, Barentsburg and Ny-Ålesund and crossing the 80th Parallel to sail through the rich waters off Moffen Island. Sailing beneath skies that echo to the cries of countless seabirds we cross ocean landscapes that can boast seal and walrus, whale and polar bear. You will explore gigantic ice sculptures and remote bays by nimble Polar Cirkel boats and have a unique opportunity to trek, kayak and camp amongst some of the most unspoilt natural beauty anywhere on Earth.
Expedition Voyages or Active Adventures
Our main voyages to Spitsbergen are relaxed and suitable for most people of reasonable fitness. On our Svalbard Adventure tours we offer an expedition experience for those looking for some physical activity. These include camping by frozen glaciers, participating in an over-night polar bear watch and spending our days hiking or kayaking amidst the timeless grandeur of one of the last true wildernesses left on Earth.
Only a short flight from mainland Norway, it is a world apart and a wonderful escape from busy, bustling Europe.
DVD available
We have produced a short DVD on our voyages to Spitsbergen. Call us for your free copy.
Climate
Spitsbergen, in spite of its proximity to the North Pole, has a relatively mild climate compared with other areas at the same latitude. In Longyearbyen the average summer temperature is 6°C, and the highest ever recorded is 21.3°C. Rain is scarce, with an average annual rain and snowfall of only 200-300mm.
Spitsbergen, in spite of its proximity to the North Pole, has a relatively mild climate compared with other areas at the same latitude. In Longyearbyen the average summer temperature is 6ºC, and the highest ever recorded is 21.3ºC. Rain is scarce, with an average annual rain and snowfall of only 200-300mm.
Average Temperatures -Longyearbyen
June - 2ºC
July - 6ºC
Aug - 5ºC
These are 24-hour temperatures. Average daytime temperatures will be higher.
Midnight Sun
Spitsbergen is above the Arctic Circle and therefore benefits from the Midnight Sun during the summer. This means 24 hours of sunlight to experience this unique landscape from April to late August.
- NEW YEAR OPERA VOYAGE
You need to upgrade your Flash Player8 days from £1265pp including flights.
You need to either download the Flash plugin or you may have Javascript turned off. Click here to download the latest Flash Player.
- Northern Lights Voyages - 7 days from £845pp incl. flights
2009 Special Offer
- NEW NORTHERN LIGHTS ASTRONOMY VOYAGE
5 days from £999pp including flights!
- Once in a life time NEW YEAR Northern Lights Experience
6 nights from £1170pp including flights!
- Northern Lights Late Deals - 7 day voyage from £1069pp
Hurry only a few seats left
- SAVE UP TO 30% ON 2009 DEPARTURES
HURRY BOOK NOW
- Magical Midnight Sun Voyages in 2009
summer voyages £714 per person