Discovering the Wonders of Svalbard

When people think of cruising, they often picture tropical beaches and sunshine. Svalbard couldn’t be more different and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
I was fortunate enough to join a familiarisation (FAM) trip with Hurtigruten Svalbard aboard MS Serenissima, allowing me to experience one of the world’s most remote destinations first-hand. From dramatic glaciers and Zodiac landings to historic settlements and incredible Arctic scenery, this was a trip unlike anything I’d experienced before.

Arrival in Longyearbyen

After arriving in Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost town with a permanent population, we were transferred to our hotel where we would spend two nights before boarding the ship.
The first evening gave everyone the chance to meet fellow agents and enjoy a welcome dinner before the adventure began.

The following day we embarked on a guided sightseeing tour of Longyearbyen, visiting the Svalbard Museum and Camp Barentz, where we learnt about the fascinating history, wildlife and unique way of life in the Arctic. It was the perfect introduction to the destination and really helped put into perspective just how remote Svalbard is.

Boarding MS Serenissima

On Monday morning we checked out of the hotel before transferring to the port to board MS Serenissima.

The embarkation process was smooth and efficient, and once onboard we had time to settle into our cabins before attending the mandatory safety briefing and getting familiar with the ship.

MS Serenissima offers a much smaller and more intimate experience than a traditional cruise ship. The atmosphere onboard was relaxed and friendly, and with fewer guests it was easy to get to know both fellow passengers and the expedition team.
One thing that immediately stood out was how passionate and knowledgeable the expedition staff were. Throughout the voyage they were always available to answer questions, provide fascinating talks and ensure everyone got the most from the experience.

Our First Arctic Landing

Tuesday was the day many of us had been looking forward to – our first Zodiac landing.
That morning we arrived at Liefdefjord, where we boarded the Zodiacs and stepped ashore for our first Arctic landing. It was an incredible feeling finally standing in one of the world’s most untouched environments, surrounded by towering mountains and breathtaking scenery.

In the afternoon we enjoyed a Zodiac cruise around one of Svalbard’s spectacular glaciers. Seeing the immense wall of ice up close really highlighted the sheer scale and beauty of the Arctic landscape. Every turn seemed to reveal another incredible photo opportunity.
Later that evening we continued sailing north, crossing the 80th Parallel before dinner. Reaching this milestone was a memorable moment and a reminder of just how far north we had travelled.

Exploring Ny-London and Ny-Ålesund

Wednesday brought another unforgettable day.
Our morning began with a landing at Ny-London, where we enjoyed a beautiful hike through the surrounding mountains. Along the way we learnt about the fascinating history of the British explorers and entrepreneurs who attempted to establish a marble mining settlement here in the early 1900s. Although the venture ultimately failed, the remains still tell an interesting story of Arctic ambition.

The hike itself offered some of the most spectacular scenery of the trip, with panoramic views across the fjords and mountains that perfectly captured the raw beauty of Svalbard.
Later that afternoon we arrived in Ny-Ålesund, one of the world’s northernmost permanent settlements and an internationally recognised Arctic research station.

Exploring the small town was a real highlight. Despite its size, Ny-Ålesund has a fascinating atmosphere, combining rich polar exploration history with cutting-edge scientific research. Walking through the settlement and seeing the historic buildings gave us a real appreciation for the important role this tiny community continues to play in Arctic research today.
After our visit, we began the journey back towards Longyearbyen, taking in the stunning scenery from the deck as we reflected on what had been an incredible expedition.

Life On Board

One of the things I enjoyed most throughout the voyage was the atmosphere onboard MS Serenissima.
The smaller ship created a much more personal experience than many larger cruise ships. Meals were relaxed, the crew quickly got to know guests by name, and there was always plenty of opportunity to chat with the expedition team.

The food throughout the voyage was excellent, with a good variety of dishes served each day, and the public areas provided comfortable spaces to relax while enjoying the spectacular Arctic scenery passing by outside.

Final Thoughts

This FAM trip provided an invaluable insight into expedition cruising and the unique experiences that Svalbard has to offer.
Unlike traditional cruises, every day felt like an adventure, with the itinerary shaped by nature and every excursion offering something different. From Zodiac landings and glacier cruising to learning about Arctic history and exploring some of the world’s most remote settlements, this was a truly unforgettable experience.

Having experienced the destination first-hand, I now feel far more confident recommending Svalbard to clients. It is the perfect choice for travellers seeking spectacular scenery, wildlife, history and genuine adventure, all while enjoying the comfort and hospitality of a small expedition ship.
If you’re looking for a cruise that is completely different from the ordinary, Svalbard should be at the very top of your bucket list. Explore this offer here.

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