Embark on an 11-day cruise aboard the Ocean Nova to discover the realm of ice, Svalbard. During this journey, you’ll explore unforgettable, unique landscapes of ice floes, peaks and glaciated valleys. During this journey, we'll set sail towards the Northeast Land, where you'll explore vast, cold deserts and great polar ice caps. This archipelago is also home to seals, walruses, whales, polar foxes, reindeers, millions of birds and a land of extraordinary history.
The polar bear has been protected in the Spitsbergen since 1973 and several hundred of them spend their summers there. Regular sightings make every encounter a truly exceptional event. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to witness the magnificent beauty of the Arctic wilderness!
- Barentsburg and Isfjorden: Explore the Russian enclave of Barentsburg and sail through Isfjorden, enjoying the scenic landscapes of the area.
- Monacobreen and Liefdefjorden: Witness the spectacular views of Monacobreen glacier and navigate through Liefdefjorden in search of polar bears.
- Murchisonfjorden and Walrus Colonies: Visit Murchisonfjorden, known for its walrus colonies and remarkable bird colonies nestled among steep cliffs.
- Nordaustlandet and Ice Caps: Spend four days navigating around Nordaustlandet, a vast island covered by thick ice caps, and discover unique sights like Austfonna and Kvitøya.
- Smeerenburgfjorden and Kongsfjorden: Explore Smeerenburgfjorden, a legendary fjord once home to a bustling whaling station, and visit Kongsfjorden with its pyramidal peaks and cultural heritage sites, including Roald Amundsen's historic flight attempt to reach the North Pole.
There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.
Ocean Nova
| Ice Class: | Ice 1B, E0 (Hull Ice 1A) |
|---|---|
| Cabins | 37 |
The ice-strengthened 73 metre long expedition ship Ocean Nova was built in Denmark in 1992 with high ice class to serve Greenland’s west coast. In 2004 to 2005 she was completely refurbished and has now a career as a small and comfortable expedition ship. The Ocean Nova accommodates 86 passengers in single, double and triple cabins, all with sea-view and private facilities. The double cabins have either twin beds. The triple cabins have upper and lower beds. In your cabin you will also find a desk with chair and ample storage space for clothes and equipment.
In the dining room you are treated to delicious meals in between landings and in the panorama lounge you can enjoy a drink with a breathtaking view of the surrounding polar landscape. This is where on board specialists entertain and educate you with lectures on polar biology, history, geology and conservation. There is also a library with panoramic views and a good selection of polar books. On board there is a satellite phone, gym and medical doctor. Passengers are welcome on the bridge around the clock and there is always something to see or search for from the spacious observation decks. The ship has North European officers and there is a friendly and informal atmosphere on board. Travelling with this small expedition ship offers an entirely different experience and perspective than you can get on a larger and more conventional cruise ship.
Cabins are spread over two decks and include cabins for the single traveller, double and triple cabins, all with sea-view and private facilities. The comfortable dining room located on the Upper deck seats all passengers in a single sitting and offers delicious meals with a mixture of table service and buffet. The informal dining arrangement adds to the friendly atmosphere onboard and meals are a great chance to discuss all you have seen with your fellow travellers, and for the expedition team to share their knowledge.
With one of the highest ice classes (1B) and a 2000 hp diesel engine, Ocean Nova is a small but sturdy expedition vessel just as at home in the icy waters of Svalbard as she is in a tranquil Scottish loch. The ship has a crew of 34, including North European officers, whose prime concern is your safety as well as ensuring wildlife sightings and weather conditions are maximised. For your safety there are two fully enclosed lifeboats and a medical clinic onboard.
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