By Wendy Byard
Travel Advisor for solo women travellers
Circumnavigating Svalbard: The Ultimate Expedition
14 Days | An Arctic odyssey through fjords, ice, and the 80th parallel

Why I Chose This for You
Every moment feels pristine — arteries of ice, untouched wilderness, polar wildlife in wild abundance, and the thrill of exploring where few humans ever tread. I chose this because it’s perfectly curated for solo adventurers who crave wildness, but still want mindful comfort and expert guidance. It’s rare, remote, and unforgettable.
About this Trip
Journey into the icy heart of the High Arctic on this legendary expedition voyage. Starting in Oslo, you’ll fly north to Longyearbyen before setting sail aboard MS Fram, attempting a complete circumnavigation of the Svalbard archipelago.
Over two weeks you’ll navigate majestic fjords, explore remote bays, and cross the fabled 80th parallel. With glaciers, ice edges, and wildlife-rich wilderness as your backdrop, this is the High Arctic at its most raw and awe-inspiring. Guided by an expert Expedition Team, every day is a chance to land somewhere new, hike untrodden paths, and encounter polar wildlife up close — all while travelling in comfort and safety.

Itinerary Highlights
Explore Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost settlement
Sail past glaciers & fjords in Northwest Spitsbergen National Park
Cross the 80th parallel and search for walruses, seals & polar bears
Visit Ny-Ålesund, one of the highest permanent research settlements on Earth
Explore the Eastern Svalbard islands — remote, wild, and full of birdlife
Experience dramatic landings in Bellsund & Hornsund, with Arctic foxes & seabird colonies
Life onboard MS Fram: hot tubs, sauna, Explorer Lounge, Science Centre & lectures
Whats Included
Return flights to Oslo & onward transfers
Overnight stay in Longyearbyen pre-cruise
14 nights aboard MS Fram (or sister ship MS Spitsbergen)
All meals, selected beverages, gratuities & Wi-Fi onboard
Daily Zodiac landings, guided hikes & shore excursions
Expedition Team-led lectures & Citizen Science programmes
Access to onboard hot tubs, sauna, gym & Science Centre
All expedition gear (boots, waterproofs) included
Helpful Hints
Time Zones: GMT+1 (Norway mainland), GMT+2 in Longyearbyen
Fitness Level: Moderate — Zodiac landings may involve uneven beach terrain & short hikes
Packing Tip: Layered expedition clothing essential; waterproof outerwear, gloves & sturdy boots provided onboard
Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK) in Oslo/Longyearbyen; USD often accepted in remote stops
Seasonal Note: Late June offers 24-hour daylight, peak wildlife activity & the magical midnight sun





