Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway on the Ocean Explorer

11 day expedition
    /media/s4zhaf0m/ship-icon.png

    Class of ship

    Midsize Expedition Ship
    /media/2flfscuh/leaf-icon.png

    Sustainability

    X-BOW, MAGS (Waste to Energy System), Green initiative program, Dynamic Positioning (DP)
    /media/uz3memek/bed-icon.png

    Passenger Berths

    138
    /media/n3mjsfr5/zodiac-icon_3867.png

    Zodiacs

    15
    /media/jzdbslpr/iceclass_2.png

    Ice Class

    1A, PC6
/media/s4zhaf0m/ship-icon.png
Class of ship
Midsize Expedition Ship
/media/2flfscuh/leaf-icon.png
Sustainability
X-BOW, MAGS (Waste to Energy System), Green initiative program, Dynamic Positioning (DP)
/media/uz3memek/bed-icon.png
Passenger Berths
138
/media/n3mjsfr5/zodiac-icon_3867.png
Zodiacs
15
/media/jzdbslpr/iceclass_2.png
Ice Class
1A, PC6

Expedition overview & highlights

  • Spot iconic Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, walruses and reindeer
  • Take advantage of continuous daylight
  • Cruise by Zodiac through icy fjords, towering glaciers and drifting icebergs
  • Hike the colourful tundra, discovering blooming Arctic flora

Discover the wild beauty of Svalbard on an unforgettable 11-day expedition aboard the luxurious Ocean Explorer. Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, is known as the “Wildlife Capital of the Arctic” for good reason. Here, you’ll have the chance to spot iconic Arctic animals, including polar bears, walrus, reindeer and Arctic foxes, all in their natural habitat. Expert guides will lead thrilling Zodiac cruises to towering glaciers and sculpted sea ice, and take you hiking across the colourful tundra in search of blooming Arctic flora. Travel in comfort aboard the Ocean Explorer, a modern expedition ship purpose-built for polar cruising, featuring elegant interiors and advanced navigation capabilities. This voyage is the ideal way to experience Svalbard for the first time—or fall in love with it all over again.

Map & Cruise Itinerary

Your Arctic adventure begins in Helsinki, renowned for its extraordinary architecture and intriguing mix of eastern and western influences. If you arrive early, explore the many museums, galleries and restaurants, relax at a Finnish sauna or wander the vibrant Design District before retiring at your included hotel.

This morning, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter f light to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s largest settlement. As your ship sets sail, enjoy your first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from frigid waters.

You’ll cruise around this magical island on a constant search for wildlife. Your expedition will cover western Spitsbergen as well as stunning fjords to the north. From polar flora to immense glaciers, the natural landscape here is just as varied as the wildlife.

Each expedition presents new opportunities and different weather and ice conditions. Consequently, there is no fixed itinerary. However, some of the places we may visit include the 14th of July Glacier, Smeerenburg, Alkefjellet and the Hinlopen Strait. The destinations we visit will be selected for optimum wildlife viewing with an appreciation of the history and geology of Spitsbergen. The island offers multiple opportunities for wildlife photography. Since most of Svalbard’s Arctic ecosystem is uninhabited and well-protected, this remote archipelago is one of the world’s best places to spot polar bears against stunning natural backdrops of mountains and ice.

The towering cliffs of Alkefjellet provide homes to thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots (thick-billed murres).

Coming across a walrus haul-out is a moment you won’t soon forget. Get a chance to witness the intimate gatherings of giant pinnipeds as they haul out together on small coastal strips.

If you’re itching to experience a more intimate view from the water, you can book the sea kayaking or paddling excursion adventure options.

In Spitsbergen, there is no shortage of natural beauty. The tundra can be surprisingly colorful in summer, with wildflowers bursting for a taste of sunshine. Each day, you’ll see something interesting, whether it is an everchanging gallery of spectacular icebergs, a polar bear resting between hunts, or an abandoned historical site from centuries ago.

The time to say goodbye to your Expedition Team and shipmates has come. Your adventure ends as it began, in the historic frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your return group charter flight to Helsinki, included in the transfer package.

After breakfast, you can make your way to the airport for your onward f light home, or stay to explore Finland’s culturally-rich capital on your own if you’ve made prior arrangements.

Fares & Departure Dates

Showing all (6 cruises)
left chevron
right chevron

 Studio Single 

Ocean Explorer Studio Single Cabin 320
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Capacity Up to 1
Beds Pne double bed
Rooms 1 room
Footage 166 sq ft.
Windows Porthole window
Balcony None
View Ocean view
Location Deck 3
Suitable for Solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Desk area, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system, private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor
More details

Show details

 Veranda Stateroom Cabin 

Ocean Explorer OEX Veranda Stateroom Cabin 703 3982
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double or two single beds
Rooms 1 room
Footage 208 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling windows
Balcony Walkout balcony
View Ocean view
Location Decks 4, 6 & 7
Suitable for Couples, groups of two, solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Reading area, desk area, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
More details

Note: cabins 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

Show details

 Deluxe Veranda Forward 

Ocean Explorer Deluxe Veranda Fwd Cabin 401
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double or two single beds
Rooms 1 room
Footage 182 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling window
Balcony Walkout balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 4
Suitable for Couples, groups of two, solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Desk area, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
More details

Show details

 Veranda Suite 

Ocean Explorer Veranda Suite Cabin
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and separate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double bed made up of two twin berths and fold out sofa bed
Rooms 1 room
Footage 205 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling windows
Balcony Walkout balcony
View Ocean view
Location Decks 4 & 6
Suitable for Couples, groups of two, families
Accessibility None
Amenities Separate sitting area, desk area, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
More details

Show details

 Junior Suite 

Ocean Explorer Junior Suite Cabin 4072
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV’s, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Rooms 2 rooms
Footage 298 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling windows
Balcony Double sized walkout balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 6
Suitable for Couples, groups of 2, families, solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Sitting room, sofa-bed, 2 TV’s, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.
More details

Show details

 Studio Veranda Single 

Ocean Explorer Studio Veranda Suite
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Capacity Up to 1
Beds One twin single
Rooms 1 room
Footage 162 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling window
Balcony Walkout balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 7
Suitable for Solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
More details

Show details

 Penthouse Suite 

Ocean Explorer Penthouse Suite
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV’s, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Rooms 2 rooms
Footage 269 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling windows
Balcony Double sized walkout balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 7
Suitable for Couples, groups of two
Accessibility None
Amenities Sitting room, sofa-bed, 2 TV’s, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.
More details

Features an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

Show details

 Owner's Suite 

Ocean Explorer Owners Suite
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Rooms 2 rooms
Footage 443 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling windows
Balcony Triple–sized balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 7
Suitable for Couples, groups of two
Accessibility None
Amenities En suite with bathtub, vanity and heated floor. The outer room contains a sofa bed, club chair and 4–seat dining table. Additional amenities include two TVs and a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system.
More details

Show details

About the Ocean Explorer

Ocean Explorer Quark X Gajan Balan Edits

Ocean Explorer is a modern, purpose-built vessel designed to take travellers deeper into the Polar Regions with comfort and style. Carrying just 138 passengers, the ship combines advanced expedition technology with elegant Scandinavian-inspired interiors. Its signature ULSTEIN X-BOW® ensures smoother sailing in challenging waters, while spacious staterooms—most with private verandas—offer a relaxing retreat after each day’s adventures.

David Merron

David Merron

Quark Expeditions Zodiac David Merron

Crafted for exploration, Ocean Explorer boasts generous outdoor viewing areas and multi-level decks perfect for photography and wildlife watching. The vessel’s fleet of 15 Zodiacs allows for quick and safe disembarkations, granting access to remote locations few ships can reach. A striking two-story forward lounge sets the scene for socialising and learning, while fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and other sustainability measures reflect a commitment to responsible travel. With an expert expedition team on board, every journey aboard Ocean Explorer promises discovery, comfort, and unforgettable moments in some of the most remote places on Earth.

Ocean Explorer Main Dining Room

Dining on board the Ocean Explorer is a blend of comfort, quality, and spectacular views. The main dining room, located on Deck 5, offers a contemporary yet cosy setting with stylish lighting, modern art, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the polar landscapes.

OEX Main Dining Room Ocean Explorer

Breakfast and lunch are usually served buffet-style, while dinners are plated, allowing the chefs to prepare each dish to order with care and attention to detail.

Ocean Explorer Main Dining Room (1)

The culinary team caters to a wide variety of dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free, with clearly labelled menus and the ability to accommodate most special requests made in advance.

Main Dining Room Ocean Explorer

Guests can enjoy complimentary bar service during dinner and evening hours, with standard beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails included. Soft drinks, juices, and water are also available at no cost. Specialty alcohol, such as champagne and premium spirits, costs extra.

Discovery Library Ocean Explorer

Whether you want to socialise with fellow adventurers, take in the panoramic views or simply unwind after a day of exploration, Ocean Explorer offers a variety of public spaces designed to enhance every moment of your voyage. From stylish lounges and inviting wellness areas to expansive outdoor decks, each setting is designed to help you unwind and recharge, allowing you to fully embrace the spirit of your polar journey.

OEX Discovery Library Ocean Explorer

Library

Light-filled interior library on Deck 6 at the top of the gorgeous atrium staircase—at the bow of the ship—allows up to 47 guests to sit and relax indoors while taking in the surrounding polar landscapes through the floor-to-ceiling glass. The Ocean Explorer library collection includes books in multiple languages covering subjects such as wildlife, history, marine biology, ecology and geology.

Ocean Explorer Observation Lounge (1)

Observation Lounge

The stylish Observation Lounge & Bar, located at the top of the ship, offers incredible views. This spacious lookout on Deck 8 is also a popular spot for guests to enjoy cocktails and conversation with fellow travellers.

Ocean Explorer Latitude Bar

Latitude Bar & Lounge

A popular social hub on Deck 5. This beautifully lit bar, with its comfortable sofas and faux marble-topped end tables, is large enough to seat 46 people. It's the perfect place to enjoy a quiet drink on your own or hang out with friends.

Ocean Explorer Tundra Spa

Tundra Spa & Sauna, and Jacuzzis

Guests can unwind in the Tundra Spa & Sauna with panoramic windows, work out in the well-equipped gym, or enjoy the fresh air from two outdoor Jacuzzis.

Ocean Explorer Gym

Gym

The gym on Deck 5 of the Ocean Explorer features large windows that let in natural light and offer inspiring views, creating an energising setting for your workout. Equipped with a range of fitness machines and free weights, it’s the perfect place to stay active while at sea.

Ocean Explorer Deck 8

Deck 8

 

  • Observation Lounge & Bar
  • Observation Deck
  • Observation Bistro

 

Ocean Explorer Deck 7

Deck 7

  • Bridge Deck
  • Bridge
  • Gym
  • Tundra Spa & Sauna
  • Polar Deck and Bar
  • Jacuzzi
  • Veranda Staterooms (703-708)
  • Owner’s Suite (710)
  • Penthouse Suite (709)
  • Studio Veranda Single (711)

 

Swan Hellenic, MINERVA VEGA deck plans_Deck 6

Deck 6

  • The Discovery Library
  • Junior Suites
  • Veranda Suites
  • Veranda Staterooms

 

 

Ocean Explorer Deck 5

Deck 5

  • Main Dining Room
  • Private Dining Room
  • Reception
  • Latitude Bar & Lounge
  • Polar Boutique
  • Explorer Lecture Lounge

 

 

Ocean Explorer Deck 4

Deck 4

  • Expedition Desk
  • Veranda Suites
  • Veranda Staterooms
  • Deluxe Veranda Fwd

 

 

Ocean Explorer Deck 3

Deck 3

  • Studio Single Cabins
  • Ready Room
  • Zodiac Boarding
  • Medical Clinic

 

 

Unlock ExplorEarth Exclusives
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON
£8,795
Some operators may display $USD or £GBP as their lead currency on our site, even if you have selected a different currency flag. Your sales expert will usually be able to convert the fare into the currency of your choice. This includes $AUS and $CAN.
Rb 417 (1) Speak to an Expert!
ENQUIRE

Connect with an expert from ExplorEarth.

Rb 417 (1)

More Information

Our experts help you find the best cruise, ship, itinerary, and price for your adventure.