SVALBARD 2021 THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD - SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD - SVALBARD ADVENTURE - EXPEDITION SVALBARD
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SVALBARD 2021 THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD - SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD - SVALBARD ADVENTURE - EXPEDITION SVALBARD
POLAR ADVENTURES SINCE 1999 For more than 20 years, we have taken adventurous travellers to the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard. From May to September, our three small expedition ships explore this magnificent wilderness that are home to animals such as the charming walrus, the cute Arctic fox, the endemic Svalbard reindeer and last, but certainly not least, the king of the Arctic – the polar bear. Every expedition with us is unique and our aim is that each passenger will have the trip of a lifetime. When you call our office you will speak to members of staff, whom all have been to Svalbard themselves and can answer all your questions about the big adventure. Sustainability is at the heart of PolarQuest and all trips are climate compensated. Welcome on board! SMALL EXPEDITION SHIPS – GREAT MOMENTS Our expedition ships are comfortable, carry only 12 or 53 passengers and when you travel through Svalbard’s untamed wilderness as the exact route offer a completely different experience compared to a larger ship. We can depends on weather, ice conditions and wildlife encounters. Sometimes you reach some of the most inaccessible areas, all passengers can go ashore might be woken up in the middle of the bright night if a polar bear has been at the same time and we can maximise the time to ensure that you get the spotted on the ice or a whale in front of the ship. Below, please find our most out of your trip. Unpredictability and flexibility are the main keywords three ships (read more on p. 14 - 19). M/S QUEST - 53 PASSENGERS M/S STOCKHOLM - 12 PASSENGERS M/S SJØVEIEN - 12 PASSENGERS M/S Quest is a comfortable expedition ship that M/S Stockholm is a classic ship with beautiful M/S Sjøveien was built in 1964 and after being a was built in 1992 and started her Svalbard brass details and wooden decks, built in 1953. hotel ship for the past few years she was refurbished career in 2008. The ship offers several cabin After 20 years in Svalbard she has the experience into a classic and exclusive passenger ship and categories, spacious decks and a beautiful and track record of being able to reach sites that started her career in Svalbard in 2017. She offers panorama lounge offering breath-taking views are inaccessible to other ships. beautiful wooden decks and spacious cabins. of the surrounding polar landscape. 2
THE ZODIACS - THE KEY TO INTIMATE EXPERIENCES One of the secrets behind a successful expedition cruise is Arc tic the Zodiacs. With these safe and sturdy rubber boats we can Ci r cl navigate among icebergs, cruise along glaciers and go ashore to e Greenland get unique nature and wildlife experiences. Our ambition is to make landings or cruises every day. Iceland North Pole OUR EXPERIENCED POLAR GUIDES Norway We know that the most important part of a trip is knowledgeable Svalbard and enthusiastic guides with a genuine love of the Arctic. On board, ashore and in the Zodiacs, they will teach you more about the flora, fauna and history of Svalbard. We also set high standards when it comes to safety. “Yesterday we received the fantastic log “The expedition was absolutely fabulous, “I am still in a dreamlike state after my of our expedition to Svalbard. It bought with a very efficient and friendly crew, wonderful trip to Svalbard on M/S Quest. back many memories of all the wonderful and delicious food. The Zodiac outings Thank you to all your multitalented guides experiences and adventures we had on and landings were awe-inspiring with who could not have done more to make the board and in the Zodiacs. The stunning five exceptional, highly professional and trip a fantastic experience. Thanks to all of views, scenery and wildlife encounters enthusiastic guides, giving excellent and you in the office too who made it all work will never be forgotten. We thought that captivating explanations on the Arctic from afar! Many thanks.” the whole trip was very well organised and fauna and flora, as well as on their / Doreen McBarnet the guides so professional, knowledgeable, environment and on different explorers.” helpful and very friendly. We had so many / Marit and Don Meredith “Attenborough moments” which made this trip easily the best we have ever been on.” / Richard and Christine Shortt 3
THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD Join M/S Stockholm on a great adventure, exploring some of Norway’s most exciting and scenic locations. Our stops along the Norwegian coast include the majestic Storfjord, SVALBARD the charming town of Ålesund and the picturesque fishing village of Nusfjord, included Longyearbyen on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. We continue towards the seldom visited Bear Island, located in the middle of Barents Sea and home to hundreds of thousands of seabirds. The Bear Island adventure culminates in one of the world’s most magnificent wildernesses – Svalbard. This early in the season, Svalbard is characterised by a wonderful purity, pastel coloured Tromsø skies and breathtaking sceneries. Here we keep our eyes open for polar bears, walrus Lofoten and other Arctic animals, but above all we enjoy the stunning nature that surrounds us – ICELAND NORWAY ice formations and snow covered mountains, glistering glaciers and fjord ice. Ålesund Bergen Day 1: Bergen its delightfully decorated facades, towers and The journey begins in the city of Bergen, pinnacles. beautifully surrounded by high mountains and Geirangerfjorden deep fjords. We stay the night at a centrally We get to know the majestic Storfjorden and pay a Torghatten located hotel. visit to the UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjorden, On our way north we sail past famous natural Day 2 - 9: Expedition which is characterised by deep blue water and attractions like the mountain peaks known as the We embark M/S Stockholm and head towards lush mountain plains with beautiful waterfalls. Seven Sisters, followed by Torghatten – a rock the beautiful passage of Alversund. During our Grip with a big hole, that the ice sheet once created, or adventure along the Norwegian coast we hope to This deserted fishing village is now popular according to the legend; the hole a giant created visit some of the following places: with summer guests. Its original and colourful in despair from a broken heart. Ålesund wooden buildings are well preserved. We visit the Kerringøy Upon reaching Ålesund we explore this small beautiful church and we also pass by the small Kjerringøy is a real gem on the Norwegian town, built in a true Art Nouveau style, enjoying and very dramatically situated lighthouse. coast. Here we encounter a diverse landscape of 4
mountains, white sandy beaches and small farming Tromsø glaciers. We start by exploring parts of Storfjorden communities, but the island is most famous for its In Tromsø we visit the prestigious Polar Museum and constantly keeping our eyes peeled for the old trading post. This is a unique heritage consisting and learn more about the first polar explorers, who Arctic wildlife. How far in we reach depends on of 15 well-preserved houses, which gives the visitor went north to seek fame and fortune. The city is the drift ice that often accumulates here this time a great insight into what it was like to live in this known as Paris of the North, which derives from its of year. We continue towards majestic Hornsund, northern trading town in the 1800s. vast cultural offerings. consisting of several fjords, where glaciers calve Reine Day 10 - 16: Bear Island & Svalbard out shimmering blue icebergs. It is also a favourite We hope to visit the picturesque fishing village of We set sail towards the remote Bear Island, haunt for polar bears. In Bellsund we hope to Reine. This charming village, with characteristic situated in the middle of the Barents Sea. On reach Vårsolbukta, where the little auks nest in wooden houses overlook Kirkefjord with high the 400-meter high cliffs, hundreds of thousands tens of thousands. mountain tops in the background. It is not difficult of seabirds are nesting – puffins, guillemots, Day 17: Longyearbyen to see why it was once voted Norway’s most razorbills and kittiwakes among others. In addition We disembark and begin our journey home. beautiful place. to a spectacular Zodiac cruise along the impressive Read more about the ship M/S Stockholm, dates Nusfjord bird cliffs we aim to make a landing on this rarely and prices on p. 16 - 17. Nusfjord is a well-preserved and authentic fishing visited island. community with focus on cod fishing. The village We then continue our journey and sail over Please note: The places mentioned are just is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage list of unique night. Our next destination is Svalbard – one of the examples of some of the many sites we have the wooden houses with a charming old fashioned world’s most magnificent wildernesses. It is spring chance to visit during this unique trip. Our exact shop well worth a visit. We sail further along what in the Arctic and it is a powerful experience to route will depend on ice, weather conditions is known as the Lofoten wall. In the evening we witness the archipelago spring to life. We enjoy the and wildlife. We always strive to maximise your enter magical Trollfjorden and later set course stunning nature that surrounds us – sparkling ice experience. Please remember that flexibility is the towards Tromsø. formations, snow covered mountains and glistering key to a successful expedition! 5
SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD During the month of May, Svalbard is characterised by a wonderful purity and Storøya offers breathtaking sceneries. The fairytale winter landscape is dominated by Kvitøya Danskøya sparkling ice formations, snow covered mountains, fjord ice and pastel coloured Nordaustlandet skies. It is spring in the Arctic and it is an indescribable experience to be there and witness the archipelago come to life. The polar bear yearlings venture out for Spitsbergen the first time, the Arctic foxes and the Svalbard reindeers still wear their winter fur and seals and walruses can often be seen resting on the fjord ice. The little Longyearbyen auks and the Brünnich’s guillemots have returned to their summer nests and the bird cliffs are teeming with life. This is also a great time to spot the king eider and rock ptarmigan. Hornsund SVALBARD With our sturdy Zodiacs we explore this winter Isfjorden. Perhaps we could make an evening buntings and tens of thousands of kittiwakes. Arctic wonderland, heading for some of Svalbard’s most landing before we continue either south or north foxes are sometimes seen in the rock crevices magnificent fjords and we try to make landings – all depending on the weather and the current around the mountain and with some luck we might wherever the ice and snow allows us. ice situation. Here are some examples of places see these lovely little animals scurrying around, Day 1: Longyearbyen, Svalbard we may visit: frantically looking for food. We arrive in Longyearbyen and transfer to our hotel. Alkhornet Prins Karls Forland Day 2 - 8: Expedition At the entrance of Isfjorden is the characteristic This narrow strip of land is covered by a We start our adventure in Svalbard by exploring cliff Alkhornet. We go ashore to enjoy the beautiful magnificent and snow-covered mountain chain. Longyearbyen. In the afternoon we embark our tundra and its birdlife with barnacle geese, The island is also home to many seabirds and expedition ship M/S Quest and head out through Brünnich’s guillemots, glaucous gulls, snow harbour seals. 6
Kongsfjorden and Krossfjorden hydrogen balloon and American journalist Wellman Read more about the ship M/S Quest, dates and The scientific village of Ny-Ålesund is situated in started with an airship. There are still interesting prices on p. 14 - 15. Kongsfjorden. It was from here that Amundsen remnants from these expeditions left on this site. and Nobile started their heroic expeditions to the Bellsund Please note: Our exact route will depend on North Pole. In the nearby Krossfjorden we revel At the beautiful Vårsolbukta in Bellsund little ice, weather conditions and wildlife. The places in the beautifully sculptured front of the 14th of auks nest by the tens of thousands. We go ashore mentioned are just examples of some of the many July Glacier to the raucous greeting of the large and walk across the tundra to take a closer look sites Svalbard has to offer. We always strive to number of kittiwakes and Brünnich’s guillemots at these charming birds. maximise your experience. Please remember that nesting on the nearby cliffs. Hornsund flexibility is the key to a successful expedition! Raudfjorden The majestic Hornsund consists of several Raudfjorden is an area of immense natural magnificent fjords along the west coast of beauty – dominated by beautiful glaciers. It is Spitsbergen, where enormous glaciers calve out also a favourite spot for seals and the bird cliffs shimmering blue ice. This is one of the favourite Snowshoeing For the active there is a chance to explore the areas we visit with snowshoes. are bursting with activity. haunts for some of Svalbard’s polar bears and if This is an extra option that requires a good Virgohamna, Danskøya lucky we can spot one of them on the fjord ice. level of fitness. Please note: this activity is Two of the most courageous attempts to reach Day 9: Longyearbyen always dependent on weather, wind and other the North Pole started on the island of Danskøya. In the morning we leave the ship in Longyearbyen safety precautions. Swedish explorer Andrée made an attempt with a and begin our journey home. 7
SVALBARD ADVENTURE The midnight sun reigns supreme, the bird colonies are teeming with life and the peaks of the dramatic mountain ranges are beautifully snow-covered. The ice still keeps the islands in its grip and we can admire the ever-changing ice formations. Spring has arrived and summer is just around the corner. We stay one night in a hotel in Longyearbyen and then spend seven night on board a small expedition ship exploring this Arctic pearl that has fascinated explorers for centuries. We cruise along glistening glaciers, go ashore to enjoy the unique nature and keep a lookout for unique wildlife such as walruses, seals and polar bears. Storøya Danskøya Kvitøya Nordaustlandet Spitsbergen Longyearbyen Hornsund SVALBARD Day 1: Longyearbyen, Svalbard Zodiacs. Here are some examples of places we hydrogen balloon and American journalist Wellman We arrive in Longyearbyen and transfer to our hotel. may visit: started with an airship. There are still interesting Day 2 - 8: Expedition Prins Karls Forland remnants from these expeditions left on this site. We start our adventure in Svalbard by exploring This narrow strip of land is covered by a Fantastic fjords Longyearbyen. In the afternoon we embark the magnificent and snow-covered mountain chain. Svalbard offers the visitor countless spectacular expedition ship and sail out through Isfjorden. We The island is also home to many seabirds and fjords. During our journey we will explore a few of are now in a part of the world where we are totally harbour seals. them such as: dependent on the ice and weather conditions. Virgohamna, Danskøya Liefdefjorden, meaning “The fjord of love”, is lined Our exact itinerary depends on these factors and Two of the most courageous attempts to reach with snow-covered mountain peaks and here we on the wildlife we encounter. Our ambition is the North Pole started on the island of Danskøya. hope to cruise along the face of the spectacular to make landings or cruises every day with our Swedish explorer Andrée made an attempt with a Monaco Glacier. Many common eiders and 8
pinkfooted geese nest in the area and if lucky we the pack ice. Not many ships venture here and Day 9: Longyearbyen could see the rare king eider. In Krossfjorden we we can marvel at the silence and grandeur of this Early morning we disembark our expedition ship revel in the beautifully sculptured front of the 14th icy landscape. Chances of meeting polar bears and begin our journey back home. of July Glacier to the raucous greeting of the large increase as we sail along the ice floes. number of kittiwakes and Brünnich’s guillemots Southwest Spitsbergen Read more about the ships, dates and prices on nesting on the nearby cliffs. Raudfjorden is an area The grand fjords of Hornsund offer spectacular p. 14 - 19. of immense natural beauty – dominated by beautiful glaciers and a breathtaking landscape of glaciers. It is also a favourite spot for seals and the towering mountain peaks, often reaching Please note: Our exact route will depend on bird cliffs are bursting with activity. The scientific above the clouds. On a clear day we can see ice, weather conditions and wildlife. The village of Ny-Ålesund is situated in Kongsfjorden. It the summit of the highest mountain Hornsund- places mentioned are just examples of some was from here that Amundsen and Nobile started tind, measuring 1431 meters. Hornsund is a of the many sites Svalbard has to offer. We their heroic expeditions to the North Pole. favourite haunt for some of Svalbard’s polar always strive to maximise your experience. North Spitsbergen bears and bearded seals are often seen resting Please remember that flexibility is the key to a North of Spitsbergen we might meet the edge of on the fjord ice. successful expedition! 9
EXPEDITION SVALBARD In July the summer has arrived, the midnight sun reigns supreme and the purple Storøya saxifrage decorates the slopes. The ice is slowly starting to loosen its grip, which offers Danskøya Kvitøya good opportunities to explore the seldom visited eastern parts of the archipelago. Nordaustlandet Whales are more frequently seen in the waters and more and more snowfree areas become accessible for longer walks. Later in August the sun is closer to the horizon, Spitsbergen preparing for the polar night, giving us beautiful sunsets and a warm light, perfect for photography. With ten nights on board we have plenty of time for grand nature Longyearbyen experiences and wildlife encounters. Hornsund SVALBARD Liefdefjorden, meaning “The fjord of love”, is lined with snow-covered mountain peaks and here we hope to cruise along the face of the spectacular Monaco Glacier. Many common eiders and pinkfooted geese nest in the area. In Krossfjorden we revel in the beautifully sculptured front of the 14th of July Glacier to the raucous greeting of the large number of kittiwakes Day 1: Longyearbyen, Svalbard Kongsfjorden. It was from here that Amundsen and Brünnich’s guillemots nesting on the nearby We arrive in Longyearbyen, embark our expedition and Nobile started their heroic expeditions to the cliffs. Raudfjorden is an area of immense natural ship in the afternoon and sail out through the North Pole. beauty – dominated by beautiful glaciers. It is spectacular Isfjorden. Two other courageous attempts to reach the also a favourite spot for seals and the bird cliffs Day 2 - 10: Expedition North Pole started on the island of Danskøya. are bursting with activity. We are now in a part of the world where we Swedish explorer Andrée made an attempt with Hinlopen Strait and Alkefjellet are totally dependent on the ice and weather a hydrogen balloon and American journalist If the ice allows we enter Hinlopen Strait. Here conditions. Our exact itinerary depends on these Wellman started with an airship. There are still is Alkefjellet, an impressive, basaltic cliff, factors and on the wildlife we encounter. Our interesting remnants from these expeditions left which is the home to an estimated 200 000 ambition is to make landings or cruises every on this site. Brünnich’s guillemots. We may also continue day with our Zodiacs. Here are some examples of Magnificent fjords into the beautiful bay Palanderbukta on places we may visit: Svalbard offers the visitor countless spectacular Nordaustlandet. Northwest Spitsbergen fjords. During our journey we will explore a few of Eastern Svalbard The scientific village of Ny-Ålesund is situated in them such as: The island of Nordaustlandet is covered by an 10
enormous ice cap and fascinates naturalists as well mountain peaks, often reaching above the Read more about the ships, dates and prices on as historians. There are huge glacier fronts here, clouds. On a clear day we can see the summit of p. 14 - 19. intersected by hundreds of waterfalls. Barentsøya the highest mountain Hornsundtind, measuring and Edgeøya offer magnificent landscapes and 1431 meters. Hornsund is a favourite haunt for Please note: Our exact route will depend on vast tundra. Chances to encounter walruses, some of Svalbard’s polar bears and bearded seals ice, weather conditions and wildlife. The places Arctic fox and Svalbard reindeer are good here. are often seen resting on the fjord ice. mentioned are just examples of some of the many Southwest Spitsbergen Day 11: Longyearbyen sites Svalbard has to offer. We always strive to The grand fjords of Hornsund offer spectacular Early morning we disembark our expedition ship maximize your experience. Please remember that glaciers and a breathtaking landscape of towering and begin our journey back home. flexibility is the key to a successful expedition! 11
SPRING, SUMMER AND AUTUMN IN SVALBARD SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT Thanks to the Gulf Current, Svalbard has a small and sometimes both bears and seals can be The weather is stable during the mild climate compared to other areas on the seen on the fjord ice in front of the glaciers. summer months even if fog, rain same latitude. The average temperature in Summer arrives in late June. The ice thaws and snowfall may occur. Rainfall is Longyearbyen in May - September is -5°C to +5°C. around the islands and this makes it possible to very limited as parts of Svalbard are During winter ice and snow cover the archipelago, get further east. Whales are more frequently seen considered to be Arctic desert. There but when the warmer weather arrives, the ice in the waters and more and more snow-free areas is midnight sun from April to the losens its grip and the coasts become accessible become accessible for longer walks. Colourful end of August. To participate in our by ship. Millions of seabirds arrive to their annual flowers are in bloom. expeditions you need to bring warm nesting sites and the archipelago teems with life. Autumn arrives in late August and it is now thermal underwear, warm middle Please remember that no Arctic season is that the snow free landscape is most visible. layers, wind and waterproof jacket exactly like the previous one. There is no way to The tundra is shifting in autumn colours and and trousers and a pair of solid rubber tell what this year’s ice conditions will be. The the midnight sun is getting closer and closer boots. Thick soles for the boots and following is however a general description of the to the horizon, which offers wonderful red warm socks are also needed, as well as Arctic summer season: and pink skies at sunset, as well as a warm a warm hat, scarf and windproof gloves. May and the beginning of June are and soft light, perfect for anyone interested in A pair of good binoculars is also highly characterised by a lot of snow and a wonderful photography. From mid-August you may be able recommended. When you book a trip purity. In the beginning of the season the ground to see the Ivory Gulls’ chicks, while some birds with us, you will receive an equipment is often covered by a thick layer of snow, which are preparing to migrate. Harp seals can be checklist with suggestions on what to can limit the hiking opportunities. It is still spring seen and female walruses with pups are not an bring on the expedition. in the Arctic. This year’s polar bear cubs are still uncommon sight. 12
A JOURNEY TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE WORLD Sustainability is at the heart of everything WE CARBON OFFSET ALL OUR TRIPS guidelines that all members are to follow during PolarQuest does. We travel in small As operators of expedition cruises, we cannot cruises and landings. Today, AECO is a respected avoid emitting greenhouse gases during a representative for the cruise industry and a groups and strive to have minimal impact voyage. Until renewable fuels are available in leading star for operators who wish to conduct on the environment. our line of business, we have chosen to climate responsible tourism in the Arctic. Our ships take 12 or 53 passengers compensate (carbon offset) all our trips. Our and if you ask us, a small expedition ship goal is to over-compensate every year, to slowly BECOME AMBASSADORS FOR THE POLAR REGIONS! is the best way to explore the wildlife and pay back to mother earth for emissions made When travelling with PolarQuest, we hope that back in time. you get a new understanding of the eco system nature of Svalbard. Imagine, viewing a and the challenges the Arctic wildlife are facing walrus on an ice floe in a group of 10 - 50 AECO as our planet is getting warmer. Once back passengers, or to do so in a group of 250 - PolarQuest is one of the eight companies that home, we hope that our travellers become worthy 500 passengers! founded the Association of Arctic Expeditions ambassadors of the Polar Regions and spread Travelling on a small expedition ship Cruise Operators (AECO) in 2003, to regulate the word of these vulnerable areas. A deeper also offers a more relaxed atmosphere, tourism in Svalbard and promote sustainable, awareness hopefully leads to a broader interest environmentally friendly and safe tourism in for nature conservation and inspires to lifestyle greater focus on the destination and the area. The organization strives to conduct changes. After all, it is how we think and act more time ashore, compared to travelling expeditions with the utmost respect for nature and in our everyday responsibilities that have the on board a larger ship. wildlife. One part in this is carefully developed biggest impact on the Polar Regions. 13
THE SHIP M/S QUEST ( 53 PASSENGERS) A COMFORTABLE EXPEDITION SHIP WITH A WONDERFUL CREW The ship was built in Denmark in 1992 to serve as a ferry on Greenland’s west coast. In 2004/2005 she was completely refurbished into a comfortable expedition ship and in 2018 she underwent a renovation of the passenger areas. M/S Quest takes 53 passengers and all 26 cabins are outside cabins with private facilities. The triple cabins have upper and lower berths. All other cabins have two lower berths or a double bed. In your cabin you find a desk with a chair and a cupboard for storage. The superior cabins are spacious The lounge offers magnificent views. Twin cabin. and have armchairs and TV. The owner’s cabin has a double bed, two large picture windows, a separate seating area and TV. In the dining room you are treated to delicious meals in between landings and in the panorama lounge you can enjoy breath-taking views of the surrounding landscape. Here you can listen to entertaining talks on the area’s flora, fauna and history. In the lounge you also find a bar and a small library. The ship has spacious observation decks, where you can enjoy the beautiful vistas. Passengers are welcome on the bridge around the clock and there is always something to see or search for. You are welcomed by an international crew and the atmosphere is relaxed and very friendly. There are five Zodiacs and five guides on board M/S Quest. The ship has spacious observation decks and the Zodiacs are very easy to access. “We have just finished our magnificent circumnavigation of Svalbard with PolarQuest and M/S Quest. What a fantastic experience. Our trip was really great and your guides superb. They went out of our way to help at all times, 304 302 320 318 316 314 312 310 308 306 Deck 3 402 401 and the Captain also was magnificent, entering the true “expedition” spirit Deck 4 Bridge and steering the ship into the ice for our convenience, and participating 327 325 323 321 315 311 309 307 305 303 301 329 319 317 in all manner of events. All-in-all we have had a fantastic time with the PolarQuest people, and would certainly look for further adventures sometime in the future.” / Richard Boweb 14
TRIPS, DATES & PRICES WITH M/S QUEST SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD ADVENTURE EXPEDITION SVALBARD SVALBARD Duration: 9 days. Duration: 11 days. Dates: 31 May - 8 June, 7 - 15 June, Dates: 8 - 18 July, 28 July - 7 Aug, 7 - 17 Aug, Duration: 9 days. Dates: 3 - 11 May, 10 - 18 May, 14 - 22 June, 2021. 17 - 27 Aug, 27 Aug - 6 Sep, 2021. 17 - 25 May, 24 May - 1 June, 2021. Group Size: Maximum 53 passengers. Group Size: Maximum 53 passengers. Group Size: Maximum 53 passengers. Accommodation: Cabin on board M/S Quest, hotel. Accommodation: Cabin on board M/S Quest. Accommodation: Cabin on board M/S Quest, hotel. Transport: Expedition ship, Zodiacs. Transport: Expedition ship, Zodiacs. Transport: Expedition ship, Zodiacs. Price: From USD 5 890 per person. Price: From USD 7 790 per person. Price: From USD 5 390 per person. RATE INCLUDES: RATE INCLUDES: RATE INCLUDES: 7 nights on board M/S Quest. 1 night in a hotel in 10 nights on board M/S Quest . All meals on board 7 nights on board M/S Quest . 1 night in a hotel in Longyearbyen . Lunch day 2 . All meals on board . . Coffee and tea . An experienced Expedition Leader Longyearbyen . Lunch day 2 . All meals on board . Coffee and tea . An experienced Expedition Leader and and knowledgeable guides . Guiding ashore and talks Coffee and tea . An experienced Expedition Leader and knowledgeable guides . Guiding ashore and talks on on board . All excursions and activities . Comprehensive knowledgeable guides . Guiding ashore and talks on board . All excursions and activities . Comprehensive information material before the expedition . The trip is board . All excursions and activities . Comprehensive information material before the expedition . The trip is climate compensated information material before the expedition . The trip is climate compensated NOT INCLUDED: climate compensated NOT INCLUDED: Flight to/from Longyearbyen . Travel and cancellation NOT INCLUDED: Flight to/from Longyearbyen . Travel and cancellation insurance . The customary gratuity to the ship’s crew . Flight to/from Longyearbyen . Travel and cancellation insurance . The customary gratuity to the ship’s crew . Personal expenses such as bar and shop charges insurance . The customary gratuity to the ship’s crew . Personal expenses such as bar and shop charges Personal expenses such as bar and shop charges Read more about the trip on p. 6 - 7. Read more about the trip on p. 8 - 9. Read more about the trip on p. 10 - 11. Cabin category Price per person in USD Cabin category Price per person in USD Cabin category Price per person in USD F: Triple cabin (upper/lower beds) 5 390 F: Triple cabin (upper/lower beds) 5 890 F: Triple cabin (upper/lower beds) 7 790 E: Twin cabin (2 twin beds) 6 290 E: Twin cabin (2 twin beds) 6 990 E: Twin cabin (2 twin beds) 9 490 D: Twin cabin Plus (2 twin beds) 6 690 D: Twin cabin Plus (2 twin beds) 7 390 D: Twin cabin Plus (2 twin beds) 10 090 C: Double cabin (double bed) 6 690 C: Double cabin (double bed) 7 390 C: Double cabin (double bed) 10 090 B: Double cabin Superior (large double bed*) 7 690 B: Double cabin Superior (large double bed*) 8 490 B: Double cabin Superior (large double bed*) 10 890 A: Owner’s cabin (large double bed) 8 390 A: Owner’s cabin (large double bed) 9 290 A: Owner’s cabin (large double bed) 11 990 E: Twin cabin for single use 10 090 E: Twin cabin for single use 11 090 E: Twin cabin for single use 15 990 * The double bed in cabin 402, 319 and 301 is separable. Share a cabin: It is always possible to share a cabin on board M/S Quest. Secure payment: According to Swedish law, PolarQuest places all revenue in a bond with the Legal, Financial and Administrative Services Agency until the completion of your expedition. 15
THE SHIP M/S STOCKHOLM (12 PASSENGERS) A CLASSIC EXPEDITION SHIP LOVED BY MANY The M/S Stockholm is a classic ship built in 1953 for the Swedish National Maritime Administration. In 1998 she was totally refitted and started her career as a comfortable polar expedition ship. The M/S Stockholm carries a maximum of 12 passengers in twin cabins with bunk beds. All cabins have private facilities and small windows (portholes). M/S Stockholm is a marvellous piece of maritime history with beautiful brass details and wooden decks. It is no wonder she is loved by so many! After 20 years of navigating the waters in Svalbard she has the experience and track record of being able to access difficult to reach sites that are inaccessible to Comfortable cabins with bunk beds. The service on board is outstanding. other ships. On board you will enjoy delicious meals in the company of likeminded travellers, who are all fascinated by the Arctic nature, wildlife and history. The food on board is of high standard and all beverages are included in the price. With such a small party on board, this is like travelling on a private yacht. The crew on board M/S Stockholm are also great enthusiasts of the unique wildlife and unspoiled nature. Their genuine curiosity is a prerequisite for expedition cruises of this kind. A trip on board M/S Stockholm in these northern waters, with its unique wildlife and pristine nature, is an experience of a lifetime! There are two Zodiacs and two guides on board M/S Stockholm. It is with a small expedition ship that you get the most extraordinary experiences. 21 22 23 Upper Deck Main Deck 25 26 27 16
TRIPS, DATES & PRICES WITH M/S STOCKHOLM THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, SVALBARD ADVENTURE EXPEDITION SVALBARD BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD Duration: 9 days. Duration: 11 days. Dates: 17 - 25 May, 10 - 18 June, 17 - 25 June, Dates: 12 - 22 July, 22 juli - 1 Aug, 11 - 21 Aug, Duration: 17 days. Dates: 18 Apr - 4 May 2021. 24 June - 2 July, 2021. 21 - 31 Aug, 31 Aug - 10 Sep, 2021. Group Size: Maximum 12 passengers. Group Size: Maximum 12 passengers. Group Size: Maximum 12 passengers. Accommodation: Cabin on board M/S Stockholm, Accommodation: Cabin on board M/S Stockholm, Accommodation: Cabin on board M/S Stockholm. hotel. hotel. Transport: Expedition ship, Zodiacs. Transport: Expedition ship, Zodiacs. Transport: Expedition ship, Zodiacs. Price: From USD 11 590 per person. Price: From USD 8 990 per person. Price: From USD 9 090 per person. RATE INCLUDES: RATE INCLUDES: RATE INCLUDES: 10 nights on board M/S Stockholm . All meals on board 15 nights on board M/S Stockholm . 1 night at a hotel 7 nights on board M/S Stockholm . 1 night at a hotel . All beverages . 1 Expedition Leader and 1 guide . in Bergen . All meals on board . All beverages . 1 in Longyearbyen . Lunch day 2 . All meals on board Guiding ashore and talks on board . All excursions Expedition Leader and 1 guide . Guiding ashore and . All beverages . 1 Expedition Leader and 1 guide . and activities . The customary gratuity to the ship’s talks on board . All excursions and activities . The Guiding ashore and talks on board . All excursions crew . Comprehensive information material before the customary gratuity to the ship’s crew . Comprehensive and activities . The customary gratuity to the ship’s expedition . The trip is climate compensated information material before the expedition . The trip is crew . Comprehensive information material before the climate compensated NOT INCLUDED: expedition . The trip is climate compensated Flight to/from Longyearbyen . Travel and cancellation NOT INCLUDED: NOT INCLUDED: insurance Flight to Bergen and from Longyearbyen . Travel and Flight to/from Longyearbyen . Travel and cancellation cancellation insurance insurance Read more about the trip on p. 10 - 11. Read more about the trip on p. 4 - 5. Read more about the trip on p. 8 - 9. Cabin category Price per person in USD Cabin category Price per person in USD Cabin category Price per person in USD Twin Cabin (bunk beds & private facilities) 8 990 Twin Cabin (bunk beds & private facilities) 9 090 Twin Cabin (bunk beds & private facilities) 11 590 Twin Cabin for single use 16 190 Twin Cabin for single use 17 290 Twin Cabin for single use 21 990 SECURE PAYMENT According to Swedish law, PolarQuest places all revenue in a bond with the Legal, Financial and Administrative Services Agency until the completion of your expedition. 17
THE SHIP M/S SJØVEIEN (12 PASSENGERS) A CLASSIC SHIP WITH A MODERN TOUCH M/S Sjøveien (meaning the Seaway) was built in Bergen in 1964 for the Norwegian Government and she worked for them in various capacities. From 1979 until 1995 she was used as a training ship for mariners. Since 1995 she has been in private ownership and during the many years since, worked for the Norwegian coast guard. After being a hotel ship for the past few years, she has now been refurbished into a classic and exclusive passenger ship and started her career in Svalbard the summer of 2017. She is a true beauty with wooden decks and classic details. There is a lot of deck space on the main deck and there is also an excellent area on top of Double Cabin Superior. Twin Cabin with portholes. the bridge, from where you have wonderful views of the magical Svalbard scenery. You also find a wood-fired hot tub out on deck. To accommodate a maximum of 12 passengers there are eight outside cabins, all with private facilities. On the lower deck there are four twin cabins with portholes. On the main deck there are two larger twin cabins with windows and one large superior cabin with a double bed and windows. The eighth cabin is located on the upper deck and is a large superior cabin with windows. The dining area on the main deck is where you are served breakfast, lunch and dinner. Here is also a lounge area where you can relax with a cup of tea or coffee and listen to interesting talks by the guides. You are welcomed by an international crew and the bridge is open for visitors. Combined lounge and dinner area. 18
TRIPS, DATES & PRICES WITH M/S SJØVEIEN SVALBARD ADVENTURE EXPEDITION SVALBARD Duration: 9 days. Duration: 11 days. Dates: 17 - 25 May, 24 May - 1 June, 17 - 25 June, Dates: 2 - 12 July, 22 July - 1 Aug, 1 - 11 Aug, 24 June - 2 July, 2021. 11 - 21 Aug, 21 - 31 Aug, 31 Aug - 10 Sep, 2021. Group Size: Maximum 12 passengers. Group Size: Maximum 12 passengers. Accommodation: Cabin on board M/S Sjøveien, Accommodation: Cabin on board M/S Sjøveien. hotel. Transport: Expedition ship, Zodiacs. Transport: Expedition ship, Zodiacs. Price: From USD 7 990 per person. Price: From USD 10 190 per person. RATE INCLUDES: RATE INCLUDES: 7 nights on board M/S Sjøveien . 1 night in a hotel 10 nights on board M/S Sjøveien . All meals on board in Longyearbyen . Lunch day 2 . All meals on board . Coffee and tea . 1 Expedition Leader and 1 guide . . Coffee and tea . 1 Expedition Leader and 1 guide . Guiding ashore and talks on board . All excursions and Guiding ashore and talks on board . All excursions and activities . Comprehensive information material before activities . Comprehensive information material before the expedition . The trip is climate compensated the expedition . The trip is climate compensated NOT INCLUDED: NOT INCLUDED: Flight to and from Longyearbyen . Travel and cancellation Flight to and from Longyearbyen . Travel and cancellation insurance . The customary gratuity to the ship’s crew . insurance . The customary gratuity to the ship’s crew . Personal expenses such as bar and shop charges Personal expenses such as bar and shop charges Read about the trip on p. 8 - 9. Read about the trip on p. 10 - 11. Cabin category Price per person in USD Cabin category Price per person in USD Twin Cabin with portholes (twin beds) 7 990 Twin Cabin with portholes (twin beds) 10 190 Twin Cabin with windows (twin beds) 8 390 Twin Cabin with windows (twin beds) 10 790 There is a lot of open space on the main deck from where you have Double Cabin Superior (double bed & windows) 8 790 Double Cabin Superior (double bed & windows) 11 390 wonderful views of the magical Svalbard scenery. Twin Cabin for single use 11 090 Twin Cabin for single use 14 890 202 SECURE PAYMENT Upper deck Lounge / 201 Main deck Mess According to Swedish law, PolarQuest places all revenue in a bond with the Legal, Financial and Administrative 303 203 Services Agency until the completion of your expedition. 108 106 104 Lower deck 107 ”We had such a fantastic voyage on Sjøveien. She is the perfect expedition vessel for Svalbard. We had so many wonderful experiences with the wildlife, ice and the beautiful scenery and nature Svalbard had to offer. The Captain and crew are to be applauded for all their hard work in making us comfortable and well looked after.” / Sue Werner 19
P.O. Box 180 POLARQUEST IS ONE OF THE PASSIONATE SPECIALISTS SE- 401 23 Göteborg, Sweden WITHIN UNLIMITED TRAVEL GROUP Phone: +46 31 333 17 30 PHOTO: ADAM RHEBORG (FRONT COVER, P. 3 BACKGROUND & UPPER, P. 5 NO. 4 & 6, P. 9 NO. 4, 6 & 9, P. 10 UPPER LEFT, P. 11 NO. 2 & 4, P. 16 MIDDLE), ADRIAN NORDENBORG (P. 3 MIDDLE, P. 6 BACKGROUND NO. 1 e-mail: info@polar-quest.com & 3, P. 7 NO. 5, P. 14 MIDDLE RIGHT), ANDREAS BERGSTRÖM (P. 9 NO. 7), ANNETTE SCHEEPSTRA (P. 11 NO. 9), EIRIK GRØNNINGSÆTER (P. 14 UPPER RIGHT), ELKE LINDNER (P. 4 NO. 2, P. 7 NO. 3, P. 9 NO. 2), ERIK EDVARDSSON (P. 9 NO. 8), HELBILD.SE (P. 2 MIDDLE LEFT, P. 14 BACKGROUND), HENRIK HAANING NIELSEN www.polar-quest.com (P. 4 NO. 3, P. 8 UPPER LEFT, P. 11 NO. 3, P. 14 MIDDLE LEFT, P. 17 UPPER RIGHT), JOHANNA VAKKILA (P. 5 BACK GROUND & NO. 2, P. 7 BACKGROUND & NO. 2), KERSTIN LANGENBERGER (BACK COVER, P. 9 NO. 10, P. 11 BACKGROUND, P. 19 MIDDLE), LISA STRÖM (P. 17 BACKGROUND & MIDDLE), MAGNUS LUNDGREN (P. 4 NO. 5, P. 7 NO. 10), MARIA NORDVALL (P. 7 NO. 7), MARTIN BERG (P. 2 MIDDLE RIGHT, P. 18 BACKGROUND), MATTIAS HORNTRICH (P. 5 NO. 5, P. 7 NO. 4, P. 10 BACKGROUND, P. 11 NO. 1), MAURIZIO BIANCARELLI (P. 5 N0. 9 & P. 9 BACKGROUND), NIKLAS NILSSON (P. 5 NO. 6 & 7, P. 6 NO. 2, P. 11 NO. 6 & 7, P. 14 UPPER LEFT, P. Follow us! 16 UPPER LEFT, P. 18 UPPER & MIDDLE, P. 19 UPPER), OLLE CARLSSON (P. 4 NO. 4, P. 15), PETER & BEVERLY PICKFORD (P. 11 NO. 8), RONALD VISSER (P. 7 NO. 6), THÉRÈSE HORNTRICH (P. 19 BACKGROUND), ULRICH KÜHN (P. 2 MIDDLE, P. 5 NO. 10, P. 10 UPPER RIGHT, P. 11 NO. 5 & 10, P. 16 BACKGROUND & UPPER RIGHT, Min 12 mm hög PolarQuest P. 17 UPPER LEFT), VERA SIMONSSON (P. 7 NO. 1), ZET FREIBURGHAUS (P. 7 NO. 9 & P. 8 UPPER RIGHT), ÅSA LINDGREN (P. 5 BACKGROUND & P. 8 BACKGROUND). WE RESERVE THE RIGHTS TO ALTER ANY INFORMATION DUE TO PRINTING OR TYPE ERRORS. PolarQuest Expeditions
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