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
SVALBARD 2021
THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD - SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD - SVALBARD ADVENTURE - EXPEDITION SVALBARD
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.

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SVALBARD 2021 THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD - SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD - SVALBARD ADVENTURE - EXPEDITION SVALBARD
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

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SVALBARD 2021 THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD - SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD - SVALBARD ADVENTURE - EXPEDITION SVALBARD
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

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SVALBARD 2021 THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD - SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD - SVALBARD ADVENTURE - EXPEDITION SVALBARD
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!

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SVALBARD 2021 THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD - SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD - SVALBARD ADVENTURE - EXPEDITION SVALBARD
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.

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SVALBARD 2021 THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD - SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD - SVALBARD ADVENTURE - EXPEDITION SVALBARD
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.

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SVALBARD 2021 THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD - SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD - SVALBARD ADVENTURE - EXPEDITION SVALBARD
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

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SVALBARD 2021 THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD - SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD - SVALBARD ADVENTURE - EXPEDITION SVALBARD
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!

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SVALBARD 2021 THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS, BEAR ISLAND & SVALBARD - SPRINGTIME IN SVALBARD - SVALBARD ADVENTURE - EXPEDITION SVALBARD
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

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                                                                                                                            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
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                                                                                                                            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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