June to mid-July
At the beginning of summer, the Arctic experiences longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. While the sea ice is melting, it has not yet disappeared.
This means that polar bears and walruses are still able to hunt for food at its edge and, there is a good chance of seeing them.
It is the perfect time to explore Svalbard, where visitors can witness amazing Arctic animals and enjoy breathtaking fjords, mountains, and glaciers.
The increasing population of seals attracts polar bears, who have been without food throughout the winter and need to search for prey by crossing the ice.
Exploring the Pack Ice ©Lorena Berutti
Walruses in Svalbard ©Lorena Berutti
Check out the walruses feeding in the waters near the shore and resting on ice floes and beaches.
You can easily spot whales leaping out of the water, arctic foxes, some still in white winter coats, and reindeer wandering around.
As the sun rises, thousands of seabirds, including kittiwakes, small auks, and guillemots, gather at the coastal cliffs to feed on the abundant waters and breed.
There are plenty of opportunities to participate in various activities and explore Spitsbergen through Zodiac cruises, hikes, and kayaking.
Mid-July/early August
During this period, the western side of Svalbard becomes ice-free, creating a pathway to Greenland. The tundra flowers start blooming. It’s a stunning sight as the icy surroundings transform into a more vibrant and colorful scenery.
Remember to have your camera ready! The ice formations reach impressive heights, and the rocky coastlines, sculpted by glaciers, are truly magnificent.
Keep a close watch for polar bears searching for food and teaching their cubs how to hunt. While hiking in Svalbard, encounter reindeer and Arctic foxes. In Greenland, musk-oxen might come into view.
Svalbard Reindeer ©Lorena Berutti
Polar Bear and Walruses ©Lorena Berutti
The cliffs where seabirds reside are bustling with activity. It’s the time when eggs hatch and baby birds multiply. See the geese and ducks leading their groups of swiftly-running chicks.
Near the icy shore, take a look at belugas, which are difficult to find. Narwhals may also be spotted, although they are less common. If you venture further out to sea, our ships might encounter large and remarkable sea creatures like minke, humpback, sei, and occasionally even blue whales.
The middle of summer is a perfect time to witness incredible animals and engage in activities like hiking and kayaking.
Muskox – East Greenland, Ymer Island ©Lorena Berutti
Late summer
Mid-August to September
Observe the stunning Northern Lights, as it gets darker for long periods. Seeing the Aurora Borealis is a big reason why people visit the Arctic during the late summer.
There’s less ice at this time of the year, which makes it easier to reach rare and remote places not often visited.
Ittoqqortoormiit – Greenland ©Lorena Berutti
Meet Inuit artists, and follow in the footsteps of previous expeditioners as you go through the North West Passage. Explore the fjords, and interact with the locals in Greenland. Admire the ruins and learn about Viking and Norse history.
During this season, we might witness walruses with their adorable newborns, seals on the remaining ice, polar bears strolling on the ice, and large whales like humpback, minke, sei, and blue whales feeding in the waters close to the beach.
Travelers on the expedition can have a great time exploring high-altitude treks, hiking, and taking the best photographs.
Lorena Berutti (founder) enjoying the Northern Lights in East Greenland ©Acacia Johnson
