Midnight Sun Arctic: 10-Night Aurora Svalbard Expedition

Svalbard Odyssey is a 10-night Arctic expedition aboard Sylvia Earle, beginning and ending in Oslo, Norway, with flights to and from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, part of the trip. It runs June 24 to July 4, 2027, right in the heart of the midnight sun season. This voyage suits wildlife-minded travelers, photographers and anyone who wants to stand in a true high-Arctic landscape, one that lies closer to the North Pole than to Oslo.

After meeting in Oslo, you’ll fly north to Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s main settlement, and board the ship. Eight days of expedition cruising around the archipelago follow. The route is Captain’s Choice and shaped by sea ice, which in Svalbard can change quickly, so the expedition team decides each day where to land or cruise.

Svalbard is one of the best places in the world to look for polar bears, and the team will scan ice edges and coastlines for them, always at a respectful distance. Walrus haul-outs, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer and huge seabird cliffs are other common highlights. Glaciers calve into the fjords, and in good conditions the ship may push toward the pack ice. Under the midnight sun, wildlife can appear at any hour, which is part of the fun. At the end, you’ll fly from Longyearbyen back to Oslo.

Sylvia Earle is one of Aurora Expeditions’ small, purpose-built expedition ships, named for the renowned American oceanographer. Aurora is known for its experienced expedition team, Zodiac landings and citizen science programs. Ask us what your fare includes, since inclusions vary.

We’ll help you plan your arrival in Oslo and any extra nights in the Norwegian capital. Tell us your dates and preferred cabin, and we’ll check fares and availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I see polar bears in Svalbard in June?
Svalbard is one of the best places to look for polar bears, and summer expeditions often spot them, but sightings depend on ice and are never guaranteed.

Is it light all night in Svalbard in late June?
Yes. Svalbard has continuous daylight from roughly late April to late August, so the sun stays up around the clock during this voyage. A sleep mask can help.

Do I need a passport for a Svalbard expedition from Oslo?
Yes. Svalbard sits outside the Schengen Area, so passports are checked on flights between Oslo and Longyearbyen, and Norway’s entry rules depend on your citizenship. We’ll confirm what you need.