Cruise · HX Expeditions · 12 nights

Circumnavigating Spitsbergen - In the Realm of the Polar Bear With Extended Stay in Longyearbyen

Sail aboard the purpose-built expedition vessel MS Fram, with onboard Science Center and Expedition Team
Enjoy fine dining in the Lindstrøm restaurant, included for suite guests
Take home a complimentary Ocean Bottle water bottle and a wind and waterproof expedition jacket

$21,059 pp twin share

$29,655 pp solo share

12 nights

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1/ 13

Longyearbyen

Peaceful Ny-Ålesund

Northwest Spitsbergen National Park

Ice edge attempt

Eastern Spitsbergen

Hornsund and Bellsund

Return to Longyearbyen

MS Fram

Cruise Snapshot

12 Nights

Immerse yourself in the pristine Arctic wilderness of Svalbard, home to the mighty polar bear, on this 12-night expedition cruise aboard the purpose-built MS Fram

Explore the natural beauty and rugged tundra of Northwest Spitsbergen National Park
Attempt to reach the ever-changing ice edge and spot seals, walruses, and possibly polar bears
Discover the serenity of Ny-Ålesund, a former mining town now a hub for global science and climate research

Trip Details

Departs: 22 June 2028
Returns: 25 July 2028
Embarks
Ship: MS Fram
Operator: HX Expeditions

12-night Svalbard expedition cruise aboard MS Fram

The 9-night Svalbard voyage aboard MS Fram sails round trip from Longyearbyen, calling at Krossfjorden, Ny-Ålesund, Nordvesthjørnet med Raudfjorden, Liefdefjorden, Freemansundet, Hornsund and Bamsebu, with 1 day at sea.

You sail aboard MS Fram. Carrying on the legacy of the original Fram, one of the most famous exploration vessels of all time, MS Fram has been purpose-built to offer guests an authentic, intimate, and pure expedition experience in polar regions. On board: Science Center; Expedition Team; Two restaurants; Two outdoor hot tubs; Sauna; Explorer Lounge and Bar; Observation decks; Indoor and outdoor gym.

$21,059

pp twin share

$29,655

pp solo share

Enquire

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When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs

22 June 2028

Returns

25 July 2028

Duration

12 nights

From pp twin share

$21,059 pp

From pp solo cabin

$29,655 pp

22 Jun 2028 - 04 Jul 2028
from $21,059 pp twin share / $29,655 pp sole use *
13 Jul 2028 - 25 Jul 2028
from $21,639 pp twin share / $30,496 pp sole use *

Additional Pricing Information

Polar Outside from $21,059 pp twin share
Arctic Superior from $22,072 pp twin share
Expedition Suite from $25,845 pp twin share

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Life in transit

MS Fram

Details · HX Expeditions

MS Fram

Carrying on the legacy of the original Fram, one of the most famous exploration vessels of all time, MS Fram has been purpose-built to offer guests an authentic, intimate, and pure expedition experience in polar regions.

Guests: 200
Gross tonnage: 11,647
Speed: 13 knots
Length: 114 m
Launched: 2007
Beam: 20.2 m
Deck plans: 7

MS Fram · Deck plans

Deck 8

Source: HX Expeditions, captured 16 September 2026. Deck plans are provided by the cruise line and are subject to change at any time.

Day by day

Itinerary

1
Longyearbyen
The town at the top of the world
After an early breakfast, you’ll fly to Longyearbyen.
A short panoramic bus tour offers a first glimpse of the town and its surroundings before lunch. Afterwards, enjoy some free time in Longyearbyen before being transferred to the ship for boarding.
This former coal-mining settlement is small and easy to explore on foot. Wander along the main street, lined with boutique shops, an art gallery, and inviting restaurants. You might even spot a Svalbard reindeer wandering by.
Come evening, we’ll set sail.
2
Peaceful Ny-Ålesund
Experience science, serenity, and epic scenery
Today you’ll discover the serenity of Ny-Ålesund and neighbouring fjords such as Krossfjord and Kongsfjord. Disconnect and enjoy a day without distractions as the Norwegian Mapping Authority’s nearby geodetic station means we must switch off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
One of the northernmost settlements and a former mining town, Ny-Ålesund was the starting point for Roald Amundsen’s expeditions north with the airship ‘Norge’. Now a hub for global science and climate research, you can still see remnants of the town’s history.
You’ll be immersed in rugged, glacial scenery as we explore the fjords around Ny-Ålesund. Be ready for adventure; we’ll seize any opportunity to launch our small expedition boats, go ashore to hike or cruise by majestic glaciers.
3
Northwest Spitsbergen National Park
Days 3–4
Experience pristine Arctic wilderness
Over the next two days, we’ll explore the natural beauty and rugged tundra of this breathtaking national park where steep mountains, glaciers and beautiful offshore islands form a unique Arctic landscape.
We’ll scout for some of the animals of the Arctic – seals, walruses and reindeer. Early in the season, there’s a good chance we may spot polar bears too, so we’ll always be on the lookout for these iconic but elusive predators.
Be ready for adventure; we’ll seize any opportunity to launch our kayaks or use our small expedition boats and go ashore to hike or participate in a beach clean up.
5
Ice edge attempt
Experience the opportunity of sailing to the edge of the polar ice cap
If conditions allow, we’ll sail north and cross the 80th parallel to explore the ever-changing ice edge. The transition zone between the ice cap and the sea is a magical yet ephemeral place where the waters are filled with ice floes and drifting pack ice. From the ship, there are great opportunities for spotting wildlife, such as seals and walruses who lounge on the sparkling ice. And if the conditions are right, we’ll lower our expedition boats into the water and enjoy an unforgettable close-up experience amid the floating ice.
The ice edge isn’t a fixed boundary, and it moves depending on the season and conditions, so visiting it will be an attempt rather than a certainty. From May to August, as summer progresses, it retreats further towards the pole, meaning it may be out of reach for us. If so, we’ll explore the no-less-impressive fjords, glaciers and incredible scenery of the Svalbard coast.
6
Eastern Spitsbergen
Days 6–7
Scouting for polar bears, seabirds, and walruses
Be ready for anything. If sea ice permits, we'll venture into the frozen seascape of Eastern Spitsbergen, scouting for polar bears, walrus, and colonies of Brünnich's guillemots through the legendary Hinlopen Strait. We may head south to Freemansundet and Kapp Lee, or explore Edgeøya and Barentsøya by Zodiac.
In true expedition style, where we go depends on conditions. If the ice doesn't allow passage east, we'll delve deeper into western Svalbard, navigating deep fjords and past calving glaciers in search of remarkable Arctic wildlife. Either way, expect exhilarating landings, hikes, and kayak trips at every turn.
8
Hornsund and Bellsund
Days 8–9
Majestic glaciers, birds, and pioneer history
Your expedition cruise continues south towards Hornsund – one of Svalbard’s most beautiful fjords. Colourful vegetation makes way for towering mountains along this picturesque waterway. The cliffs here are home to large colonies of auks, guillemots and Northern Fulmars, along with Arctic foxes and Svalbard reindeer below.
Head out on deck to spot seals and whales, Mount Hornsundtind, and glaciers reaching into the sea, and learn about Wanny Woldstad, the first female trapper to hunt in Svalbard.
Then we head to admire the classic beauty of the snowcapped mountains of Bellsund: a historic area where you can see the evidence of former whaling and mining activity on the shoreline.
Our activities will be determined by the ever-changing weather conditions of Hornsund and Bellsund. Your Expedition Team will decide on the best possibilities for exploring on the day.
10
Return to Longyearbyen
A final day on top of the world
Your Arctic adventure ends in Longyearbyen, where you’ll catch your flight back to Oslo. You'll return home knowing more about Arctic animals, history, polar ice and climate change than you arrived with – and memories of an incredible experience.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

A stay in a cabin of your choice.
All day coffee, tea and soft drinks.
Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests (only on MS Fram).
A complimentary Ocean Bottle water bottle to refill on board and take home.
A wind and waterproof expedition jacket.
Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer.

Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

MS Fram

On board: Science Center; Expedition Team; Two restaurants; Two outdoor hot tubs; Sauna; Explorer Lounge and Bar; Observation decks; Indoor and outdoor gym; Onboard shop.

Polar Outside

Enjoy sea views from our Polar Outside cabins, most of which feature double beds that can be divided into two single beds on request at the time of booking.
All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.

N2 – Outside cabin: window, double bed, optional twin, 10–13 m².
FJ – Outside cabin: window, limited view or no view, double bed, optional twin, 17–21 m².
SD – Wheelchair-accessible outside cabin: window, twin beds, one converts to a sofa, 15–16 m².

Arctic Superior

Arctic Superior cabins are comfortable and spacious.

These cabins feature a double bed which can be divided into two single beds in some cabins on request at the time of booking. Some also have a sofa bed, and many have a private balcony.
All have a private bathroom with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, a minibar (charges apply), European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. A bathrobe and slippers are also available free of charge.

U2 – Outside cabin: window, double bed, optional twin, 10–11 m².
F2 – Outside cabin: window, some with limited view, double bed, 17–18 m².

Expedition Suite

Add some indulgence to your voyage aboard MS Fram and reserve one of our Expedition Suites.

Spacious, serviced, and with bed combinations for up to four people, these well-appointed apartments offer special features such as private balconies, expansive windows, and minibars (charges apply).
Suites feature double beds and a seating area, some with a sofa bed. All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, tea-making facilities, and a single-serve coffee machine. Naturally, the accommodation includes a full range of premium facilities including daily turn-down service and laundry.
Complimentary fine dining in our Lindstrøm restaurant is part of the experience, and a takeaway service means you can enjoy dinner exclusively. Champagne on ice and a platter of delicacies are provided for your enjoyment as you set sail.

MG – Grand Suite with balcony: private balcony, double bed, sofa bed, 20–27 m².
Q2 – Mini Suite: window, double bed, sofa bed, 15–20 m².
Q4 – Mini Suite: window, double bed, 15–20 m².

From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

How long is this journey?

This itinerary runs for 13 days and 12 nights.

When can I travel?

Departures are currently scheduled between 22 Jun 2028 and 25 Jul 2028, subject to live availability.

Are there different departure options?

Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.

Can I travel solo?

Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.

What is generally included?

Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.

Ready to lock in?

Book this cruise

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

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