TABLE OF CONTENTS
Details | Itinerary | Prices | Inclusions | Exclusions | Pictures and Videos of Ship | Add-On Activities | Pre-Trip Option| Post-Trip Option | Why Travel with Follow The Fro
Experience the stunning beauty of Svalbard with whales, walruses, polar bears, and countless sea birds.
Embark on an incredible journey through icy waters and rugged landscapes in just six days. Explore the unique ecology of this mountainous and glaciated archipelago, getting up close to Arctic wildlife and discovering the rich history of the region. This unique cruise focuses on the southern region of Svalbard, known for its breathtaking scenery and biodiversity. Experience the raw beauty of this high Arctic paradise.
The Details
I have partnered with Albatros Expeditions to bring together a group of adventurous souls for a thrilling Arctic expedition. This marks the third Follow The Fro group trip to a polar region, following a remarkable journey to Antarctica last year with 63 participants, each having the trip of a lifetime. Now, it’s time to conquer the other polar region and prove that these cruises are not just for the retired but also for the young at heart.
Join us and check off an epic bucket list destination alongside fellow badass travelers!
Working closely with Albatros, I am delighted to offer exclusive discounted spots starting at $4,741 for anyone joining the #FollowTheFro tour. (Prices up to 20% off!)
Special Promo!!
Buy two spots, get the 3rd for free in Category C and Category A cabins!
Promo lasts until Feb 29, 2024
Additionally, as a special treat, a dinner drink package is included, featuring complimentary selected house wine, beer, and sodas during dinner. For those seeking a truly unlimited experience, the option to purchase an unlimited drinks package for the entire trip on a per-cabin basis will be available.
Please note that spaces are limited, so don’t delay and secure your spot now before the discounted rooms sell out.
Dates: June 16 to 21.
Optional Add-ons:
- Arctic Adventure – June 14 to 16 – 2 days in Longyearbyen, Svalbard
- Polar Express Part 2 – June 21 to 26 – 6 days in Northern Svalbard
Itinerary
DAY 1: Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen. Embarkation
Board your flight in Norway and arrive in Longyearbyen, Svalbard – the world’s northernmost… everything! This remarkable little city is not only the northernmost town in the world (if one excludes the tiny research community of Ny-Ålesund, slightly further north on Svalbard), but also hosts the world’s northernmost civilian airport, schools, bank and supermarket. The town’s rugged frontier edge belies a core of warm Nordic hospitality and coziness – hyggligt, as we say in Denmark!
Immediately after landing in Longyearbyen, you find yourself in a different world. The chilly Arctic breeze can be felt as soon as you step onto the tarmac, and the famous signpost outside the terminal reminds visitors how far north they really are; as well as to keep watch for bears! The snow-capped mountain Hjorthfjellet looms over the airport on the far side of Adventfjorden, and off in the distance can be seen the saw-toothed peaks and languid glaciers of northern Spitzbergen.
After arrival, you will board the awaiting Ocean Albatros. After our mandatory safety briefing and lifeboat drill, head onto the outer decks to enjoy a glass of champagne while watching your expedition vessel leave civilisation behind… And set a course for adventure!
DAY 2 - 5: South And East Svalbard
During the night, your expedition vessel will reposition away from the last vestiges of civilisation on Svalbard, and head into the wilderless of this storied land. Roughly triangular, the southern half of Svalbard comprised the lower half of the island of Spitsbergen, the island of Edgeøya, and countless fjords, islets and skerries, all of which beckon exploration.
At a first glance, this region may seem barren and lifeless. But look closer and the exact opposite it true – saxifrages, Svalbard poppies and other tundra plants defy the brutal weather, their jewel-like flowers reaching for the weak Arctic sunlight. Tiny calico snow buntings flit between crags, while perfectly camouflaged purple sandpipers scamper along the shore. Look higher up on the vegetated slopes, and there – greyish white ‘boulders’ move and resolve themselves into sheep-sized reindeer: the unique subspecies native to Svalbard. A flash of bluish-black, and the screeches of nearby birds herald the arrival of the Arctic fox, the only native land predator on Svalbard (the polar bear being classified as a marine mammal).
Life on Svalbard relies on the sea – even the few land mammals such as the reindeer and Arctic foxes rely on the moisture brought by the frigid Arctic waters, and it is in the marine environment where Svalbard’s biodiversity is richest. Walrus haul their vast bodies onto flat beaches to rest, where they snuggle together for warmth and protection. Belugas frolic in vast pods in the waters off the coast, harvesting fish and crustaceans from the seabed, and further offshore the vast gentle baleen whales feast upon copepods and small fish.
Southern Svalbard is arguably the first part of the island to be exploited by humans. On Edgeøya, vast piles of snow-bleached bones bear witness to the systematic and industrial-scale slaughter of walrus an beluga in their thousands. The earliest humans on the islands (mainly English and Dutch whalers and Russian Pomor trappers) had little regard for conservation, seeking only profit, a situation which continued well into the 19th century. Thankfully all wildlife on Svalbard is now protected by law, and vast tracts of the archipelago are designated as nature reserves and National Parks – some of the largest and richest in the world!
The exact landing sites we will visit in the south of Svalbard will be determined by wind, sea and ice conditions, which can wildly vary day to day and year to year; this far north, all human activity is subject to the whims of Mother Nature. Possibilities to explore on south Spitzbergen include the fjord systems of Bellsund and Hornsund, where birds cluster together on high cliffs and reindeer graze on the fertile slopes below while icebergs drift by from the various large glaciers in the area. Further east on Edgeøya, sites include the walrus colonies of Andréetangen and Kapp Lee, and the spectacular raised shorelines and bird colonies of Sundneset.
DAY 6: Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen. Disembarkation
During the evening, the Ocean Albatros will reposition to return to the port of Longyearbyen. Even this small town will feel like a metropolis after day spent exploring the wilderness!
Longyearbyen is a fascinating town to explore, and offers excellent amenities to visitors. Visit the peerless Svalbard Museum and see relics of the whaling era, perfectly preserved in the frigid permafrost, alongside exhibits on the natural history of this remarkable archipelago. Shop for memories in the many excellent boutiques of the town, selling locally produced souvenirs, artworks and homewares, or simply relax on a sunny cafe terrace and watch this remarkable little town in action.
After enjoying exploring Longyearbyen, return to Svalbard Airport and join your flight back to the Norwegian mainland- with memories to last a lifetime.
Prices – Book now to get up to $1500 off
Special Promo!!
Buy two spots, get the 3rd for free in Category C and Category A cabins!
Promo lasts until Feb 29, 2024
I have bolded the best-value deals.
Follow The Fro Tours get an exclusive discount for these rooms. The best value is the Category C room since it’s 20% off (~$1500 of savings) and has a great balcony to take in the continent.
And free wine, beer, and sodas at dinner.
There’s also an option to purchase an unlimited drinks package for the duration of your time on the Ocean Albatros
**Click on the cabin type to view a video of the room! **
| Cabin Type | Berths Available | Retail Price | Discounted Price |
| Cat F – Triple Porthole | 3 | $4990 |
$4,741 (Save $249) |
| (Cat G – Single Porthole | 3 | $7,290 | $5,832 (save $1458) |
| Category E – Double Balcony | 5+ | $6,590 | $5,667 (save $923) |
| Cat C – Twin Balcony | 5+ | $7,290 |
$5,832 – 20% off! Save ~$1500 |
| Junior Suite B | 4 | $7,990 | $7,191 (save $799) |
| Premium Suite A | 4 | $8,990 | $8,091 (save $899) |
| Freydis Suite | 4 | $9,990 | $8,991 (save $999) |
What’s Included?
- 6-day/5-night cruise on Ocean Albatros in a shared outside double room with a private bathroom in the category chosen
- Fights: Oslo-Longyearbyen-Oslo
- Local transport in Longyearbyen on days 1 and 6
- English-speaking expedition staff
- Guided walks with the expedition team
- Nature hikes and Zodiac cruises per itinerary
- Information briefings and lectures by the expedition team
- Special photo workshop
- Full board on the ship
- Free coffee, tea, and afternoon snacks on the ship
- Dinner drink package
- Welcome and farewell cocktails
- Taxes, tariffs, and landing fees
- Digital visual journal link after the voyage, including voyage log, gallery, species list, and more
Package Excludes
- Extra excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Single room supplement and cabin upgrades
- Meals not on board the ship
- Beverages (other than coffee and tea and dinner-drink package)
- Tips for the crew (we recommend USD 14 per person per day)
- Personal expenses
- Travel, cancellation, and senior insurance
- Anything not mentioned under ’Inclusions’
What’s the Ship Like?
Want to see more photos of the ship? Fill out the inquiry form and ask for more photos. I promise – this ship is amazing! It’s new and has lots of big windows to take in all the views
The Outdoor Jacuzzi is… wow! Look at the video below
Optional Activities
KAYAKING
Glide through the waters and take in the royal grace of the icebergs, see the varied birds and seals, and maybe even the whales in their natural habitat under the supervision of experienced kayak guides, who will ensure your safety during each outing.
Exercise your body while engaging your mind and heart in an unforgettable outing, safely guided by Kayak masters throughout the journey. Kayaking activities are available on both Arctic and Antarctic voyages.
Although kayaking opportunities are possible in most locations during each excursion in the Antarctic region, weather, sea and iceconditions will dictate the when and where to ensure your safety and improve your experience.
In order to sign up for this activity you need to have previous kayaking experience and attend a mandatory safety briefing by theKayak Master.
The cost is $310/person per outing, and it can only be booked onboard.
Kayaking is offered on all ships and all trips* if conditions allow.
Optional Pre/Post Trip Add-Ons
Pre-Trip: “Arctic Adventure” – 2 Days
Dates: June 14 to 16
Experience the Arctic in all its glory with our exclusive “Arctic Adventure” add-on package, designed to make your Albatros Expeditions Polar Bear Express tour departing on the 16th of June even more unforgettable! This package departs from Oslo on the 14th of June, offering you an immersive Arctic experience before joining the main expedition.
Here’s a sneak peek into what you can expect:
Day 1: June 14th – Departure from Oslo to Longyearbyen
Start your Arctic adventure by flying from Oslo to Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in Svalbard.
Upon arrival in Longyearbyen, you’ll be transferred to your comfortable hotel. Svalbard Hotel offers comfortable rooms in a peaceful environment. It is the best starting point for adventures and relaxation. The rooms are modern with a rustic, arctic touch.
Afternoon Zodiac: RIB Safari to Fuglefjella & Grumant Grumant is like a small ghost town hidden between the mountains towards Coles Bay. This was the largest settlement on Svalbard after the war, with up to 1,200 inhabitants living in Grumant and Coles Bay. The settlement was abandoned at the beginning of the 60s.
- Included: Transportation to and from the hotel, floating suit, life vest, gloves, goggles, balaclava, guide with boat, fuel and safety equipment, search- and- rescue insurance.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Transportation: You will be picked up at your hotel
Day 2: June 15th – Dog Sledding and Northernmost Pub
Start with breakfast at the hotel. Then drive your own dog team! Our steady carts with comfortable suspensions and 4-6 hard-working dogs will take you into the majestic Adventdalen.
Finish the night with Drinks at Svalbard Pub (consumption at own expense) – Join us for drinks at one of the world’s northernmost pub, where you’ll have the chance to share stories with fellow adventurers and soak in the Arctic atmosphere.
- Included : Transportation to and from the hotel, outdoor suit, shoes, gloves, hat and an experienced guide with necessary safety equipment.
- Duration: 3,5 hours
- Transportation: You will be picked up at your hotel
Day 3: June 16th – Board the Polar Bear Express
After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to Longyearben as you embark on the next leg of your journey. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to the port and board the majestic Ocean Albatros for your voyage: The Polar Bear Express. Meet the rest of your expedition group and embark on the voyage of a lifetime.
Package Inclusions:
- 2 nights’ accommodation in Longyearben (pre and post expedition).
- Zodiac excursion through waterways.
- Thrilling dog sledding adventure (weather-dependent).
- Evening drinks at the world’s northernmost pub (consumption at own expense)
- Transfers to and from the hotel, port, and activity locations.
Package Price: $990 (for a single supplement, an additional $550)
Don’t miss this opportunity to add an extra layer of excitement and adventure to your Polar Bear Express tour. Limited slots are available for this exclusive add-on package, so book now to secure your place on this Arctic adventure of a lifetime!
To book the “Arctic Adventure” add-on package or for more information, contact our dedicated expedition specialists.
Please note that this add-on package is subject to availability and weather conditions. Activities may be modified or replaced with suitable alternatives if necessary to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Terms and conditions apply.
Post Trip – “Into The Ice – Polar Bear Express” – North Svalbard – 6 days
Dates: June 21 to 26
For the best possible experience, we recommend combining this southern Svalbard itinerary with it’s sister itinerary: Into the Ice – which will explore the northern region of Svalbard and the icebound Arctic Ocean beyond.
If you are only going to the Arctic once and want a longer voyage, I highly recommend this add-on.
Prices – The prices are the same as the Polar Bear Express Tour that visits South Svalbard. Double the price of the cabin you want to figure out the total price of the 12-day trip.
Itinerary Below:
During the night, your expedition vessel will reposition away from the last vestiges of civilisation on Svalbard, and head into the wilderless of this storied land. Roughly triangular, the southern half of Svalbard comprised the lower half of the island of Spitsbergen, the island of Edgeøya, and countless fjords, islets and skerries, all of which beckon exploration.
At a first glance, this region may seem barren and lifeless. But look closer and the exact opposite it true – saxifrages, Svalbard poppies and other tundra plants defy the brutal weather, their jewel-like flowers reaching for the weak Arctic sunlight. Tiny calico snow buntings flit between crags, while perfectly camouflaged purple sandpipers scamper along the shore. Look higher up on the vegetated slopes, and there – greyish white ‘boulders’ move and resolve themselves into sheep-sized reindeer: the unique subspecies native to Svalbard. A flash of bluish-black, and the screeches of nearby birds herald the arrival of the Arctic fox, the only native land predator on Svalbard (the polar bear being classified as a marine mammal).
Life on Svalbard relies on the sea – even the few land mammals such as the reindeer and Arctic foxes rely on the moisture brought by the frigid Arctic waters, and it is in the marine environment where Svalbard’s biodiversity is richest. Walrus haul their vast bodies onto flat beaches to rest, where they snuggle together for warmth and protection. Belugas frolic in vast pods in the waters off the coast, harvesting fish and crustaceans from the seabed, and further offshore the vast gentle baleen whales feast upon copepods and small fish.
Southern Svalbard is arguably the first part of the island to be exploited by humans. On Edgeøya, vast piles of snow-bleached bones bear witness to the systematic and industrial-scale slaughter of walrus an beluga in their thousands. The earliest humans on the islands (mainly English and Dutch whalers and Russian Pomor trappers) had little regard for conservation, seeking only profit, a situation which continued well into the 19th century. Thankfully all wildlife on Svalbard is now protected by law, and vast tracts of the archipelago are designated as nature reserves and National Parks – some of the largest and richest in the world!
The exact landing sites we will visit in the south of Svalbard will be determined by wind, sea and ice conditions, which can wildly vary day to day and year to year; this far north, all human activity is subject to the whims of Mother Nature. Possibilities to explore on south Spitzbergen include the fjord systems of Bellsund and Hornsund, where birds cluster together on high cliffs and reindeer graze on the fertile slopes below while icebergs drift by from the various large glaciers in the area. Further east on Edgeøya, sites include the walrus colonies of Andréetangen and Kapp Lee, and the spectacular raised shorelines and bird colonies of Sundneset.
Why Go On A Follow The Fro Tour?
1. Best Value
The price for a cabin on the Ocean Victory with Follow The Fro tours is unbeatable. It will be hard to find a lower price for the same quality of the trip.
2. Ocean Albatros is a Great Boat
Albatros’ small expedition ships have a distinct advantage over larger, traditional cruise ships. They can access narrow inlets and sail close to shore, in-between icebergs and in remote areas of the ocean. This allows us to disembark quickly via our fleet of Zodiac watercraft and access amazing sites with greater speed and efficiency.
3. Strict Sustainable Travel Policy
All cruises are carbon offset, seafood is sustainably sourced, and there’s an aim to eliminate single-use plastic on board.
4. Connect With Other Adventurous Souls
Come and make life-long friends. We will have an epic group of people together. Face it – if someone is signing up to visit the Arctic, they must have a fun wanderlust spirit.
Book The Tour Below!
To book the “Follow The Fro To Svalbard Tour,” click here to fill out the interest form.
This tour has limited space remaining — book soon to avoid disappointment! A 25% deposit is required to reserve your spot.
If you have any pressing questions or just want to learn more about the tour from Kesi herself, send an email to kesitoandfro@gmail.com
F.A.Q’s
1. Is there a payment plan?
A 25% deposit is due to confirm your spot. The final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.
Reference Albatros for all terms and conditions.
Travel With Kesi
On this trip, you’ll be traveling with Kesi Irvin as your host. Kesi loves to enterntain others and promises to bring together a eclectic group of fun-loving adventerous spirits. I hope you are ready to learn new cards games, make new friends, and travel to an untouched land!