Spitsbergen

On board the Spitsbergen, single-use plastics are not used, instead, alternative, environmentally friendly materials are employed. The restaurants offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with ingredients and food sourced from local suppliers. Furthermore, food waste on board has been significantly reduced.

The ship utilises advanced technologies to reduce emissions and does not use heavy fuel oil.

During the expedition cruises, experts give talks on environmental protection, climate change and microplastic pollution in the oceans.

HX Expeditions is also a co-founder of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) and a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO). These organisations are working to establish sustainable tourism in the polar regions and to combat mass tourism.

On board the Spitsbergen, you can choose from a range of modern and comfortably furnished staterooms, all of which are equipped with a double bed (some with additional Pullman beds), a television, a bathroom with shower and toiletries, a safe, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Bathrobes and slippers are available on request.

The Polar inside and outside staterooms measure approximately 9 to 20 sqm, whilst the Arktis Superior outside staterooms measure approximately 11 to 18 sqm. These staterooms are located on the lower and upper decks.

The Expedition Suites offer not only luxury but also a unique view of the sea. The Mini Suites measure approx. 16 to 23 sqm, whilst the Grand Suite measures approx. 28 to 29 sqm and features a private balcony, as do the Owner’s Suites, which measure approx. 32 to 33 sqm.

All suites are also equipped with a seating area, a minibar (for a fee) and, in some cases, a sofa bed. Guests staying in the suites benefit from daily room service and a laundry service, and on arrival they can look forward to ice-cold champagne and a platter of delicacies.

The focus of cruises aboard the Spitsbergen is on discovering and experiencing nature. Thanks to the ship’s manageable size, you can enjoy an intimate atmosphere characterised by peace, relaxation and a pleasant sense of community. The Scandinavian interior design in the public areas and staterooms creates a cosy ambience, even in inclement weather.

On board the Spitsbergen, you can look forward to varied and exceptional menus featuring ingredients from the regions you will be visiting.

The following restaurant is included in the price:

• Aune (main restaurant): Breakfast and lunch are served here, as well as a changing selection of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes for dinner.

There is an additional charge for the following restaurant:

• Brygga: The bistro has extended opening hours, so you can also enjoy light meals and snacks here in the late morning and late evening.

Try some refreshing cocktails in the Explorer Lounge & Bar and round off the day with lively conversation with your fellow travellers, or simply enjoy the view of the passing landscape.

The focus of an expedition cruise is on discovering new regions and experiencing nature first-hand. On voyages aboard the Spitsbergen, particular emphasis is therefore placed on imparting knowledge, which is further enriched through expert talks, workshops and hands-on experiences.

The on-board Science Centre is equipped with modern technology and scientific devices. A small library and additional lecture rooms provide the ideal setting for workshops on topics such as photography and biology. The spacious outdoor decks also allow for close-up observation of nature.

After eventful excursions, the sauna and the heated outdoor hot tubs invite you to relax. For sports enthusiasts, there is a small fitness room equipped with treadmills, exercise bikes, a rowing machine, a table tennis table and free weights.

Children are welcome on board, subject to the following rules:

- For expedition cruises to Antarctica and South Georgia, the minimum age is 5 years.
- For safety reasons, the captain decides whether children under the age of 12 may take part in excursions.

There is no childcare, no kids club and no special entertainment program on board the Spitsbergen.

HX Expeditions offers a wide and varied range of shore excursions and activities during its cruises, including, for example, walks or rides on the expedition boat.

In many of the ports of call, guests can take part in an excursion that can be booked at no extra cost. Some of these excursions can be combined with other optional excursions (for a fee) available in the port.

Most excursions can be booked in advance, but can also be booked on board, provided there are still places available. We recommend booking in advance to secure a place on the activities and excursions of your choice.

Unless otherwise stated, the excursions are led by English-speaking tour guides and accompanied by a professional on-board photographer who will capture the finest moments of your journey for you.

Please note that excursions are subject to change at short notice and may be cancelled due to weather conditions.

For maximum comfort, any necessary equipment can be borrowed on board (subject to availability). You will also receive your own complimentary wind- and rain-resistant expedition jacket, as well as a refillable water bottle, which you are welcome to take home as a souvenir of your trip.

The Spitsbergen is the ideal ship for explorers and travellers who enjoy discovering new regions, broadening their horizons and who value a personalised travel experience. Anyone with a passion for fascinating landscapes, foreign cultures and environmental conservation will find this the perfect trip for unforgettable experiences.