Arctic Spitsbergen, Greenland and Iceland

How big are the groups?

The Akademik Sergey Vavilov can carry a maximum of 104 passengers, the Akademik Shokalskiy can carry up to 48 passengers. To explore such a region with just a small number of fellow passengers from all over the world will make your Arctic voyage of discovery and adventure a truly unforgettable experience.

What is included in the tour price?

• Voyage aboard one of the ships as indicated in the itinerary • All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship • All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac • Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff • Arrival and departure transfers in Longyearbyen and Reykjavik as per itinerary • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program. • Comprehensive pre-departure booklet and expedition manual • A pair of rubber boots to loan • Photographic Album on DVD • An adventure parka to keep

What is not included in the tour price?

International flights, visa and passport fees, airport departure taxes, any pre-trip or post-trip hotel accommodation, laundry, postage, telephone calls, drinks, medical expenses, travel insurance, gratuities to staff and crew.

Travel Insurance

Medical and cancellation insurance are not included in the cost of the program, but is strongly recommended. Emergency Evacuation insurance (with a maximum benefit of $100,000) is included. Included coverage is applicable only to travel between the first and last day of the expedition purchased. However MEDICAL coverage is not included. ElderTreks offers a fully comprehensive policy to insure you fully, please call for details.

Are these “educational” tours?

Yes, we travel with an experienced team of naturalists and lecturers, offering a unique educational program. With formal lectures, as well as informal briefings, your lectures and expedition leader will cover all aspects of the voyage including ornithology, marine biology, geography, geology, history and the environment. On board you will be fully briefed on safety issues and the environmental policy and you will also receive appropriate briefings before every landing.

How do we travel during the tour?

We sail aboard the Akademik Sergey Vavilov or the Akademik Shokalskiy. We use Zodiacs for shore excursions.

What about the weather?

In very general terms, be prepared for temperatures that range from 5°F (-15°C) to 40°F (4°C). If you are properly dressed, even sub zero temperatures can be quite comfortable.

When is payment due?

A deposit of $1200.00 is required to confirm a reservation with final payment due 120 days prior to departure. Deposits can be made by credit card. Final payments can be made by check or credit card. Cancellation charges are applicable and are outlined in the “Terms and Conditions” section of our brochure.

What are the meals like?

Chefs prepare varied international cuisine using fine provisions from around the world. The dining room is located on the main deck and it seats all passengers comfortably in one seating. It is attractively lit and comfortably furnished. There are outside windows and it is immaculately maintained. In one corner, there is a bar, which is used for meal times. There is also a comfortable lounge area in this corner. Lunches and dinners are served to the table by our ship’s stewards. Breakfast is also served here, but in a buffet style.

What should I take on the trip?

Once you have made your final payment, an “Expedition Cruising-Preparing for your Arctic Voyage” primer will be sent to you. Zodiac landing.

Can you arrange my flights?

We would be happy to take care of your air arrangements. ElderTreks offers personalized flight itineraries — not group flights. The transit point for flights to Longyearbyen is Oslo, Norway. We recommend pre & post sailing accommodation be booked in Oslo, due to flight times. Group air between Oslo and Longyearbyen may be available. ElderTreks is happy to make those arrangements, please contact our office for details.

What if I would like more information?

Please feel free to contact our office for additional information.