Bear Island

Port Bear Island stands apart from typical Arctic cruise stops by offering an intimate wildlife forward introduction to one of the Svalbard archipelago's southern edges. Signature experiences center on the southern cliffs of Sorhamna, where guides lead small group walks among nesting Brunnichs Guillemots, Common Guillemots, Razorbills, Little Auks, Northern Fulmars, Glaucous Gulls, Atlantic Puffins and Northern Gannets, with optional Zodiac cruises along the basalt shelves to photograph colonies without disturbance. A landing at the meteorological station on the north side offers a rare glimpse into year round Arctic weather research and a sense of isolation that makes the island feel pristine and preserved. The destination pairs with scenic overland and coastal itineraries between Tromso and Svalbard, letting ships customize wildlife focused photography rich experiences. Fleet features at Bear Island calls emphasize expedition vessels built for shallow water landings, compact landing crafts, and a low impact approach to sensitive seabird habitats. Onboard services reflect the expedition ethos: expert naturalists host immersive lectures, wildlife briefings, and nocturnal stargazing sessions; warm lounges, local Arctic cuisine, and flexible dining options provide comfort after immersive shore days.