Hornsund

Port Hornsund stands apart from other Arctic cruise ports because it feels like a pristine, intimate gateway to some of Spitsbergen's most dramatic coastlines. Its sheltered fjord opens onto ice polished bays where towering cliffs host colonies of seabirds and close proximity to glacial fronts invites fearless zodiac and shore landings. Signature experiences include up close glacier cruising through the Hornsund system, guided wildlife watching for polar foxes and seals, and optional polar plunge or midnight sun kayaking that lets guests ride the light and wind. The region serves as a launching point to immersive excursions into Sør-Spitsbergen National Park and nearby historic settlements and coastal villages, offering a blend of remote wilderness and culture. Fleet features on expeditions to Hornsund emphasize ice strengthened hulls, stabilised platforms, and a generous fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks that enable gentle shore visits as well as bold landings on rugged beaches. Onboard services focus on discovery and comfort: naturalist led briefings, science oriented lectures, panoramic lounges with 360 degree views, spa and sauna, a refined dining program featuring local Arctic ingredients, and flexible excursion planning so guests can tailor days to weather, wildlife, and photography light. Hornsund is not just a port of call but a vivid, time stretched coastline experience that invites guests to slow down, listen to the polar wind, and return with stories of glacier blues, starry skies, and intimate sightings that larger ports rarely deliver.