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  • Aurora Expeditions Svalbard Cruise Review [2025 Guide]

    Aurora Expeditions Svalbard Cruise Review [2025 Guide]


    Svalbard sits on the edge of the map, a land of glaciers, polar bears, and remote fjords where the Arctic Ocean meets the pack ice.

    At 78° North, this Norwegian archipelago is one of the wildest places on Earth, and joining a Svalbard cruise with Aurora Expeditions is the best way to experience it.

    Being fortunate enough to work in the polar regions since 2017, with over 20 expeditions to Antarctica and 5 to the Arctic under our belts, it’s safe to say we have developed a deep passion for the far reaches of the planet.

    Yet still the attraction remains stronger than ever, and with Svalbard being arguably the icon of Arctic travel, we couldn’t be more thrilled to finally visit together.

    In August 2025 we boarded the Greg Mortimer for their 11-day Svalbard Odyssey voyage through Spitsbergen and the high Arctic, chasing polar bears, walrus, reindeer, ivory gulls, beluga whales, and countless seabirds.

    READ MORE: Check out our full Greg Mortimer ship review!

    Along the way we explored historic sites like Ny-Ålesund and Virgohamna, cruised beneath towering glaciers such as Lilliehöökbreen and Negribreen, and pushed as far north as 82°39’ into the drifting sea ice.

    No two polar expeditions are ever the same. The itinerary in Svalbard changes daily, dictated by weather, ice, and wildlife.

    This is our detailed review of the Aurora Expeditions Svalbard itinerary, showcasing the landings, wildlife encounters, and onboard life that made our voyage unforgettable.

    If you’re planning a trip to the Arctic and want to know exactly what to expect on a Svalbard cruise with Aurora Expeditions, this guide covers everything: the highlights, the surprises, and the moments that make expedition travel so special.

    EXCLUSIVE – We have partnered with the world’s top polar tour operator, Aurora Expeditions, to offer readers of NOMADasaurus a very special deal on any trip to Antarctica or the Arctic! Contact us (hello@nomadasaurus.com) if you’d like to learn more about these exclusive discounts. Or simply mention the code “NOMAD” when booking direct with Aurora to activate the deal.

    Aurora Expeditions Svalbard Cruise Itinerary
    Epic landscapes and incredible wildlife – there’s so much to experience on an adventure to the high Arctic. Read on to discover what it’s like on an Aurora Expeditions Svalbard cruise itinerary.

    Quick Facts – Aurora Expeditions Svalbard Cruise

    • Operator: Aurora Expeditions
    • Ship: Greg Mortimer (130-passenger, purpose-built expedition ship)
    • Destination: Svalbard, Norway (Arctic)
    • Itinerary: Svalbard Odyssey
    • Duration: 12 days
    • Start/Finish: Oslo, Norway (includes a charter flight to and from Longyearbyen, Svalbard)
    • Focus: Polar bears, glaciers, sea ice, Arctic wildlife, history, and remote landings

    Note: Expedition cruising in Svalbard is highly flexible. Ice, weather, and wildlife dictate where you go each day, so no two voyages are alike. This is a review of our exact journey in August 2025.


    Day 1 – Leaving Longyearbyen Behind

    Few places feel like the edge of the world quite like Longyearbyen.

    Tucked between sharp peaks and glacial valleys at 78° North, this coal-mining town is a curious mix of frontier grit and Arctic charm.

    It’s also the launch point for almost every expedition into Svalbard, and for us it marked the beginning of an adventure we’d been dreaming about for years.

    Arriving at the pier there was a buzz of energy. Expedition jackets, tripods, backpacks, and wide-eyed excitement all mingled together as we caught our first glimpse of the Greg Mortimer – the sleek expedition ship that would carry us deep into the Arctic Ocean.

    The crew met us at the gangway with warm smiles, inside the hotel staff welcomed the expeditioners with trays of canapés and genuine enthusiasm.

    The first hours onboard slipped by in a blur. Bags were dropped into cabins, cameras laid out for the days ahead, and before long we were sitting in the lecture theatre for introductions.

    Alesha Taking Photos Longyearbyen
    Alesha out on deck photographing the landscapes as we depart Longyearbyen.

    Expedition Leader Isabelle set the tone with calm confidence, introducing her team of guides, historians, scientists, and Zodiac drivers.

    Safety briefings followed, along with fittings for jackets, muck boots, and kayak equipment for those that had signed up.

    It was part orientation, part initiation – the moment where the trip stopped being abstract and suddenly became very real.

    That evening, as the Greg Mortimer eased away from the dock, Longyearbyen’s colourful houses grew smaller against the mountains until they vanished completely.

    Phones were tucked away, chatter quietened, and a hush fell across the decks. The Arctic stretched out ahead – endless, icy, and wild.

    Civilisation was behind us now, and in its place was something infinitely more exciting: the unknown.

    READ MORE: Find out the whether the north or south is for you with our Antarctica vs the Arctic guide.

    Longyearbyen Svalbard Spitsbergen
    Setting sail from Longyearbyen.

    Day 2 – Ice and Science at Ny-Ålesund

    The first full day of our Arctic voyage began with breakfast served against a staggering backdrop – the Lilliehöökbreen Glacier.

    Stretching across Krossfjord in a wall of jagged blue, it was our first real taste of the landscapes that define Svalbard.

    The Greg Mortimer glided slowly past, icebergs drifting silently in the fjord while fulmars skimmed the water’s surface.

    Cameras clicked over coffee cups, and the ship’s railings filled with expeditioners wide-eyed at the scale of it all.

    But before anyone could set foot ashore, there was work to do. In the lecture theatre the Expedition Team ran us through the realities of travel in the high Arctic: how to behave in polar bear territory, the ins and outs of Zodiac operations, and the importance of biosecurity.

    Every backpack was scrubbed, boots vacuumed, and Velcro checked for seeds – a small but vital ritual to keep Svalbard’s fragile ecosystem intact.

    By afternoon the wind was up, but the team had something special planned.

    Zodiacs bounced through choppy water into Kongsfjord, landing us at Ny-Ålesund, one of the northernmost communities in the world.

    Once a mining settlement, today it’s a hub for international Arctic research. Walking between brightly painted buildings, we learned about the polar expeditions that set off from here – dreams of reaching the North Pole etched into the town’s legacy.

    After a guided wander we had time to explore on our own. Some browsed the small museum and shop, while others sent postcards stamped with the magic of the high Arctic.

    That evening we gathered back onboard for the Captain’s Welcome Cocktail, glasses raised in celebration.

    The ship hummed with stories of glaciers and research towns, and as we toasted to the days ahead, it felt like the expedition had truly begun.

    Day 3 – Walrus, Whalers, and Foxes in Raudfjord

    By the third morning at sea the Arctic had revealed its rhythm: a quiet breakfast broken by the hum of Zodiacs dropping into the water, cameras slung over shoulders, and the sense that anything could happen once we left the ship.

    Our destination was Smeerenburg, once the busiest whaling station in the Arctic and now a lonely spit of land at the top of Spitsbergen.

    The name itself translates to “Blubber Town,” and it was here in the 17th century that Dutch whalers rendered countless whales into oil.

    Greg Mortimer Glacier Views
    The Greg Mortimer anchored in front of a large glacier in Raufjorden on day 3.

    Today the furnaces are long gone, replaced by drifting ice and the heavy forms of walrus sprawled across the beach.

    We floated in our Zodiacs just offshore, watching as these enormous pinnipeds rolled over each other, splashed into the shallows, and lifted their tusked heads in lazy acknowledgement of our presence.

    The water was thick with jellyfish and ctenophores, delicate and otherworldly, while Arctic terns and glaucous gulls wheeled overhead.

    History may have emptied Smeerenburg of people, but wildlife has reclaimed it in full.

    Nearby, at Virgohamna, the ghosts of Arctic exploration lingered.

    Here in the early 1900s, adventurers like Salomon August Andrée and Walter Wellman built their bases in a desperate bid to reach the North Pole.

    Neither succeeded, and the ruins of their camps remain as weathered reminders of ambition meeting the reality of the Arctic.

    Around the shoreline we spotted harbour seals stretched on rocks, geese picking through the grass, and black guillemots drifting silently on the water.

    By afternoon the Greg Mortimer nosed into Raudfjord, its peaks reflected on glassy water.

    We landed at Alicehamna, splitting into small groups to explore on foot.

    One of the highlights of travelling the Arctic compared to the Antarctic is the ability to really stretch the legs and enjoy long hikes, under the safety of trained polar bear spotters and rifle handlers, of course.

    We hiked a few kilometres, stopping along the way to hear the expedition team share details of the flora and fauna that make Alicehamna, and Svalbard, so interesting.

    That night, as the ship pointed north toward the ice, conversation over dinner circled back to the day’s sightings.

    The Arctic was revealing itself in contrasts: history and survival, silence and abundance, fragility and resilience.

    READ MORE: Keen to explore elsewhere in the Arctic? Why not check out a Greenland cruise!

    Day 4 – Into the Sea Ice: First Glimpse of the King

    The coastline of Spitsbergen slipped away overnight, and by morning the world outside had transformed.

    The Greg Mortimer moved slowly through bands of drifting fog, the sea flat and glassy, the air sharp enough to sting our cheeks.

    The ship’s coordinates ticked steadily north — 80°, then 81° — each degree a milestone that carried us further from land and deeper into the Arctic.

    Outside the oily slick of the ocean started to become peppered with pack ice, remnants of the long Arctic winter that was now retreating back towards the North Pole.

    The silence was broken by a shout that rippled through the corridors: “Bear!”

    Within moments, the decks were crowded. Cameras and binoculars appeared in every hand, lenses aimed at a single patch of ice where a polar bear wandered around on a floe.

    Polar Bear On Ice Svalbard
    Our first polar bear of the trip – spotted on the sea ice at 82 degrees north. A sighting none of us will ever forget. Shot with a telephoto lens at a distance, adhering to all responsible wildlife viewing regulations.

    It rolled lazily, paws in the air like it had not a care in the world, before standing and ambling across the ice with powerful, unhurried strides.

    For many onboard it was their first encounter with the animal that had drawn them here – a defining moment that would never be forgotten.

    Keeping a safe distance and adhering to all responsible wildlife viewing regulations, we enjoyed our time with the bear and then continued our journey north.

    The ship pressed deeper into the pack, floes scraping along the hull with hollow cracks.

    By midday we had reached 82°39’ North, our highest latitude of the voyage, and the furthest north the Greg Mortimer had ever reached, surrounded by a frozen jigsaw of white and electric blue.

    The fog lifted briefly and the sun broke through, lighting the ice as though we had entered another world.

    At the bow, passengers gathered for a celebratory photo, cheeks flushed from cold and excitement.

    We continued our search for more wildlife, but alas the elusive polar bear did not reappear this time around.

    Conversation buzzed as we relived the morning’s sighting, the bear’s movements already etched into memory and we counted our lucky stars that we had seen one, knowing that some trips never have that opportunity.

    That night at dinner the story was retold again and again, each version carrying the same awe: the moment the Arctic gave us our first polar bear.

    Day 5 – History in Stone, Courage in Ice

    Sunlight poured across the deck as the Greg Mortimer threaded through Beverlysundet, a narrow stretch of water separating Chermsideøya from Nordaustlandet.

    From a distance the island looked like little more than a barren rise of rock, but as Zodiacs touched the shore its history came into focus.

    Etched into boulders above the landing site were markings left in 1928 by the crew of the Russian icebreaker Krasin, who had sailed north in search of the missing Italian explorer Umberto Nobile.

    READ MORE: At the other end of the earth, learn everything you need to know about travelling to Antarctica!

    These scratched names and dates, still visible nearly a century later, carried the weight of desperation and hope from an earlier age of polar exploration.

    The expedition team offered a variety of hikes for those who wanted to go to shore and wander the tundra under a pale sky – a long, fast walk, a medium pace, and a short stroll for anyone that felt like just sitting on a rock and contemplating the majesty and history around them.

    Two hours later our fast group was picked up at the other side of the island and the Zodiacs whisked us back to the Greg Mortimer.

    Back onboard the mood shifted from reflective to electric. The call went out for the polar plunge, and more than thirty passengers lined up on the gangway.

    One by one they leapt into the Arctic Ocean, shrieking as the 6°C water clamped around them, surfacing with wild grins before scrambling back to the ladders.

    The cheers from the railings rang louder than the splash of the waves.

    Alesha did the plunge as well, an enormous milestone after her cardiac arrest. Her doctors had originally told her that a polar plunge was something she could never do again, but with her incredible recovery she had been given the approval earlier in the year to do it again, on the condition she slid in, not jump.

    And now she can proudly say she has done the polar plunge in both Antartica and the Arctic AFTER suffering a cardiac arrest.

    Nothing can stop her!

    Alesha Polar Plunge Svalbard
    Alesha about to do the polar plunge above 80 degrees North!

    The afternoon brought a different kind of challenge. The plan was to land at Phippsøya, but the weather closed in fast.

    Fog rolled across the sea until Zodiacs could hardly see one another. Instead, we explored by boat around Parryøya, each group vanishing into the white before reappearing like ghosts on the horizon.

    Out of the haze came flashes of life: the tusks of walrus breaking the surface, a scatter of eider ducklings, and for one lucky boat, the pale outline of a distant polar bear.

    By the time everyone returned to the ship, GPS guiding drivers through the fog, the story of the plunge and the fog-bound cruise filled the dining room.

    History etched in stone, adrenaline in icy water, and wildlife emerging from the mist – it had been a day that captured every side of the Arctic.

    Walrus In Water Parryøya
    A pod of walrus at Parryøya.

    Day 6 – The Bird Cliffs of Alkefjellet

    Rain tapped softly on our hoods as Zodiacs skimmed across choppy water toward Alkefjellet, one of the most dramatic seabird colonies in the Arctic.

    Dark dolerite cliffs rose sheer from the sea, streaked with moss and guano, and alive with the calls of thousands upon thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots.

    The air was filled with movement – birds wheeling overhead, diving into the waves, or balancing awkwardly on narrow ledges carved into the rock.

    Brünnich’s Guillemots At Alkefjellet
    Tens of thousands Brünnich’s guillemots flying overhead at Alkefjellet – one of the Arctic’s most impressive sights.

    Up close, the cliffs seemed to hum. Every ledge was packed with guillemots chattering in a deafening chorus.

    Some chicks had already taken their leap of faith, tiny bundles of fluff paddling beside their fathers on the water.

    Others hurled themselves from dizzying heights, wings flapping furiously before splashing into the sea – a rite of passage repeated for millennia.

    Black-legged kittiwakes soared in the wind, while an Arctic fox darted across the shoreline, searching for any chick unlucky enough to stray.

    It was raw, noisy, messy, and utterly captivating.

    By afternoon the weather had other ideas. The plan was to land at Torrellneset, often a reliable spot for walrus, but the fog thickened until the coastline disappeared entirely.

    Even the Zodiacs could barely keep sight of one another. The decision was made to cancel, a sharp reminder that the Arctic is always in control.

    Torrellneset Glacier Waterfall
    A waterfall tumbles from the Torrellneset glacier.

    Instead, the day turned inward. Back on the Greg Mortimer, naturalist John delivered a powerful lecture on polar bears, weaving together science, photography, and personal stories of encounters in the wild.

    As the fog clung to the ship, his words painted vivid pictures of the King of the Arctic moving across the ice.

    That night the crew rolled out a surprise: a barbecue in the main restaurant. Decked out in wigs and funny hats, we all tucked in to a delectable spread of meats, vegetables and salads with music playing over the speakers.

    Arctic Fox
    Portrait of an Arctic fox.

    Day 7 – Kvitøya: White Island and the Bear Bonanza

    Through the night the Greg Mortimer pressed northeast, swallowed by fog so thick it felt like the ship had been erased from the world.

    By morning, the haze hadn’t shifted – a ghostly white pressing in from every side.

    Then, just as breakfast ended, the curtain lifted. Out of the mist loomed Kvitøya, or “White Island,” a desolate place almost entirely buried beneath an ice cap.

    Few people ever set foot here, and for good reason.

    This remote island is tied to one of the Arctic’s most tragic stories – the doomed 1897 balloon expedition of Swedish explorer Salomon August Andrée, who perished with his companions on these very shores.

    We had hoped to land at Andreeneset, where a memorial marks the site, but the fog rolled back in, smothering the coastline and dashing the chance.

    What we found instead was something far rarer, and far greater. Along the beaches and across the ice, polar bears appeared. Over a dozen!

    Kvitøya Polar Bear
    A polar bear wanders down the rocks at Kvitøya.

    At first it was a shape moving on the shoreline, then another sprawled on a snowbank, then more padding across the rocks.

    Before long, whispers of “another one!” rippled across the Zodiacs until we’d counted at least eleven bears in sight.

    Some lifted their heads lazily to watch us, others wandered with steady, powerful strides, their creamy fur blending into the fog.

    It felt surreal – the Arctic’s top predator, not a distant dream on the horizon but a presence everywhere we looked.

    The landing might have been impossible, but no one minded.

    This was a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle, the kind of encounter you hope for but never expect.

    Back onboard, the afternoon was filled with lectures on sea ice, polar bears, and the ship itself, yet the conversation always circled back to Kvitøya.

    That night, the dining room buzzed with a single story, told in different words but always the same at heart: the day the fog lifted, and the Arctic revealed eleven polar bears on a single island.

    Polar Bear Kvitøya Svalbard
    Another bear emerges from the fog.

    Day 8 – Negribreen: Ghost Birds in the Mist

    The morning broke in silence. A pale mist hung over Negribreen, one of Svalbard’s largest glaciers, its jagged front spilling icebergs into the fjord.

    Zodiacs slipped quietly between glowing blocks of ice, each one a sculpture of shifting blues and greens. The world felt still, muffled by fog, every sound softened by the weight of the ice.

    Then came a cry – not from us, but from above. The sharp call of an ivory gull cut through the mist.

    Out of the whiteness, a pair appeared, circling a large berg before settling on its crest.

    Ivory Gull Svalbard Arctic
    An ivory gull soars overhead at Negribreen.

    Their snow-white feathers blended perfectly with the glacier, so pure it was hard to distinguish bird from ice.

    Moments later, more arrived, until a small flock wheeled above us, their movements ghostlike against the sky.

    These elusive gulls are among the rarest seabirds in the Arctic, and seeing them here – so close, so fleeting – felt like witnessing a secret few ever glimpse.

    Back onboard, bird expert Meike brought the encounter to life in an engaging lecture, explaining the fragile future of ivory gulls and the challenges Arctic seabirds face across their long migrations.

    The morning’s magic turned into knowledge, deepening the experience.

    The afternoon brought another change of plans. A landing at Sundneset was cancelled when both reindeer and a polar bear were spotted near the site.

    Instead, the Greg Mortimer pushed toward Hornsund, while onboard life filled the hours: I gave a photo-editing workshop, a North Pole tale from historian Jamie, and a lively game run by the Expedition Team.

    Evening drinks carried on with stories of foxes, birds, and glaciers, but it was the gulls that lingered. They seemed to embody the Arctic itself — elusive, fragile, and unforgettable.

    Day 9 – Bamsebu: Bones and Belugas

    Fog swallowed our morning once again, forcing the Expedition Team to abandon plans for Calypsobyen and divert to Bamsebu, a lonely beach marked by one small cabin.

    From a distance it looked unremarkable – a weathered hut above a seaweed-strewn shore. But as we landed, the truth of the place became clear.

    Scattered across the beach were the remains of more than 550 beluga whales, slaughtered in the 1930s when this site served as a whaling station.

    Whaler's Hut Bamsebu Svalbard
    The old trapper’s hut at Bamsebu.

    The bones lie there still, bleached by the Arctic sun and tide, a haunting monument to an era when wildlife was nothing more than a commodity.

    Walking among them was sobering, a reminder that the Arctic is not only a wilderness of ice and silence, but also a witness to human exploitation.

    Yet, as if on cue, the Arctic offered balance.

    The fog finally lifted, and the fjord opened into a panorama of mountains and islands.

    Kayakers paddled into the wide bay, their bright boats small against the vast landscape. The mood lightened, spirits lifted by the sheer scale of where we stood.

    That afternoon, a second attempt at Calypsobyen was thwarted once again by fog, but fortune redirected us into Recherchefjord.

    There, a dozing polar bear rested on a hillside while reindeer grazed on the next hill.

    Polar Bear At Recherchefjord
    Another polar bear spotted on the hill!

    Overhead, an Arctic tern attacked a flock of kittiwakes with fearless fury, defending its nest against birds much larger than itself.

    Rene cruised us into a berg-filled bay with a stunning glacier emerging amongst the fog.

    The face was active, with small chunks of ice tumbling down and the glacier cracking and groaning as it shifted so slightly into the sea.

    Suddenly an enormous piece of ice calved from the glacier, crashing into the bay and sending waves in all directions.

    Recherchefjord Glacier Calving
    Incredibly luckily to witness this galcier calving at Recherchefjord.

    We cheered and basked in the experience, from a safe distance of course, before making our way back towards the Greg Mortimer.

    And then came the sight none of us expected: a pod of beluga whales, surfacing in the fjord, some with calves at their side.

    Their white backs rolled through the grey water, a living echo to the bones we had seen earlier that day.

    From tragedy to resilience, Bamsebu had shown us both the darkest chapter and the most hopeful future of the Arctic.

    Day 10 – Poolepynten & Alkhornet: The Last Step

    Our final full day in Svalbard dawned clear, the fog that had defined so many mornings finally gone.

    The Greg Mortimer anchored off Poolepynten, a low-lying spit known for its walrus haul-outs.

    But in true expedition style, the animals weren’t there to greet us. Instead, the beach revealed a different kind of drama.

    We walked across soft mosses and driftwood, the air alive with bird calls.

    Kittiwakes filled the sky, while Arctic terns dived fearlessly at anyone who strayed too close to their nests.

    Along a lake, a sly Arctic fox prowled in plain sight, constantly harassed by furious birds intent on keeping it away from their chicks.

    A lonely walrus, weary and battered from an age of battles, dozed on the beach.

    In the distance, reindeer grazed under a low ceiling of clouds, indifferent to our presence. It was a reminder that the Arctic doesn’t always deliver what you expect, but it always delivers something.

    Walrus Poolepynten Svalbard Aurora Expeditions Review
    A resting walrus at Poolepynten.

    By afternoon we sailed into Isfjorden, a sign that civilisation was near.

    Yet before Longyearbyen came into view, we had one last landing — Alkhornet.

    Beneath its sheer dolomite cliffs, thousands of kittiwakes wheeled in chaotic circles, their calls echoing across the fjord.

    On the tundra below, dozens of reindeer wandered, far more than we had seen all trip.

    Reindeer At Alkhornet Svalbard
    Finally we had the chance to see reindeer up close.

    The abundance was overwhelming, a fitting finale that seemed to sum up the richness of Svalbard in a single view.

    As we stood beneath the cliffs, watching the last light soften over the mountains, the journey replayed itself in our minds: walrus sprawled on ancient whaling beaches, guillemot chicks plunging into the sea, ivory gulls circling out of the mist, and polar bears – so many polar bears – etched forever in memory.

    The Arctic had given us everything: beauty, unpredictability, and a raw wildness that cannot be tamed. It was the perfect closing chapter.

    Day 11 – Longyearbyen: The End of the Road

    The mountains of Isfjorden came back into view as the Greg Mortimer eased toward Longyearbyen, the place where it had all begun.

    After ten days in the wild, the colourful houses along the shore looked almost surreal, a reminder that civilisation still existed beyond the silence of glaciers and sea ice.

    Disembarkation was bittersweet. Bags lined the corridors, jackets were handed back, and friends embraced with promises to stay in touch.

    The ship that had become our floating home was suddenly just a vessel again, ready for its next voyage.

    But the memories lingered: the first polar bear rising from a floe, the ivory gulls wheeling out of the mist, the walrus sprawled on beaches, and the reindeer grazing beneath Alkhornet’s cliffs.

    Svalbard had been more than a destination – it was an experience that had reshaped the way we saw wilderness.

    Longyearbyen might have been the end of the road, but the Arctic had already followed us home.

    Aurora Expeditions Team
    Thank you to the legendary expedition team at Aurora Expeditions for a fantastic experience.

    About the Greg Mortimer

    For this voyage we sailed aboard the Greg Mortimer, Aurora Expeditions’ purpose-built expedition ship.

    With its innovative X-BOW® design, the vessel handled the open seas with remarkable stability, giving us a smooth ride even when the Arctic threw its weight around.

    Life onboard was relaxed and welcoming. Days flowed between lectures in the theatre, casual meals in the dining room, quiet moments in the library, and time out on deck watching the scenery roll past.

    The mudroom made Zodiac operations seamless, and the cabins were comfortable sanctuaries to return to after long days in the field.

    We’ve written a full review of the Greg Mortimer, covering the cabins, dining, and onboard experience in more detail — you can read it here: Greg Mortimer Ship Review.

    Greg Mortimer Ship Review Image
    Aurora Expeditions’ first X-Bow vessel at the base of a glacier in Svalbard. Read our full Greg Mortimer ship review to see what life is like onboard.

    Top 10 Tips for a Svalbard Expedition

    Planning a voyage into the High Arctic? Here are our best tips to help you get the most out of your Svalbard expedition cruise:

    1. Pack Layers, Not Bulk
      The weather changes fast – from fog and drizzle to sunshine and snow in the same day. A good base layer, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof shell will cover you for every landing.
    2. Bring a Dry Bag for Your Camera
      Zodiac spray, sleet, and rain are a constant threat. A simple waterproof dry bag (or even a roll-top backpack liner) will keep your gear safe between ship and shore.
    3. Learn Your Camera Before You Go
      Wildlife doesn’t wait while you fumble with settings. Practice at home with your zoom lens, fast shutter speeds, and burst mode so you’re ready when a polar bear steps onto the ice.
    4. Don’t Skip the Biosecurity Checks
      Cleaning Velcro and vacuuming gear may seem tedious, but it’s essential. Svalbard’s ecosystem is fragile, and these steps protect the environment you came to see.
    5. Respect Wildlife Distances
      The Expedition Team sets strict approach limits for good reason. Staying back ensures both safety and natural behaviour – and with long lenses, you’ll still capture stunning photos.
    6. Expect Plans to Change
      Fog, ice, or a wandering bear can cancel a landing in seconds. Embrace the flexibility. Often, the backup plan turns into one of the trip’s highlights.
    7. Take Advantage of the Lectures
      The onboard talks are more than filler – they deepen the experience. Learning about Arctic history, geology, or seabirds makes every landing richer.
    8. Get Out on Deck Often
      Some of the best wildlife sightings happen while the ship is underway. Whales, seabirds, and even polar bears can appear out of nowhere. Always keep your binoculars handy.
    9. Join the Polar Plunge (If You Dare)
      It’s cold. It’s ridiculous. But leaping into the Arctic Ocean is a memory you’ll never forget – and the hot shower afterwards feels like luxury.
    10. Soak It All In
      Between cameras, lectures, and logistics, it’s easy to stay busy. But don’t forget to simply stand on deck, breathe the icy air, and watch the Arctic drift by. These moments of stillness often become the most treasured memories.
    Alesha In Svalbard

    Verdict – Our Thoughts on Svalbard with Aurora Expeditions

    Svalbard is one of those rare places that feels more like another planet than another country.

    From the silence of drifting sea ice to the chaos of bird cliffs, from ivory gulls and walrus to the unforgettable thrill of spotting polar bears, every day brought something different – and often something completely unexpected.

    What stood out most was not just the landscapes or the wildlife, but the way expedition cruising works in the Arctic.

    Plans shifted constantly – landings cancelled, routes adjusted, surprises embraced – yet each change revealed something we might never have experienced otherwise.

    That flexibility is the essence of Svalbard, and Aurora Expeditions handled it with skill, safety, and genuine passion.

    The Greg Mortimer proved the perfect platform: comfortable, welcoming, and designed to take us deep into the ice without sacrificing the intimacy of a small-ship voyage.

    The Expedition Team were exceptional – knowledgeable, approachable, and clearly in love with this wild corner of the world.

    Their expertise turned every landing into more than just a visit; it became an education.

    Would we recommend it? Absolutely. If you’ve ever dreamed of standing at 82° North watching a polar bear pad across the ice, of drifting beneath seabird cliffs so alive they shake with sound, or of kayaking beneath a glacier face glowing blue in the mist, a Svalbard expedition with Aurora delivers it all — and more.

    It’s not just a cruise; it’s an adventure into the unknown, where every day feels like a gift from the Arctic itself.





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  • 10 reasons you’ll love a European River Cruise

    10 reasons you’ll love a European River Cruise


    If you are culturally curious and love to explore new destinations, then a European River Cruise could be for you. On my cruises on the Rhine, Rhone and Danube I’ve visited vibrant capitals like Vienna and Amsterdam and explored charming riverside towns and villages, each with their stories to tell. For the richness and variety of the destination experience, combined with the convenience of staying on board a small floating hotel, I think a river cruise wins over an ocean cruise.

    Sundeck on board a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    10 reasons to enjoy a European river cruise

    Read on to discover whether you’ll enjoy a European River Cruise, as well as some ‘watch out’ reasons why this type of holiday may not be for everyone.

    1. Get to the heart of the destination

    River cruises are all about showcasing the destinations you visit. Where an ocean cruise often places more emphasis on the entertainment and activities on board, on a river cruise the destination is the star.

    Due to their small size, river cruise ships offer limited facilities, but this is more than made up for by the places you visit each day.

    Mooring in the heart of Linz on a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Mooring in the heart of Linz on a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com

    These smaller ships can get you into the heart of some of the most beautiful cities in Europe, such as Budapest, Amsterdam and Vienna – the ones that an ocean cruise would have to bus you to.

    Read about all the sights we explored in Amsterdam at the start of our river cruise through the Netherlands and Belgium – by taking a local ferry we found some gems of street art and trendy waterside cafes.

    Visiting Amsterdam on a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Visiting Amsterdam on a river cruise

    You’ll also moor up within a short walk of charming riverside towns that you can easily explore on your own.

    On this Rhine river cruise we visited a succession of small towns, such as Speyer, Cochem and Koblenz, each with their unique things to see, such as a medieval Jewish baths, a music museum and a romantic castle on the hill.

    Cochem on our Rhine River Cruise Photo Heatheronhertravels.com
    Cochem on our Rhine River Cruise

    2. The convenience of only unpacking once

    On a river cruise in Europe, you’ll enjoy the variety of a touring holiday, but the convenience of unpacking once.

    No more stuffing creased clothes back into your case as you get ready to move to the next place. Instead, everything hangs neatly in your wardrobe, ready for you to look your best at the end of a day’s sightseeing.

    Unpack once on a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Unpack once on a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com

    Personally I prefer to travel light, even on a cruise holiday. But if you are the sort of person that packs an outfit for every eventuality, you won’t have to worry about lifting your luggage until the end of the trip.

    Read all my tips on what to pack on a river cruise.

    3. All the comforts of a floating hotel

    Think of your river cruise ship as a floating boutique hotel. There may not be all the facilities of a larger ocean cruise ship, but you’ll have every comfort you need. And I didn’t miss those casinos, mini shopping malls, art galleries and waterslides that some of the larger cruise ships offer!

    Restaurant on board a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Restaurant on board a river cruise

    Instead, what you’ll typically experience on board is a comfortable and modern en-suite bedroom, with views of the passing scenery. On the river cruises I’ve tried I invariably found a cabin equipped with plenty of plugs, a dressing table/desk space, wardrobe storage and everything else you’d normally find in a hotel room.

    Add to this a spacious lounge for relaxing in the daytime and a dining room for lunch and evening meals. The sun deck on the top deck is perfect for relaxing and admiring the scenery, and there’s sometimes a small plunge pool, gym or area for deck games.

    Heidelberg on our Rhine River Cruise Photo Heatheronhertravels.com
    Heidelberg on our Rhine River Cruise

    River cruise ships normally offer some low key evening entertainment, where local musicians or singers come on board, or there’s an event of cultural interest.

    In other words you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay, but the experience is similar to staying in a smaller hotel, rather than a large scale resort.

    4. Slow down and relax

    River cruise ships move at a slower pace, allowing you to unwind as the scenery drifts by. Because most aspects of the holiday are taken care of once you step on board, the stressful elements of travel are removed.

    Relax and watch the scenery drift by on a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Relax and watch the scenery drift by on a river cruise

    You won’t need to worry about which bus to catch, which restaurant to choose or which tour to book, since they are all part of the package. And because you are normally accompanied by a tour guide or cruise representative, there’s always someone on hand to ask for information, so you can make the most of your free time on shore.

    Relax on a European river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Relax on a European river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com

    For those worried about sea sickness on board ocean cruises, there’s less to be concerned about, since the inland waterways and rivers of Europe are so much calmer than being at sea.

    5. It’s on a small and friendly scale

    Most river cruise ships have 100-200 guests in 80-100 cabins – that’s similar to a small to medium size hotel. It’s a far cry from the larger ocean cruise ships that sail with thousands of passengers on board, so makes for an intimate and cosy experience.

    Staff will get to know you and your preferences, there’s always a friendly and familiar face around, and you’ll get to know your fellow guests more quickly. On one memorable occasion, we even got to meet the captain and go onto the bridge to chat about how he navigated the ship.

    Meeting the captain on board a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Meeting the captain on board a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com

    Since you will likely see the same guests on daily excursions, in the lounge or at dinner, it’s easy to make friends or find people to chat to. For this reason, I think river cruises are ideal for solo travellers, as well as couples and groups of friends.

    Meeting other guests on board a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Meeting other guests on board a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com

    The smaller size of ship also has it’s advantages when you check in and disembark, since there won’t be the long queues that you can find on larger ocean cruise ships.

    5. River cruises to suit all budgets

    While a river cruise is not the cheapest holiday option, there are a range of different providers, so that you can scale up or down according to your budget. Since the size of river cruise ship is limited by the river it travels on, the overall cost of your river cruise is determined mainly by the level of luxury on board and by the cost of the excursions.

    Luxurious accommodation on a European river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Luxurious accommodation on a European river cruise

    I’ve sailed on river cruise ships that had the luxurious decor of a 5 star hotel, with gorgeous artworks and excellent wines included at dinner. There were others that put a big emphasis on the type of excursion, offering culinary experiences such as cookery classes, wine tasting or adventure activities such as river kayaking.

    Cabin on MS Serenade with Titan Travel Photo Heatheronhertravels.com
    Different styles of cabin on a European river cruise

    On other cruise lines, the emphasis is on value for money, with a quality experience but at an all inclusive price. When deciding between different cruise lines, you can check all these things to decide which approach suits your budget and book accordingly.

    6. A lot is included in your cruise

    While river cruises are not the cheapest form of travel, you generally get excellent value for money. The package may vary depending which river cruise line you choose, but accommodation, meals, certain beverages, transport and some excursions are normally included.

    That means you have peace of mind knowing that once you’ve paid for the holiday there shouldn’t be too many extras. There are a few things that vary by cruise line, so it’s worth making a comparison in these before you book.

    Enjoying breakfast on a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Enjoying breakfast on a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    • Gratuities for the hard working staff are often an extra to budget for, although some cruise lines will include these. Optional tips for local tour guides are rarely included.
    • Drinks such as table wine, beer, coffees and soft drinks are normally included at meal times but may be an extra if you order from the bar in between meals. Premium brands or fine wines normally come at an extra charge.
    • Costs for excursions vary by cruise line. Often a walking tour or other excursion is included in the cost, but other premium excursions may be extra.
    • Flights to get you to the departure destination are not always included, since the cost of these will vary for different guests.

    7. Immerse yourself in the local culture

    On a river cruise, you can immerse yourself in the local culture much more fully than you do on most ocean cruises. The towns and cities of Europe are rich in beautiful and historic buildings as well as breathtaking scenery.

    Most cruise lines arrange excursions with local tour guides, who are the experts in their location’s culture. They are the ones who will explain in depth the history and context of the places you’ll visit, as well as bringing them to life with entertaining stories and nuggets of local insights.

    Van Gough at Arles France © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Van Gough at Arles France © Heatheronhertravels.com

    As a lover of art, I remember visiting the Van Gough Museum in Arles on a Rhone river cruise, then seeing the exact streets and buildings that featured in the pictures. Or exploring the wonderful riverside town of Heidelberg on a Rhine cruise, with its imposing castle and historic bridge.

    Heidelberg on our Rhine River Cruise Photo Heatheronhertravels.com
    Heidelberg on our Rhine River Cruise

    Each river cruise may take you through multiple countries or regions of a country, each with their different landscapes, cultures and stories to tell. Sometimes the cultural flavour also comes on board, with talks, wine tastings or musical performances.

    8. Enjoy the culinary highlights

    While you don’t get the multiple themed restaurants of an ocean cruise ship or resort, we found the standard of food on board our river cruises was very high. Breakfast and lunch are often served buffet style, with a selection of hot and cold dishes, while dinner offers a menu with choice of a la carte dishes.

    Delicious dining on board a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Delicious dining on board a river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com

    Daily menus manage to pack in a lot of variety, with themed menus on some evening. Most cruise lines also make an effort to reflect local flavours in their menus. So you may find the seasonal vegetable you saw in the market or local pastry you spotted in a shop window, on your menu at dinner that evening.

    This tasting of local specialities was a big highlight when we went on shore, and I remember the glistening olives in Les Halles at Avignon, or trying the famous Rüdesheimer coffee (a concoction of brandy and cream) on a Rhine cruise.

    Rudesheim on our Rhine River Cruise Photo Heatheronhertravels.com
    Rudesheimer coffee on our Rhine River Cruise

    Another highlight of river cruises are the excursions with a culinary theme, such as wine tasting in the local vineyards, or cookery classes that highlight local dishes.

    Alsace Wine Route on our Rhine River Cruise Photo Heatheronhertravels.com
    Alsace Wine Route on our Rhine River Cruise

    If you take a river cruise on the Rhine, you will probably spot the vineyards on the river banks and have the opportunity to taste some of the delicious Riesling wines, as we did on an Alsace Wine Route excursion.

    Bakery class in Vienna © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Bakery class in Vienna © Heatheronhertravels.com

    I also have fond memories of our bakery class in Vienna, as we plaited the dough and scattered poppy seeds over our rolls, before taking them back to the ship, where they were served for lunch.

    9. Get active on a river cruise

    While European river cruises are heaven for those who enjoy culture and history, there’s plenty of opportunity to stay active if you like. The riverside towns and cities you’ll visit lend themselves to walking tours, so you’ll find that your step count rises effortlessly as you explore each new destination.

    Cochem on our Rhine River Cruise Photo Heatheronhertravels.com
    Cochem on our Rhine River Cruise

    More and more river cruise lines have bikes on board that they lend to their guests, so that you can explore the riverside paths as an alternative to a walking excursion. Others go further and offer activities such as kayaking or cycle tours as an alternative to the more cultural excursions.

    Read about this Rhine cruise when we borrowed bikes and went for a cycle by the river.

    Cycling by the Danube in Austria © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Cycling by the Danube in Austria © Heatheronhertravels.com

    On a river cruise in Austria, we took an excursion to paddle Canadian canoes down a section of the Danube. It gave me a different perspective as we drifted past the banks clothed in neat rows of vines, overlooked by romantic castles perched on rocky outcrops overlooking the river.

    Canoing on the Danube in Austria © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Canoing on the Danube in Austria

    10. A relaxed dress code

    Some ocean cruise lines have a more formal dress code, with the opportunity to dress up at black tie events, with tuxedos, glamorous gowns and sparkly cocktail dresses. But if the idea of having to pack lots of extra evening outfits fills you with dread, you can rest assured that the dress code on a river cruise is generally a lot more relaxed.

    Packing light on a Rhine River cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Packing light on a Rhine River cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com

    This style of cruising suits those who like to keep things casual, and understand that cobbled streets and walking tours call for comfortable footwear. On board you can keep things informal too, and while most guests do dress up a bit for dinner, a smart shirt or pretty top is all that’s really required.

    Relaxed dressing on a European river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com
    Relaxed dressing on a European river cruise © Heatheronhertravels.com

    Personally as I like to pack light, I welcome this kind of relaxed dressing where my clothes multi-task, being dressed up with a pretty scarf or some interesting jewellery. Read all my tips on what to pack on a river cruise.

    If a river cruise sounds like your kind of holiday, check out some of the best river cruises in Europe on rivers such as the Rhine, Rhone or Danube.

    Who may not love a European River Cruise

    While we think that river cruising is a great way to experience Europe, there are some travellers who may not enjoy it.

    Family Travellers

    If you are travelling with a young family, this is probably not the holiday for you. River cruises traditionally attract an older and culturally curious traveller and many ships will not accept children under a certain age.

    It’s true that there are river cruises aimed specifically at families. But personally I think families would be better to choose a larger ocean cruise or resort style holiday, where the wide range of facilities and space to run around is more suited to entertaining young children.

    Adventure Travellers

    River cruises in Europe offer a relaxed style of travel combined with some gentle outdoor activities. I’ve certainly enjoyed activities such as cycling and kayaking on river cruises, and have notched up some miles on the walking tours and sightseeing activities.

    But if you’re into extreme sports or adventure activities, then you’d be better choosing a different kind of land based holiday, to suit your interests.

    You want to explore a destination in depth

    By its nature, river cruising means that you’re moving on to a different location each day. This kind of holiday is great to give you a taste of many different places, rather than a detailed exploration of each one. That’s not to say that the expert tour guides don’t give you a great deal of insight into the places you visit.

    However, those who want to stay longer in a particular place can easily tack on some extra days at the beginning or end of the cruise. This is a great idea if you want to explore some of the great cities of Europe, that you may have passed through on your river cruise.

    Read Next

    Read our tips for What to pack on a river cruise

    Packing for Rhine river cruise featured

    More stories from our river cruises

    6 reasons to fall in love with Vienna on a river cruise

    The foods of Burgundy and Provence on a River Cruise

    Our River Cruise from Amsterdam through Holland and Belgium

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  • Think Cruising Isn’t for You? 2026 Cruise Trends Might Just Change Your Mind

    Think Cruising Isn’t for You? 2026 Cruise Trends Might Just Change Your Mind


    Ever thought cruising was just buffets and bingo? Think again.

    From eco-friendly ships and off-the-beaten-path destinations to high-speed Wi-Fi and coworking spaces (yes, really), cruising in 2026 is getting a serious glow-up.

    A happy woman in a hat near cruise ship

    Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing family getaway, a remote work setup with ocean views, or just want someone else to plan the meals for once, now’s the perfect time to start planning your adventure at sea.

    Cruises are not just for retirees or luxury lovers anymore. These days, they welcome everyone, from families and solo travelers to digital nomads and first timers who just want someone else to do the cooking for a while. And with 2026 Cruises already open for booking, there has never been a better time to dive in and explore.

    Why Plan a Cruise Now?

    Planning early gives you the best shot at locking in your dream trip. Cruise lines are already rolling out their 2026 itineraries, with more options than ever. Whether you are after a big adventure, a laid back escape, or just curious about cruise life, there is something out there with your name on it.

    A pool and deck on a cruise ship

    One trend we are loving is the rise of all inclusive cruise deals. Instead of constantly checking your wallet for extras, you get meals, drinks, entertainment, and even tips bundled into one price. It is simple, clear, and leaves you free to enjoy your vacation without doing math over every coffee or cocktail.

    👉 Check out the current 2026 cruise deals and explore all inclusive cruise deals

    Cruise Travel Looks a Bit Different These Days

    The cruise world has changed a lot, and for the better. Modern cruise ships are like floating resorts, offering everything from fine dining and Broadway style shows to waterparks and zip lines.

    In 2026, expect even more personalization with:

    • Themed voyages like wellness retreats, culinary tours, history adventures, and wildlife safaris
    • Flexible dining hours so you can eat when you want
    • Excursion options tailored to your activity level
    • Entertainment schedules that fit a wide range of travel styles

    Families, younger travelers, and anyone craving a bit more freedom will find cruising a lot more welcoming than it used to be.

    A Happy Woman in front of Cruise Ship

    Greener Ships, Smarter Choices

    Eco conscious travelers, take heart. Cruising is working on cleaning up its act.

    Ships launching in 2026 will feature greener technologies like LNG powered engines, advanced water filtration, and waste management systems. Plus, cruise lines are putting a bigger focus on responsible tourism by:

    • Limiting visits to overcrowded ports
    • Working directly with local communities
    • Sharing more about how passengers can help reduce their impact

    Like all things, the cruise industry is evolving, but it is a step in the right direction for travelers who want to explore the world more responsibly.

    Where You Can Go (Hint, It’s Not Just the Caribbean)

    The classics, like the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Norwegian fjords, are still crowd pleasers, but 2026 is opening up some exciting new horizons.

    Look out for cruises heading to:

    • The Azores and Greenland
    • The South Pacific
    • West Africa
    • Less traveled parts of the Baltics and Eastern Mediterranean

    These newer routes are perfect if you are craving somewhere a little more off the beaten path, without giving up the comforts of cruise life.

    A cruise ship at sunset

    Smart Tech, Smoother Sailing

    Cruise ships are getting smarter and more connected than ever.

    Think:

    • Wristbands that unlock your cabin and replace credit cards
    • App based room service
    • High speed Wi Fi and coworking spaces

    It really is a dream setup for digital nomads or anyone who wants to sneak in a little work between poolside margaritas.

    Cruises Make Slow Travel Easy

    If you love the idea of slow travel, cruising might be your perfect match.

    With longer port stays and more relaxed days at sea, cruises let you soak up each destination at a slower, more meaningful pace. It is a wonderful way to travel if you are more about savoring the experience than ticking off a checklist.

    Big group families cruise

    Perfect for Families and Multi Gen Trips

    Cruises have always been popular with families, but 2026 is set to be even better.

    Ships are rolling out more spaces and activities for every age group, from toddler splash zones to teen lounges and adults only retreats. Plus:

    • Meals, entertainment, and childcare are all in one place
    • Everyone can explore their interests during the day
    • Families can come back together in the evening for dinner, shows or a sunset stroll on deck

    It’s an easy, stress free way to keep everyone happy on vacation.

    Book Early, Travel Better

    The earlier you book, the more choices you have. Early planning means you can:

    • Grab the best cabins and itineraries
    • Research visas and shore excursions
    • Stay ahead of any itinerary tweaks or ship updates

    Plus, you will have plenty of time to get excited about your trip, which, let’s be honest, is half the fun.

    Cruising in 2026 is shaping up to be an entirely different experience from the cruises of years past. It is more flexible, more sustainable, and more focused on creating truly memorable adventures.

    Whether you’re in it for the 2026 Cruises deals, the all inclusive simplicity, or the chance to discover new corners of the world from the comfort of a ship, it’s a great time to start planning. Your future self will thank you when you’re watching the sunset over a brand new horizon, drink in hand, with nothing more pressing on your schedule than deciding what to have for dinner.



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