505 
In a comfortable home for explorers!
The Kreuzfahrtschiff Sea Spirit von Poseidon Expeditions bietet rund 100 Passagieren die Möglichkeit außergewöhnliche Reiseziele, wie zum Beispiel die Arktis, zu erkunden. Auch für Spitzbergen (Svalbard), das Archipel der Eisbären, bietet Poseidon Expeditions mehrere Expeditionsfahrten an. Eisbären können zwar nicht garantiert werden, doch insbesondere bei einer Kreuzfahrt von mehr als einer Woche ist die Sichtung von Eisbären höchst wahrscheinlich.
Expeditionsschiff Sea Spirit von Poseidon Expeditions nahe der Packeisgrenze auf Arktis-Reise in Svalbard
Kreuzfahrt für ca. 100 Personen mit der Sea Spirit durch die beeindruckenden Fjorde von Spitzbergen mit Poseidon Expeditions
Die motivierte Crew der Sea Spirit und das kompetente Expeditionsteam von Poseidon Expeditions hat uns durch die einsame Welt aus Fjorden, Gletschern und Meereis von Svalbard begleitet. Langjährige Erfahrung und Expertise versprechen sowohl außergewöhnliche Erlebnisse, als auch die nötige Sicherheit. Großzügige Kabinen, gutes Essen und interessante Vorträge runden das Ensemble aus legerem Komfort und arktischem Abenteuer ab. Die überschaubare Passagierzahl von rund 100 Gästen ermöglichte lange Landgänge, gemeinsame Zodiac-Touren und eine familiäre Atmosphäre an Bord.
Cruises • Arctic • Svalbard (Spitsbergen) • Svalbard Poseidon Expeditions cruise ship Sea Spirit • Experience report
On a Svalbard trip with Poseidon Expeditions
I sit on the deck of the Sea Spirit and try to put my thoughts on paper. The impressive glacier front of Monacobreen spreads its arms in front of me and just a few minutes before I had witnessed the calving of this glacier first hand in a rubber dinghy. The cracking, the breaking, the falling, the heaving of the ice and the wave. I am still speechless. At the end of the journey I finally see that I have to come to terms with it... as beautiful, as unique as some experiences were - I will never be able to describe them like that. Not everything that was planned was possible, but a lot of what was not planned touched me deeply. Huge flocks of birds in the mystical evening light at Alkefjellet, turquoise water running down the piled-up sheets of sea ice, a hunting arctic fox, the elemental power of the calving glacier and a polar bear eating a whale carcass just thirty meters away from me.
I sit on the deck of the Sea Spirit and try to put my thoughts on paper. The impressive glacier front of Monacobreen spreads its arms in front of me and just a few minutes before I had witnessed the calving of this glacier first hand in a rubber dinghy. The cracking, the breaking, the falling, the heaving of the ice and the wave. I am still speechless. At the end of the journey I finally see that I have to come to terms with it... as beautiful, as unique as some experiences were - I will never be able to describe them like that. Not everything that was planned was possible, but a lot of what was not planned touched me deeply. Huge flocks of birds in the mystical evening light at Alkefjellet, turquoise water running down the piled-up sheets of sea ice, a hunting arctic fox, the elemental power of the calving glacier and a polar bear eating a whale carcass just thirty meters away from me.
AGE™ was traveling for you on the Poseidon Expeditions cruise ship Sea Spirit in Svalbard
The Cruise ship Sea Spirit ist ca. 90 Meter lang und 15 Meter breit. Mit maximal 114 Gästen und 72 Besatzungsmitgliedern ist das Passagier-Crew-Verhältnis der Sea Spirit außergewöhnlich. Das zwölfköpfige Expeditionsteam ermöglicht eine gute Sicherung der Umgebung gegen Eisbären bei Landausflügen und verspricht größtmögliche Flexibilität bei allen Aktivitäten. Es stehen 12 Zodiacs zur Verfügung. Genügend Schlauchboote also, um mit allen Passagieren zeitgleich unterwegs zu sein.
The Sea Spirit was built in 1991 and is therefore a bit older. Nevertheless, or perhaps precisely because of this, she is a likeable ship with her own character. The spacious cabins are comfortably furnished and the lounge areas on board also impress with warm colors, maritime flair and lots of wood. The Sea Spirit has been used by Poseidon Expeditions for expedition trips since 2015, it was renovated in 2017 and modernized in 2019.
The ship is equipped with a panoramic deck, club lounge, bar, restaurant, library, lecture room, gym and a heated outdoor whirlpool. Here, unobtrusive comfort meets the spirit of discovery. Your physical well-being is also well taken care of: early bird breakfast, breakfast, lunch, tea time and dinner are included in the extensive full board. Special requests or dietary habits are gladly and individually addressed.
The onboard language at Poseidon Expeditions is English, but thanks to the international crew, many nationalities will find a contact person with their native language on their Svalbard trip. German-speaking guides in particular are always part of the team on the Sea Spirit. Headphones with live translation into various languages are also offered for lectures on board.
boat trip • Arctic • Svalbard (Spitsbergen) • Svalbard Poseidon Expeditions cruise ship Sea Spirit • Experience report
Travel information
- When, from where and where is the trip going?
- who are typical guests on board?
- How much does the Spitsbergen cruise cost??
- What points of interest & sights is there in Svalbard?
- How likely are you to see polar bears?
- Quick information about Program, Lectures and Onboard photographer
- What you should know before traveling to Svalbard
Activities & Excursions
Polar travel provider
- who is Poseidon Expeditions?
- Poseidon takes care of it environment protection?
Expedition ship Sea Spirit
- Cabins and equipment
- catering on board
- Common areas of the passenger decks
- Ice class and safety
- Sustainability
daily program
- A typical day with Poseidon Expeditions in Svalbard
- examples for unexpected changes in plans
Our Svalbard travel guide will take you on a tour of the various attractions, sights and wildlife viewing.
boat trip • Arctic • Svalbard (Spitsbergen) • Svalbard Poseidon Expeditions cruise ship Sea Spirit • Experience report
Arctic cruise in Spitsbergen
When do expedition trips in Svalbard take place?
When do expedition trips in Svalbard take place?Tourist expedition trips in Spitsbergen are possible from May and up to and including September. The months of July and August are considered high season in Svalbard. The more ice there is, the more restricted the travel route. Poseidon Expeditions offers various itineraries for the Svalbard Archipelago from early June to late August. (You can find current travel times here .)
Where does the journey to Svalbard begin?
The Poseidon Expeditions trip to Svalbard begins and ends in Oslo (capital of Norway). Usually there is both an overnight stay in a hotel in Oslo and a flight from Oslo to Longyearbyen (largest settlement in Svalbard) included in the travel price. Your Svalbard adventure with the Sea Spirit begins in the port of Longyearbyen.
What routes are planned in Svalbard?
In spring you will usually explore the west coast of the main island of Spitsbergen during an expedition trip.
Im Sommer ist die Umrundung von Spitzbergen geplant. Die Sea Spirit fährt entlang der Westküste von Spitzbergen bis zur Eisgrenze, dann durch die Hinlopenstraße (zwischen der Hauptinsel Spitzbergen und der Insel Nordaustlandet) und schließlich über die Meerenge zwischen den Inseln Edgeøya und Barentsøya nach Longyearbyen zurück. Dabei werden Teile der Grönlandsee, des Nordpolarmeers sowie der Barentsee befahren.
Bei sehr guten Bedingungen ist sogar eine Umrundung der Insel Spitzbergen und der Insel Nordaustlandet mit Abstecher zu den Seven Islands und nach Kvitøya möglich. Bitte beachte mögliche Änderungen.
Who are typical guests on this cruise?
Who are typical guests on this cruise?Fast alle Reisende in Svalbard eint der Wunsch Eisbären in freier Natur zu erleben. Auch Vogelbeobachter und Landschaftsfotografen finden mit Sicherheit Mitstreiter an Bord. Familien mit Kindern ab 12 Jahren sind willkommen (mit Ausnahmegenehmigung auch jünger), doch die meisten Passagiere sind zwischen 40 und 70 Jahre alt.
The guest list for the Svalbard trip with Poseidon Expeditions is very international. There are usually three large groups: English-speaking guests, German-speaking guests and passengers who speak Mandarin (Chinese). Before 2022, Russian could also be heard regularly on board. In the summer of 2023, a large tour group from Israel was on board.
It's fun to exchange ideas and the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. There is no dress code. Casual to sporty clothing is completely appropriate on this ship.
How much does an Arctic trip on the Sea Spirit cost?
Prices vary depending on route, date, cabin and travel duration. A 12-day Svalbard cruise with Poseidon Expeditions including a circumnavigation of the island of Spitsbergen is regularly available from around 8000 euros per person (3-person cabin) or from around 11.000 euros per person (cheapest 2-person cabin). The price is around 700 to 1000 euros per night per person.
Darin sind Kabine, Vollpension, Equipment und alle Aktivitäten und Ausflüge (außer Kajakfahren) enthalten. Das Programm umfasst z.B. shore leave, hiking trails, Zodiac-Touren, wildlife viewing and wissenschaftliche Vorträge. Please note possible changes.
• Prices as a guide. Price increases and special offers possible.
• There are often early bird discounts and last minute offers.
• As of 2023. You can find current prices here .
What attractions are there in Svalbard?
What attractions are there in Svalbard?On a cruise with the Sea Spirit you can observe Arctic animals in Spitsbergen. Walruses swim by, reindeer and arctic foxes meet you on the shore and with a bit of luck you will also meet the king of the Arctic: the polar bear. (How likely are you to see polar bears?) especially the Hinlopenstrasse as well as the islands Barentsøya and Edgeøya had many animal highlights to offer on our trip.
In addition to the large mammals, there are also numerous Birds in Svalbard. There are soaring arctic terns, cute puffins, huge breeding colonies of thick-billed guillemots, rare ivory gulls and numerous other bird species. The Alkefjellet bird rock is particularly impressive.
Varied landscapes are among the special attractions of this remote area. In Svalbard you can enjoy rugged mountains, impressive fjords, tundra with arctic flowers and huge glaciers. In summer you have a good chance of seeing a glacier calving: we were there Monacobreen glacier there live.
You want to sea ice see? Even then, Svalbard is the right place for you. However, fjord ice can only be seen in spring and is unfortunately declining overall. On the other hand, you can still marvel at floating sea ice sheets and sea ice that has been compacted into pack ice in the north of Svalbard even in summer.
Cultural sights of Svalbard are a regular part of the cruise excursion program. Research stations (e.g Ny-alesund with the launch site of Amundsen's airship expedition over the North Pole), remains of whaling stations (e.g Gravneset), historical hunting lodges or a lost place like Kinnvika are typical excursion destinations.
With a bit of luck you can also Watch whales. AGE™ was able to observe minke whales and humpback whales several times on board the Sea Spirit and was also lucky enough to spot a group of beluga whales during a hike in Svalbard.
Would you like to extend your vacation before or after your Svalbard cruise? A stay in Longyearbyen is possible for tourists. This settlement in Svalbard is also called the northernmost city in the world. There is also a longer stop-over in the City of Oslo (Norway's capital). Alternatively, you can explore southern Norway from Oslo.
Good to know
5 reasons to travel to Svalbard with Poseidon Expeditions
Specialized in polar travel: 24 years of expertise
Charming ship with large cabins and lots of wood
Lots of time for activities due to limited number of passengers
AECO member for eco-friendly travel in the Arctic
Ship route including Kvitøya possible
Who is Poseidon Expeditions?
Who is Poseidon Expeditions?
Poseidon Expeditions was founded in 1999 and has since specialized in expedition cruises in the polar regions. Greenland, Spitsbergen, Franz Josef Land and Iceland in the north and the South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and Falkland in the south. The main thing is harsh climate, spectacular landscape and remote.
Poseidon Expeditions is internationally positioned. The company was founded in Great Britain and now has offices with representatives in China, Germany, England, Svalbard and the USA. In 2022, Poseidon Expeditions was named Best Polar Expedition Cruise Operator at the International Travel Awards.
Infected by the polar virus? Experience even more adventure: with this Expedition ship Sea Spirit on a trip to Antarctica.
What does the Sea Spirit Expedition Program offer?
A Ship cruise in front of impressive glaciers; Zodiac driving between drift ice and sea ice; Short hikes in a lonely landscape; A Jump into the ice water; shore leave with a visit to a research station and sightseeing at historical places; The trip has a lot to offer. The actual program and in particular the wildlife viewing However, they depend on the local conditions. A real expedition trip.
Zweimal täglich sind Exkursionen geplant: Zwei Landgänge oder eine Anlandung und eine Zodiac-Fahrt sind die Regel. Aufgrund der begrenzten Passagierzahl der Sea Spirit sind ausgedehnte Landgänge von rund 3 Stunden möglich. Zusätzlich gibt es an Bord Lectures und manchmal eine panoramic ride mit der Sea Spirit, zum Beispiel entlang einer Gletscherabbruchkante.
Meist werden im Zuge der Kreuzfahrt mehrere Gletscher, Walross-Ruheplätze und verschiedene Vogelfelsen angesteuert, um die Chance auf gute Wetterbedingungen und gute Tiersichtungen zu erhöhen. Natürlich halten parallel alle nach Füchsen, Rentieren, Robben und Eisbären Ausschau (Wie wahrscheinlich ist es Eisbären zu sehen ?).
How likely are you to see polar bears?
Im Bereich der Barentsee leben rund 3000 Eisbären. Rund 700 davon leben auf dem Meereis nördlich von Spitzbergen und etwa 270 der Polarbären leben innerhalb der Grenzen von Svalbard. Du hast also gute Chancen mit Poseidon Expeditions Eisbären zu sehen, insbesondere bei einer längeren Svalbard-Kreuzfahrt. Dennoch gibt es keine Garantie: Es ist eine Expeditionsreise, kein Zoobesuch. AGE™ hatte Glück und konnte während einer zwölf tägigen Schiffsreise auf der Sea Spirit neun Eisbären beobachten. Die Tiere waren dabei zwischen 30 Meter und 1 Kilometer entfernt.
Sobald Eisbären gesichtet werden, erfolgt eine Durchsage, um alle Gäste zu informieren. Das Programm wird selbstverständlich unterbrochen und die Pläne angepasst. Wenn Du Glück hast und sich der Bär in Ufernähe niederlässt, dann ist es möglich per Zodiac zur Eisbären-Safari aufzubrechen.
Are there any good lectures about the Arctic and its wildlife?
The Sea Spirit expedition team includes various experts. Depending on the tour, biologists, geologists, botanists or historians are on board. Polar bears, walruses, kittiwakes and plants from Svalbard were just as much a topic of the lectures on board as the discovery of Svalbard, whaling and problems caused by microplastics.
Scientists and adventurers are also regularly part of the team. Then first-hand reports round off the lecture program. How does the polar night feel? How much food do you need for a ski and kite excursion? And what do you do if a polar bear suddenly appears in front of your tent? You will definitely meet interesting people on the Sea Spirit.
Is there a photographer on board the Sea Spirit?
Ja, ein Bordfotograf gehört immer zum Expeditionsteam. Auf unserer Reise war der junge talentierte Wildlife-Fotograf Piet Van den Bemd an Bord. Er stand den Gästen gerne mit Rat und Tat zur Seite und am Ende der Reise haben wir zudem einen USB-Stick als Abschiedsgeschenk erhalten. Auf diesem befindet sich zum Beispiel eine tagesaktuelle Liste der Tiersichtungen sowie eine wundervolle Diashow mit eindrucksvollen Aufnahmen des Bord-Fotografen.
What should you know before your trip?
Eine Expeditions-Kreuzfahrt fordert von jedem Gast ein wenig Flexibilität. Wetter, Eis oder das Verhalten der Tiere kann eine Planänderung nötig machen. Beim Besteigen der Zodiacs ist Trittsicherheit wichtig. Da es bei einer Schlauchbootfahrt auch mal nass werden kann, solltest Du unbedingt eine gute Wasserhose und einen Wassersack für Deine Kamera einpacken. Gummistiefel werden an Bord gestellt, den hochwertigen Expeditionsparka darfst Du behalten. Die Bordsprache ist Englisch. Zusätzlich sind deutsche Guides an Bord und es sind Übersetzungen für mehrere Sprachen verfügbar. Auf diesem Schiff ist legere bis sportliche Kleidung vollkommen angemessen. Es gibt keinen Dresscode. Das Internet an Bord ist sehr langsam und oft schlicht nicht verfügbar. Lass Dein Handy ruhen und genieße das Hier und Jetzt.
Is Poseidon Expeditions committed to the environment?
The company belongs to AECO (Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators) and IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) and follows all standards for environmentally conscious travel set out there.
On expedition trips, passengers are instructed to clean and disinfect their rubber boots after each shore leave to prevent the spread of diseases or seeds. Onboard biosecurity control is taken very seriously, particularly in Antarctica and South Georgia. They even check daypacks on board to make sure that no one brings in seeds. During Arctic voyages, crew and passengers collect plastic waste on the beaches.
The lectures on board impart knowledge, as critical topics such as global warming or microplastics are also discussed. In addition, an expedition trip inspires its guests with the beauty of the polar regions: it becomes tangible and personal. The desire to work towards preserving unique nature is often awakened. There are also different ones Measures to make the Sea Spirit more sustainable.
boat trip • Arctic • Svalbard (Spitsbergen) • Svalbard Poseidon Expeditions cruise ship Sea Spirit • Experience report
Experiences with Poseidon Expeditions in Svalbard
Panorama drives
Natürlich ist die gesamte Kreuzfahrt in Svalbard irgendwie auch eine Panoramafahrt, doch manchmal ist die Landschaft eben noch schöner als sonst sowieso schon. Dann werden die Gäste im Tagesprogramm aktiv darauf aufmerksam gemacht und der Kapitän legt zum Beispiel direkt vor dem Gletscher eine Pause ein.
Landgänge in Svalbard
One or two shore excursions in Svalbard are planned every day. For example, research stations are visited, historical places are visited or the unique landscape and wildlife of Svalbard are explored on foot. You can also discover arctic flowers on various shore excursions. A particular highlight is landing near a walrus colony.
You will usually be brought ashore by rubber boat. During a so-called “wet landing”, the guests then disembark in shallow water. Don't worry, rubber boots are provided by Poseidon Expeditions and a naturalist guide will help you get in and out safely. Only in rare cases can the Sea Spirit dock directly on the shore (e.g. on the Ny-Alesund research station), so that the passengers reach the country dry-footed.
Da Svalbard die Heimat der Eisbären ist, ist bei Landgängen stets Vorsicht geboten. Das Expeditionsteam kontrolliert den gesamten Bereich vor der Anlandung um sicher zu gehen, dass er frei von Bären ist. Mehrere Naturführer halten Eisbärenwache und sichern das Gebiet ab. Sie haben Signalwaffen dabei, um Eisbären bei Bedarf zu vertreiben und Schusswaffen für den Notfall. Bei schlechten Wetterverhältnissen (z.B. Nebel) ist ein Landgang aus Sicherheitsgründen leider nicht möglich. Bitte habe hierfür Verständnis. Die strengen Regeln in Svalbard sind wichtig, um sowohl die Passagiere, als auch die Eisbären, möglichst wenig zu gefährden.
Kleine Wanderungen in Svalbard
Bewegungsfreudigen Passagieren kann (je nach Wetter und Bedingungen vor Ort) manchmal eine zusätzliche Wanderoption angeboten werden. Da das Expeditionsteam von Poseidon Expeditions auf Svalbard-Reisen 12 Mitglieder zählt, kommt auf weniger als 10 Gäste ein Guide. Dies ermöglicht ein flexibles Programm mit individueller Betreuung. Wer nicht gut genug zu Fuß ist oder den Tag ruhiger angehen lassen möchte, genießt ein Alternativprogramm: Zum Beispiel einen Strandspaziergang, mehr Zeit am Heritage Site oder eine Zodiac-Cruise.
Although the hikes are around three kilometers long, they are not very long, but they lead over rough terrain and can involve inclines. They are only recommended for sure-footed guests. The hiking destination is often a viewpoint or the edge of a glacier. No matter where you go, it is definitely a special experience to hike through the lonely nature of Svalbard. To ensure safety from polar bears, a nature guide always leads the group and another guide brings up the rear.
Zodiac-Touren in Svalbard
Zodiacs sind motorisierte Schlauchboote aus extrem widerstandsfähigem synthetischem Kautschuk mit einem festen Boden. Sie sind klein und wendig und im unwahrscheinlichen Fall einer Beschädigung bieten verschiedene Luftkammern zusätzliche Sicherheit. Zodiacs sind also bestens für Expeditionsreisen geeignet. In diesen Schlauchbooten erreichst Du nicht nur das Land, sondern erkundest Svalbard außerdem vom Wasser aus. Die Passagiere sitzen dabei auf den beiden aufblasbaren Pontons des Bootes. Zur Sicherheit tragen alle eine schmale Schwimmweste.
Nicht selten ist die Zodiac-Tour das Highlight des Tages, denn es gibt Orte in Spitzbergen, die nur per Zodiac wirklich erlebbar werden. Ein Beispiel hierfür ist der Vogelfelsen Alkefjellet mit Abertausend Brutvögeln. Doch auch eine Zodiac-Tour durch das Treibeis vor der Abbruchkante eines Gletschers ist ein einmaliges Erlebnis und bei gutem Wetter kannst Du vielleicht sogar das Meereis der Packeisgrenze mit einem dieser stabilen Schlauchboote erkunden.
Die kleinen Boote bieten Platz für rund 10 Passagiere und sind perfekt für die Tierbeobachtung geeignet. Mit etwas Glück schwimmt ein neugieriges Walross näher und wenn ein Eisbär entdeckt wird und die Umstände es erlauben, dann kannst Du den König der Arktis ganz in Ruhe vom Zodiac aus beobachten. Es stehen genügend Zodiacs zur Verfügung, um mit allen Passagieren zeitgleich unterwegs zu sein.
Kajakfahren in Svalbard
Poseidon Expeditions also offers kayaking in Svalbard. However, kayaking is not included in the price of the cruise. You must book participation in the paddling tours in advance for an additional charge. Places in the Sea Spirit kayak club are limited, so it's worth inquiring early. In addition to kayaks and paddles, kayak equipment also includes special suits that protect the wearer from wind, water and cold. Kayaking between icebergs or along the rugged coast of Svalbard is a special natural experience.
Kajaktouren finden oft parallel zu einer Zodiac-Cruise statt, wobei das Kajak-Team als erstes das Kreuzfahrtschiff verlässt, um einen kleinen Vorsprung zu haben. Manchmal wird auch eine Kajak-Tour parallel zu einem Landausflug angeboten. Welche Unternehmung die Mitglieder des Kajak-Clubs tatsächlich mitmachen möchten bleibt dabei ihnen überlassen. Leider kann keiner abschätzen wie oft es auf der jeweiligen Reise möglich ist mit dem Kajak zu fahren. Manchmal jeden Tag und manchmal nur einmal pro Woche. Dies ist extrem von den Witterungsverhältnissen abhängig.
Wildtierbeobachtung in Svalbard
Es gibt mehrere Orte in Svalbard, die als Ruheplatz für Walrosse bekannt sind. Die Chancen stehen also gut, dass Du eine Gruppe Walrosse beim Landgang oder vom Zodiac aus beobachten kannst. Weiterhin bieten Vogelklippen mit riesigen Brutkolonien von Dickschnabellummen oder Dreizehenmöwen einzigartige Tierbegegnungen. Hier hast Du zudem gute Chancen Polarfüchse auf Nahrungssuche zu entdecken. Für Vogelbeobachter ist die Begegnung mit der seltenen Elfenbein Möwen das Ziel der Träume, doch auch die Flugmanöver der Küstenseeschwalben, eine brütende Arktische Raubmöwe oder die beliebten Puffins bieten gute Fotomotive. Mit etwas Glück kannst Du außerdem Robben oder Rentiere in Svalbard entdecken.
And what about polar bears? Yes, you will most likely be able to see the King of the Arctic on your Svalbard trip. Svalbard offers good opportunities for this. Please note that a sighting cannot be guaranteed. Especially on a longer trip around Svalbard, it is very likely that sooner or later you will meet the King of the Arctic.
Note: AGE™ was lucky enough to see nine polar bears on a twelve-day Poseidon Expedition voyage on the Sea Spirit in Svalbard. One of them was very far away (only visible with binoculars), three were extremely close (only 30-50 meters away). For the first six days we didn't see a single polar bear. On the seventh day we were able to observe three polar bears on three different islands. That is nature. There is no guarantee, but definitely very good chances.
Polar Plunge ins Eiswasser
Wenn es Wetter und Eisbedingungen erlauben, dann ist in der Regel auch ein Sprung ins Eiswasser teil des Programms. Keiner Muss, aber jeder darf. Der Arzt ist zur Sicherheit in Standby und alle Springer sind mit einem Seil um den Bauch gesichert, falls jemand in Panik gerät oder aufgrund der plötzlichen Kälte die Orientierung verliert. Bei uns sind 19 mutige Freiwillige mit einem beherzten Sprung vom Zodiac aus ins eisige Nordpolarmeer gehüpft. Gratulation: Polartaufe bestanden.
boat trip • Arctic • Svalbard (Spitsbergen) • Svalbard Poseidon Expeditions cruise ship Sea Spirit • Experience report
The expedition ship Sea Spirit from Poseidon Expeditions
Kabinen und Ausstattung der Sea Spirit:
The Sea Spirit has 47 guest cabins for 2 people each, as well as 6 cabins for 3 people and 1 owner's suite. The rooms are divided into 5 passenger decks: On the main deck the cabins have portholes, on the Oceanus Deck and the Club Deck there are windows and the sports deck and the sun deck have their own balcony. Depending on the room size and furnishings, guests can choose between Maindeck Suite, Classic Suite, Superior Suite, Deluxe Suite, Premium Suite and Owner's Suite.
The cabins are 20 to 24 square meters in size. The 6 premium suites even have 30 square meters and the owner's suite offers 63 square meters of space and access to the private deck. Each cabin has a private bathroom and is equipped with a television, refrigerator, safe, small table, closet and individual temperature control. Queen-size beds or single beds are available. Apart from the 3-person cabins, all rooms also have a sofa.
Of course, not only towels, but also slippers and bathrobes are provided on board. A refillable drinking bottle is also available in the cabin. In order to be ideally equipped for the excursions, rubber boots are provided to all guests. You will also receive a high-quality expedition parka that you can take with you after the trip as a personal souvenir.
Meals on board the Sea Spirit:
Water dispensers, coffee and tea stations, and homemade cookies are available free of charge XNUMX hours a day on the Club Deck. Early risers are also well catered for: an early bird breakfast with sandwiches and fruit juices is offered in the Club Lounge early in the morning.
The large breakfast buffet is available for guests to self-service in the restaurant on the main deck. A selection of baked goods, cold cuts, fish, cheese, yoghurt, porridge, cereals and fruits are complemented by hot dishes such as bacon, eggs or waffles. In addition, freshly prepared omelets and changing daily specials such as advocado toast or pancakes can be ordered. Coffee, tea, milk and fresh juices are included in the offer.
Lunch is also served as a buffet in the restaurant. As a starter there is always soup and various salads. The main courses are varied and include meat dishes, seafood, pasta, rice dishes and casseroles as well as various side dishes such as vegetables or potatoes. One of the main courses is usually vegan. For dessert you can choose from a changing selection of cakes, puddings and fruits. Table water is served free of charge, soft drinks and alcoholic drinks for an additional charge.
At tea time (after the 2nd activity) snacks and sweets are offered in the Club Lounge. Sandwiches, cakes and cookies satisfy your hunger in between meals. Coffee drinks, tea and hot chocolate are available for free.
Dinner is served á la carte in the restaurant. The plates were always beautifully presented. Guests can choose starter, main course and dessert from a changing daily menu. In addition, there are meals that are always available. On our trip these were, for example: steak, chicken breast, Atlantic salmon, Caesar salad, mixed vegetables and Parmesan fries. Table water and a bread basket are available for free. Soft drinks and alcoholic drinks are served at an additional cost.
If the weather is good, there will be an outdoor barbecue at least once per trip. Then the tables on the sports deck at the stern of the Sea Spirit are set and the buffet is set up on the outside deck. In the fresh air, passengers enjoy grilled specialties with a beautiful view.
Continue to the daily program: What time do you eat?
Common areas on board Sea Spirit:
The Sea Spirit's large restaurant is located on the main deck (Deck 1). Table groups of different sizes with a free choice of seating offer the greatest possible flexibility. Here each guest can decide for themselves whether they would prefer to dine with familiar friends or make new acquaintances. At the stern of the ship you will also find the so-called marina, the place where the big adventures begin. The inflatable boats are boarded here. Guests enjoy with these small boats Zodiac-Touren, wildlife viewing or Shore excursions.
The Ocean Deck (Deck 2) is the first place you enter when you board the Sea Spirit. Here you will always find the right contact person: the reception is available to help guests with all kinds of requests and at the expedition desk you can ask questions and have the expedition team explain the route or activities to you, for example. The Oceanus Lounge is also located there. This large common room is equipped with several screens and invites you to lectures about animals, nature and science. In the evening, the expedition leader presents the plans for the next day and sometimes a film evening is also offered.
Feeling good is the order of the day on the club deck (deck 3). The Club Lounge has panoramic windows, small seating areas, a coffee and tea station and an integrated bar. The perfect place for a lunch break or a cozy end to the evening. Have you suddenly discovered the perfect photo motif through the panoramic window? No problem, because from the Club Lounge you have direct access to a wrap-around outdoor deck. If you prefer to read in peace, you will find a comfortable place in the adjacent library and a large selection of books on the subject of polar regions.
The bridge is located at the bow of the sports deck (deck 4). Weather permitting, guests can visit the captain and enjoy the view from the bridge. At the stern of the sports deck, a warm outdoor whirlpool promises cozy moments with a special view. Tables and chairs invite you to linger and, when the weather is good, there is an outdoor BBQ. A small fitness room with sports equipment inside the ship rounds off the leisure activities.
Safety on board the Sea Spirit
The Sea Spirit has ice class 1D (Scandinavian scale) or E1 - E2 (German scale). This means that it could navigate waters with an ice thickness of around 5 millimeters without damage and can also push aside occasional drift ice. This class of ice enables the Sea Spirit to travel to polar regions of the Arctic and Antarctic.
However, the actual itinerary remains dependent on local ice conditions. The ship is not an icebreaker. Of course, it ends at the pack ice boundary and closed fjord ice and areas with closely spaced sea ice sheets or large amounts of drift ice cannot be navigated. The experienced captain of the Sea Spirit always has the last word. Safety first.
In Svalbard there are rarely problems with heavy seas. Deep fjords and sea ice promise calm water and often even glassy seas. If swell occurs, modern stabilizers have been added since 2019 to significantly increase the Sea Spirit's travel comfort. If you still have a sensitive stomach, you can always get travel tablets at reception. Good to know: There is also a doctor on board just in case and in case of emergencies there is a medical station on the main deck.
Zu Beginn der Reise erhalten die Passagiere eine Sicherheitseinweisung zum Thema Zodiac, Eisbären und Sicherheit an Bord. Rettungswesten und Rettungsboote sind selbstverständlich in ausreichender Zahl vorhanden und am ersten Tag wird eine Sicherheitsübung mit den Gästen durchgeführt. Die Zodiacs haben mehrere Luftkammern, sodass die Schlauchboote auch im unwahrscheinlichen Falle einer Beschädigung weiterhin an der Oberfläche bleiben. Schwimmwesten für die Zodiac-Fahrten werden gestellt.
.
Sustainability Arctic trip with the Sea Spirit
Poseidon Expeditions is a member of AECO (Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators) and IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) and follows all standards for environmentally conscious travel set out there. The company cares about biosecurity on board, collects beach trash and imparts knowledge.
The Sea Spirit runs on low-sulphur marine diesel and thus complies with the IMO (International Maritime Organization) agreement to prevent marine pollution. Unfortunately, it is not possible to operate the expedition ship without a combustion engine. The Sea Spirit's speed is reduced to save fuel and modern stabilizers reduce vibrations and noise.
Single-use plastic has been largely banned from the ship: for example, all cabins are equipped with refillable dispensers for soap, shampoo and hand cream and you will never find a plastic straw at the bar. Each guest also receives a refillable drinking bottle as a gift, which can also be used for shore excursions. Water dispensers with drinking water are available in the hallway of the club deck.
Using a reverse osmosis system on the Sea Spirit, sea water is converted into fresh water and then used as industrial water. This technology saves valuable drinking water. The resulting wastewater is first chlorinated and then treated with a dechlorination process in order to obtain clean water without residues before it is discharged into the sea. The sewage sludge is stored in tanks and only disposed of on land. Garbage is not burned on board the Sea Spirit, but instead is shredded, separated and then brought ashore. Reusable materials flow into the SeaGreen recycling project.
boat trip • Arctic • Svalbard (Spitsbergen) • Svalbard Poseidon Expeditions cruise ship Sea Spirit • Experience report
Daily expedition trip
with Poseidon Expeditions in Svalbard
A typical day on an expedition in Svalbard is difficult to describe, because something unforeseen can always happen. After all, that’s what an expedition is all about. Nevertheless, there is of course a plan and a daily program that is presented and posted every evening for the next day. Whether the plan is adhered to depends on the weather, ice and spontaneous animal sightings.
Example of a Sea Spirit day program in Svalbard
- 7:00 a.m. Breakfast offer for early risers in the Club Lounge
- 7:30 a.m. wake-up call
- 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Breakfast buffet in the restaurant
- Immer geplant: Vormittags-Aktivität Landgang oder Zodiac-Fahrt (~3h)
- 12:30 p.m. to 14:00 p.m. lunch buffet in the restaurant
- Immer geplant: Nachmittags-Aktivität Landgang oder Zodiac-Fahrt (~2h)
- 16:00 p.m. to 17:00 p.m. Tea time in the Club Lounge
- 18:30 Uhr Rückblick und Vorstellung neuer Pläne in der Oceanus Lounge
- 19:00 p.m. to 20:30 p.m. Dinner á la carte in the restaurant
- Sometimes planned: Evening activity panoramic trip or Zodiac trip
Die Sea Spirit, Schlauchboote und Kajaks im Treibeis am Gletscher vor traumhaft schönem Spitzbergen-Panorama
Planned daily program Svalbard:
Depending on the program, the times vary slightly: For example, there may be a wake-up call at 7:00 a.m. (breakfast is available from 6:30 a.m.) or you may be able to sleep until 8:00 a.m. This depends on the planned activities for the day. The time for dinner can also be adjusted to the program if necessary.
Two activities are planned daily and sometimes there is an additional activity after dinner. For example, our trip included a panoramic trip on the glacier, a panoramic trip off the island of Moffen with walrus watching, a fun knotting techniques course in the Club Lounge and the unforgettable Zodiac tour at the Alkefjellet bird rock after dinner. In addition to the program items mentioned, lectures are also offered: For example, during tea time, before the review of the day or even if a planned activity unfortunately had to be cancelled.
You can't plan for polar bears, but one thing is certain: As soon as a polar bear is spotted, an announcement will be made at any time of the day (and night) and of course, if necessary, the meal or a lecture will be interrupted and the daily plan will be quickly adapted to the polar bear. In Spitsbergen the following applies: “Plans are there to be changed.”
Unplanned daily program: “Bad news”
Svalbard is known for its untamable nature and wildlife and this cannot always be planned. During our twelve-day trip with the Sea Spirit, we had to deviate from the planned route from day five because the ice conditions had changed. You are not on a cruise in the South Seas, but on an expedition ship in the High Arctic.
Auch das Wetter ist ein unplanbarer Faktor. Meist durften wir zum Glück spiegelglatte See und viel Sonnenschein genießen, doch stellenweise zog starker Nebel auf. Der Landgang bei Smeerenburg sowie die heißersehnte Panoramafahrt am Brasvellbreen mussten wegen starkem Nebel leider abgesagt werden. Einmal konnten wir bei leichtem Nebel zwar anlanden, aber dort nicht wandern. Warum? Weil, die Gefahr bei Nebel von Eisbären überrascht zu werden einfach zu groß ist. Sicherheit geht vor. Für Dich und für die Eisbären.
Unplanned daily program: “Good news”
The wildlife in Svalbard is always good for surprises: For example, we couldn't go ashore because a polar bear blocked our way. He calmly walked past the old hunting lodge that we actually wanted to visit. Admittedly, we were happy to exchange this shore excursion for observing the bear via Zodiac. Sometimes changes to plans have their advantages.
During a hike, our group (only about 20 people that day) moved unusually quickly, so we arrived at the foot of the glacier earlier than planned. The accompanying guides spontaneously organized an additional climb onto the glacier ice. (Of course only as far as this was possible safely and without crampons.) Everyone had a lot of fun, a great view and the special feeling of standing on a glacier in Spitsbergen.
Once the expedition team even spontaneously organized a very late extra activity for the entire ship: a polar bear was resting on the shore and we were able to get closer to it in the small inflatable boats. Thanks to the midnight sun, we had the best lighting conditions even at 22 p.m. and enjoyed our polar bear safari to the fullest.
Explore Svalbard's impressive nature and wildlife with the AGE™ Svalbard travel guide.
Infected by the polar virus? With the expedition ship Sea Spirit on an Antarctic journey there are more adventures.
boat trip • Arctic • Svalbard (Spitsbergen) • Svalbard Poseidon Expeditions cruise ship Sea Spirit • Experience report
This editorial contribution received external support
Disclosure: AGE™ were given discounted or gratuitous services from Poseidon Expeditions as part of the report. The content of the contribution remains unaffected. The press code applies.
Copyrights and Copyright
Texts and photos are protected by copyright. The copyright for this article in words and images lies entirely with AGE™. All rights remain reserved. Photo number 5 in the catering section on board the Sea Spirit (people at the table in the restaurant) was published with the kind permission of a fellow passenger on the Sea Spirit. All other photographs in this article are by AGE™ photographers. Content will be licensed for print/online media upon request.
Liability
The cruise ship Sea Spirit was perceived by AGE™ as a beautiful cruise ship with a pleasant size and special expedition routes and was therefore presented in the travel magazine. If this does not match your personal experience, we assume no liability. The contents of the article have been carefully researched and are based on personal experiences. However, if information is misleading or incorrect, we assume no liability. Furthermore, circumstances can change. AGE™ does not guarantee topicality or completeness.
Source reference for text research
On-site information and personal experiences on a 12-day expedition cruise with Poseidon Expeditions on the Sea Spirit in Svalbard in July 2023. AGE™ stayed in a Superior Suite with a panoramic window on the Club Deck.
Aars, Jon vom Norwegian Polar Institute et al. (2017) The number and distribution of polar bears in the western Barents Sea. [online] Abgerufen am 23.08.2023, von URL: https://polarresearch.net/index.php/polar/article/view/2660/6078
Poseidon Expeditions (1999-2022), Poseidon Expeditions homepage. Traveling to the Arctic [online] Retrieved on August 25.08.2023, XNUMX, from URL: https://poseidonexpeditions.de/arktis/