Set off on a Spitzberg cruise and experience a unique adventure, combining authenticity and conviviality at the very heart of Arctic wildlife. This Svalbard archipelago, located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, is home to an incredible diversity of species perfectly adapted to polar life. At Escales Polaires, we design respectful and immersive expeditions so you can observe these animals in their natural habitat, without disturbing them. Between pack ice, fjords and tundra, every outing becomes a genuine encounter with the wild nature of the Far North — a shared moment of wonder for the whole
The polar bear, undisputed king of the pack ice
It’s impossible to talk about a Spitzberg cruise without mentioning its most iconic inhabitant: the polar bear. Solitary and majestic, it roams the ice in search of seals, its favourite prey.
Our guides know the areas where the sea ice forms and breaks up — the places where polar bears like to hunt or rest. You may spot one from the ship or during a zodiac excursion. Every sighting takes place at a respectful distance, with a deep regard for the animal and its environment.
Seeing a polar bear in its natural habitat is a powerful emotional experience: watching it walk across the ice, dive into the water or simply raise its head to the wind is a vivid reminder of the fragility and beauty of the Arctic world.
Walruses and seals: life on the pack ice
During your Spitzberg cruise, you will often come across walruses gathered in noisy colonies on beaches or drifting ice floes. Their impressive tusks, thick skin and powerful grunts make them fascinating animals to observe. These peaceful giants spend long hours lounging, largely indifferent to our zodiacs, which approach slowly so as not to disturb them.
Bearded and ringed seals, more discreet, also share this territory. They play an essential role in the Arctic ecosystem: they are prey for polar bears and indicators of sea ice health. While sailing between fjords, it’s not unusual to see them resting on the ice or briefly surfacing before diving back into the icy waters. These privileged moments, shared within a small group of passionate travellers, create memories that last.
Arctic foxes, reindeer and seabirds: the other treasures of Spitzberg
Wildlife on land is just as remarkable. The Arctic fox, small and elusive, slips between rocks in search of food. Its white winter coat and brown-grey summer coat allow it to blend into the landscape — a living camouflage. With a bit of patience and quiet, you may be able to watch it from relatively close, in a moment of pure authenticity.
Another emblematic species is the Svalbard reindeer. Stockier than its Scandinavian cousins, it is perfectly adapted to this extreme climate. You’ll see it grazing on moss and lichens in the green valleys during the summer months.
Finally, seabirds fill Spitzberg’s skies. Guillemots, puffins, kittiwakes, Arctic terns… thousands of birds gather on the cliffs to nest, offering a spectacular sound and visual display. Their presence is proof of the richness of marine life that sustains the entire Arctic ecosystem.
Whales and Belugas: truly exceptional encounters
Some expeditions are fortunate enough to offer even rarer encounters: whales and belugas. These cetaceans migrate with the seasons, and their presence depends on ice conditions and food availability. But when the magic happens, silence falls on deck. Watching a fin whale or a group of belugas is an extraordinary human and sensory experience.
Our Spitzberg cruises favour a gentle, responsible approach, avoiding any stress to the animals. We always observe them from a distance, letting nature decide the moment and how close they come. This philosophy of respect guides all our voyages.
Discover our Cetacean Cruise in Norway!
Explore, observe and understand Spitzberg’s wildlife
Beyond simple wildlife watching, a Spitzberg cruise with Escales Polaires is a learning and sensory adventure. Every day, our naturalist guides share their knowledge about the biology, behaviour and adaptations of these animals to such an extreme environment.
Zodiac excursions bring you as close as possible to observation areas: sea ice, cliffs, beaches or glacier fronts. Hikes ashore are also planned to discover the Arctic flora and understand how this fragile ecosystem maintains its balance.
These moments of exchange, discovery and sharing are an integral part of our spirit of conviviality and authenticity.
To find out more about our itineraries and departure dates, visit our page dedicated to the Spitzberg cruise.
A journey to the heart of the polar world
Choosing a Spitzberg cruise is much more than booking a simple trip: it’s opting for a truly polar adventure, experienced in an intimate and friendly setting. A place where time seems to stand still, where animals rule, and where northern light transforms the landscape at every moment.
At Escales Polaires, we believe that emotion is born from encounters: between humans and nature, between silence and the sound of the wind, between a curious gaze and the greatness of the living world. Observing Spitzberg’s wildlife means reconnecting with a sense of humility and wonder — an unforgettable adventure, shared with a passionate and caring team.
We invite you to embark with us on this experience of respect, emotion, authenticity and conviviality at the heart of the Far North.