Arctic safari: summer cruise to Svalbard

Como Hotels and Resorts launches Arctic expeditions to the Svalbard Archipelago, combining wildlife encounters with wellness experiences aboard a converted Norwegian weather ship M/S Polarfront, equipped with eight suites with large portholes and en-suite bathrooms, plus a sauna and hot tub. The journey, setting sail on July 30, 2025, has been developed in partnership with Natural World Safaris and will be led by Emmy-nominated director and National Geographic photographer Andy Mann.



Guests will board the ship in the Norwegian town of Longyearbyen and embark on an 11-day voyage, during which they will be enjoying Arctic wildlife and frozen landscapes. The exact itinerary will depend upon the weather conditions, the density of the pack ice in the north, and wildlife opportunities. Expect to visit ice-filled fjords framed by breath-taking snow-capped peaks, observe polar bears as they hunt for seals, seek out sunbathing walrus, and spot whales breaching in the icy seas. On shore, you may come across Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer, and beautiful Arctic flora.



Guests will also have the chance to listen to experts delivering lectures and workshops covering photography, wildlife, sustainability, and Arctic culture and history. Como will bring its signature brand of wellness and cuisine to the Arctic cruise, with an onboard Como Shambhala therapist providing treatments and a menu featuring East-West fusion cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients.



The expedition aims to provide what Como describes as "unrivalled access" to one of the world's most remote regions, featuring fjords and snow-covered islands.