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Polar Bears in the Changing Arctic: New Scientist Discovery Tours

Polar Bears in the Changing Arctic: New Scientist Discovery Tours

From AUD $21,895

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Description

Welcome to Aurora Expeditions’ special edition Polar Bears in the Changing Arctic expedition, in partnership with New Scientist Discovery Tours. 
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the Arctic, a land of awe-inspiring beauty and untamed wilderness. Focusing on the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago, we slice through pack ice to find walrus and bearded seals, and sail along spectacular fjords surrounded by jagged mountains that pierce the sky. June is a prime time to witness the Arctic’s vibrant wildlife in action. Marvel at a plethora of species on land and at sea, from Arctic foxes and polar bears to marine giants like humpback and fin whales returning from their tropical wintering grounds. As ice retreats, the tundra blooms and towering cliffs echo with millions of nesting seabirds – a truly unforgettable natural spectacle. Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple or with friends, you will share this adventure with like-minded individuals who cherish the wonders of nature and science. 
This unique cruise will be co-hosted by New Scientist Discovery Tours, known for its amazing, science-filled tours, cruises and expeditions, all inspired by the journalism of New Scientist, the world’s most popular weekly science and technology publication. Now, in partnership with Aurora Expeditions, New Scientist Discovery Tours is setting sail to the polar regions to provide breathtaking and illuminating travel experiences that combine the extraordinary natural surroundings with a focus on science and discovery. Enjoy a vibrant program of expert-led talks, workshops, shore visits and Zodiac cruises, covering topics from polar science (including glaciology and marine biology) to the big-picture questions about life, the universe, and what it means to be human. 

Trip Name
Polar Bears in the Changing Arctic: New Scientist Discovery Tours
Days
8
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 104 meters Passenger Capacity: 126 Built / Refurbished: 2020/2021 The Sylvia Earle is a 104 m, 130-passenger expedition vessel launched in 2022, purpose-built to provide intimate, environmentally responsible voyages to the world’s most remote regions. Featuring the Ulstein X-BOW® hull design for smoother transit, it serves as a floating ambassador for marine conservation, with public decks honouring pioneering women in science and a fully equipped Citizen Science Center. The ship is designed for small, engaged groups, offering expert-led lectures, a participative science program, and extensive observation opportunities, including efficient Zodiac access and dedicated activity decks for kayaking and wildlife spotting. Onboard amenities combine adventure with comfort. Guests can dine in open-seating restaurants or enjoy informal Captain’s Farewell drinks, with tea, coffee, and snacks available 24 hours. Recreational facilities include a gym, sauna, and two Jacuzzis with panoramic views, while communal bars and lounges foster camaraderie. Staterooms range from the luxurious Captain’s Suite and Junior Suites to Balcony and Aurora Staterooms, including options for solo travellers and triples, all with private en-suites. The Sylvia Earle balances comfort, style, and sustainability, providing a fully immersive expedition experience.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Arrive in Oslo
Having made your way to Oslo, you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to our group hotel. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash or purchase last minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket.   The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense. Accommodation: Oslo Hotel (to be advised) 
Day 2 - Day 2 Fly to Longyearbyen, embarkation
Spitsbergen is the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago and offers Arctic wilderness at its best. Phenomenal fjords, magnificent mountain ranges, and a polar desert rich in fossils set the stage for heroic tales of early exploration.  See walrus hauled out on sea ice or beaches, stretch your legs on tundra walks carpeted in brightly coloured wildflowers, and visit towering cliffs noisy with nesting guillemots and puffins. This expedition has been thoughtfully designed and includes a mix of activities, such as expert-led talks, engaging workshops and exhilarating Zodiac cruise safaris. You will be accompanied by engaging guest speakers from the world of science chosen by New Scientist Discovery Tours, along with the highly knowledgeable and supportive expedition team. Learn about topics including glaciology, climate, marine biology, and the history of polar exploration, deepening your connection to this remote and rugged archipelago.  If you’ve chosen an optional activity such as kayaking, you’ll have the chance to enjoy it when conditions allow. For those eager to take a polar plunge, once conditions are suitable, you’ll hear the call to prepare for an exhilarating dip – a memory to savour for years to come. 
Day 3 - Days 3–7 Spitsbergen
The island of Spitsbergen is the largest in the Svalbard Archipelago and offers Arctic wilderness at its best. The members of our experienced Expedition Team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to tailor our day-to-day itinerary, choosing the best options, based on the prevailing weather, sea-ice conditions and the possibility of encounters with wildlife. Phenomenal fjords, magnificent mountains ranges, and a polar desert rich in fossils, set the stage for heroic tales of early exploration. See walrus hauled-out on sea ice or on beaches. On land, we stretch our legs on walks across tundra carpeted in brightly coloured wildflowers. We visit towering cliffs noisy with nesting guillemots and puffins, and scree slopes that hold Svalbard’s largest little auk colonies.  If you have chosen an optional activity such as kayaking, you will have an opportunity to enjoy that activity when conditions allow. For those who are enthusiastic to participate in a polar plunge, as soon as conditions are suitable, you will hear the announcement to prepare for an exhilarating dip – a memory you will savour for years to come. 
Day 4 - Day 8 Disembark in Longyearbyen, fly to Oslo
During the early morning, we cruise back into Longyearbyen. Farewell your Expedition Team upon disembarkation and enjoy some free time before transferring to the airport for your return charter flight to Oslo to continue your journey. Note: the arrival time in Oslo is contingent on the approved allocated slot for our charter flight to and from Longyearbyen, which we expect to receive in March 2027.  
Day 5 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
03-07-202710-07-2027AUD $21,895Aurora Stateroom Triple Share
03-07-202710-07-2027AUD $23,895Aurora Stateroom Superior
03-07-202710-07-2027AUD $24,495Balcony Stateroom Category C
03-07-202710-07-2027AUD $25,895Balcony Stateroom Category B
03-07-202710-07-2027AUD $27,695Balcony Stateroom Category A
03-07-202710-07-2027AUD $30,295Balcony Stateroom Superior
03-07-202710-07-2027AUD $36,095Junior Suite
03-07-202710-07-2027AUD $41,195Captain’s Suite

Inclusions

    • Travel with like-minded people who love to connect with the natural world and the wonder of science
    • Participate in New Scientist-led workshops and in a science-lead zodiac cruises and workshop programs with a marine biologist
    • Keep an eye out for majestic polar bears on pack ice
    • Discover the thrill of seeing arctic wildlife, like walrus, reindeer and arctic fox
    • See towering cliffs teeming with birdlife, including guillemots and puffins
    • Enjoy thrilling Zodiac cruises along blue glacier fronts and through stunning fjords
    • Enjoy tundra hikes amid stunning scenery without seeing another soul

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