THE REALM OF THE POLAR BEAR

This fascinating expedition provides a taste of everything Spitsbergen has to offer, starting with its largest settlement, Longyearbyen. The largest island of the Svalbard archipelago is known as the “wildlife capital of the Arctic,” and on this stirring voyage, we show you why. Geared toward optimum wildlife viewing, this 10-day expedition provides ample opportunities to witness walrus, reindeer, and that most iconic of Arctic denizens, the polar bear, in their natural habitat, while marveling at the surreal experience of continuous daylight. Explore the unique Arctic landscape, hike the vast and colorful tundra, learn about the history and geology of this remote wilderness, and join us on a gripping excursion to a faraway, unforgettable land.

JUNE 2023 – Join Ryan Hilton of Admiral Travel International as you take off toward the remote Norwegian island, renowned for
its stunning scenery and abundant, varied wildlife, providing a distinct polar experience. Ultramarine, Quark Expedition’s new, game-changing polar vessel, can take you to remote destinations no other ships can reach.

Watch the video below to grasp the true experience of the Arctic!

June 17, 2023 | ARRIVE IN HELSINKI, FINLAND
Your Arctic adventure begins in Helsinki, renowned for its extraordinary architecture and intriguing mix of eastern and western influences. If you arrive early, explore the many museums, galleries and restaurants, relax at a Finnish sauna or wander the vibrant Design District before retiring at your included hotel.

June 18, 2023 | FLY TO LONGYEARBYEN, SVALBARD & EMBARK
This morning, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s largest settlement, where you’ll have some time to explore before embarkation.

As your ship sets sail, enjoy your first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising majestically from icy waters.

The newest ship in Quark’s fleet, Ultramarine, is designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to discover new places, and to immerse you in the best the region has to offer.

Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, Ultramarine offers the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also features an innovative mix of sustainability features that exceed all industry standards.

With all this and more, Ultramarine is set to deliver the ultimate polar expedition experience.

June 19 – 25, 2023 | EXPLORING SPITSBERGEN
You’ll cruise around this magical island on a constant search for wildlife.  Your expedition will cover western Spitsbergen as well as stunning fjords and outlying islands to the north. From polar flora to immense glaciers, the natural landscape here is just as varied as the wildlife.

Each expedition presents new opportunities and different weather and ice, so there is no fixed itinerary; however, some of the places we may visit include the 14th of July Glacier, Smeerenburg, Alkefjellet and the Hinlopen Strait. The destinations visited will be selected for optimum wildlife viewing with an appreciation of the history and geology of Spitsbergen.

If you’re itching to experience a more intimate view from the water, you can book the sea kayaking or paddling excursion adventure options.

In Spitsbergen, there is no shortage of natural beauty.  The tundra can be surprisingly colorful in summer, with wildflowers bursting for a taste of sunshine. Each day, you’ll see something interesting, whether it is an ever-changing gallery of spectacular icebergs, a polar bear resting between hunts, or abandoned historical site from centuries ago

June 26, 2023 | DISEMBARK IN LONGYEARBYEN & FLY TO HELSINKI
The time to say goodbye to your Expedition Team and shipmates has come. Your adventure ends as it began, in the historic frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your return group charter flight to Helsinki, included in the transfer package.

Call Isabelle Finly at 941-951-1801 at extension 105 now to reserve your space on this unique journey today! You may e-mail at isabelle@admiraltravel.com

Rates include:

• Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities
• All Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program
• All shore landings per the daily program
• Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
• All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals.)
• Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
• Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
• A photographic journal documenting the expedition
• A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
• An official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep
• Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
• All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
• All luggage handling aboard the ship
• Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person
• Transfers between Longyearbyen town center and port on embarkation and disembarkation day

Cancellation information:

• From time of deposit until 180 days prior, the cancellation fee is $1500 per person

Space is extremely limited! Book early to avoid disappointment

Once bookings are finalized, a $250 per person Admiral Travel Booking Fee will apply. (VIPLane members complimentary)

PLEASE NOTE:

Admiral Travel (ATI) reserves the right to decline to accept anyone on a Founders Journey (FJ) departure. ATI reserves the right to remove from the trip, at his or her sole expense, anyone whose condition is such that he or she could create a hazard to himself or others, or otherwise impact the enjoyment of other passengers on the trip. ATI reserves the right to cancel the reservation/booking at any time during the pre-trip planning process should the potential traveler become combative or disruptive/rude to any member of the ATI team or other travelers. ATI does not need to refund in any scenario outlined but will do its very best to find a replacement to minimize costs. ATI has a strict policy to ensure the cordial and congenial relationship of all travelers to ensure a seamless and memorable experience.

• All payments made to or on behalf of Admiral Travel are non-refundable unless stated otherwise
• If minimum numbers are not met for a hosted departure, prices are subject to change / increase to confirm same program on a private basis
• Founder’s Journey will always be priced at or below published rates, but never higher.
• Travel with like-minded individuals on these exclusive departures.
• Enjoy a welcome cocktail party to meet your fellow travelers.
• A hosted dinner will be offered during one night of the trip with the Hiltons.
• On many occasions, optional shore events are offered as an option that only our group is invited to join.
• Special global relationships that the Hiltons have formed over the years will allow you privileged access opportunities.
• Trips are offered well in advance to give ample time for your future planning.
• Minimum numbers must be met in order for the Hiltons to host the journey.
• The Hiltons reserve the right to adjust the duration of their participation should any schedule conflicts arise.