JUNE IS THE BEST TIME TO FIND POLAR BEARS

As an Expedition Travel company, our Ethical Roamers tend to be open minded and ready for a little adventure. This means we could set sail at any time of year, but for Svalbard Wildlife Reconnect, this summer’s Arctic sailing cruise, we decided to choose June. Here’s why….

“It’s now that Svalbard’s 3,000 polar bears head to the islands to hunt. Early June boasts abundant ice sheets under the shining midnight sun—increasing your chances of witnessing a majestic Arctic bear prowling the ice’s edge.”

At latitude 78° N, the Svalbard archipelago (formerly known as Spitsbergen) is further north than most explorers venture south when journeying to Antarctica. The winter is harsh and cold (-30°C/4°F). Sea ice makes it nearly impossible to sail safely; and despite a significant decrease in Arctic sea ice, many of our favorite destinations remain impossible to reach when the sea ice is at maximum growth.

It’s not just humans who find the winter environment to be hostile. In these conditions, polar bears cease hunting to shelter themselves from inclement weather, relying on fat reserves to make it through the rough winter months.

In May the sea ice begins to melt, providing early passage for traveling sailors. By June, the ice has receded and the wildlife is active! From large mammals to small birds, every species is in motion. Even the flora of the tundra joins in to put on a show!

It’s now that Svalbard’s ~3,000 polar bears head to the islands to hunt. Early June boasts abundant ice sheets under the shining midnight sun—increasing your chances of witnessing a majestic Arctic bear prowling the ice’s edge.

According to marine biologist and phD candidate Belen Garcia Ovide, “Observing a polar bear for the first time in his/her environment can be challenging, but a truly life changing experience. There are few other animal species so majestic, impressive, and purely beautiful as the Arctic bear.”

Norway’s High Arctic is also home to walrus, narwhal, foxes, reindeer, beluga whales, minke whales, and thousands of sea birds.

When seeking the Svalbard bears, timing is important, but it’s not the only consideration! We team up with seasoned scientists, experienced sailors, and inspiring photographers to bring you a unique and memorable experience. Choosing a small, nimble vessel like Tilvera allows us to visit inlets larger cruises can’t reach.

A small group tour caters more personally to your unique interests and ensures you don’t have to compete with hundreds of guests for a good view. You can easily jump in a zodiac for a closer look or change course to seek out the action.

As always, June’s Svalbard Wildlife Reconnect tour is carbon neutral (thanks to our Fair Travel commitment), ethically curated, and gives back to this Expedition’s charity: Ocean Missions.

Ready to experience Svalbard’s extraordinary wildlife?
Explore our handy guide, see Svalbard’s stunning beauty or book now to start your thrilling adventure!