MS Spitsbergen

There is only one restaurant on-board Spitsbergen, Torgen. However, the variety is still present as the menu changes twice daily and offers some unique dishes for you to sample (sheep’s head or baked reindeer). Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner here with the restaurant presented as a light and airy Scandinavian style. Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style and open-seated, with dinner a more formal affair with two seatings. The menu offers locally-inspired dishes and there is plenty of emphasis on locally sourced seafood. As well as Torgen, guests can also enjoy snacks and light bites at the Brygga Bistro.

There are four categories of accommodation on-board Spitsbergen: Polar Inside, Polar Outside, Arctic Superior and Expedition Suite. Polar Inside offers a cosy layout, complete with shared bathroom, convertible sofa bed and capacity for two passengers. Polar Outside offers flexible sleeping arrangements and can fit up to four passengers.

The Arctic Superior, also for up to four passengers, includes comfortable furnishings, sofa bed and most also include a balcony. Expedition Suites are well-appointed cabins, most of which have balconies and some have a private outside Jacuzzi. These can also fit up to four passengers, with comfortable sitting areas, espresso maker and bathrobes.

Other than lectures from the Expedition Team, there aren’t many daytime activities on offer for Spitsbergen – the focus is largely on the destinations and expedition experience. Wildlife viewing is exceptional on-board, with opportunity to spot whales, orca, white-tailed eagles and puffins during your sailing.

The ship also has two hot tubs, great for relaxing in the early evening, alongside the sauna which features a window to watch the world go by as you slip into blissful relaxation. For active passengers, there is a small fitness centre.

When sailing to Antarctica, Hurtigruten does not allow children under the age of five on-board, otherwise there are no age restrictions. It is also worth bearing in mind that there are no facilities catering to younger audiences on-board Spitsbergen.

The Explorer Lounge on-board Spitsbergen offers two-levels of socialising space for guests to meet for lectures or enjoy a drink in the evening. The top level offers stunning views of the landscapes, with plenty seating, comfy sofas and stairs to the outside for wildlife watching. Here, books and board games are also on offer for guests looking to settle down with a new read or challenge friends and family to a competitive game or two.