Practical Information

Health

There is a hospital in Longyearbyen that is only equipped for emergencies. It is recommended that travelers bring their own medicine and other regular medication, as special products cannot always be obtained.

Vaccinations

No vaccinations are necessary.

Climate

Svalbard has a high Arctic climate with average temperatures of no more than 10 °C in the warmest summer month. The weather conditions in the Arctic are very changeable and it is not unusual to experience different weather conditions on the same day.

Clothing

The dress code on board is casual, you are welcome to leave your tux and evening dress at home. For sea days and shore excursions, your clothing should always be comfortable, breathable, waterproof and windproof. As the weather can change during the day, we recommend the tried and tested “onion principle” (several layers of clothing on top of each other).

Country and people

Spitsbergen is an islands group in the Arctic Ocean that belongs to Norwegian supremacy. The capital Longyearbyen is 1,300 kilometers from the North Pole. Known mainly for its breathtaking scenery and wildlife, Svalbard is one of the few countries in the world where polar bears can be observed in their natural habitat. The islands are an important location for research into climate change and the Arctic.

The inhabitants of Svalbard have a particularly unique sense of community, as everyone is dependent on each other in the Arctic environment. Environmental awareness is also particularly important to the locals, who are sustainable and observe strict environmental regulations to protect the Arctic nature in the best possible way.

Credit cards

All major credit cards can be used to withdraw money on Svalbard. The only ATM is located in Longyearbyen. Most credit card companies charge a fee of between 1.75-4% of the total amount.

Security

Outside Longyearbyen, you should only be accompanied by a tour guide, as there is a constant danger of polar bears. There is almost no crime.

Currency

Svalbard is under Norwegian supremacy and shares a currency with Norway, the Norwegian krone. The supermarket also accepts Euro, USD or GBP. The exchange rate is usually unfavorable, and cash payments are not recommended.

Language

The national language is Norwegian, in some parts Russian. Everyone in the tourism sector can speak English.

Life onboard

Get more information on the life onboard.

Post offices

Mail sent is stamped with a Norwegian stamp and postmark and is first sent to Norway before being sent to the destination address. The post office is in Longyearbyen.

Time

The clocks in Svalbard are set to CET (Central European Time). Which is GMT +1 (Greenwich Mean Time).

Tipping

Tipping is not customary outside of bars and restaurants. There it is usually 5-15% of the total bill.

Visa

Svalbard is administered by Norway but is outside the Schengen area. All travelers must have a valid passport, including Norwegian nationals.

No visa is required.

Water onboard the ship

All water from taps and water stations aboard are chlorinated. The water in the water stations is also extra filtered. Sometimes the water from the water taps or in bathrooms may have brownish colour. This is quite common on ships and is due to oxygen in water touching the iron piping. If you let the water flow for few seconds the water will be clear. The tap water onboard is not safe to drink but you can use it for brushing your teeth.

Opening hours

During the week the stores are open on average from 11.00 to 18.00 and on Saturdays from 11.00 to 14.00.

Souvenirs

Animal products from protected animals such as alcids, bears, seals, walruses and whales, as well as products made from these materials, may not be taken into the country. Likewise, no archaeological finds or plant parts may be exported.