Svalbard Polar Coast
Coastal & Intertidal
Mammals
Expert
Norway — Svalbard
June to August
Overview
Arctic expedition cruise past glacier-fronted coasts with polar bears, walrus, and whales.
Equipment
- Extreme cold gear
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Bear deterrent flare
Safety Notes
- Polar bear danger — armed guides required on shore
- Hypothermia risk if falling in water
Identification Tips
1
Polar bears patrol glacier fronts hunting seals
2
Walrus haul-outs on low beaches
3
Beluga whales in fjord mouths
Species Checklist
| Species | Likelihood | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Polar Bear | common | Glacier fronts and ice edges |
| Walrus | common | Haul-out beaches |
| Arctic Fox | common | Near bird cliffs |
| Beluga Whale | uncommon | Fjord mouths and glacier fronts |