The remote wilderness of Svalbard is known as a polar desert, surrounded by rugged glaciers, frozen tundra and craggy mountain peaks. Due to the extraordinary nature of the region, the cruising and expedition schedules are flexible. Your experienced Captain and Discovery Leader will use their expertise to design this section of your voyage from day to day, making the most of the long daylight hours, weather and ice conditions to give you the best experience possible in this extraordinary part of the world. Your Scenic Eclipse voyage cruises at prime time for wildlife spotting, and there will be opportunities to spot the dominant predators of the region including the polar bear. Marine species in the area include the carefully protected walrus with its characteristic tusks and several species of whales. Once hunted almost to extinction in a region now transformed into a dedicated conservation area, your encounters with these giants of the sea will be a memory to treasure. In addition, the surprisingly mild climate makes it the perfect Arctic location for a large variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, the Arctic fox, and reindeer. S remember to take your binoculars with you. Some of the possible landing sights that you may visit include Ny Ålesund, home to the northernmost post office in the world and full of history, the North East Svalbard Nature Reserve with the highest population of polar bears and walrus, and the North West Spitsbergen National Park, where you will explore magnificent fjords and the enormous Monaco Glacier. Discovery: Partake in daily Scenic Discovery excursions by Zodiac, kayak and on nature walks, and discover majestic Arctic scenery, tundra landscapes, the wildlife and marine life. (B/L/D)