The expedition season in Svalbard runs from early June to mid August. This short Arctic summer opens up the coastline, breaks apart the sea ice, and creates the perfect window to explore the region by ship. Every part of the season offers something slightly different. Some travelers want the raw polar ice at the start, others come for wildlife activity in the middle, and some prefer the open fjords and soft light of late summer. Here is what each part of the season typically looks like.

Early June

This is the beginning of the Arctic summer. Most of the sea ice is still in place, especially in the north and east, but the edges have started to break up. Many fjords are still partly frozen, and snow is visible on the lower tundra. The light is strong and constant, with the sun never setting.

Polar bears are often spotted on the ice, sometimes walking along the edge or resting on drifting floes. Seals are using ice near the shore, and walruses begin hauling out on the beaches. Bird cliffs are filling up as guillemots, kittiwakes, and little auks return to nest. This part of the season feels raw and remote. The ice gives a real sense of the high Arctic, and the chances to see wildlife on the sea ice are high.

Late June to Mid July

By now, more of the coast is accessible. Ice has retreated farther north, and ships can often explore deeper into the fjords and around the islands. The tundra starts to thaw, revealing patches of green moss, lichen, and small Arctic flowers. Snow is still present in some valleys, but most landing sites are clear.

Wildlife is highly active. Polar bears are seen both on land and ice. Walrus groups become larger and more relaxed. Arctic foxes are hunting near bird cliffs, and Svalbard reindeer are grazing in open valleys. Seabird colonies are in full swing, with thousands of birds feeding chicks. This period offers a mix of remaining ice, rich wildlife, and more landing opportunities. It is a great time for photography and for seeing a variety of species in motion.

Late July to Mid August

This is the most open and accessible time of the season. Most fjords are ice-free, and the ship can often navigate areas that were unreachable just a few weeks earlier. Glaciers are calving more frequently, the tundra is mostly snow-free, and wildlife is still active but beginning to prepare for the end of the season.

Reindeer are more widespread and easier to spot. Arctic foxes can be seen carrying food to dens. Seabird colonies are still active, though some chicks are already fledging. Walruses continue to haul out along the coast. Polar bears are sometimes seen near the water’s edge, often walking long distances along the shore. The weather tends to be calmest during this time, and the light becomes warmer and lower, creating beautiful conditions for landscape and wildlife viewing.

Summary

There is no single best time to visit Svalbard. The season is short but full of variation. Early June brings dramatic ice and a raw polar feel. Late June and early July are filled with movement and activity. Late July and August offer access to more locations and longer landings. No matter when you travel during the summer, you will see wild Arctic nature at its most alive.