A journey with the MS Serenissima is perfect for adventurers who value nature and unique experiences over luxury. Together with a highly skilled crew and expedition team, you will travel to one of the most stunning and remote corners of the far north.
Explore our expedition cruises in Svalbard →
While comfortable and equipped with modern amenities, the Arctic cruise ship MS Serenissima is less about luxury and more about the authentic Arctic nature experience. The ship’s maximum capacity is 103 guests and thus offers a more intimate, laid-back atmosphere than many typical cruises.
The ship was built in 1960 and most recently refurbished in 2019. The cabins have a window, comfortable double or twin beds and a private en-suite bathroom. There is a dining room that offers panoramic views, indoor lounge areas, an outdoor observation deck and an open-air bar.
The temperature in Svalbard hardly ever rises above 10°C, even in the warmest summer months. Longyearbyen can still experience freezing temperatures at night in May and reaches a maximum of about 9°C in July. Further north on the island of Spitsbergen it can be even colder, and if the weather is rough and windy, it can feel like full-on winter.
The dress code on board is informal; bring casual and comfortable clothing. There is no need to dress up for dinner. Even in the summer, you will be exposed to cold sea winds and will need warm clothing when outside on deck and during land excursions. It is recommended to bring a warm jacket, wind- and water-resistant trousers, long thermal or woollen underwear, hat, scarf, gloves, woollen jumper or fleece jacket and warm socks. Bring sturdy shoes with good, grippy soles for outdoors and a comfortable pair for indoors. Remember sunglasses and sun protection for the intense, long daylight hours. A small waterproof backpack, a pair of binoculars and a camera should also be on your packing list.
Early in the season – May and early June – there is usually still a lot of sea ice, which serves as seal habitat. Thus, the chances of a polar bear sighting are slightly increased this time of year. On the other hand, more ice means that the ship may not be able to reach all the fjords, landing places or the 80th parallel north – a popular expedition destination and highlight for some travellers.
May to July is the best season for birdwatchers, since most birds will leave the area by August.
In July and August, Svalbard is at its most colourful, with green grass and flowering vegetation. The midnight sun lasts until August 23; after that, it is still very bright, but the days begin to shorten quickly.
Yes, there is a professional expedition team on board who will keep you up to date on the ship’s journey and point out interesting sights and wildlife. They will also hold lectures on topics such as biology, history and geology, accompany you on landings and will happily answer all your questions. The expedition team consists of English-, German-, Norwegian- and French-speaking guides (Italian-speaking guides available on selected departures).
The emphasis of the expedition cruise is on relaxation and discovery, and not on commercial entertainment which is often a part of conventional cruises. The expedition’s goal is to let you immerse yourself in unique environments and share the experience with your fellow travellers. Occasionally there may be some musical entertainment on board in the evenings.
Yes, there is an English-speaking doctor on board. In general, it is advised that you be in good health when joining an expedition cruise, since there is no immediate access to modern medical facilities. The ship has a small medical facility with the necessary equipment and medication to handle minor emergencies. In the event of a serious emergency, the nearest hospital will be contacted. Costs for medical consultations and any medication will be borne by the affected passenger. All passengers must carry sufficient travel/health insurance. If you take medication, remember to carry enough to last through any unforeseen delays. We also recommend keeping your medication in your hand luggage, properly labelled and with clear instructions for use. If you require essential or life-sustaining medication, please inform the ship’s doctor upon arrival. Illness on board can lead to quarantine and orders from the ship’s doctor and captain must be followed.
All guests must be physically able to use stairs, walk on uneven or slippery surfaces and get into and out of small Zodiac boats for land excursions.
Yes, this can happen since the sea can be rough at times. If you are prone to seasickness, we recommend that you bring medication that works well for you.
Most mobile phones will function in Longyearbyen and Ny-Ålesund. Check with your mobile service provider for details. There is no mobile coverage while at sea and no Wi-Fi on board. Travellers are encouraged to embrace the digital detox as part of the unique and immersive voyage.
No, there is no laundry service on board.
Smoking is only permitted in designated areas on the outside decks. Smoking in the cabin is prohibited and subject to a fine.
Yes, all guests are required to carry travel insurance, including cancellation cover, medical cover for illness or injury and repatriation while abroad.
During an expedition cruise, the elements rule, and the weather, wind and ice conditions determine the final schedule. Safety is paramount, and the captain will adjust the itinerary based on the current conditions. Therefore, the stated itinerary is just an indication of what you might experience. Every expedition is a unique journey.
During an expedition cruise, you will make several landings with small Zodiac boats, which are used for exploration and safe landings in otherwise inaccessible areas. You need to be able to get in and out of them, but the crew is there to assist you. You must have sturdy footwear. There are usually two boat tours or shore visits per day, but this depends on the weather and wind conditions, and no guarantee can be given for specific location visits or number of landings during the cruise.
The minimum age for a Svalbard expedition cruise is 2 years. However, this tour is not recommended for very young children, and the programme cannot be adjusted to accommodate their needs. It is entirely at the captain’s discretion whether to allow children on shore landings.
We will share your email address that you used for your booking with the supplier. You will receive a questionnaire prior to your departure which needs to be filled out. Your personal details will be registered with SafeSeaNet Norway in accordance with maritime law. In addition to your passport information, you will also need to provide your flight details and an emergency contact.
No, these voyages sail in the summer during the season of the midnight sun. For a chance to see the Northern Lights, we recommend booking one of our Norway winter cruises.
No, there is no jacuzzi on the ship.
Any onboard purchases must be paid for at the end of the cruise. If you order anything that is not included in the package (such as soft drinks or alcoholic drinks), a tab will be opened. At the end of the cruise, you will pay your total by credit card (Visa, American Express, Diners Club or Mastercard).
The outlets on board are European 220V / 50 Hz two-pin sockets, Type C or F. Please bring an adapter if your devices require one.
The tap water in your cabin is drinkable. Jugs of filtered water are available at your table during meals, and bottled water can be purchased.