I Saw Seals, Walrus, and Arctic Foxes on This Epic Polar Expedition Cruise

"I was standing on the bridge, scanning the sea, when suddenly I saw it: a buttery yellow smudge in the distance. I dialed the focus of my binoculars and there it was, a beluga whale swimming off the shores of Svalbard. As excited as I was to have spotted the whale, it was just one of the many incredible animals I was able to witness during my 10-day expedition across the high Arctic."

"That was easy enough to do given the intimate size of the 138-passenger vessel. With its ice-hardened hull and an X-bow design for a more comfortable ride, Endurance was purpose built for places such as Svalbard, as well as other spots in the Arctic and Antarctic, explained Captain Leif Skog, vice president of marine operations for Lindblad Expeditions. "Being designed for polar waters, we're able to have a longer season, particularly in the Arctic, so we can start earlier and stay longer," Skog said."

During a 10-day expedition around Svalbard aboard the National Geographic Endurance, passengers observed beluga whales and numerous Arctic species from the ship's bridge and during shore excursions. The vessel's open-bridge policy, spotting scopes, and experienced officers aided wildlife spotting. Endurance's 138-passenger size, ice-hardened hull, and X-bow design enable extended polar-season operations. Expert guides led Zodiac and kayak transfers to shore for hikes to abandoned settlements and wildlife-viewing, including Arctic foxes, birds, and seals. Crew-organized activities expanded exploration options and facilitated immersive experiences in high Arctic environments. Passengers frequently gathered on the bridge when wildlife sightings occurred, creating shared moments of discovery and learning.

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