COMO Hotels Revives Exclusive Arctic Voyages for 2026
Two intimate sailings in May and September 2026 pair Svalbard wildlife encounters with COMO’s signature wellness and cuisine.

Photo: Courtesy of COMO
Following a sold-out debut season in 2025, COMO Hotels and Resorts will bring back its ultra-limited Arctic expedition program, COMO Journey: Into the Arctic, with two departures set for May and September 2026. Developed with Natural World Safaris, the voyages sail aboard the boutique M/S Polarfront—a converted Norwegian weather ship with just seven suites.
Operating round-trip from Longyearbyen in Norway’s Svalbard Archipelago, the 10- and 11-night sailings combine Arctic wildlife encounters with COMO Shambhala wellness, East-meets-West fusion cuisine, and hands-on education from seasoned expedition leaders. The vessel’s small capacity—maximum 12 guests—makes for a private yacht-style atmosphere with premium inclusions like en-suite accommodations, sauna, and hot tub access, and curated wellness treatments from bodywork specialist Matteo Pasquali.
The May 13–23 “Arctic Awakens” voyage aligns with the midnight sun, offering nearly continuous daylight, dramatic sea ice, and prime sightings of polar bears, walruses, and nesting seabirds. The September 13–24 “Arctic’s Final Glow” departure trades 24-hour light for autumnal colors, higher whale activity, and potential Northern Lights displays. Extended shore landings are possible as sea ice recedes, appealing to clients seeking softer weather without sacrificing wildlife viewing. While the per-guest investment—starting around $31,000 single or $52,000 double—places the product firmly in the UHNW segment, the expeditions cater to more than just seasoned cruisers. COMO’s wellness focus can attract clients who might otherwise choose a spa retreat, while the vessel’s scale and flexibility appeal to those wary of larger expedition ships.
Given Svalbard’s limited airlift, with only two daily flights from Oslo or Tromsø, travelers will need to plan arrival at least one day early; COMO includes a pre-cruise night at Funken Lodge with dinner and wine pairing. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential due to the remote environment, and itineraries remain flexible to accommodate ice and weather conditions. The voyage can also be paired with COMO properties in Europe or wellness retreats in Asia, creating a multi-stop itinerary that blends polar exploration with tropical or urban luxury. Onboard programming includes lectures on Arctic ecology, sustainability, and culture.
Bookings for the 2026 season open Aug. 25, 2025, and capacity is extremely limited.