Polar Bear Explorer
Join us in 2024 in search of the polar bear aboard the R/V Kinfish, whilst exploring the stunning Spitsbergen Archipelago.
From 8395 per personCrafting the Arctic Brew: A Deep Dive into Svalbard Brewery
The Svalbard Brewery, located in the town of Longyearbyen in Svalbard, is the world’s most northern brewery as well as evidence for human resourcefulness and love for craft beer. This brewery was established by Robert Johansen in 2015 and has since become a landmark of the Arctic, offering an unmatched experience to beer lovers in this desolate place.
The Birth of Svalbard Brewery
The story behind Svalbard Brewery started with an extraordinary dream – to bring fresh locally brewed beer to one of the remotest places on Earth. Johansen was inspired by his passion for beer and desire to create something truly unique in the Arctic. After overcoming many logistical challenges such as importing brewing equipment or dealing with arctic conditions while running a business there, they finally opened their doors.
They used water from Bogerbreen glacier (which is over 2000 years old) when making their first batches of beers, thereby every sip is like drinking a bit of Arctic history.
Contact a Svalbard Specialist Today
The Svalbard Brewery Tour Price and Availability
The experience lasts roughly 1.5 hours and is priced at NOK 475 (roughly £35 or $44). The tours are on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays at 6pm and will go ahead even with just four people booked.
If you’re looking for extended time at the Svalbard bar, then your best bet is to visit on Friday evenings when the bar is open from 16:00-22:00.
A Unique Arctic Destination
Svalbard Brewery is more than just a place to get great beer; it’s a destination that embodies the spirit of adventure and innovation in the Arctic. The company shows its commitment to sustainability and regard for the environment through everything they do. By choosing such a challenging location for brewing, Svalbard Brewery has created a product which is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
Svalbard Safaris
Wilderness Expedition
Driving your own snowmobiles over the Arctic tundra and on-board the expedition ship, you will be on the lookout for wildlife, hoping to see polar bears, walrus, seals and reindeer alongside the epic Arctic landscape in some of the best light conditions. Svalbard is always an extraordinary adventure!
From 8995 per person
Telegraph Route To Isfjord Radio
Experience the Arctic like a true explorer via tented camp and husky sled, looking out for the Northern Lights and spotting wildlife in Svalbard's dramatic wilderness. Begin your adventure into the wilderness at Basecamp Hotel before spending two days camping under the stars, scouring for the magical Northern Lights and exploring the far reaches of the Arctic. Watch for wildlife and travel by husky sled before recuperating in luxury with a stay at Isfjord Radio, a converted radio station turned comfortable wilderness hotel.
From 4800 per person
I had the privilege to visit Svalbard Brewery and take part in their tour; it was interesting finding out where these beers came from while tasting them too. Interestingly, despite several attempts to replicate their recipes on mainland Norway, the results have never quite matched, with the only significant difference being the absence of that distinct glacier water. During the tour—which feels more like a tasting session with a side of brewery history—you’ll have the chance to sample five different beers and even taste some of the ingredients used in the brewing process. While the bar typically closes after the tour, if you ask politely, you might be able to purchase an extra beer or two to enjoy.
What to Expect from your Svalbard Safari Holiday?
Crafting beer in the Arctic is not an easy task, but Svalbard Brewery demonstrates that even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles, passion, creativity and determination can conquer all. Whether you are a connoisseur or just looking for something different, visiting Svalbard Brewery provides an unprecedented chance to taste what lies north of ordinary housed within a glass whilst also witnessing amazing behind-the-scenes process involved in making this happen.
This is no ordinary trip so don’t miss out when you are at the top of the world.
If you’re thinking about going to Svalbard, then speak with one of our Arctic specialists who will be able to help plan your trip-of-a-lifetime (which should definitely include a trip to the brewery!)
