COMO Hotels and Resorts takes to the high seas

COMO Hotels and Resorts has announced its plans to expand into cruising, launching its new and extraordinary ‘COMO Journey: Into the Arctic’ – an exclusive 11-day expedition that offers the opportunity to explore the pristine wilderness of the remote northern Svalbard Archipelago…

COMO Hotels and Resorts has launched its new and extraordinary ’COMO Journey: Into the Arctic’ – setting sail from 30 July 2025, combining COMO’s Signature Luxuries and Natural World Safari’s Expertise.

This exclusive 11-day expedition offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to encounter native wildlife and explore the pristine wilderness of the remote northern Svalbard Archipelago. In collaboration with the award-winning expertise of Natural World Safaris, this journey offers COMO’s luxuries combined with unrivalled access, exclusive insights, and unforgettable encounters in one of the world’s most remote regions, featuring breath-taking fjords, snow-covered islands all complemented by the groups signature offerings, from COMO Shambhala wellness to nutritious COMO cuisine.

Designed for discerning travellers who seek both adventure and comfort, this extraordinary journey blends COMO’s world-class culinary and wellness experiences with Natural World Safaris’ expert logistics and in-depth expertise. From day one, seasoned experts will guide guests through rare and awe-inspiring encounters with nature, ensuring unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Providing an immersive experience in the Arctic’s frozen landscape, the journey includes off-ship, zodiac safaris led by a team of expedition guides headed up by specialist leader Andy Mann, an Emmy-nominated director, National Geographic photographer, and marine conservationist, renowned for helping document our planet’s rapidly changing environment.

Expert guides will lead land and sea safaris to search for iconic wildlife sightings, such as polar bears patrolling their hunting grounds, walruses basking in the sun, whales breaching through icy seas as well as spotting Arctic foxes and Svalbard reindeer against the snow-capped peaks. Alongside the excursions, guides will share their deep knowledge through captivating lectures, workshops, and discussions on photography, wildlife, sustainability, and the Arctic’s rich cultural and historical legacy.

Guests will arrive and experience their first night in the charming Norwegian town of Longyearbyen before boarding the M/S Polarfront. Previously a Norwegian weather ship, it has been transformed to an arctic expedition cruise vessel featuring eight light-filled suites, each equipped with large portholes and en-suite bathrooms. The ship is also fitted with both a sauna and a hot tub that will be available for relaxation during calmer seas.

Aligned with COMO’s holistic philosophy, guests will have the chance to unwind with signature COMO Shambhala wellness experiences, with an onboard therapist available to offer a curated range of treatments. The expedition will also showcase COMO’s renowned culinary excellence, bringing the brand’s signature East-West fusion cuisine to the Arctic. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients will take centre stage, offering a diverse array of healthy yet indulgent meals that perfectly blend nourishment with comfort.

COMO’s exclusive, limited-edition Arctic expedition is set to redefine adventure travel, seamlessly combining thrilling exploration with the brand’s signature luxury, comfort, wellness, and service.

WORDS BY Pauline Brettell