The BBC has created nearly unprecedented interest in the polar region with their television series The Frozen Planet. In response the experts on polar cruises, Hurtigruten, will send an additional ship to Spitsbergen for the summer 2012 season.

David’s Attenborough’s documentary series captivated millions of viewers, creating a substantial increase in the number of people interested in experiencing the Arctic. This was further boosted by the recent televised expedition of Prince Harry.

During June, July and August 2012 Hurtigruten will send MS Nordstjernen to Spitsbergen. The ship will travel the island’s west coast during this time, offering no less than 21 itineraries with a duration of between five and six days each.

This nostalgic cruise liner is no stranger to the Svalbard Archipelago – it sailed there between 1994 and 2009. For many cruise lovers it will be the ultimate experience to sail to the 80th parallel in a traditional ship like this.

Since 2009 Nordstjernen has cruised mainly along the Norwegian coastline. MS Fram, the latest addition to the Hurtigruten fleet, will also sail in Spitsbergen this summer.

Spitsbergen is situated about 1,200km from the North Pole and it is the home of the King of the Arctic: the Polar Bear. No doubt encountering polar bears will be a highlight of any cruise to this region. Then there are also the walruses, the Midnight Sun and the arctic seabirds to make sure this is an unforgettable journey.

The good news is that if you book one of these cruises before the end of January, you will qualify for a 10% discount.