Natural Wonders of Svalbard Photography - 8 Days

Onboard  MV Vikingfjord – 12 passengers

Without a doubt, the best time for landscape photography in Svalbard is the early spring season. During this time of the year, guests have the opportunity to cruise through icy fjords and photograph pristine snow covered landscapes. The soft spring light is ideal for photography. Search for polar bears in the sea ice and maximize your time on shore on this small ship expedition. 

Highlights

  • Photographing the untouched early season landscapes
  • Maximize time on shore by traveling on a small ship with just 12 guests 
  • Sail with world class photography guides 
  • Excellent chances to encounter unique Arctic wildlife such as reindeer, walruses, polar bears, arctic foxes, seals and whales. 
  • Great guide to guest ration with a minimum of 3 guides for 12 guests

Tour Dates

Itinerary

Day 1: Embarkation in Longyearbyen*
This Svalbard Photo Expedition departs from Longyearbyen. Upon leaving the port, we will say goodbye to civilization for the next eight days to explore the breathtaking Arctic as it emerges from winter. During this time of year, our route will be determined by the sea ice. We will either sail north or south depending on the conditions. This expedition offers a chance to encounter the coast of Svalbard as it is rarely seen. We will launch the Zodiacs daily to search for the best landscape and wildlife photography opportunities every day. 

Day 2: Isfjord & Prins Karls Forland
In Isfjord in April and Early May, fjord ice from the winter lines the coast. This is a great place to start scouting for polar bears that move from the land to the sea ice during this time. If conditions allow, it is a great place to use the Zodiacs to explore the ice edge and open up close-up photography opportunities of wildlife. After leaving Isfjord, our plan is to sail north, passing Prins Karls Foreland. As the ice recedes from the winter, this area is home to walrus haul-outs.

Days 3-7: Into the Sea Ice and Northwest Spitsbergen
The Northwest coast of Spitsbergen has many highlights and places to photograph, including countless glaciers and snow-covered peaks. We will launch the Zodiacs daily to open up photography opportunities. We may land on the heavily frozen shores on the huge rafts of fjord ice where possible. If the conditions allow, we will plan to venture up to the edge of the sea ice and spend some time searching for polar bears that use the ice to hunt. The sea ice is a mesmerising photography subject in calm conditions, it can be possible to launch the landing craft to cruise between the ice.

Day 8: Disembarkation in Longyearbyen
We will arrive back at the port of Longyearbyen either late the previous evening or early in the morning for disembarkation.

*It is recommended to arrive into Longyearbyen at least 1 day prior to embarkation (hotel nights in Longyearbyen are not included). 

The above itinerary is a guide only. No specific routing or landing sites can be guaranteed in advance. Part of any Arctic adventure is the flexibility to take advantage of the weather and ice conditions. The expedition leader will make sure you see as much as possible.

Route Map

Trips and Rates

Please note, rates are Per Person in USD

Natural Wonders of Svalbard Photography

Apr 24 - May 1, 2025 (8 days)
Signature Twin/Double
$12,795
 
Signature Penthouse
$15,340
 
Signature Single
$15,340
Limited

Natural Wonders of Svalbard Photography

Apr 17 - Apr 24, 2025 (8 days)
Signature Twin/Double
$12,795
 
Signature Penthouse
$15,340
 
Signature Single
$15,340
Limited

These Expedition Micro Cruises are offered solely in Euros but for your convenience we are listing USD prices based on the exchange rate on the date of posting. Prices are subject to fluctuations and the exact USD pricing will depend on the exchange rates at the time of making payments. 

Availability & prices are subject to change at anytime. Please contact us for the real time availability & prices.

Cabin Descriptions

MV Vikingfjord Cabin 8 Entrance 2 Secret Atlas

Signature Penthouse

The Signature Penthouse (cabin #8) is located on deck 3 and features 1 double bed, private bathroom, windows, a desk & chair and wardrobe. 

161 square feet (15 square meters)

Signature Twin/Double

Signature Twin/Double (cabins 1-4) are located on deck 1 and feature your choice of 1 double bed or 2 twin beds, private bathroom, window, a desk & chair and wardrobe. 

161 square feet (15 square meters)

MV Vikingfjord Single Cabin With Widows Secret Atlas

Signature Single

Signature Single cabins are located on decks 1 and 2  (cabins 6 & 7) and have single bunk beds, window and wardrobe. 

108 square feet (10 square meters)

Deck Plan

MV Vikingfjord deck plan Secret Atlas

Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions: 

  • Expert Guide Team & Photographer
  • Lectures on Svalbard
  • Use of Zodiac (Dinghies) for shore landings and photography opportunities
  • Polar Bear protection guides for shore landings
  • Full Board (breakfast, lunch and dinner + alcoholic drinks with evening meal)
  • Bedding and towels
  • Highly experienced Captain and Cook
  • Rubber boots for shore landings
  • Transfers from hotel to vessel for embarkation + vessel to airport/hotel after disembarkation

Exclusions: 

  • Flights
  • Transfers from airport to hotel 
  • Travel and cancellation insurance
  • Any additional expenses such as museum entry