Svalbard Ice Waterfalls Photo Tour

Day 1: Embarkation in Longyearbyen*
Our expedition departs from Longyearbyen, the most northerly town on earth. We will leave the port late in the afternoon and for the next 10 days, say goodbye to civilisation as we sail to the far northeast. Whales are active this time of year and we will scour the horizon in search for photography opportunities as we sail out through Isfjord. The aim of this expedition is to spend lots of time exploring nature, scenery, wildlife and glaciers.

Day 2: West Spitsbergen & Prins Karls Forland Area
On a daily basis we will launch the Zodiacs to go exploring. During September we will undertake lots of zodiac cruises and shore landings to open up different photography opportunities. On the first morning we will sail alongside Prins Karls Forland, an island known for it’s dramatic scenery and walrus colonies. If the conditions allow we will land at a walrus colony which will offer some great shots of walruses. As we head north we will visit some of Svalbard’s glaciers bathed in golden light whilst keeping a good look out for polar bears that roam the shores.

Day 3: Exploring North East Svalbard
Over the next few days, we will navigate between the coast and the sea ice that extends all the way to the North Pole. We will count on regular shore landings and zodiac tours to visit different natural and historical sites including glaciers, partake in wilderness hikes and fully immersive ourselves in the raw nature of the Arctic. Every day we will explore deeper into the wilderness Svalbard has to offer. Under the guidance of our expedition leader, we will work with the weather and sea ice conditions to show you the best that the northwest coast has to offer.

Days 4-6: North East Svalbard and Austfonna
If the sea ice grants passage, we will aim to head east towards the Hinlopen Strait area and venture deeper into a vast world of ice and cliffs. While attempting this we will be obliged to reach a new higher latitude to the voyage, crossing the 80 degrees north parallel. The days will be long and complemented with action, zodiac cruises and the search for wildlife. As we continue our exploration east of Svalbard, we aim to visit the meltwater waterfalls pouring from the edge of the Austfonna Ice Cap, taking the time to cruise alongside the breathtaking natural spectacle.

Days 7-10: Further exploration / Returning to Longyearbyen
The return route is extremely dependent on the ice and weather aspects. If conditions allow, we may follow the compass south and explore the region along the south coast of Spitsbergen, sailing via the Freemansund. Or, we might resolve to head back north and west and cruise the ice edge while exploring sites and scouting for wildlife.

Day 11: Longyearbyen
By morning we will have arrived back at the port of Longyearbyen. Disembarking the ship will involve saying goodbye to the new friends you’ve made but knowing you will keep the memories of the transformative adventure you shared together.

*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.