9 nights | 10 days

Svalbard Expedition

Join our exclusive Svalbard expedition where towering glaciers meet Arctic wilderness. Sail through ice-filled fjords in search of Polar Bears, walrus, seals, and seabirds. Guided by expert photographers and naturalists, this small-ship voyage aboard M/V Virgo offers unmatched access to remote Arctic beauty and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

On board MS Virgo (9 Nights)

Highlights

  • Intimate Expedition: Only 12 guests aboard M/V Virgo for a private, immersive Arctic adventure.
  • Small-Ship Advantage: Explore hidden fjords, ice edges, and bays unreachable to larger ships.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Photograph Polar Bears, walrus, whales, reindeer, seals, and seabirds.
  • Expert Guidance: Led by Arctic naturalists and professional photographers for best light and sightings.
  • Flexible Exploration: Zodiac cruises and shore landings ensure close wildlife access.
  • Immersive Experience: Capture breathtaking Arctic landscapes and the raw beauty of Svalbard’s wilderness.

Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago between mainland Norway and the North Pole, is one of the planet’s most spectacular Arctic frontiers. Discovered by Willem Barentsz in 1596, it lies about 965 km from the Pole and 644 km north of Norway. With 60% of its 39,784 km² landmass covered by ice, it remains Europe’s largest true wilderness.

Our expedition begins in Longyearbyen aboard M/V Virgo, a nimble vessel ideal for exploring the pack ice and pristine fjords of the Arctic. The route is determined by ice, weather, and wildlife conditions—ensuring every journey is unique. As we sail north, we’ll search for seabirds, seals, walrus, whales, and the King of the Arctic—the Polar Bear.

Each day brings Zodiac cruises and shore excursions guided by seasoned experts. With a small group of just 12 guests, we can react quickly to wildlife sightings, navigate narrow channels, and make the most of perfect light. This voyage offers true expedition spirit—immersive, flexible, and deeply connected to the rhythm of the Arctic wilderness.

DAY 1: LONGYEARBYEN

Meet your expedition team and crew at the dock in Longyearbyen at 16:00 hrs and embark M/V Virgo. Once settled into your cabin, attend a mandatory safety briefing before we sail out through Adventfjorden into Isfjorden. Enjoy time on deck as the Arctic landscape unfolds, followed by a welcome dinner on board. Your adventure begins as we head north into the wilderness.

DAY 2–9: EXPLORING THE ARCHIPELAGO

For the next eight days we’ll be in full expedition mode, letting ice, weather, and wildlife guide our route. With M/V Virgo’s small size and shallow draft, we have the freedom to reach remote fjords, narrow channels, and hidden bays where larger ships cannot go. Each day offers a mix of Zodiac cruises, shore excursions, and photography sessions—always flexible to take advantage of new opportunities.

We may explore:
  • Adventfjorden & Isfjorden: Our journey begins through these scenic fjords, rich in birdlife and framed by rugged peaks.
  • Northwest Spitsbergen: Home to sharp mountain ridges, glaciers, and historic whaling sites, perfect for Zodiac exploration and landings.
  • Seven Islands: Svalbard’s northernmost point, near the pack ice, often a hotspot for Polar Bear sightings.
  • Pack Ice Zone: Depending on conditions, we’ll sail towards or along the ice edge—prime territory for seals, walrus, and the “King of the Arctic.”
  • White Island (Kvitøya): A hauntingly beautiful, ice-covered island linked to the Andrée Arctic balloon expedition.
  • Brasvellbreen & Hinlopen Strait: Sail past immense ice cliffs and waterfalls, explore by Zodiac, and enjoy chances to spot Arctic fox and reindeer.
  • Liefdefjorden: Navigate to the impressive Monaco Glacier and its side fjords, ideal for photography and gentle hikes.
  • Raudfjorden & Magdalenafjorden: Spectacular fjords with calving glaciers, walrus haul-outs, and rich bird colonies.
  • Kongsfjorden: Known as the “King’s Fjord,” surrounded by stunning peaks and vibrant tundra—a great place to spot reindeer and Arctic fox.
  • Isfjorden Region: On our return south, we explore its lush side fjords and fossil-rich hillsides before our final night at anchor.
    Throughout the voyage, your expedition leader and guides will keep you informed and ready for every photographic opportunity—whether a Polar Bear on the ice, a breaching whale, or the soft glow of the midnight sun over a glacier.
DAY 10: LONGYEARBYEN

Enjoy a final breakfast on board as M/V Virgo docks back in Longyearbyen. Say farewell to your crew and fellow travelers before disembarking, taking with you unforgettable memories and photographs from the heart of the Arctic.

Inclusions

  • Expedition activities (Zodiac cruises, shore landings, hikes)
  • Professional guides with lectures and hands-on, in-field tutorials
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner (welcome day is dinner only; final day is breakfast only)
  • Welcome cocktail; wine with the farewell dinner
  • Daily cabin housekeeping and turn-down service

Exclusions

  • Travel to and from starting point in Longyearbyen, Svalbard
  • Taxes, levies, insurance, VISA fee, immigration duties or other travel services (where applicable)
  • Personal items such as expedition clothing
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Crew gratuities

Craft Your Safari

The team at Safari Crafters has dedicated themselves to a profound knowledge of the diverse biodiversity of India. We take pride in saying that our team of expert guides can help you see common subjects from the most uncommon perspectives.

From the forests to the Aravallis, foothills of Shivalik, the mountains and the ocean, we arrange safari experiences for travelers looking to take in the authentic atmosphere of the Indian subcontinent.