Natural Wonders of Svalbard Photography Tour | MV Vikingfjord | IExpedition

Natural Wonders of Svalbard Photography Tour

  • Overview

    On this expedition we will explore the north-west coast of Spitsbergen searching for photography opportunities throughout which includes sea ice, wildlife, landscapes and glaciers. Our small expedition vessel is equipped with 2 Zodiacs which will allow us to get up close to nature and reach the places the larger ships can’t reach. 

    This trip is ideal for wildlife and landscapes photographers looking to capture the Arctic as it emerges from the winter with a good chance (but never guaranteed) of encountering polar bears. Every expedition offers a different experience.

    Expedition Highlights

    • Stunning landscape photography opportunities, with its snow-covered mountains, glaciers, and fjords

    • Great great time of year to encounter polar bears, walruses and whales with interesting lighting conditions

    • A great chance to encounter wildlife which could include different whale species, polar bears, Svalbard reindeer, walruses and seals

    • Small, intimate group size of just 12 like minded explorers

    • 4 guides for a group of 12 offers the best ratio available

    • 2 Zodiacs to use for exploring and close up photography of wildlife

    •  Friendly, inclusive atmosphere

    •  Led by world class photographers and expedition leaders

    •  Explore in comfort on a modern, ice-strengthened expedition vessel

    Duration: 9 days
    Passengers: 12 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Longyearbyen
    Disembarkation Point: Longyearbyen
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Cruise only
    Single Supplement: 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Longyearbyen

      Our Svalbard photography tour departs from Longyearbyen, the most northerly town on earth. Upon leaving the Port of Longyearbyen we will say goodbye to civilisation for the next 8 days to explore the rugged coastline, searching for landscape and wildlife photography opportunities at every stage. As we sail north we are likely to encounter glaciers and sea ice which make the perfect photo subjects. Early in the season, our exact route will be determined by the sea ice conditions which vary year on year.

    • Day 2 - Prins Karls Forland

      As we leave the Isfjord we will keep a good lookout on deck for whales and other marine life that is common in this area. We often encounter walruses that can be photographed from the ship resting on ice flows. We will launch the Zodiacs to get closer to any wildlife we spot. We have frequently encountered whales including blue and humpback whales, belugas, and walruses in this area. In the afternoon we will launch the Zodiacs to get oppurtunities to take landscape and glacier shots.

    • Day 3/7 - Encountering Sea Ice and North-West Spitsbergen

      We will sail as far north as possible along the west coast of Spitsbergen keeping a lookout for wildlife including polar bears that inhabit the area. Our ultimate plan if the conditions allow is to venture up to the edge of the sea ice and spend some time searching for polar bears that use the sea ice to hunt from. The sea ice itself is a mesmerising photography subject and in calm conditions, it can be possible to launch the landing craft to cruise in between the ice. We will then explore the frozen north-west coast travelling as far as the ice will allow us in search of photography opportunities.

    • Day 8 - Hornsund

      Another option, if the time and conditions allow, is to sail south to visit Hornsund or Belsund. Early in may the fjords are usually still full of fast ice and it is possible to encounter polar bears hunting along the ice edge. Alternatively we may use this time to maximise our exploration of the North.

    • Day 9 - Longyearbyen

      Either late the previous evening or early in the morning we will arrive back at the port of Longyearbyen. Today our Svalbard photography tour ends after After breakfast when we say our goodbyes after making new friends and sharing a wonderful adventure together.

    Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your captain and expedition leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

  • Adventure Activities

    Expedition Vessel with 12 Guests

    We believe the best way to experience an environmentally sensitive place such as the Arctic is with a small group of travelers. New expedition cruise ships now take up to 350 passengers, we believe smaller is better.

    Included

    Zodiac Landing Craft for Shore Landings

    Shore landings are the essence of every expedition and your guides will take you exploring on a daily basis. The vessel is equipped with landing craft that can be used to reach remote beaches so you can experience the wilderness firsthand.

    Included

    Expedition Leader and Guide

    On this Svalbard photography tour we have an expedition leader, 2nd guide and photo expert. An aspect of our journeys is to learn about the place you are visiting. Our onboard guides are the core of what we do and will share their passion and knowledge of Svalbard throughout the trip. We offer the best guide to guest ratio available.

    Included

    Climate Compensated

    Caring for the environment is what we do. For Svalbard cruises we plant trees in Greenland to offset the emissions. As a member of AECO, we follow strict guidelines to ensure minimal disturbance to wildlife and natural sites.

    Included

    Stunning Scenery

    We will encounter mighty glaciers, cruise tranquil steep-sided fjords and spend time outside exploring the beautiful untouched wilderness.

    Included

    Amazing Wildlife

    We will visit areas where walruses haul out, encounter reindeer and Arctic foxes on land, observe whales and other marine life and explore coasts where polar bears are known to roam.

    Included
  • Inclusions
    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - Rubber boots for shore landings and hiking (select adventures)
    - Services of an expedition leader and guide (customary tips not included)
    - Shore landings by Zodiac landing craft a detailed in the itinerary
    - Accommodation in warm, comfortable cabins with all bedding and towels provided.
    - Education on reducing your carbon footprint
    - Transfers between your hotel and ship on arrival and departure (select adventures)
    - Comprehensive joining instructions, with a complete packing list.
    - Local assistance in planning your pre and post-adventure activities and accommodation.
    - Transfers between your hotel and ship on arrival (select adventures).
    - Connect with like-minded travellers on your adventure before setting out in our Facebook group.
    - A complimentary alcoholic beverage (such as Mine 3 Beer from the world’s most northernmost brewery) is included with dinner on some adventures, with additional drinks available for purchase.
    - On the day of embarkation, an evening meal is included and on the day of disembarkation, breakfast is provided.

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Any additional expenses such as museum entry.
    - Travel and cancellation insurance.
    - Flights and transfers from airport to hotel.
  • Map
    Svalbard natural wonders photo expedition secret atlas
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    Introducing MV Vikingfjord, a new ice-strengthened expedition vessel for 12 guests with great environmental credentials. MV Vikingfjord enters service in Svalbard for low impact expeditions in May 2023.

    She offers cruise ship comfort on a small ship with 9 ensuite cabins, an open plan saloon with rear facing windows, and on on deck hot tub and sauna.

    What we love about Vikingfjord:

    • The most environmentally friendly small ship in the polar regions with a 95% reduction in NOX emissions.

    • Large, open plan saloon and comfortable lounge located at the stern with sofas and large rear facing windows to enjoy the view.

    • 8 Spacious cabins with modern decor, comfortable beds and ensuite bathrooms with a choice between doubles, twins or singles.

    • Enjoy a sauna or outdoor hot tub on the upper deck.

    • Lounge area on the bridge with a great view.

    • Ice strengthened hull with 1B rating for exploring the polar regions.

    Features & Facilities
    • Fully staffed with experienced captain, crew and expedition leaders.
    • New energy efficient engine and NOX cleaning fitted in 2023 offering the best environmental credentials.
    • Rebuilt from the ground up in 2023 as a modern expedition vessel offering cruise ship comfort.
    • Accommodates 12 guests in 8 ensuite cabins with windows that are all situated above the waterline.
    • Modern interior finished to a high standard in 2023.
    • Equipped with 2 x Zodiac landing crafts for shore landings.
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 5
    Guests #: 12
    Crew #:
    Ice Class: 1B
    Speed: 10
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built:
    Length: 41m
    Width:
    Draft:
    Tonnage:
    Registry:
    Elec Outlets:
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability
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Ready to book your expedition?

We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.

  • Confirm your booking today with just USD$ 1,000 per passenger.
  • Pay your 25% deposit 5 day later.
  • Final payment due 120 days prior to departure.

Double Cabin (Superior Suite)

02 May 2024 - 10 May 2024
- Comfortable double bed - Ensuite shower and toilet - Located on deck 3 - Windows - Desk & chair - Wardrobe
USD$ 13,328pp
USD$ 13,328pp

Single Cabin

02 May 2024 - 10 May 2024
- Comfortable single bed - Ensuite shower and toilet - Located on decks 1 & 2 - Window - Desk & chair - Wardrobe
USD$ 13,328pp
USD$ 13,328pp

Twin Cabin (Deluxe Suite)

02 May 2024 - 10 May 2024
- Comfortable double bed - Ensuite shower and toilet - Located on deck 3 - Windows - Desk & chair - Wardrobe
USD$ 13,328pp
USD$ 13,328pp