Natural Wonders of Svalbard Micro Cruise | MV Vikingfjord | IExpedition

Natural Wonders of Svalbard Micro Cruise

  • Overview

    On this summer expedition, we will venture to the northern wilderness to explore the beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and glaciers of Northwest Spitsbergen with 24 hours of daylight. Every day is an adventure and we will use the Zodiac landing craft to explore walrus haulouts,  cruise the edge of the sea ice for wildlife including polar bears, and take short hikes ashore to explore different natural and historical sites including glaciers and the raw nature of the Arctic.

    Expedition Highlights

    • Experience breathtaking landscapes that include majestic glaciers, mountains, and fjords.

    • Witness the midnight sun, which creates a surreal and magical atmosphere by never setting.

    • Explore Arctic landscapes on foot, hike with expert guides, and visit historical sites such as abandoned whaling stations and Russian mining towns.

    • Use 2 Zodiacs for exploring and close-up photography of wildlife.

    • Encounter polar bears, walruses, and whales in attractive lighting conditions during this great time of year.

    • Enjoy a friendly and inclusive atmosphere with a small, intimate group size of just 12 like-minded explorers.

    • Be led by world-class expedition leaders.

    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

      We begin our expedition in the most Northerly town in the world, Longyearbyen. In the afternoon we will embark on our expedition vessel after an introduction from our expedition leader and a safety briefing from the Captain. We’ll set sail out through the majestic Adventfjord and as Longyearbyen disappears astern, wave goodbye to civilisation.

    • Day 2 - West Spitsbergen and Prins Karls Forland Area

      In the morning we sail by Prins Karls Forland, an uninhabited island of beautiful scenery off the west coast of Spitsbergen. This is a place where sometimes walruses are likely to haul out or be sighted. In the afternoon, we may get our boots on for a hike to spot grazing reindeer. If the conditions allow, we will sail along the coast exploring places such as Krosssfjorden, home to majestic glaciers, and some of Svalbard’s most beautiful fjords and scenery.

    • Day 3/4 - Exploring the Northern Fjords and the Ice Edge

      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 northern coast has to offer.

    • Day 5/6 - Scouting the Eastern Lands

      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. The ice will extend all the way to the horizon, and the enigmatic presence of the northern king of wildlife will be felt. We will potentially come across some immense bird cliffs where thousands of birds fly in and out without a break. These days will be filled with a sense of adventure and exposure to nature, the ice and the winds might let us through to the south, or we might need to turn around and head back West over the north. Regardless of the exact route, the expedition will build into its climax.

    • Day 7/8 - Southern Spitsbergen

      We will follow the compass south and explore the region along the south coast of Spitsbergen. We will visit rarely visited landing sites and have lots of chances to take in the breathtaking nature, wildlife, and scenery. As we round the southern tip of Spitsbergen, we will enter the area around Hornsund where we will have a day to explore and do some wilderness hikes. We will then set sail north along the coast towards Isfjorden.

    • Day 9 - Isfjorden

      Already back in the protection of Isfjorden, we will find peaceful landing sites to hike or simply relax and take it all in. Isfjorden offers a fantastic mix of landscapes, history and wildlife. Offering the best possible closure to our experience before heading back to civilization.

    • Day 10 - 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.

    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
    Screenshot 2023 08 20 at 10.01.45
  • 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:
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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.

Twin Cabin (Deluxe Suite)

26 May 2024 - 03 Jun 2024
- Comfortable double bed - Ensuite shower and toilet - Located on deck 3 - Windows - Desk & chair - Wardrobe
USD$ 12,880pp
USD$ 12,880pp

Single Cabin

26 May 2024 - 03 Jun 2024
- Comfortable single bed - Ensuite shower and toilet - Located on decks 1 & 2 - Window - Desk & chair - Wardrobe
USD$ 12,880pp
USD$ 12,880pp

Double Cabin (Superior Suite)

26 May 2024 - 03 Jun 2024
- Comfortable double bed - Ensuite shower and toilet - Located on deck 3 - Windows - Desk & chair - Wardrobe
USD$ 12,880pp
USD$ 12,880pp