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On this expedition, we will explore the east of Svalbard. Our aim of the expedition is to capture the meltwater waterfalls of the Austfonna Ice Cap. This rare phenomenon occurs as the ice cap warms during the summer months causing streams of meltwater to pour over the sheer ice cliffs and is often very active this time of year.
Expect long sunsets and sunrises which offer beautiful hues and tones for landscape and wildlife photographers. There is a great (but never guaranteed) opportunity to photograph polar bears in the wild. Other wildlife opportunities could include walruses, Svalbard reindeer, Arctic foxes and whales which are very active during this season.
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. Every expedition offers a unique experience.
Expedition Highlights
• Stunning landscapes and unique lighting conditions provide incredible photography opportunities, combined with dramatic glaciers and fjords.
• Capture breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, which only grace Svalbard for a few months each year.
• Witness flowing waterfalls from the unique Austfonna Ice Cap, Europe’s third largest glacier by area and volume.
• We have the best guest-to-guide ratio, including 2 expedition guides and 2 photography leaders available at all times to enhance your experience and develop your skills.
• Explore in comfort aboard a modern, ice-strengthened expedition vessel with a maximum of only 12 guests.
• The use of 2 Zodiacs means you’ll never be kept waiting to reach the shore and can cruise close to the environment.
• Amazing encounters with polar bears, walruses, whales, reindeer, and arctic foxes are likely.
• No single supplement for solo travellers.
• Enjoy a friendly and inclusive atmosphere.
• Be led by world-class photographers and expedition leaders.
Day 1 - 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 and 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.
Day 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.
Day 7/9 - The returning route and more exploration
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 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.
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.
We will encounter mighty glaciers, cruise tranquil steep-sided fjords and spend time outside exploring the beautiful untouched wilderness.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A former Norwegian research vessel that has been tastefully converted into an expedition vessel ideal for exploring the Arctic.
What we love about Kinfish:
• The small size makes the ship perfect for exploring the places larger vessels can’t reach.
• Modern, spacious interior with passenger lounge and large saloon.
• All cabins have en-suite with comfortable beds.
• Large bridge area where guests are welcome to observe.
• Ice strengthened hull
• Multiple deck heights and viewing areas
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| Guests #: | 12 |
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| Speed: | 9 |
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| Length: | 37m |
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We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.
