HIGHLIGHTS

• Early in the season gives us numerous opportunities to photograph Svalbard’s frozen landscapes as they emerge from the winter.
• Explore the frozen North-west of Spitsbergen with a good chance of encountering polar bears.
• Develop your photography skills in the field with a highly experienced Arctic photographer.
• Learn about the area from our expert Svalbard guide.
• Encounter the wildlife which could include polar bears, walruses, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, and whales.
• Photograph and explore the coastline by Zodiac landing craft.
• Comfortable, and intimate ice-strengthened expedition vessel.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Longyearbyen
Our Svalbard Photo Expedition departs from Longyearbyen. Upon leaving the port 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 Foreland
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 have frequently encountered whales including blue and humpback whales, belugas, and walruses.  We plan to land on the island of Prins Karls Foreland and do a short hike to a walrus colony. Here we will spend some unhurried time observing and photographing the walruses as they swim and haul out onto the beach.  

Days 3 – 6: 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 there 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 7:  Ny-Alesund
As we head back south towards Longyearbyen if the ice conditions permit we will visit the scientific research settlement of Ny Alesund, the most northerly settlement on earth. We will explore the area around Kongsfjord and sail as close as we can get to one of Svalbard’s largest glaciers on the Lillyhook fjord for some great photo opportunities.

Day 8: Longyearbyen
Our Svalbard photography tour ends back in Longyearbyen. After our final breakfast we will say our goodbyes and disembark at the port after making new friends and sharing an exciting photography adventure together.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Expedition Leader and Photography Guide
• Workshops and feedback sessions
• Use of Zodiac (Dinghies) for shore landings and photography opportunities
• Polar Bear protection guides for shore landings
• Full Board (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
• Bedding and towels
• Highly experienced Captain and Cook

• Flights and transfers
• Travel and cancellation insurance
• Any additional expenses such as museum entry
• Alcohol and spirits

• Photography
• Zodiac cruises