Natural Wonders of Svalbard Micro Cruise

Explore Northern Svalbard on an Expedition Micro Cruise with 12 Guests

Svalbard

9 - 10 Days

May → Sep

Price From €8,700

The ultimate Svalbard cruise on a small, capable expedition vessel with just 12 guests. This adventure focuses on exploring the beautiful natural wilderness of Svalbard during the summer months with 24 hours of daylight. We will encounter calving glaciers, witness an abundance of wildlife, visit historical places, and spend time exploring ashore. All this with 2 expert guides and just 12 guests.

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Introduction

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.

Learn From Our Knowledgable Guides

We make it our business to work with exceptional individuals in the industry who possess a genuine passion and care for the precious places we visit. We believe people are at the heart of everything we do and our guides have a wealth of knowledge to share with you, giving you a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Arctic ecosystem.

The Voyage

Secret Atlas is founded, led, and made for explorers by explorers. We understand that every expedition is unique, so we don’t follow a fixed itinerary. We believe that real expeditions should follow the opportunities that the wilderness offers and our expert guides know exactly how to maximise your experience.

The following itinerary is an example. The expedition is flexible and its course will be defined on daily bases sustained by the opportunities presented by weather, ice and wildlife.

Day 1 Welcome aboard! Embarkation in Longyearbyen at 16:00

Day 2 Western Fjords

Day 3-4 Northern Fjords / Ice Edge

Day 5-6 Exploring East Coast

Day 7-8 Exploring Southern Fjords

Day 9 Isfjord

Day 10 Disembarkation in Longyearbyen at 09:00

* On 8 day voyages we return to Longyearbyen on day 8. Exploration will be focused on the Northern and Western Fjords.

* On 11 day voyages we spend extra time exploring the coast or ice edge and return to Longyearbyen on day 11.

* We always recommend arriving in Svalbard at least 24 hours before departure.

Day by Day

Our flexibility to adapt to the conditions and wildlife encounters, allows us to make the most of every opportunity. But let us give you an idea of what your dream expedition could look like below…

Day 1

.2° N, .6° E

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

.3° N, .7° E

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

.5° N, .4° E

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

.3° N, .6° E

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

.9° N, .9° E

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

.3° N, .3° E

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

.2° N, .6° E

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.

Inside This Svalbard Cruise

Our trips are aimed at anyone with a passion for exploring the Arctic with a small group of like minded individuals on a comfortable small ship cruise and include :

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.

Stunning Scenery

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

Climate Compensated

Caring for the environment is what we do. For Svalbard cruise we run 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.

Expedition Leader and Guide

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.

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.

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.

Our Ships

Vikingfjord exterior in Svalbard

MV Vikingfjord

Our newest expedition yacht that offers cruise ship comfort for 12 on a small expedition ship. Comfortable ensuite cabins, open plan lounge with large windows, hot tub, outdoor hot pool and large viewing areas.

See Ship See Cabins

MV Kinfish

A former Norwegian research vessel that has been tastefully converted into an expedition vessel ideal for exploring the Arctic.

See Ship See Cabins
MV Freya Secret Atlas

Freya

The MV Freya is a classic expedition ship. The sturdy, ice strengthened 1A hull makes her perfect for exploring the Arctic waters.

See Ship See Cabins

Svalbard Cruise Dates and Prices

Prices quoted are per person. Twin and double cabins are based on double occupancy.

Date

Trip Name

Duration

Vessel

Cabin A

Cabin B

Cabin C

Cabin D

 
16th - 24th April 2024 Svalbard Photo Tour 9 Days MV Vikingfjord € 11,900 € 11,900 € 11,900 n/a Book
2nd - 10th May 2024 Svalbard Photo Tour 9 Days MV Vikingfjord € 11,900 € 11,900 € 11,900 n/a Book
10th - 18th May 2024 Svalbard Photo Tour w/ Florian Ledoux 9 Days MV Vikingfjord € 11,900 € 11,900 € 11,900 n/a Book
18th - 26th May 2024 Svalbard Photo Tour w/ Florian Ledoux 9 Days MV Vikingfjord € 11,900 € 11,900 € 11,900 n/a Book
26th May - 3rd June 2024 Natural Wonders 9 Days MV Vikingfjord € 11,500 € 11,500 € 11,500 n/a Book
3rd - 12th June 2024 Svalbard Photo Tour w/ Paul Goldstein 10 Days MV Vikingfjord

€13,350

€13,350

€13,350

n/a Book
12th - 21st June 2024 Svalbard Photo Tour w/ Paul Goldstein 10 Days MV Vikingfjord

€13,350

€13,350

€13,350

n/a Book
21st - 30th June 2024 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Vikingfjord € 12,900 € 12,900 € 12,900 n/a Book
30th June - 8th July 2024 Natural Wonders 9 Days MV Vikingfjord € 11,500 € 11,500 € 11,500 n/a Book
8th - 17th July 2024 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Vikingfjord € 12,900 € 12,900 € 12,900 n/a Book
17th - 26th July 2024 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Vikingfjord € 12,900 € 12,900 € 12,900 n/a Book
26th July - 8th August 2024 Svalbard Pioneer 14 Days MV Vikingfjord € 17,500 € 17,500 € 17,500 n/a Book
9th - 18th August 2024 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Kinfish € 10,900 € 10,200 n/a n/a Book
18th - 27th August 2024 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Kinfish € 10,900 € 10,200 n/a n/a Book
27th August - 5th September 2024 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Kinfish € 10,900 € 10,200 n/a n/a Book
5th - 14th September 2024 Svalbard Ice Waterfalls Photo Tour 10 Days MV Kinfish € 11,500 € 10,800 n/a n/a Book

Date

Trip Name

Duration

Vessel

Cabin A

Cabin B

Cabin C

Cabin D

 
16th - 24th April 2024 Svalbard Photo Tour 9 Days MV Vikingfjord £ 10,500 £ 10,500 £ 10,500 n/a Book
2nd - 10th May 2024 Svalbard Photo Tour 9 Days MV Vikingfjord £ 10,500 £ 10,500 £ 10,500 n/a Book
10th - 18th May 2024 Svalbard Photo Tour w/ Florian Ledoux 9 Days MV Vikingfjord £ 10,500 £ 10,500 £ 10,500 n/a Book
18th - 26th May 2024 Svalbard Photo Tour w/ Florian Ledoux 9 Days MV Vikingfjord £ 10,500 £ 10,500 £ 10,500 n/a Book
26th May - 3rd June 2024 Natural Wonders 9 Days MV Vikingfjord £9,900 £9,900 £9,900 n/a Book
3rd - 12th June 2024 Svalbard Photo Tour w/ Paul Goldstein 10 Days MV Vikingfjord

£11,450

£11,450 £11,450 n/a Book
12th - 21st June 2024  Svalbard Photo Tour w/ Paul Goldstein 10 Days MV Vikingfjord £11,450 £11,450 £11,450 n/a Book
21st - 30th June 2024 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Vikingfjord £ 11,500 £ 11,500 £ 11,500 n/a Book
30th June - 8th July 2024 Natural Wonders 9 Days MV Vikingfjord £9,900 £9,900 £9,900 n/a Book
8th - 17th July 2024 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Vikingfjord £ 11,500 £ 11,500 £ 11,500 n/a Book
17th - 26th July 2024 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Vikingfjord £ 11,500 £ 11,5000 £ 11,500 n/a Book
26th July - 8th August 2024 Svalbard Pioneer 14 Days MV Vikingfjord £ 15,500 £ 15,500 £ 15,500 n/a Book
9th - 18th August 2024 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Kinfish £ 9,700 £ 9,100 n/a n/a Book
18th - 27th August 2024 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Kinfish £ 9,700 £ 9,100 n/a n/a Book
27th August - 5th September 2024 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Kinfish £ 9,700 £ 9,100 n/a n/a Book
5th - 14th September 2024 Svalbard Ice Waterfalls Photo Tour 10 Days MV Kinfish £ 10,200 £ 9,700 n/a n/a Book

Date

Trip Name

Duration

Vessel

Cabin A

Cabin B

Cabin C

Cabin D

 
14th - 21st April 2025 Svalbard Photo Tour 8 Days MV Vikingfjord € 10,500 € 10,500 € 10,500 n/a Book
21st - 28th April 2025 Svalbard Photo Tour 8 Days MV Vikingfjord € 10,500 € 10,500 € 10,500 n/a Book
28th April - 5th May 2025 Svalbard Photo Tour 8 Days MV Vikingfjord € 10,500 € 10,500 € 10,500 n/a Book
5th - 12th May 2025 Svalbard Photo Tour 8 Days MV Vikingfjord € 10,500 € 10,500 € 10,500 n/a Book
12th - 19th May 2025 Svalbard Encounter 8 Days MV Vikingfjord € 9,950 € 9,950 € 9,950 n/a Book
19th - 26th May 2025 Svalbard Encounter 8 Days MV Vikingfjord € 9,950 € 9,950 € 9,950 n/a Book
26th May - 4th June June 2025 Svalbard Photo Tour 10 Days MV Vikingfjord €13,500 €13,500 €13,500 n/a Book
4th - 13th June 2025 Svalbard Photo Tour 10 Days MV Vikingfjord

€13,500

€13,500

€13,500

n/a Book
13th - 20th June 2025 Svalbard Encounter 8 Days MV Vikingfjord

€9,950

€9,950

€9,950

n/a Book
20th - 27th June 2025 Svalbard Encounter 8 Days MV Vikingfjord €9,950 €9,950 €9,950 n/a Book
27th June - 6th July 2025 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Vikingfjord € 12,500 € 12,500 € 12,500 n/a Book
6th - 15th July 2025 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Vikingfjord € 12,500 € 12,500 € 12,500 n/a Book
15th - 26th July 2025 Svalbard Pioneer 12 Days MV Vikingfjord € 15,500 € 15,500 € 15,500 n/a Book
26th July - 6th August 2025 Svalbard Pioneer 12 Days MV Vikingfjord € 15,500 € 15,500 € 15,500 n/a Book

Date

Trip Name

Duration

Vessel

Cabin A

Cabin B

Cabin C

Cabin D

 
14th - 21st April 2025 Svalbard Photo Tour 8 Days MV Vikingfjord £9,200 £9,200 £9,200 n/a Book
21st - 28th April 2025 Svalbard Photo Tour 8 Days MV Vikingfjord £9,200 £9,200 £9,200 n/a Book
28th April - 5th May 2025 Svalbard Photo Tour 8 Days MV Vikingfjord £9,200 £9,200 £9,200 n/a Book
5th - 12th May 2025 Svalbard Photo Tour 8 Days MV Vikingfjord £9,200 £9,200 £9,200 n/a Book
12th - 19th May 2024 Svalbard Encounter 8 Days MV Vikingfjord £8,600 £8,600 £8,600 n/a Book
19th - 26th May 2025 Svalbard Encounter 8 Days MV Vikingfjord £8,600 £8,600 £8,600 n/a Book
26th May - 4th June June 2025 Svalbard Photo Tour 10 Days MV Vikingfjord £11,700 £11,700 £11,700 n/a Book
4th - 13th June 2025 Svalbard Photo Tour 10 Days MV Vikingfjord

£11,700

£11,700

£11,700

n/a Book
13th - 20th June 2025 Svalbard Encounter 8 Days MV Vikingfjord

£8,600

£8,600

£8,600

n/a Book
20th - 27th June 2025 Svalbard Encounter 8 Days MV Vikingfjord £8,600 £8,600 £8,600 n/a Book
27th June - 6th July 2025 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Vikingfjord £10,900 £10,900 £10,900 n/a Book
6th - 15th July 2025 Natural Wonders 10 Days MV Vikingfjord £10,900 £10,900 £10,900 n/a Book
15th - 26th July 2025 Svalbard Pioneer 12 Days MV Vikingfjord £13,500 £13,500 £13,500 n/a Book
26th July - 6th August 2025 Svalbard Pioneer 12 Days MV Vikingfjord £13,500 £13,500 £13,500 n/a Book
Download Brochure

If you have any questions about this Svalbard cruise please get in touch

Useful Information

How To Get To Svalbard

Svalbard is easily accessible from daily flights from Oslo in Norway. To find out more see our guide.

Read More

New To Expedition Micro Cruises?

Find out all about the experience of travelling on an expedition vessel with 12 guests and how it compares to other cruises.

Read More

Longyearbyen Travel Guide

All the information you need to plan your trip including how to get to Longyearbyen, arrival information, places to stay, and activities to do before your cruise.

Read More

Svalbard Cruises FAQ

Departure Location Longyearbyen
Arrival Location Longyearbyen
Trip Style Exploration
Physical Rating Easy
Maximum Group Size 12
Accommodation Twin Cabins
Duration 9 - 10 Days
Time of Year May, June, July, August, September
Included
Not Included

We offer payment via the following methods:

  • Credit card
  • Payment by bank transfer

Please let us know at the time of booking your preferred method.

You have the option to pay in full at time of booking or pay in the following instalments:

30% deposit is taken at the time of booking

30% 6 months before departure

40%  90 days prior to departure

It is mandatory you take out comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking that also covers cancellation.

Solo travellers are welcome on all our voyages. We often host solo travellers, particularly on our photo voyages so the chances are you won’t be the only one. We offer the following accommodation options:

  • Option to share a twin cabin with another traveller of the same gender.
  • Option to have your own cabin for an additional supplement. Please contact us for this option as the price varies depending on trip and availability.

This trip is operated by Secret Atlas and is subject to the Secret Atlas terms and conditions of travel. You can read the full booking terms here.