Explore the sea ice and shores on this dedicated Svalbard photography tour focussing on the Arctic’s iconic wildlife aboard a small 12-passenger expedition vessel, accompanied by an expert wildlife photographer.
This voyage has been designed to maximise the opportunities to photograph the magnificent wildlife and spectacular scenery of the Arctic. With an exclusive charter of a 12-berth expedition vessel, we can travel to the best sites to capture a stunning portfolio of images and enjoy the expertise of the expedition team.
By visiting earlier in the season, we hope to enjoy a landscape covered in snow and ice where we can photograph several Arctic specialists, including the endemic Svalbard reindeer on the snowy shores, the diminutive Arctic fox as it searches the frozen world for food, walrus and seals as they haul out on the shore and on ice floes and if we are particularly lucky, the polar bear as they search for food on the sea ice. Moreover, there will be a constant backdrop of jaw-droppingly beautiful landscapes.
For photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, this Svalbard photography tour offers unparalleled opportunities to capture the Arctic’s diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. With a focus on polar bears, arctic foxes, and ringed seals, this expedition takes you deep into the polar regions, where the sea ice and drifting ice create a striking backdrop for your images.
Guided by expert expedition leaders, we'll navigate aboard our charming expedition ship, designed to safely navigate polar waters and provide access to some of the region’s most breathtaking locations. Using two spacious Zodiacs, we gain a lower perspective on the wildlife and landscapes, enhancing our photo opportunities.
An estimated itinerary is shown below, but this depends entirely on the weather and ice conditions. Read Tour Leader Bret Charman's blog from a previous wildlife photography cruise in Svalbard to hear about their highlights.
In addition to this dedicated photo voyage, we offer a departure on our Svalbard Wildlife Expedition, which is ideal for those who would prefer less emphasis on photography.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1:
Depart UK & fly to Oslo for an overnight stay
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Days 2-8
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Begin your cruise of the fjords and coastline of western Svalbard
On arrival in Longyearbyen we are transferred to the quay, where we board the M/S Stockholm. Once on board, we are shown to our cabins before meeting the crew and expedition team, followed by a mandatory safety briefing. We will depart Longyearbyen and start our expedition. Our first meal will be served as we familiarise ourselves with our home for the next seven nights.
For the next six days, we work our way up the western coastline of the island of Spitsbergen as we search for the region's rich wildlife.
A typical day aboard the M/S Stockholm comprises a breakfast before a Zodiac cruise or landing (if possible). The maximum number of passengers per Zodiac is seven to enhance the wildlife sightings. Upon our return, there will be time to relax, review our images, and settle down for a hearty lunchtime meal. If we can go out again in the afternoon, we will do so.
Throughout our journey, we'll experience the high Arctic in early summer, providing beautiful lighting to photograph wildlife in its natural habitats. Our small group ensures an intimate experience and plenty of time for each photographer to receive guidance from our deeply passionate experts.
It's important to state that with 24-hour daylight, there could be remarkable wildlife encounters and spectacular photography opportunities at any time of day or night. It is with that in mind that our daily schedule will be flexible. An exclusive charter of a small ship means the crew will be there to help us maximise our time in this stunning part of the world.
The mammals and birds of the Arctic we are likely to see during this expedition are certainly more than enough to occupy us throughout our voyage. However, the stunning landscapes of Spitsbergen are just as breathtaking. The sheer scale of the glaciers, mountains and fjords only adds more wonder to this exclusive voyage.
Our main focus will be photographing the Arctic wildlife and doing so with the help of the expedition leader and crew. We hope to photograph numerous iconic species including bearded seal, Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer, walrus and polar bear. At all times, we will ensure to abide by the authority's carefully laid out wildlife watching guidelines.
Whether you're drawn to the spectacle of bird cliffs, the dramatic formations of pack ice, or the chance to capture stunning images of iconic Arctic species, this expedition is designed to deliver unforgettable memories in one of the world’s most fragile environments.
Accommodation: MS Sjøveien or MS Stockholm, 7-nights
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Day 9:
Arrive in Longyearbyen, disembark & fly back to the UK
Please note: Exact itinerary will depend on local weather and ice conditions.
MICRO VESSEL
MICRO VESSEL
