Secret Atlas’s expedition micro cruises to Svalbard for just 12 guests offer a lower-impact alternative to the increasingly large cruise ships which are now visiting the polar regions. With the launch of its 2023 sailing schedule to the Norwegian archipelago situated in the Arctic Circle, the specialist tour operator is offering travellers a range of departure dates and itineraries onboard its small ships. And, with accommodation for just a dozen guests plus crew, a much richer, more personalised experience is possible than can be enjoyed on large cruise vessels.
Departures from Longyearbyen begin on 6th May 2023 with the eight-day Natural Wonders of Svalbard Photography Tour on board MV Explorer. The former Danish Maritime Authority polar vessel with ice-strengthened hull, has been beautifully converted into a high-end expedition yacht to offer five-star comfort in ensuite cabins (doubles, twins, singles and suites), as well as a mini gym, outdoor jacuzzi and hot tub. Plus, its small size allows it to venture into areas that are inaccessible to many other ships.
The expedition cruises in May are timed perfectly to take advantage of the midnight sun’s 24 hours of daylight, maximising opportunities for guests to photograph the frozen Arctic landscapes and its wildlife.
In addition, with an expert photographer on hand to give advice and top tips, guests can expect to capture some stunning shots of the region’s fjords, melting sea ice, calving glaciers and craggy coastline, as well as, hopefully, polar bears, reindeer, Arctic foxes, walruses, blue and humpback whales and beluga, all of which inhabit the area.
One of the onboard experts is multi-award-winning photographer and filmmaker, Florian Ledoux, who brings years of experience of working in Svalbard. A passionate conservationist and an expert in photographing Arctic wildlife, Florian spent last winter filming for Disney’s new movie, Polar Bears, so there is no one better to have onboard for advice and guidance.
Visits to a walrus colony on the uninhabited island, Prins Karls Forland, together with the scientific community of Ny-Alesund and, conditions permitting, the edge of the sea ice that stretches as far as the North Pole, are all planned excursions not to be hurried during the Photography Tour. Prices start from £7,500pp, based on twin share in a cabin with ensuite facilities.
For the ultimate micro expedition cruise of the Svalbard polar archipelago, the Natural Wonders of Svalbard cruise offers trips ranging from eight to 11 days in May, June, July, August and September starting from £7,600pp, based on twin share.
Travelling on board MV Kinfish, a converted hi-spec, Norwegian research vessel, guests have multiple observation platforms from which to view their surroundings and keep a look out for wildlife, including a large bridge area, several decks at differing heights and, for those seeking an extra thrill, a 360° platform attached to the mast for a bird’s eye view!
Every Secret Atlas vessel has sufficient seating in its Zodiac landing crafts to accommodate all guests at once, so no-one has to wait around and daily excursions ashore or impromptu expeditions to remote locations are an integral part of each tour.
All Svalbard expeditions depart from Longyearbyen, the most northerly town in the world, which can be reached via flights from Oslo.
For further information about Secret Atlas cruises in 2023 including dates and costs Svalbard 2023, telephone: +44 020 3290 2144, or visit secretatlastravel.com
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