Our Signature Expeditions aboard Explorer offer an immersive journey through Svalbard’s breathtaking wilderness. This exclusive 10-day voyage is guided by Rinie van Meurs, a renowned Arctic expert with over 30 years of experience. His deep knowledge and passion bring the Arctic to life through engaging lectures on Svalbard’s wildlife, environment, and history.
With its high ice-class rating, Explorer is built to navigate into the pack ice of northern Svalbard. This vast, frozen landscape is our favorite place to observe polar bears. Beyond bears, we expect to encounter a diverse range of Arctic wildlife, including walrus, whales, reindeer, Arctic foxes, and many migratory seabirds.
Highlights of Svalbard in June
- Spring season at its’ peak
- Tundra flowers begin to bloom
- Thriving seabird colonies
- Walrus with calves
Our expeditions are designed to experience the Arctic with respect for the fragile nature. Traveling aboard a small expedition yacht allows for a more intimate and meaningful adventure.
Svalbard Awakening
Prices
All prices are per person and depending on availability. Please contact us for more details.
- Accommodation on board.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Starts with dinner on the first night, ends after breakfast on the last day.
- Coffee, tea and water throughout the day.
- Warm zodiac suits.
- Rubber boots for landings. Limited sizes available, please bring your own boots if you want to be certain of a well-fitting pair.
- Shore landings and zodiac cruises.
- Use of sauna and jacuzzi.
- Lectures by the experienced guides.
- All service taxes and port fees.
- Flights & transfers. We recommend scheduling your flight home for the afternoon or evening at the earliest.
- All items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar drinks, etc.
- Gratuities for ships crew and expedition staff.
- Pre and post voyage excursions and hotel.
Travel insurance with worldwide medical evacuation coverage is mandatory. We also strongly recommend taking out trip cancellation insurance. This will cover your costs in case you need to cancel your trip after you’ve confirmed your booking.
Would you like some more information?
Contact us!Map
Downloadthe brochure for this expedition
Map
Downloadthe brochure for this expedition
Programme
Travelling to Svalbard means embracing the unexpected. We cannot guarantee wildlife, or influence weather and ice. With flexibility and spontaneity at the core, this is an expedition in the true sense of the word!
Day 1 | Embarkation in Longyearbyen
Boarding takes place late in the afternoon. Departing from Longyearbyen, the ship will sail through Isfjorden, the gateway to the west coast of Svalbard. You will find yourself in a breathtaking Arctic landscape from the moment you set sail.
Day 2-9 | Exploring West Svalbard
In June, Svalbard comes to life with melting snow, blooming flowers, and incredible wildlife activity. We aim to spend as much time off ship as possbile. Zodiac cruises will take you up close to glacier fronts and through scenic fjords, with opportunities to spot whales, seals, walrus, and seabirds. With two zodiacs available, we can head out quickly with all guests at the same time.
Hikes and walks are another great way to experience Svalbard’s rugged beauty, from tundra and sandy beaches to panoramic viewpoints. With the midnight sun providing us 24 hours of daylight, we’ll have plenty of time to explore the Arctic wilderness ashore.
Taking advantage of the ships’ ice capacity, we hope to reach the pack ice in the far north. From here onwards, there’s only ice all the way up to the north pole. If lucky, we might spot polar bears hunting for seals on the ice. At the same time, the ice edge is a great place to look for whales.
For photographers, this voyage offers endless opportunities to capture stunning Arctic moments. Our expert guides will share their knowledge, helping you refine your skills in this unique environment. The small group setting of this Svalbard Expedition provides flexibility to take advantage of light conditions and unique wildlife encounters.
Day 10 | Disembarkation in Longyearbyen
After breakfast on the last day, you’ll disembark in Longyearbyen. We recommend scheduling your return flights for the afternoon or later. This is the end of your Waterproof Expedition in Svalbard, and we wish you a pleasant journey home.
Ship
Our A1 ice-class polar yacht Explorer is designed for easy navigation through high seas and ice, enabling us to venture into the pack ice. This significantly enhances our chances of spotting wildlife on the ice. Explorer offers the most refined and high-end small ship cruising experience in the Arctic. With only 12 guests on board, it will feel like you are on a private luxury expedition!
Impression
Dates & Rates
Prices
All prices are per person and depending on availability. Please contact us for more details.
- Accommodation on board.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Starts with dinner on the first night, ends after breakfast on the last day.
- Coffee, tea and water throughout the day.
- Warm zodiac suits.
- Rubber boots for landings. Limited sizes available, please bring your own boots if you want to be certain of a well-fitting pair.
- Shore landings and zodiac cruises.
- Use of sauna and jacuzzi.
- Lectures by the experienced guides.
- All service taxes and port fees.
- Flights & transfers. We recommend scheduling your flight home for the afternoon or evening at the earliest.
- All items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar drinks, etc.
- Gratuities for ships crew and expedition staff.
- Pre and post voyage excursions and hotel.
Travel insurance with worldwide medical evacuation coverage is mandatory. We also strongly recommend taking out trip cancellation insurance. This will cover your costs in case you need to cancel your trip after you’ve confirmed your booking.
Would you like some more information?
Contact us!Other dates
Prices
All prices are per person and depending on availability. Please contact us for more details.
- Accommodation on board.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Starts with dinner on the first night, ends after breakfast on the last day.
- Coffee, tea and water throughout the day.
- Warm zodiac suits.
- Rubber boots for landings. Limited sizes available, please bring your own boots if you want to be certain of a well-fitting pair.
- Shore landings and zodiac cruises.
- Use of sauna and jacuzzi.
- Lectures by the experienced guides.
- All service taxes and port fees.
- Flights & transfers. We recommend scheduling your flight home for the afternoon or evening at the earliest.
- All items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar drinks, etc.
- Gratuities for ships crew and expedition staff.
- Pre and post voyage excursions and hotel.
- Travel insurance.
Travel insurance with worldwide medical evacuation coverage is mandatory. We also strongly recommend taking out trip cancellation insurance. This will cover your costs in case you need to cancel your trip after you’ve confirmed your booking.
Would you like some more information?
Contact us!
Prices
All prices are per person and depending on availability. Please contact us for more details.
- Accommodation on board.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Starts with dinner on the first night, ends after breakfast on the last day.
- Coffee, tea and water throughout the day.
- Warm zodiac suits.
- Rubber boots for landings. Limited sizes available, please bring your own boots if you want to be certain of a well-fitting pair.
- Shore landings and zodiac cruises.
- Use of sauna and jacuzzi.
- Lectures by the experienced guides.
- All service taxes and port fees.
Flights & transfers. We recommend scheduling your flight home for the afternoon or evening at the earliest.
- All items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar drinks, etc.
- Gratuities for ships crew and expedition staff.
- Pre and post voyage excursions and hotel.
Travel insurance with worldwide medical evacuation coverage is mandatory. We also strongly recommend taking out trip cancellation insurance. This will cover your costs in case you need to cancel your trip after you’ve confirmed your booking.
Would you like some more information?
Contact us!
Prices
All prices are per person and depending on availability. Please contact us for more details.
- Accommodation on board.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Starts with dinner on the first night, ends after breakfast on the last day.
- Coffee, tea and water throughout the day.
- Warm zodiac suits.
- Rubber boots for landings. Limited sizes available, please bring your own boots if you want to be certain of a well-fitting pair.
- Shore landings and zodiac cruises.
- Use of sauna and jacuzzi.
- Lectures by the experienced guides.
- All service taxes and port fees.
Flights & transfers. We recommend scheduling your flight home for the afternoon or evening at the earliest.
- All items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar drinks, etc.
- Gratuities for ships crew and expedition staff.
- Pre and post voyage excursions and hotel.
Travel insurance with worldwide medical evacuation coverage is mandatory. We also strongly recommend taking out trip cancellation insurance. This will cover your costs in case you need to cancel your trip after you’ve confirmed your booking.
Would you like some more information?
Contact us!
Prices
All prices are per person and depending on availability. Please contact us for more details.
- Accommodation on board.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Starts with dinner on the first night, ends after breakfast on the last day.
- Coffee, tea and water throughout the day.
- Warm zodiac suits.
- Rubber boots for landings. Limited sizes available, please bring your own boots if you want to be certain of a well-fitting pair.
- Shore landings and zodiac cruises.
- Use of sauna and jacuzzi.
- Lectures by the experienced guides.
- All service taxes and port fees.
- Flights & transfers. We recommend scheduling your flight home for the afternoon or evening at the earliest.
- All items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar drinks, etc.
- Gratuities for ships crew and expedition staff.
- Pre and post voyage excursions and hotel.
Travel insurance with worldwide medical evacuation coverage is mandatory. We also strongly recommend taking out trip cancellation insurance. This will cover your costs in case you need to cancel your trip after you’ve confirmed your booking.
Would you like some more information?
Contact us!
Prices
All prices are per person and depending on availability. Please contact us for more details.
- Accommodation on board.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Starts with dinner on the first night, ends after breakfast on the last day.
- Coffee, tea and water throughout the day.
- Warm zodiac suits.
- Rubber boots for landings. Limited sizes available, please bring your own boots if you want to be certain of a well-fitting pair.
- Shore landings and zodiac cruises.
- Use of sauna and jacuzzi.
- Lectures by the experienced guides.
- All service taxes and port fees.
- Flights & transfers. We recommend scheduling your flight home for the afternoon or evening at the earliest.
- All items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar drinks, etc.
- Gratuities for ships crew and expedition staff.
- Pre and post voyage excursions and hotel.
Travel insurance with worldwide medical evacuation coverage is mandatory. We also strongly recommend taking out trip cancellation insurance. This will cover your costs in case you need to cancel your trip after you’ve confirmed your booking.
Would you like some more information?
Contact us!
Prices
All prices are per person and depending on availability. Please contact us for more details.
- Accommodation on board.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Starts with dinner on the first night, ends after breakfast on the last day.
- Coffee, tea and water throughout the day.
- Warm zodiac suits.
- Rubber boots for landings. Limited sizes available, please bring your own boots if you want to be certain of a well-fitting pair.
- Shore landings and zodiac cruises.
- Use of sauna and jacuzzi.
- Lectures by the experienced guides.
- All service taxes and port fees.
- Flights & transfers. We recommend scheduling your flight home for the afternoon or evening at the earliest.
- All items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar drinks, etc.
- Gratuities for ships crew and expedition staff.
- Pre and post voyage excursions and hotel.
- Travel insurance.
Travel insurance with worldwide medical evacuation coverage is mandatory. We also strongly recommend taking out trip cancellation insurance. This will cover your costs in case you need to cancel your trip after you’ve confirmed your booking.
Would you like some more information?
Contact us!
Prices
All prices are per person and depending on availability. Please contact us for more details.
- Accommodation on board.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Starts with dinner on the first night, ends after breakfast on the last day.
- Coffee, tea and water throughout the day.
- Warm zodiac suits.
- Rubber boots for landings. Limited sizes available, please bring your own boots if you want to be certain of a well-fitting pair.
- Shore landings and zodiac cruises.
- Use of sauna and jacuzzi.
- Lectures by the experienced guides.
- All service taxes and port fees.
Flights & transfers. We recommend scheduling your flight home for the afternoon or evening at the earliest.
- All items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar drinks, etc.
- Gratuities for ships crew and expedition staff.
- Pre and post voyage excursions and hotel.
Travel insurance with worldwide medical evacuation coverage is mandatory. We also strongly recommend taking out trip cancellation insurance. This will cover your costs in case you need to cancel your trip after you’ve confirmed your booking.
Would you like some more information?
Contact us!
Prices
All prices are per person and depending on availability. Please contact us for more details.
- Accommodation on board.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Starts with dinner on the first night, ends after breakfast on the last day.
- Coffee, tea and water throughout the day.
- Warm zodiac suits.
- Rubber boots for landings. Limited sizes available, please bring your own boots if you want to be certain of a well-fitting pair.
- Shore landings and zodiac cruises.
- Use of sauna and jacuzzi.
- Lectures by the experienced guides.
- All service taxes and port fees.
Flights & transfers. We recommend scheduling your flight home for the afternoon or evening at the earliest.
- All items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar drinks, etc.
- Gratuities for ships crew and expedition staff.
- Pre and post voyage excursions and hotel.
Travel insurance with worldwide medical evacuation coverage is mandatory. We also strongly recommend taking out trip cancellation insurance. This will cover your costs in case you need to cancel your trip after you’ve confirmed your booking.
Would you like some more information?
Contact us!
Prices
All prices are per person and depending on availability. Please contact us for more details.
- Accommodation on board.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Starts with dinner on the first night, ends after breakfast on the last day.
- Coffee, tea and water throughout the day.
- Warm zodiac suits.
- Rubber boots for landings. Limited sizes available, please bring your own boots if you want to be certain of a well-fitting pair.
- Shore landings and zodiac cruises.
- Use of sauna and jacuzzi.
- Lectures by the experienced guides.
- All service taxes and port fees.
- Flights & transfers. We recommend scheduling your flight home for the afternoon or evening at the earliest.
- All items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar drinks, etc.
- Gratuities for ships crew and expedition staff.
- Pre and post voyage excursions and hotel.
Travel insurance with worldwide medical evacuation coverage is mandatory. We also strongly recommend taking out trip cancellation insurance. This will cover your costs in case you need to cancel your trip after you’ve confirmed your booking.
Would you like some more information?
Contact us!FAQ
As of 01 January 2025, all tourist ships in Svalbard are required to adhere to new regulations. These rules have been put in place to protect the environment and safeguard an increasingly fragile wildlife amid the challenges of climate change and rising visitor numbers. We believe visiting Svalbard will remain an extraordinary experience and a unique chance to view Arctic animals in their natural home.
The most impactful new regulations involve restrictions on visiting protected areas:
- A limit of 200 passengers on board ships
- Landings are limited to 43 landing sites of which 13 will be restricted to amaximum of 39 persons at once
- The use of drones is prohibited inprotected areas
Starting from 2025, stricter regulations will be enforced regarding the viewing of wildlife:
- Minimum distances from polar bears; 300 meters from July 1 to February 28 and 500 meters from March 1 to June 30.
- Minimum distances from walrus haulout sites; 50m when on land and 150m for motorised boats with a maximum speed 5 knots within 300 metres.
- A speed limit of 5 knots applies within 500 metres from certain bird colonies.
Keep in mind, nothing will change in regards to approaching polar bears, which has never been allowed.
Providing the best possible photography and wildlife viewing, while maintaining a safe distance, is our top priority. Beyond polar bears, we always keep an eye out for walrus, seals, whales, arctic foxes, and birds, not to mention the spectacular scenery.
The new rules and regulations are of hardly any impact on our operations. Our expeditions take place on board small ships (12 guests), allowing us to maintain access to all of Svalbard’s landing sites. Additionally, our high ice-class vessel Explorer allows us to explore the pack ice, which is outside Svalbard’s territorial waters.