Our Signature Expeditions aboard Explorer offer an immersive journey through Svalbard’s breathtaking wilderness. This 8-day voyage is a great choice if you have limited time and want to see the best of Svalbard. An exclusive experience, guided by Rinie van Meurs, renowned Arctic expedition leader with over 30 years of experience. His 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 north of 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.

Expedition Highlights
- Peak bird activity
- Tundra at its’ most vibrant.
- Melt waterfalls along glaciers
- Glaciers calving
- Great wildlife viewing
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.
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
Day 2-7 | Exploring West Svalbard
During Svalbard’s summer, wildlife thrives under the midnight sun. Throughout the expedition, we aim to spend as much time off ship as possbile. Zodiac cruises will take you through scenic fjords, with opportunities to spot whales, seals and walrus. Seabird colonies will be bustling with chicks taking their first flights, while Arctic foxes prowl the cliffs in search of an easy meal.
The glaciers of Svalbard are constantly transforming, and as the summer sun intensifies, they release meltwater that creates striking blue rivers and waterfalls. Whether viewed from the zodiac or the ship, the glaciers are a highlight of Svalbard and a dream subject for photographers.
Hikes and walks ashore are another great way to experience Svalbard’s rugged beauty, from tundra valleys to panoramic viewpoints, there’s plenty to explore. The expedition team will design your voyage from day to day, maximising your time in Svalbard. With two zodiacs available, we can head out quickly with all guests at the same time, taking advantage of every opportunity.
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.
Impression

Dates & Rates
Other dates
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.























