June  20th- June 30th 2024

Arrival Destination:

Longyearbyen, Svalbard

Max. Group Size:

10 Guests-  FULL

Price Per Person: $

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About the Tour

A special experience for photographers in Svalbard. I will only be taking 10 guests, that leaves each guest plenty of room to move about. The yacht is 42 meters long and 10 meters wide, which gives you much deck space to explore while we are en route between landings. This is an expedition tour, which means, there is not a set itinerary, we will go where we think the best photographic opportunities are at that time. We might head up to the ice pack or make landings along the way. When we do landings, we will be accompanied by 2 expert guides, as we are in polar bear country. Some of you might want to do a hike while others may prefer to stick closer to the shore and photograph. This can be done but in 2 groups, one hiking, and one beach. The main fitness is getting in and out of a the zodiac and walking along shore.

Wildlife

Wildlife in Svalbard is of a wondrous nature but never guaranteed. Most animals people hope to try and see are polar bears, reindeer, arctic fox, seals , whales, puffins, walrus and a multitude of sea birds. The scenery in that location is breathtaking and moody, 60 % of the island is glaciated. West coast landscape is alpine with pointed mountains, and the northern and eastern side are more wide open with plateau shaped mountains. The Svalbard walrus population was hunted to near extinction hundreds of years ago and remains Red Listed (Vulnerable) today. Surveys at haul out sites shows their numbers are increasing. Bearded seals are the largest species of Arctic seal. They grow to lengths of about 7 to 8 feet and range from about 575 to 800 pounds. Wildlife viewing can be down from either the yacht or the zodiacs when we cruise, and from our landings. We will not land if a polar bear is also on the land. The vessel is equipped with 2 new Mark V zodiacs for your cruising pleasure.

Lodging

The cabins are double occupancy and sharing, all cabins are bunk beds with shared toilet/shower (they have a sink in each cabin) except 2. One large private suite has twin beds and a private shower and toilet. ($1200.00 extra for the room ,or $600.00 each)(booked for this tour)  All guest accommodations are being completely redesigned in 2020 with expedition operations and comfort in mind – the spacious cabins are equipped with multiple 230V electrical sockets for all photography and videographer recharging needs. As expedition professionals, we know that food is an important part of any polar adventure! Our Chef will prepare and serve high-quality meals with global flavors that will please any palate. The landscape at that time will be stunning. Cruising through the ice is an experience that you will never forget. You can hear the air bubbles being released in the brash ice, as it snaps and pops. Experiences during this trip are not just photographic, they are on sensory overload. We can fully utilize the bow, top deck and other spaces around the ship to photograph from. The main deck is low and spacious, perfect for getting good angle images.

Important Note

This is a photographic tour,  not a workshop, things will happen fast at times, you will need to have some knowledge of how to operate your camera.  And with 24 hours of daylight, you never know when something will pop up.  Even though I am helping with the settings, you should be familiar with your camera, and have patience.

Experience

I have worked in Svalbard on expedition ships since 2013. I have been running my own tours there for 3 years now.

Our Itinerary

Pricing Details

Per person =$

See below for deposit information

Important Information

Deposit

Payment in of of $500.00 is required to hold your spot now. The rest  of the first deposit  would be due in Aug 2023 Please review our Terms & Conditions before inquiring about a reservation. Please note: We reserve the right to decline your deposit if we feel you aren’t able to meet the physical requirements of the trip.   Travel Insurance     You must have travel insurance and show proof to be on this tour. More information listed in Terms and Conditions. I will e mail you several companies you can pick from if you don’t have one

COVID-19 Vaccinations

Vaccinations/boosters are subject to the requirements of the country.