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A Day in the Life of an Expedition Micro Cruise to Svalbard
Want to know what to expect on your expedition to Svalbard?
A day in the life of an Expedition Micro Cruise can be hard to predict – and that’s just the way we like it.
Our pioneering Expedition Micro Cruise concept champions freedom and flexibility. No two Secret Atlas expeditions are the same. No two days on a Secret Atlas adventure are the same.
But we’re sharing with you some exclusive insights into our past expeditions to give you a taste of life on board.
Svalbard: A day in the life
Below, read an expedition journal from one of our Svalbard adventures, and read an entire journal here.
Day 03
Exploring Alkefjellet & Wilhelmøya
OUR FIRST POLAR BEAR SIGHTING!
The highlight of the day was our first polar bear sighting! We watched in awe as the majestic bear roamed among the rocks during low tide, showcasing its incredible adaptability to the summer conditions. The sight of the bear against the snow and ice was unforgettable. Our Zodiac cruise took us beneath the towering cliffs of Alkefjellet, where guillemots flew, dove, and danced in what seemed like chaotic harmony, creating a perfect symphony of life. Later, we spotted a mother polar bear with her two cubs, peacefully grazing on summer vegetation – a rare and heartwarming moment.
Our Zodiac cruise took us beneath the towering cliffs of Alkefjellet, where guillemots flew, dove, and danced in what seemed like chaotic harmony, creating a perfect symphony of life. Later, we spotted a mother polar bear with her two cubs, peacefully grazing on summer vegetation – a rare and heartwarming moment.
Day 04
Exploring Kinnvika & Murchisonfjorden
EXPLORING THE FASCINATING MICRO-LANDSCAPES
We spent the morning exploring the fascinating micro-landscapes of Kinnvika, led by Bob, who shared his passion for the area’s history. We discovered lichen-covered bones, unique rock formations, and remnants of human activity, including an amphibious vehicle from the 1950s. The team enjoyed fishing together, celebrating each catch, followed by a delicious barbecue prepared by our onboard Australian scientist.
The day ended with an epic polar plunge, where brave volunteers dove into the icy waters, sharing the moment with seals swimming nearby.
Day 05
Exploring Bockfjorden SW & Mushamna
ENCOUNTERING A LOCAL ADVENTURER
The day began with fog gently rolling in, creating a mystical atmosphere as we crossed rivers toward the towering Friedrichbreen Glacier. Walking on this colossal ice formation felt like stepping into another world. We then hiked to the remote Varfluesjoen Lake, where we encountered a local adventurer who had trekked alone for seven days from Pyramiden.
We exchanged snacks, Arctic char, and beers, and forged an unexpected bond with the stranger in this isolated wilderness. We ended the day collecting freshly caught Arctic trout.
Svalbard Circumnavigation Micro Cruise
78°22’N, 15°65’E
The big one. As the sea opens up under the midnight sun, take the unique opportunity to circumnavigate Svalbard, Europe’s last great wilderness.
- 12 guests
- 12 days
Svalbard Spring Micro Cruise
78°22’N, 15°65’E
A frozen fairytale of iceberg-strewn fjords, snowy peaks, and puzzle-piece sea ice – as animals take their first steps following winter.
- 12 guests
- — days
Svalbard Summer Micro Cruise
78°22’N, 15°65’E
Set sail in summer, when Svalbard blooms with life, the best time to spot wildlife in Europe’s last great wilderness.
- 12 guests
- 10 days
Svalbard Autumn Photo Tour
78°22’N, 15°65’E
Wildlife and landscape photographers rush to catch Svalbard at this unique part of the year, when languorous sunrises and sunsets paint the scenery in autumnal colours and far-flung destinations like Austfonna are still within reach.
- 12 guests
- 11 days
Svalbard Spring Micro Cruise Lite
78°22’N, 15°65’E
Our compact early-season adventure packs in all the highlights of Svalbard in just a short space of time – with no fear of missing out.
- 12 guests
- — days
Dear Explorers: Diary of a Svalbard Expedition Micro Cruise
“Dear Explorers, it has been a delight to have you on board and discover the hidden secrets of Svalbard… ”
So begins this stunningly artistic and powerful micro documentary by Secret Atlas. More than a Svalbard vlog, this is an intimate portrait of a Secret Atlas expedition to Svalbard, voiced by our expedition leader addressing their disembarking guests.
Unforgettable adventure. Life-changing camaraderie. It’s all part of a day in the life in Svalbard. You arrive as a visitor. You leave as an ambassador for the Arctic.
Watch the full video below.
Brochure
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