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Glacier with waterfalls photo by Virgil Reglioni Secret Atlas

Svalbard Autumn Photo Tour with Virgil Reglioni

LONGYEARBYEN 78°22’N, 15°65’E
Photography

Svalbard Autumn Photo Tour with Virgil Reglioni

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Virgil Reglioni

Nature Photographer

Expeditions coming soon

We are currently working on the upcoming schedule.

The archipelago saves its finest colours for the late season, with sunrises and sunsets painting the landscape in autumnal hues as the wildlife gets ready for winter.

Virgil Reglioni is one of the world’s premier polar landscape and northern lights photographers. Known for his soulful images of the polar regions – and his mastery of colour and composition – Virgil is the ideal photo guide to have by your side on this autumn adventure to Svalbard.

Capture the full spectrum of the Arctic in autumn.

This is a season like no other, offering up an entirely different perspective on Svalbard for just a few short weeks each year. At your side on this journey north is one of the most skilled and storied Svalbard photographers there is: Virgil Reglioni.

On this expedition, we will explore the east of Svalbard. Our ultimate aim is to capture the meltwater waterfalls of the Austfonna ice cap – the ultimate Svalbard in autumn sight. This rare phenomenon occurs as the ice cap warms during the summer months, causing streams of meltwater to pour over the sheer ice cliffs.

Under gorgeous, long-tail sunsets, marvel at the wildlife of Svalbard, from Arctic foxes to whales, reindeer, walruses, and polar bears. But Austfonna, its spectacular ice waterfalls gushing down into the Arctic, serves up the ultimate, documentary-worthy image of this expedition into the sublime.

Expedition highlights

  • Stunning landscapes and unique lighting conditions provide incredible photography opportunities, combined with dramatic glaciers and fjords

  • Capture breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, which only grace Svalbard for a few months each year

  • Witness flowing waterfalls from the unique Austfonna ice cap, Europe’s third largest glacier by area and volume

The Expedition Micro Cruise concept

couple enjoying group experience Secret Atlas
guides teaching photography in the field
Exiting zodiac cruises
Group of people exploring ice in Svalbard with Secret Atlas
Hot tub experiences onboard with Secret Atlas
Svalbard landscape in Autumn by Virgil Reglioni Secret Atlas

"I enjoy working on small expedition vessels with Secret Atlas because they allow for a more intimate and less intrusive experience with wildlife and the natural world, minimising environmental disturbances."

— Virgil Reglioni

Svalbard Summer Map to plan your trip with Secret Atlas

About Virgil

Virgil specialises in capturing stunning images of polar landscapes and is one of the world’s most acclaimed photographers of the northern lights. His teaching, guiding, and photography style is defined by his meticulous planning, adventurous approach, and deep respect for polar environments.

Meet Virgil
Virgil Reglioni man snowy mountain backdrop Secret Atlas

Experiences

We don’t follow a fixed itinerary

We prefer to embrace spontaneity and make the most of every opportunity nature presents to us. This is how we believe a true, authentic expedition should run. After all, the thrill of adventuring into the unknown is more rewarding than a journey that runs on tracks!

So all our listed itineraries are for guidance only. The day-to-day activities may vary depending on the ice, the weather, and the wildlife. Landings are subject to site availability and permissions, and always in line with AECO regulations.

For even more flexibility, get in touch about making this a private yacht charter.

What your expedition could look like

Day 01 78.2253° N, 15.6256° E
View over Longyearbyen from above, Svalbard, Norway

Depart Longyearbyen at 4pm.

Sail past striking Fuglefjella (Bird Mountain), a fine example of plateau mountainous landscape, as we leave Longyearbyen.

Days 02 79.4354° N, 10.5942° E
Virgil reglioni talking with other guides in Virgohamna Svalbard

Sail to Smeerenburg, a former whaling settlement and source of an enduring myth, now home to a walrus colony.

Possible landing in Virgohamna, a historical site, to learn about the attempts to reach the North Pole by air that departed from here and see remains of blubber ovens from the 1600s.

Days 03–05
Pack of walrus in Kvitoya in Svalbard

Sail along the continental shelf, scouting for fin and blue whales that gather in the upwelling zones.

Scout the ice edge, a dynamic setting of texture and light, home to seals, seabirds, and polar bears.

Days 06–07 79.5786° N, 18.5103° E
Alkefjellet cliff side with birds filling the sky

Marvel at Alkefjellet, a stunning bird cliff, nesting location of Brünnich guillemot.

Take a Zodiac cruise to see Storisstraumen and a ship cruise to Bråsvellbreen of the Austfonnaice cap, Europe's third-largest glacier by volume and area.

Day 08–09 78.1149° N, 20.8282° E
Guests in landscape in Kapp Lee Svalbard 24 Giancarlo Gallinoro Secret Atlas

Enjoy the green Kapp Lee headland on Edgeøya, spotting walruses, reindeer, and Arctic foxes, along with remnants of the walrus hunting industry.

Zodiac landing and hike at Kvalvågen, a geologically interesting bay known for its Cretaceous period dinosaur footprints.

Take a Zodiac cruise of Hambergbukta, an attractive bay in south Spitsbergen.

Day 10 76.9718° N, 15.7844° E
Hornsund mountain in Svalbard

See Hornsund, with a landing in Gnålodden to marvel at the scenic bird cliff (home to black-legged kittiwakes) and trapper’s hut.

Day 11 78.2481° N, 14.4793° E
Walrus colony on a rock with mountains in background Secret Atlas

Sail back to Isfjorden and Longyearbyen.

Day 12 78.2253° N, 15.6256° E
Colorful wooden houses in red, yellow, and green, beneath a fall / autumn sky by the mountains on one side of the valley in Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen, Svalbard, Norway. Secret Atlas

Disembark in Longyearbyen at 9am.

Your ship

Your home-from-home in the Arctic.

Vikingfjord

A new ice-strengthened ship with industry-leading environmental credentials.

See Ship
12 Guests
Vikingfjord ship in Svalbard landscape Secret Atlas

Interior

Observation lounge area onboard Vikingfjord
Observation lounge area onboard Vikingfjord
Observation lounge area onboard Vikingfjord
Observation lounge area onboard Vikingfjord
Observation lounge area onboard Vikingfjord
Observation lounge area onboard Vikingfjord
restaurant area onboard Vikingfjord
restaurant area onboard Vikingfjord
restaurant area onboard Vikingfjord
restaurant area onboard Vikingfjord
restaurant area onboard Vikingfjord
restaurant area onboard Vikingfjord
Bridge lounge area onboard Vikingfjord
Bridge lounge area onboard Vikingfjord
Bridge lounge area onboard Vikingfjord
Man looking at a map on the Bridge of a ship Secret Atlas
Bridge lounge area onboard Vikingfjord
Bridge lounge area onboard Vikingfjord
Bridge lounge area onboard Vikingfjord
Man looking at a map on the Bridge of a ship Secret Atlas

Exterior

View from Side deck onboard Vikingfjord Secret Atlas
Out on deck in the snow onboard MV Vikingfjord
View from the deck onboard Vikingfjord
View of guests on the deck onboard Vikingfjord
View from Side deck onboard Vikingfjord Secret Atlas
Out on deck in the snow onboard MV Vikingfjord
View from the deck onboard Vikingfjord
View of guests on the deck onboard Vikingfjord
Hot tub on deck onboard Vikingfjord Secret Atlas
Sauna on deck onboard Vikingfjord Secret Atlas
Hot tub on deck onboard Vikingfjord Secret Atlas
Hot tub on deck onboard Vikingfjord Secret Atlas
Sauna on deck onboard Vikingfjord Secret Atlas
Hot tub on deck onboard Vikingfjord Secret Atlas
Signature
Twin/Double

Signature Twin/Double on board Vikingfjord
  • Comfortable double bed/twins
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Windows, wardrobe, desk and chair
Deck 1
15M²
2 Guests
Signature
Penthouse (Double)

Signature Penthouse suite onboard MV Vikingfjord
  • Comfortable double bed
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window, wardrobe, desk and chair
Deck 3
15M²
2 Guests
Signature
Single

Signature Single onboard MV Vikingfjord with Secret Atlas
  • Comfortable single bed
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window, wardrobe, desk and chair
Deck 1 and 2
10M²
1 Guest

Deck

Deck plan of MV Vikingfjord

Films

Watch

Expeditions coming soon

We are currently working on the upcoming schedule.

Why Secret Atlas?

Because we’re explorers, delivering expeditions for explorers like you.

We’re fuelled by the long-lost spirit of adventure, guided by environmental and cultural responsibility, and committed to creating transformative travel experiences.

We’re pioneers of the Expedition Micro Cruise, offering the smallest group sizes at both poles. That means a flexible itinerary. It means more time exploring and photographing. It means a deeper connection with your team and the natural world.

We understand that, out here, less is more. Less waiting to board Zodiacs, more time ashore. Less strict itineraries, more adventure. Less crowd, more immersion.

That’s why we’re not just small. We’re micro.

Meet Secret Atlas

What's included?

Expert guide team and photographer

Lectures and tutorials

Use of Zodiacs (dinghies) for shore landings and photography opportunities

Polar bear protection guides for shore landings

Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner + alcoholic drinks with evening meal)

Bedding and towels

Highly experienced captain and cook

Rubber boots for shore landings

Transfers from hotel to vessel for embarkation and vessel to airport/hotel after disembarkation

Not included

Flights and transfers from airport to hotel

Travel and cancellation insurance

Any additional expenses such as museum entry

Blonde girl in the snow Antarctic Secret Atlas

Solo explorers

Solo travellers are welcome on all our voyages. We often host solo travellers, particularly on our photo voyages – the chances are you won’t be the only one. We offer the following accommodation options:

  • Single cabins (where available)

  • The option to share a twin cabin with another traveller of the same gender

  • The option to have your own double cabin for an additional supplement. Please contact us for this option as the price varies depending on trip and availability

FAQs

How physically fit do I need to be?

To get the most from a Secret Atlas expedition, it’s important to be stable on your feet and able to undertake short hikes. But there’s no requirement to undertake any given activity, and we usually split into two groups: those who want to go to the top of the hill, and those who’d prefer a more leisurely stroll at the bottom (or a Zodiac cruise!).

Where does this expedition depart from?

All our Svalbard photo tours depart from and return to the town of Longyearbyen.  Longyearbyen is easily reached by daily flights from Oslo in Norway, making it one of the easiest destinations to reach in the High Arctic. To find out more about how to get to Longyearbyen, please see our guide below.

Do I need to be an experienced photographer to join?

Not at all. We welcome guests that share an interest not only in photography but in learning more about nature and observing wildlife in its natural habitat.

Our Svalbard photo tours are designed for guests that are looking to spend time out in the field taking photos. We welcome all levels of photographer. Whether you’re an experienced professional or completely new to photography, this is a great opportunity to spend time in nature capturing images.

In addition to our photography guide, we also have a highly experienced expedition leader and guide on board, giving you plenty of opportunity to learn about Svalbard.

Can I get one-on-one photography coaching?

Our photography guides are in-field tuition experts, experienced in group and one-on-one coaching. They’ll be on-hand throughout the expedition to offer in-field advice, scout photo opportunities, and deliver lectures and workshops.

Are there any photo or video restrictions in Svalbard?

Guests are not permitted to use drones during the expedition. In any case a drone is being used during your expedition, it will be for professional use only by a member of the Secret Atlas team with the required permissions.

Limitations are in place to protect the wildlife we encounter. Often, it is not possible to get up-close to the wildlife we see. For more information, check out the ‘Visitor Guidelines’.

What Are the New 2025 Regulations in Svalbard?

In 2025, the Norwegian government introduced stricter environmental regulations in Svalbard to better protect its fragile Arctic ecosystem and wildlife.

At Secret Atlas, our Expedition Micro Cruise concept is built around conscious, responsible travel. These new rules align perfectly with our mission to explore with care and leave a minimal footprint.

We understand you may have questions about how these changes could affect your journey. To help, we’ve gathered everything you need to know about the updated regulations. And of course, if you’d like to chat through the details, our team is always here to help.

For more information regarding your booking, please refer to our booking terms and conditions
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Looking to explore the world with friends, family, or colleagues?

Plan a private charter with us.

Booking info
Photography

Svalbard Autumn Photo Tour with Virgil Reglioni

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Signature Twin/Double

This comfy cabin option comes with your choice of a double bed or twins. 

The ship’s subtle Scandi design continues into your suite, creating a calming, rejuvenating atmosphere in which to unwind after a long day’s exploration. 

The cabin boasts an ensuite toilet and shower room, along with a desk and chair, wardrobe, and windows.

Signature Twin/Double

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Shower gel
  • Body lotion
  • Hand soap
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Signature Twin/Double Suite Location

Signature Penthouse (Double)

The spacious master suite on deck 3 is seamlessly designed for double occupancy. 

It boasts a particularly light and airy feel, courtesy of the windows in the main room and ensuite, as well as the cabin’s elevated position on the upper deck. 

The Scandi-inspired penthouse features a desk and chair, along with ample storage space for two guests and plenty of room to relax and unwind in.

Signature Penthouse (Double)

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Shower gel
  • Body lotion
  • Hand soap
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Signature Penthouse (Double) Suite Location

Signature Single

Ideal for solo travellers, this more compact cabin option still feels spacious and welcomingly serene, thanks to its light design and carefully considered layout. 

Features include a wardrobe, ensuite, and a window on the wall of the main room.

Your cosy home-from-home as you explore the wildest places on the planet.

Signature Single

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Shower gel
  • Body lotion
  • Hand soap
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Signature Single Suite Location

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