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Ice Wall in the Arctic Secret Atlas

Svalbard Circumnavigation Micro Cruise

LONGYEARBYEN 78°22’N, 15°65’E
Micro Cruise

Svalbard Circumnavigation Micro Cruise

Rates from
€22,450 pp
Duration
12 days

Dates
Aug
Guests
12

As the sea opens up under the midnight sun, take the unique opportunity to circumnavigate Europe’s last great wilderness.

Sailing in the summer, this in-depth 12-day expedition sets out to circumnavigate Svalbard and explore its remotest reaches, including the Austfonna ice cap. Svalbard comes alive with wildlife at this time of year, with reindeer, whales, Arctic foxes, and polar bears spotted against a backdrop of fairytale fjords, calving glaciers, and snow-capped mountains.

An all-encompassing adventure to see Svalbard come alive with wildlife.

On this summer expedition, as the sea ice opens up around Svalbard, we take the unique opportunity nature presents us with and set out to circumnavigate the archipelago.

Our aim is to reach the remoter areas of Svalbard, including the mammoth Austfonna ice cap, with its famous, horizon-stealing ice wall. Along the way, we will explore every corner of the archipelago, the last stop before the North Pole, marvelling at its magnificent creatures and stunning scenery, under the light of the midnight sun.

The warmth of the sun invites migratory species back to Svalbard and encourages resident animals to come out from their wintery hiding places, making summer the best season to spot whales, seabirds, walruses, and polar bears in their natural habitat. 

Head out on Zodiac cruises and hikes amid the Arctic majesty of picturesque fjords, mountains, and icebergs. Search for walrus haulouts on remote beaches, and scour the sea ice for polar bears. This is the Arctic experience you’ve been searching for.

Expedition highlights

  • Our most detailed exploration of Svalbard as we aim to circumnavigate the archipelago, taking in remote sights, such as the Austfonna ice cap

  • Summer is when Svalbard’s wildlife – from Arctic foxes to whales, migratory birds, and polar bears – is at its most abundant and most visible

  • Breathtaking landscape of majestic glaciers, stark mountains, and fjords, lit up by the midnight sun

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
Zodiac cruise near bird cliffs Secret Atlas

"I felt like I was a part of a Discovery Channel programme. What you see and experience is beyond your wildest imagination."

— Annie, Secret Atlas guest in Svalbard

Svalbard Navigation Map to plan your trip with 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°22'N, 15°62'E
Bridge view Vikingfjord Svalbard Secret Atlas

Depart Longyearbyen at 4pm.

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

Day 02 78°44'N, 11°89'E
Pack of walrus on sand beach in Svalbard

Explore Poolepynten, a headland on Prins Karls Forland, home to a walrus colony and a  burial site.

Days 03–04 78°92'N, 11°91'E
Svalbard mountains under sunset

Visit Ny-Ålesund Research Station, the world’s northernmost year-round research facility, and Kongsfjorden, with landings and cruises to its two glaciers, Kronebreen and Kongsbreen.

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.

Day 05 80°59'N, 18°45'E
Seal in the Arctic snowy habitat. Bearded seal on blue and white ice in arctic Svalbard, with lift up fin. Arctic marine wildlife. Wildlife scene in the nature. Icebreaker with cute seal.

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

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

Days 06–10 79°57'N, 18°51'E
Guillemot. A family of birds on the rocks of the Svalbard archipelago.

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

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

Sail through the narrow sound of Heleysundet. 

Zodiac landing at Teistpynten in the bay of Mohnbukta, taking in views of Hayesbreen glacier. 

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 11 76°97'N, 15°78'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.

Sail back to Isfjorden and Longyearbyen.

Day 12 78°22'N, 15°62'E
View from bridge on boat. Woman with binoculars Svalbard 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

Freya

MV Freya is a classic expedition ship. The sturdy, ice-strengthened 1A hull makes her perfect for exploring the Arctic waters.

See Ship
12 Guests
MV Freya cruising through sea ice

Interior

Restaurant area of MV Freya
Restaurant area of MV Freya
Restaurant area of MV Freya
Restaurant area of MV Freya
Restaurant area of MV Freya
Restaurant area of MV Freya
The bridge of MV Freya showing computer navigation system
The bridge of MV Freya showing computer navigation system

Exterior

View from the side of MV Freya
boat sailing deck pov svalbard cloudy mid aug summer 2024 ross dixon ms freya 24-sva-25-jpg
Out on deck onboard MV Freya
Out on deck with views of mountains onboard MV Freya
View from the side of MV Freya
boat sailing deck pov svalbard cloudy mid aug summer 2024 ross dixon ms freya 24-sva-25-jpg
Out on deck onboard MV Freya
Out on deck with views of mountains onboard MV Freya
Guests enjoy hot soak in hot tub on board MV Freya
Sauna on board ship Secret Atlas
People in a hot tub Secret Atlas
Guests enjoy hot soak in hot tub on board MV Freya
Sauna on board ship Secret Atlas
People in a hot tub Secret Atlas
Signature
Twin

Signature twin cabin onboard MV Freya ship Secret Atlas
  • Sleeps two in lower twin berths
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window
Deck 1
10M²
2 Guests
Signature
Penthouse (double)

Signature Penthouse suite onboard MV Freya
  • Sleeps two in a double bed
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window
Deck 1
15M²
2 Guests
Signature
Single

Signature Single onboard MV Freya with Secret Atlas
  • Sleeps one in a lower berth
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window
Deck 1
10M²
1 Guest

Deck

Deck plan of MV Freya

Films

Watch

Svalbard Circumnavigation Micro Cruise

From £19,100 From €22,450 From $25,900 From CA$34,200 From AU$36,500 pp
Signature
Twin/Double

SOLD OUT

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)

SOLD OUT

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

£19,100 €22,450 $25,900 CA$34,200 AU$36,500 pp

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
Book Dates Contact us

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

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 – 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 Expedition Micro Cruises 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. 

Why is an Expedition Micro Cruise the best way to explore Svalbard?

Unlike larger vessels with higher passenger capacities, our voyages are personal and unique in their approach. Travelling with a small group of guests means more time exploring, more flexibility, and less time waiting to board Zodiacs and go ashore.

Our small expedition vessels will get you closer to nature and more immersed in the landscape than larger ships, offering you a more transportative and transformative experience with no crowds or queuing.

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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Explorer's Handbook

Everything you need to know to help you plan your polar expedition, from destination guides to weather insights and what to pack…

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People hiking with beautiful scenery and moutains in Svalbad Secret Atlas

10 Places in Svalbard You Can Visit

Our favourite places you can visit on an Expedition Micro Cruise...
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thousands of birds on the cliffs of Svalbard

The Alkefjellet Bird Cliffs | Svalbard's Living Walls

The name Alkefjellet translates to ‘mountain of the guillemots’ in Norwegian, and you'll understand why when you first see it.
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Juvenile arctic fox looking at camera

21 Animals to See in Svalbard

A taste of the animals you can spot on an Expedition Micro Cruise to Svalbard.
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Atlantic Puffins bird or common Puffin in ocean blue background. Fratercula arctica. Norway most popular birds.

Birds of Svalbard

Svalbard is a wonderland for birders! Here are some of the birds you can see during your Expedition Micro Cruise.
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What to Pack for the Arctic

What to wear – and what not to wear – on your Arctic adventure.
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Looking to explore the world with friends, family, or colleagues?

Plan a private charter with us.

Booking info
Micro Cruise

Svalbard Circumnavigation Micro Cruise

Rates
€22,450 pp
Duration
12 days
Dates
Aug
Book Now

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

Signature Twin

The Signature Twin cabins aboard Freya are comfortable and cosy, just like the rest of the vessel. 

The colour scheme of dark blues and golden wood notes, seen elsewhere on the ship, creates a warming atmosphere. 

There is an air of eccentricity harking back to expeditions of the past in the design elements and artwork adorning the walls  – but the rooms are appointed with modern conveniences.

Signature Twin

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 Suite Location

Signature Penthouse (double)

The master suite aboard Freya is spacious, charmingly appointed, and has a pleasingly cosy, warming design style. With an ensuite toilet and shower room, along with plenty of storage space, it’s as comfortable as it is attractive. 

The ship’s characterful look – with dark blue walls, varnished wood detailing, and plenty of light – is well-represented in the penthouse suite, providing a cabin-in-the-woods feeling of warmth. There’s a dash of expeditionary eccentricity to many of the design details – we’re big fans! 

It’s just what you want to return home to after an active day of exploration.

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

The top choice for solo travellers, Signature Singles aboard Freya boast an ensuite toilet and shower room and plenty of storage space. 

You need somewhere comfortable to return to after a long day of adventuring in the wilderness, and with Freya’s quintessentially warm aesthetic – scattered here and there with characterful design details and artworks – you have just that. 

A window lets in plenty of light, gearing you up for another day in one of the world’s last great wildernesses. 

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

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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