Svalbard Spring Micro Cruise

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

Svalbard Spring Micro Cruise

Rates from
£11,995 €13,500 US$15,995 CA$21,995 AU$23,995 pp
Duration
8 — 10 days

Dates
May — Jun
Guests
12

A frozen fairytale of iceberg-strewn fjords, snowy peaks, and puzzle-piece sea ice – as animals take their first steps following winter.

See Svalbard still wearing its winter coat on our Svalbard Spring Micro Cruise.The wildlife is waking up and the sun has reintroduced itself following the long, dark winter. The light it casts as it rises and sets is deliciously soft and beguilingly coloured, adding an otherworldly glow to the snow-wrapped land and frozen seascape.

Svalbard in springtime is Svalbard at its most compelling.

Emerging from the depths of winter, the archipelago presents its wilder side in the early season. Nature has turned the page on the year before. A fresh page of white snow lies before us. We are the pioneers, the first readers of nature’s new bestseller. 

This intrepid adventure shows off the best of the season as our agile expedition ship charts a path through the ice. Smothered in an unbroken blanket of snow, hemmed in by splintering sea ice, and awakened by wonderfully soft light, Svalbard in the spring is all about new beginnings and sublime scenery. 

Spotting wildlife in the early season requires patience, but there’s nothing like witnessing Arctic animals – reindeer, walruses, Arctic foxes, polar bears – against the springtime backdrop.

Expedition highlights 

  • The best time to visit for quintessentially Arctic scenery of frozen seascapes, crystalline icebergs, and snow-covered mountains

  • A chance to encounter wildlife, including whales, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, walruses, seals, and polar bears, against a snowy backdrop

  • See Europe’s last great wilderness wrapped in the soft light of the early season, lit up by pastel sunrises and sunsets

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
Guests on zodiac viewing a Walrus in the sea

"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

Stories from the Ice

Every expedition leaves a mark. Discover honest reflections, unforgettable moments, and personal highlights shared by guests who have explored the polar regions with us.

Svalbard Spring 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°13'N, 15°38'E
Icy mountains walrus snow 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
Expedition leader John Rodsted pointing to the arctic fox

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

Take a Zodiac cruise of Fjortende Julbreen, a stunning glacier, and Fjortende Julibukta, a scenic bay in Krossfjord.

Days 03–08 79°49'N, 11°37'E
Waterfall Glacier Secret Atlas

Land at Sallyhamna, a hut built in 1937, rich in history and cultural remains from the 1600s whaling period.

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

Explore the island of Kvitøya, taking in the walrus colony and cultural remains of the Andreeneset headland.

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

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

See the historical site at Bruceneset in beautiful Alicehamna bay, during a Zodiac cruise or hike. 

Land at Hamburgbukta to view remains from the 1600s whaling industry. 

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.

Alkhornet showcases the change in geology from plateau to edge-dominated, alpine mountainous landscape.

Day 09 78°22'N, 15°62'E
Guest looking out from the deck of ship in Svalbard

Return to Isfjorden and Longyearbyen.

Day 10
The city is surrounded by mountains. Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen (Svalbard). Norway

Disembark in Longyearbyen at 9am.

Day 01 78°13'N, 15°38'E
Bow of the ship, Vikingfjord in pack ice, 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°12'N, 13°49'E
Sail past ice field and plateau mountainous landscape

Alkhornet, at the opening of Isfjorden, showcases the change in geology from plateau to edge-dominated, alpine mountainous landscape. 

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

Day 03 80°45'N, 11°15'E
polar bear mum and cub on ice sheet in Svalbard

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

Days 04–07 79°49'N, 11°38'E
Lilliehook glacier photo by Florian Ledoux photographer for Secret Atlas

Land in Sallyhamna, a hut built in 1937, rich in history and cultural remains from the 1600s whaling period.

Continue south to explore Gravnesodden in Magdalenefjorden, with interesting cultural remains.

Land at Camp Zoe, an old trappers’ hut; take a Zodiac cruise of Lilliehook glacier, in search of calving ice. 

Continue south back to Isfjorden and Longyearbyen.

Day 08 78°22'N, 15°62'E
Ice and mountains of Svalbard

Disembark in Longyearbyen at 9am.

Your ship

Your home-from-home in the Arctic.

Freya

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

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

  • Sleeps two in lower twin berths
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window
Deck 1
10M²
2 Guests
Signature
Suite (double)

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

  • Sleeps one in a lower berth
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window
Deck 1
10M²
1 Guest
Classic
Single

  • Sleeps one in a lower berth
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window
Deck 2
8M²
1 Guest

Deck

MVFreya Deck Plan Desktop Secret Atlas

Films

From £11,995 €13,500 US$15,995 CA$21,995 AU$23,995 pp
Signature
Twin/Double

£11,995 €13,500 US$15,995 CA$21,995 AU$23,995 pp

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

£13,995 €15,995 US$18,995 CA$25,995 AU$28,500 pp

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

£13,995 €15,995 US$18,995 CA$25,995 AU$28,500 pp

  • Comfortable single bed
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window, wardrobe, desk and chair
Deck 1 and 2
10M²
1 Guest
Signature
Twin/Double

£11,995 €13,500 US$15,995 CA$21,995 AU$23,995 pp

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

£13,995 €15,995 US$18,995 CA$25,995 AU$28,500 pp

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

£13,995 €15,995 US$18,995 CA$25,995 AU$28,500 pp

  • Comfortable single bed
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window, wardrobe, desk and chair
Deck 1 and 2
10M²
1 Guest
Signature
Twin/Double

SOLD OUT

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

SOLD OUT

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

SOLD OUT

  • Comfortable single bed
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window, wardrobe, desk and chair
Deck 1 and 2
10M²
1 Guest
Signature
Twin

£12,995 €14,995 US$17,500 CA$24,500 AU$26,500 pp

  • Sleeps two in lower twin berths
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window
Deck 1
10M²
2 Guests
Signature
Suite (double)

SOLD OUT

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

£14,995 €17,500 US$20,500 CA$28,500 AU$30,995 pp

  • Sleeps one in a lower berth
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window
Deck 1
10M²
1 Guest
Classic
Single

SOLD OUT

  • Sleeps one in a lower berth
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window
Deck 2
8M²
1 Guest
Signature
Twin

£12,995 €14,995 US$17,500 CA$24,500 AU$26,500 pp

  • Sleeps two in lower twin berths
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window
Deck 1
10M²
2 Guests
Signature
Suite (double)

£12,995 €14,995 US$17,500 CA$24,500 AU$26,500 pp

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

£14,995 €17,500 US$20,500 CA$28,500 AU$30,995 pp

  • Sleeps one in a lower berth
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window
Deck 1
10M²
1 Guest
Classic
Single

SOLD OUT

  • Sleeps one in a lower berth
  • Ensuite shower and toilet
  • Window
Deck 2
8M²
1 Guest

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.

What's included?

  • Lectures, workshops on board, and daily exploratory activities

  • Free use of ship’s Wi-Fi powered by Starlink

  • Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) beverages served during meals, while on board our micro cruises

  • Rubber polar standard boots for shore landings

  • One piece insulation suits available on board

  • IAATO and AECO fees, and operational fees and permits included

  • Due to restricted local service options, all transfers included - from the airport to your hotel on arrival, between your hotel and the ship for embarkation and disembarkation, and from your hotel to the airport on departure day      

Not included

International flights – we recommend booking early. For excellent service and support, consider using our partner Exito Travel

Travel and cancellation insurance – we strongly recommend securing coverage to protect your expedition. For guidance, see our Travel Insurance Checklist

Additional expenses outside of what is included in the voyage or optional activities

Gratuities

Additional purchases or services on board

Other transfer or hotels unless specified as included as part of the voyage description

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

Design your own private expedition micro cruise with Secret Atlas

Share the journey with those who matter most.

Booking info
Micro Cruise

Svalbard Spring Micro Cruise

Rates
£11,995 €13,500 US$15,995 CA$21,995 AU$23,995 pp
Duration
8 — 10 days
Dates
May — Jun
Book Now

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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
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Signature Twin Suite Location

Signature Suite (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 Suite (double)

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Signature Suite (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
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Signature Single Suite Location

Classic Single

The top choice for solo travellers, the new Classic 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. 

Classic Single

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Classic 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
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • 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 Suite (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 Suite (Double)

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Signature Suite (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
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • 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
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Signature Twin Suite Location

Signature Suite (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 Suite (double)

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Signature Suite (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
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Signature Single Suite Location

Classic Single

The top choice for solo travellers, the new Classic 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. 

Classic Single

In your cabin

  • Starlink Wi-Fi
  • 220v 2-pin European plug socket
  • Complimentary toiletries
  • Towels
  • Bedding and throw
  • Hairdryer
  • Rubber Muck boots (provided by Secret Atlas for the duration of your expedition)
  • Slippers
Classic Single Suite Location