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Svalbard Spring Photo Tour with Virgil Reglioni

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

Svalbard Spring Photo Tour with Virgil Reglioni

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Virgil Reglioni

Nature Photographer

Expeditions coming soon

We are currently working on the upcoming schedule.

Early season means a bewitching pastel light in sub-zero temperatures – a call to adventure for any landscape photographer.

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

There is no place on Earth like Svalbard in the spring.

It’s a rite of passage for landscape photographers, and your guide and tutor, Virgil Reglioni, is one of the finest polar landscape photographers around.

Picture-perfect snow-capped mountains. Fjords littered with crystalline sea ice. Wildlife taking their first tentative steps after the long winter. The soft light of the rising sun and pastel-coloured sunsets.

The frozen springtime landscape of ice-strewn fjords and undisturbed snow is the perfect canvas on which to elevate your photography skills. The light at this time of year has a studio-like softness – sunrise and sunset are sublime. 

Patience is a virtue when photographing Arctic animals in their snowy element. But take your time and you’ll capture some of the best wildlife shots of your life.

Expedition highlights

  • The best time to visit the Arctic for landscape photography, capturing frozen seascapes, crystalline icebergs, and snow-covered mountains in soft-hued light

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

  • We only work with award-winning legends of polar photography who are in-field tuition experts – you’re learning from the very best

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
Snowy ice mountains fast ice 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 Spring 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 in the snow holding a camera 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°23'N, 15°.62'E
A snowy mountain in the background with sea ice

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
Pack ice Secret Atlas

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°96'N, 11°45'E
Two zodiacs carrying guests passing through the Arctic sea

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°37'E
Ice capped mountain svalbard reflection Secret Atlas

Land at 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 Lilliehöökbreen, in search of calving ice, before continuing south back to Isfjorden and Longyearbyen.

Day 08 78°22'N, 15°62'E
Attention,polar bear crossing! Arctic North Pole, Svalbard. Secret Atlas

Disembark in Longyearbyen at 9am.

Day 01 78.2253° N, 15.6256° E
Sunrising over the frozen sea ice in Svalbard

Depart Longyearbyen at 4pm.

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

Day 02 78.4450° N, 11.8958° E
Walrus in Svalbard Early season photography images for spring tours

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

Days 03–07 79.4659 ° N, 11.280° E
Fuglefjorden glacier in Svalbard

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

Turn south to Fuglefjorden, for a Zodiac cruise of Svitjodbreen, on the hunt for calving ice.

Tour St. Johnsfjord, landing at Copper Camp to view cultural remains.

Land at Vårsolbukta in Van Mijenfjord to view Camp Bell, a prospector’s hut, and hopefully meet some reindeer.

Days 08–09 76.9718° N, 15.7844° E
Zodiac in front of an Lillehook glacier

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

Return north to Isfjorden and Longyearbyen.

Day 10 78.2253° N, 15.6256° E
View over Longyearbyen from above, Svalbard, Norway

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

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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
Ice glacier peaks Secret Atlas

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…

View Handbook
Inside of the restaurant of the Radisson Blue Hotel in Longyearbyen Svalbard

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Ice snow capped glacier mountains Secret Atlas

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Photographer capturing an Arctic fox up close, Secret Atlas

Svalbard Photography Guide

Everything you need to know to embark on your photography expedition to Svalbard. From what to pack and where to spot wildlife!
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Attention,polar bear crossing! Arctic North Pole, Svalbard. Secret Atlas

Do I Need a Visa to Enter Svalbard?

Explore essential Svalbard visa requirements in this comprehensive guide.
View Guide

Looking to explore the world with friends, family, or colleagues?

Plan a private charter with us.

Booking info
Photography

Svalbard Spring 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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