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mountain peak is covered with white snow in Svalbard

Svalbard Spring Photo Tour with Randy Hanna

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

Svalbard Spring Photo Tour with Randy Hanna

/assets/meet-the-crew/randy-hanna-photography-guide-secret-atlas.jpg

Randy Hanna

Nature Photographer

Rates from
€14,300 pp
Duration
10 days

Dates
May — Jun
Guests
12

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

Randy Hanna is a leading polar landscape and wildlife photographer with more than 30 years’ experience running adventure photography tours. Known for his striking images and well-honed tuition style, Randy will help you capture photographs that tell the story of Svalbard in the early season.

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

It’s a dream adventure photography destination, and your guide and tutor, Randy Hanna, has been leading adventure photography expeditions for more than three decades.

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
Glacier ice wall Svalbard

"I seek out adventure travel providers that have a strong ethos in sustainability and conservation. After several years of searching among providers, I’m excited to partner with Secret Atlas."

— Randy Hanna

Svalbard Spring Map to plan your trip with Secret Atlas

About Randy

Randy is a renowned landscape and wildlife photographer, with his images gracing book covers, magazines, posters, and more. He's a storied professional and tutor, with an engaging teaching style built around one-on-one tuition.

Meet Randy
profile picture of Randy Hanna

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
Sail past striking mountain landscape 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°44'N, 11°89'E
Cabin in snow Svalbard Secret Atlas

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

Days 03–07 79°46'N, 11°28'E
Guests in Svalbard watching birds from a Zodiac, Secret Atlas

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°97'N, 15°78'E
Glacier front of mountains 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.

Return north to Isfjorden and Longyearbyen.

Day 10 78°22'N, 15°62'E
Svalbard mountains under sunset

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.

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

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Svalbard Spring Photo Tour with Randy Hanna

From £12,200 From €14,300 From $16,500 From CA$21,800 From AU$23,400 pp

WITH

/assets/meet-the-crew/randy-hanna-photography-guide-secret-atlas.jpg

Randy Hanna

Nature Photographer

View profile
Signature
Twin

£12,200 €14,300 $16,500 CA$21,800 AU$23,400 pp

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)

£12,200 €14,300 $16,500 CA$21,800 AU$23,400 pp

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

£14,100 €16,700 $19,300 CA$25,200 AU$27,300 pp

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

Svalbard Accommodation and Hotels

For a land so remote, Svalbard is well-served by excellent accommodation, in all shapes and sizes.
View Guide
Ice snow capped glacier mountains Secret Atlas

Where is Svalbard?

It's almost certainly north of where you are right now, but where exactly is Svalbard?
View Guide
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What to Pack for the Arctic

What to wear – and what not to wear – on your Arctic adventure.
View Guide
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!
View Guide
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 Randy Hanna

Rates
€14,300 pp
Duration
10 days
Dates
May — Jun
Book Now

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

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

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