Svalbard Summer 10 Day Micro Cruise

Depart Longyearbyen at 4pm.

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

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.

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.

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. 

Return to Isfjorden and Longyearbyen.

Disembark in Longyearbyen at 9am.

The above itinerary is a guide only. A part of any Arctic adventure is the flexibility to take advantage of the weather and ice conditions. Our expedition leader will make sure you see as much a possible.

Vessel Type: Ice Class Small Ship

Length: 45 meters

Passenger Capacity: 12

MV Freya is a high-strength ice-class expedition vessel originally built for lighthouse construction, now refitted to provide first-class Arctic exploration. Its sturdy 1A ice-class hull allows access deep into the pack ice, offering unique perspectives on remote regions. The ship accommodates small groups with seven characterfully decorated cabins, including twin, double, and single options, all with ensuite bathrooms and windows. Multiple observation decks, a sauna, and an outdoor hot tub ensure guests can relax and enjoy panoramic views of the Arctic environment.

Life on board is centred around a cosy saloon-style dining room and bar, complemented by a comfortable lounge for lectures, presentations, or quiet reading. Guests are welcome on the open bridge to observe navigation and wildlife spotting firsthand. MV Freya also carries two Zodiacs for closer shore landings and wildlife encounters. Designed for intimate, itinerary-free expeditions, the vessel provides a seamless blend of adventure, comfort, and immersive engagement with the Arctic wilderness.

Vessel Type: Small Expedition Ship

Length: 71 meters

Passenger Capacity: 42

Built for true polar exploration, MV Polar Athena combines the rugged power of an icebreaker with the intimacy of small-group travel. With the highest 1A Super ice-class rating and space for just 42 guests, she offers one of the most personal Antarctic experiences available. Born as a research vessel and reimagined for modern-day adventurers, Polar Athena slices through heavy sea ice with ease, offering unmatched agility, comfort, and access to remote destinations. Her small size ensures that all guests can disembark together for Zodiac excursions, maximising time ashore and embracing the spontaneity of wildlife encounters and shifting weather.

On board, guests enjoy Scandinavian-style comfort with thoughtfully designed cabins, panoramic observation lounges, and a warm, family-like atmosphere. Whether you're spotting whales from the elevated bow deck, relaxing in the wellness area’s hot tub, or enjoying freshly prepared meals in the cosy dining room, Polar Athena offers immersive exploration without the crowds. Her bridge lounges welcome guests throughout the voyage, offering behind-the-scenes insight and a shared sense of purpose with the crew, making each journey feel like a genuine expedition into the unknown.

Vessel Type: Ice-Strengthened Expedition Vessel

Length: 41.8 m

Passenger Capacity: 12

Vikingfjord is a purpose-built micro-expedition vessel designed for only 12 guests, combining ice-strengthened capability with modern Scandinavian comfort. Its 1B-rated hull allows access deep into pack ice and remote terrain that larger ships cannot approach, while its energy-efficient engine and advanced NOx filtration system deliver a 95% emissions reduction. Multiple viewing points — including an L-shaped observation lounge, bridge lounge, and extensive open-deck platforms — give uninterrupted sightlines across the Arctic environment from every angle.

Interiors are contemporary and restful, with eight ensuite cabins arranged in single, twin, and suite layouts. Social spaces include a light-filled lounge with a bar and library, a cosy dining room lined with windows, and open access to the bridge. On-deck amenities such as the sauna and outdoor hot tub extend the experience outdoors, providing rare vantage points in warmth and comfort. Vikingfjord operates as a true small-ship expedition platform: quiet, compact, environmentally progressive, and designed to maximise immersion in the polar landscape.