Svalbard 10 Day Spring Photo Tour
Capture the Frozen Magic of Svalbard in Spring
Early spring in Svalbard is like nowhere else on Earth – a frozen fairytale of pastel skies, pristine snow, and glimmering ice. With sub-zero temperatures and dreamlike light, this is the season landscape photographers long for. Fjords shimmer with crystalline sea ice, snow-capped peaks stretch into the distance, and Arctic wildlife emerges cautiously after the long polar night.
This is your chance to capture the magic with two of the world’s leading polar photography guides. Dean Tatooles and Randy Hanna, both renowned for their compelling imagery and hands-on teaching styles, will guide you through this enchanting Arctic environment. Whether you're stepping off auto mode for the first time or refining advanced techniques, they’ll help you elevate your skills and create images that truly tell a story.
With the soft glow of endless sunrises and sunsets, every moment in Svalbard’s spring is an opportunity. Dean and Randy will take you into the field to make the most of the season’s unique conditions – coaching you on composition, light, and timing as you shoot striking landscapes and elusive wildlife in their snowy element.
This is more than a photography trip – it’s an invitation to slow down, connect with the environment, and discover your potential as a photographer in one of the most serene and awe-inspiring settings on Earth.
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
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.
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.
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.
Disembark in Longyearbyen at 9am.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Signature Penthouse (Double)
Signature Twin - Cabins 1–2 & 4–5
Signature Single - Cabins 6–7
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Book now |
Signature Penthouse (Double)
Signature Twin - Cabins 1–2 & 4–5
Signature Single - Cabins 6–7
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.
Inclusions
SVALBARD
• Expert Svalbard Expedition Leader
• Lectures on Svalbard
• Use of Zodiac (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 airport to hotel and to vessel for embarkation + vessel to airport/hotel after disembarkation
ANTARCTICA
• Expert Antarctica Expedition Guide Team
• Lectures on Antarctica
• Use of Zodiac (Dinghies) for shore landings and photography opportunities
• Full Board (breakfast, lunch and dinner )
• Bedding and towels
• Highly experienced Captain and Cook
• Rubber boots for shore landings
Exclusions
• Flights
• Travel and cancellation insurance
• Any additional expenses such as museum entry
Small Ship Cruise
Our Associates Include
