Svalbard Summer Solstice Photo Tour

Depart Longyearbyen at 4pm.

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

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.

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.

Sail along the continental shelf, scouting for fin and blue whales that gather in the upwelling zones.

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

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

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.

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

Hike on an area of Sjuøyane, or “Seven Islands”, the northernmost part of Svalbard, home bird cliffs, overflowing in the summer with black guillemots, ivory gulls, and kittiwakes, cultural remains, and walrus haulouts.

Cruise down Liefdefjorden, standing in awe where the Monaco glacier meets the sea, and/or landing at Texas Bar, an historic trappers’ hut.

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

Take a fjord cruise down Magdalenefjord, with its stunning natural architecture of pointed mountains.

Stand before Lilliehook glacier, in search of calving ice. 

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

Sail past Alkhornet (Bird Mountain), home to extensive seabird colonies, and marvel at Sveabreen, one of Svalbard’s largest and most active glaciers. Return to Longyearbyen.

Disembark in Longyearbyen at 9am.

Itineraries are subject to change. 

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: 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.