The eastern limits of the Atlantic Gulf Stream flow up the western seaboard of Scandinavia as high as western side of Spitsbergen, just 600 miles from the North Pole.  As summer arrives in this area, the ice flows recede so that by early June we can gain access by sea to some of the most prolific parts of this Arctic Archipelago.

This sailing, along the glacier filled fjords of Spitsbergen's west coast, opens the 'doors' to a majestic wilderness. Spitsbergen's richest flowering vegetation can be seen in bloom at this time of year nourished by the guano of huge bird colonies that along with the mammals of this region are in the midst of their breeding season.

About thirty species of bird breed here in Spitsbergen, including little auks, kittywakes, Brunich's guillemots, red-throated divers and three types of skua. Literally millions of migratory birds fill the skies, cliffs and open tundra with their breeding colonies.

We can hope to see many mammals including the king of Svalbard: the polar bear. We enjoyed some particularly close encounters with these on our 2008 voyage. Walrus herd in large numbers now in this Arctic archipelago, recovering from near extinction back in the 1950's. Ringed, bearded and harbour seals can all be seen along the coastal waters. The Arctic fox is often spotted as it feeds on the fallen birds at the base of cliffs. These opportunists are inquisitive by nature which often enables some wonderful photographic opportunities.

Your expedition leader and knowledgeable skipper are permanently on hand, offering comprehensive guiding whilst hiking. There are also many reference books in the onboard library for further reading.  Whilst moving between locations there may be opportunities to help with sailing this stunning ice strengthened schooner. Grand and Victorian in her lines, she is more comfortable than the likes of Scott might have expected, with bunked cabins, hot showers, good food and space to relax in. Her roomy pilot house provides excellent all round visibility of sea and landscapes from the comfort of the warm indoors.

Photographic opportunities are superb, with the midnight sun offering unique lighting for twenty four hours.  The ship and the Arctic wildlife provide wonderful subjects, whilst it is probably the vast, man-free environment that leaves the greatest impression.

For a detailed draft itinerary, please click HERE

Voyage Dates (12 days / 11 nights Longyearbyen - Longyearbyen) 2009:  June 10th - June 21st Price: £2260 p/p twin sharing non private cabins. All prices are subject to exchange rate variations Single supplement:  This supplement can be avoided if you are willing to share with someone of the same gender. Single occupancy is 1.8 times the per person sharing cabin price.  Included: Voyage as indicated in draft itinerary Group airport transfers to & from the vessel (when arriving/departing on recommended group flight) All meals, snacks, coffee and tea All shore excursions and zodiac activities Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff All miscellaneous services taxes and port charges throughout the programme Comprehensive pre-departure material Excluded: Airfares. Pre and post land arrangements. Transfers to and from the vessel (except when arriving/departing on recommended group flights). Cancellation and personal insurance. Passports and visas. Arrival and departure tax. Meals ashore. Baggage. Items of a personal nature (alcohol, laundry etc). Tips. Activity Level:  Low-Medium

Photographs kindly provided by: Sonia van Berlkel, Jan Belgers, Ralph Pannell, Troels Jacobsen, Rolf Stange, Derek Wilson, Samantha Ross and Chris Dobbs