We are very pleased to introduce for 2010 this expert led Wildlife & Marine Life voyage to Arctic Spitsbergen. The above water voyage focuses on the spectacular fjords and islands of North Spitsbergen, which offer incredible numbers of birds in early summer and chance encounters with walruses, reindeer, arctic foxes, ringed and bearded seals and hopefully polar bears. Travelling in the Arctic region in June evokes a real winter wonderland atmosphere where a scattering of mountain snow compliments this stunning polar wilderness.

Our aim is to reach the Hinlopen Strait and the island of Nordaustlandet, the most northerly of the major Spitsbergen islands.  Ringed  by high mountains and shimmering glaciers, these northern bays and fjords offer outstanding Arctic landscapes that are likely to leave a deep and lasting impression.  We are always on the lookout for whales, of which we might hope to see fin whales, minke whales and the ghostly white beluga. Less frequently, humpback whales, bowhead whales and sei whales have been seen on these voyages. Amongst our leaders will be Aqua-Firma Marine Scientist, Charlotte Caffrey, who has become a familiar face at British events with talks about travel and marine life in the Arctic and Antarctica and a former BAS dive leader for the British Antarctic base of Rothera.

Wildlife, Marine Life & the Arctic Wilderness

You will be accompanied on this voyage by underwater film makers and divers who will bring with them great benefits, opening up the secrets of the Arctic depths.  A series of successful voyages in the past   incorporating divers have opened a new dimension to all passengers, providing a unique opportunity to see and learn more about nature than on a purely land based expedition. Each day you will have the opportunity to share experiences with those who have been exploring both above and below the ice. You will also have the chance to see photographs and video footage from the experts and other passengers. To enhance your understanding, there will be a programme of inspiring evening lectures about the wildlife, ecology and conservation of the Arctic. You can also refer to the onboard library of Arctic natural history guides and reference books.

As the divers have their own dedicated guides and zodiacs, there will be a much smaller number of top side explorers who will be free to roam the land without the crowds. Twice each day our expedition leaders and guides will accompany small personalised groups in exploring, historical sites, research stations and visit remote locations simply breath taking in their natural beauty.

Our ship is a modern and comfortable ice strengthened research vessels which has very recently been refurbished and upgraded to the highest standard. The entire vessel is open to all, including the decks at all levels particularly the ship’s bridge from which you can enjoy awe inspiring panoramic views. There are two gangways down to the water which doubles the speed at which we can enter and exit the water via our rigid inflatable boats.

The marine ecosystems of the Arctic are under pressure from a number of sources which of course include climate change. Some areas of the Arctic however remain among the most pristine underwater environments in the world and we are privileged to be able to take you there. We urge all divers to dive responsibly and safely, avoiding any contact with the beautiful but fragile marine flora and fauna