Set sail on a once-in-a-lifetime Arctic adventure with Kaadu Expeditions. The Arctic Explorer journey takes you deep into the remote wilderness of Spitsbergen, part of the magnificent Svalbard archipelago. Witness nature at its most raw and beautiful—towering glaciers, serene fjords, and an abundance of polar wildlife, from majestic polar bears to nesting seabirds.
This carefully curated photo expedition is designed to immerse you in the Arctic’s grandeur while offering expert-led opportunities to capture its rare beauty through your lens. Onboard the m/v Plancius, a former oceanographic research vessel transformed into a comfortable and reliable polar ship, you’ll travel with seasoned guides and naturalists who bring the region’s ecology and history to life.
Whether you’re tracing the icy edges of ancient glaciers, exploring ghostly whaling stations, or silently observing Arctic foxes in the wild, every moment is a chance to connect deeply with one of the last true frontiers on Earth. Thoughtfully planned, responsibly led, and designed for passionate explorers, this is not just a journey—it’s the start of your Arctic story.
Duration: 10 Days
Start & End Point: Longyearbyen, Svalbard
Vessel: M/V Plancius
Highlights:
Explore Spitsbergen’s glaciers, fjords, and polar wildlife
Visit Ny-Ålesund, one of the northernmost settlements on Earth
Zodiac cruises past towering cliffs and ice floes
Spot polar bears, walruses, Arctic foxes, and seabirds
Hike remote tundra landscapes and historic whaling stations
Optional polar plunge in Hornsund’s icy waters
Day 1: Arrival & Embarkation – Longyearbyen
Arrive in the world’s northernmost town and board the M/V Plancius. After a warm welcome and safety briefing, set sail into the Arctic wilderness as glaciers and mountain ranges come into view.
Day 2: Kongsfjord & Ny-Ålesund
Greet the day with a Zodiac cruise along the majestic glacier fronts of Kongsfjord—perfect for spotting seals and polar bears. In the afternoon, explore Ny-Ålesund, a historic polar research town steeped in exploration history.
Day 3: Ayerfjorden & Hamiltonbukta
Hike through scenic Ayerfjorden, choosing between ridge trails or peaceful shoreline walks. Later, photograph seabird colonies at Hamiltonbukta, a haven for guillemots and kittiwakes set against dramatic ice cliffs.
Day 4: Cruising the Pack Ice – Polar Bear Territory
Venture into the shifting pack ice in search of the elusive polar bear. Watch for seals, whales, and resilient Arctic birds. Onboard, enjoy expert lectures on Arctic wildlife and glaciology.
Day 5: Claravågen & Eolusneset
Glide through the mirror-like waters of Claravågen, then disembark at Eolusneset to explore the relics of ancient whaling stations. Hear stories of survival from your guides as history comes alive on the tundra.
Day 6: Alkefjellet & Torellneset
Visit the dramatic bird cliffs of Alkefjellet, alive with tens of thousands of Brünnich’s guillemots. In the afternoon, spot walruses basking on the shores of Torellneset, a photographer’s paradise.
Day 7: Sundneset & Kapp Lee
Explore a trapper’s hut and watch for Svalbard reindeer and Arctic foxes in Sundneset. Continue to Kapp Lee for close encounters with walruses and potential polar bear sightings along the rugged coast.
Day 8: Hornsund – The Southern Fjords
Discover the striking fjords of Hornsund. Hike past 17th-century whaling ruins and take in stunning views. For the daring, plunge into the icy waters for a true Arctic rite of passage.
Day 9: Bamsebu & Ingeborgfjellet
Visit the historic beluga hunting station at Bamsebu, then observe flocks of little auks in flight at Ingeborgfjellet. End the day with a heartfelt farewell dinner on board, celebrating the journey.
Day 10: Return to Longyearbyen
Cruise back to Longyearbyen. Disembark with unforgettable memories, a full camera roll, and a deeper connection to the wild beauty of the Arctic.
1. What is included in the expedition package?
Each package typically includes all accommodation, meals, guided excursions, park entry fees, transfers, and the services of expert naturalists and trackers. International flights and personal expenses are usually not included.
2. What kind of fitness level is required?
Most expeditions are designed for travelers with moderate fitness. Activities like walking safaris, boat rides, and jeep excursions are generally manageable, and alternative options can be arranged where necessary.
3. What kind of accommodation is provided?
We offer comfortable, eco-friendly lodges, camps, and expedition vessels, depending on the destination. All are selected for their proximity to wildlife areas and quality of service.
4. Are these expeditions suitable for solo travelers?
Yes! Many of our guests travel solo. We welcome individual adventurers and can offer single accommodations or help pair you with a roommate if you prefer.
5. How do I prepare and what should I pack?
Once you book, we’ll send a detailed pre-departure guide with packing suggestions, health tips, visa info, and other essentials to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.
What’s Included:
All accommodation and meals during the expedition
Guided safaris and nature walks with expert naturalists
Internal transfers as per itinerary
National park entry fees and permits
Group airport transfers
Pre-departure support and packing guide
Not Included:
International airfare
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal expenses and tips
Alcoholic beverages (unless specified)
Visas and vaccinations
Payment Terms:
25% non-refundable deposit to confirm booking
Full payment due 60 days before departure
Bookings within 60 days require full payment
Cancellations before 60 days: deposit forfeited
We accept bank transfers and major credit cards
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all participants.
