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Vikingfjord Svalbard

Natural Wonders of Svalbard

Explore Northern Svalbard onboard the Kinfish with only 12 Guests

Length

10 Days

Ship category

Premium

Ship type

Micro-Cruise

Capacity

12 Passengers

Natural Wonders of Svalbard

2 Reviews

Trip highlights

Be part of a 12-people expedition

Experience the chill of a polar plunge

Personalized experience with 2 expert guides & 2 zodiacs

Witness the mysterious midnight sun

The Polartours experience

Best price guaranteed

See a polar bear!

Hike the tundra and polar desert

Experience breathtaking landscapes & majestic glaciers

We are thrilled to introduce you to a unique experience aboard the Kinfish. This is the first time we are offering an expedition on such a small and intimate vessel, accommodating just 12 guests. What we truly love about the Kinfish is the personalized and exclusive adventure it offers.

Embark on an unforgettable journey for a summer expedition like no other. This adventure will take us deep into the northern wilderness, where we will explore breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and majestic glaciers of Northwest Spitsbergen, all under the magic of 24 hours of daylight. With 2 expert guides, our focus is on exploring the stunning natural wilderness of Svalbard during the summer months. What makes this journey truly special is the chance to encounter calving glaciers, witness an abundance of wildlife, visit historical places, and spend ample time exploring ashore.

Every day promises new and thrilling experiences. Our expedition will use Zodiac landing craft to get up close to the region's wonders. One of the highlights we really appreciate is the chance to explore walrus haulouts and observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. As we cruise the edge of the sea ice, keep your eyes peeled for sightings of polar bears and other unique Arctic wildlife. Short hikes ashore will allow you to discover various natural and historical sites, from pristine glaciers to the raw, untouched beauty of the Arctic landscape.

Join us on the Kinfish for a summer expedition filled with adventure, discovery, and the stunning beauty of the Arctic. This is a journey you will remember for a lifetime.

Your ship: Kinfish

Kinfish Secret Atlas
Kinfish Secret Atlas
Kinfish Secret Atlas

The Kinfish is a remarkable small expedition vessel, offering an intimate and immersive polar adventure experience. With a maximum capacity of just 12 guests, this former Norwegian research ship has been meticulously refurbished to provide comfort while retaining its rugged, expeditionary charm. Its small size allows for more personalized and flexible itineraries, enabling it to access remote and pristine areas that larger ships cannot reach. Onboard, guests will find cozy cabins, spacious common areas, and ample outdoor viewing decks, perfect for soaking in the breathtaking Arctic and Antarct … Read more about Kinfish

Cabins

Kinfish Secret Atlas
Classic Twin

Type:

Single

Max. occupancy:

4

More about this cabin

Kinfish Secret Atlas
Classic Porthole

Type:

Single

Max. occupancy:

2

More about this cabin

Kinfish Secret Atlas
Classic Twin

Type:

Single

Max. occupancy:

2

More about this cabin

Map

Itinerary

Keep in mind this is an expedition cruise, so your itinerary will depend greatly on the weather, amount of ice and wildlife breeding behavior.

svalbard
G Expedition Arctic Longyearbyen
Vikingfjord

Arrival at Longyearbyen

In the afternoon we will embark on our expedition vessel after an introduction from our expedition leader and a safety briefing from the Captain. We’ll set sail out through the majestic Adventfjord and as Longyearbyen disappears astern, wave goodbye to civilisation.

walrus
landscape svalbard
zodiac

Raudfjorden

Magdalenefjorden

Smeerenburgfjorden

Woodfjorden

Kongsvegen and Kongsbreen

Krossfjorden

Fjortende Julibukta

Ny London

Ny Alesund

Fuglesongen

In the morning we sail by Prins Karls Forland, an uninhabited island of beautiful scenery off the west coast of Spitsbergen. This is a place where sometimes walruses are likely to haul out or be sighted. In the afternoon, we may get our boots on for a hike to spot grazing reindeer. If the conditions allow, we will sail along the coast exploring places such as Krosssfjorden, home to majestic glaciers, and some of Svalbard’s most beautiful fjords and scenery.

Svalbard
Before and After Svalbard
Northern Spitsbergen

Raudfjorden

Magdalenefjorden

Smeerenburgfjorden

Woodfjorden

Kongsvegen and Kongsbreen

Krossfjorden

Fjortende Julibukta

Ny London

Ny Alesund

Fuglesongen

Over the next few days, we will navigate between the coast and the sea ice that extends all the way to the North Pole. We will count on regular shore landings and zodiac tours to visit different natural and historical sites including glaciers, partake in wilderness hikes and fully immersive ourselves in the raw nature of the Arctic.

Every day we will explore deeper into the wilderness Svalbard has to offer. Under the guidance of our expedition leader, we will work with the weather and sea ice conditions to show you the best that the northern coast has to offer.

Svalbard
Before and After Svalbard
Svalbard – Store norske leksikon

Exploring the pack ice

Lågøya

North coast - Nordaustlandet

Kvitøya

Storøya

Sjuøyane

If the sea ice grants passage, we will aim to head east towards the Hinlopen Strait area and venture deeper into a vast world of ice and cliffs. While attempting this we will be obliged to reach a new higher latitude to the voyage, crossing the 80 degrees North parallel. The days will be long and complemented with action, zodiac cruises and the search for wildlife. The ice will extend all the way to the horizon, and the enigmatic presence of the northern king of wildlife will be felt. We will potentially come across some immense bird cliffs where thousands of birds fly in and out without a break. These days will be filled with a sense of adventure and exposure to nature, the ice and the winds might let us through to the south, or we might need to turn around and head back West over the north. Regardless of the exact route, the expedition will build into its climax.

Spitsbergen
Rembrandt van Rijn _ North Spitsbergen, Arctic Summer
QuarkExpeditions_ Spitsbergen Photography: In Search of Polar Bears

Kapp Lee

Haleysundet

Negribreen

Diskobukta

Freemansundet

Russebukta

Storfjorden

We will follow the compass south and explore the region along the south coast of Spitsbergen. We will visit rarely visited landing sites and have lots of chances to take in the breathtaking nature, wildlife, and scenery. As we round the southern tip of Spitsbergen, we will enter the area around Hornsund where we will have a day to explore and do some wilderness hikes. We will then set sail north along the coast towards Isfjorden.

Svalbard
Before and After Svalbard
Svalbard – Store norske leksikon

Skansbukta

Pyramiden

Disembark in Longyearbyen

Cruising Isfjorden

Nordfjorden

Brucebyen

Arrival at Longyearbyen

Festningen and Russekeila

Barentsburg

Alkhornet and Trygghamna

Poolepynten

Already back in the protection of Isfjorden, we will find peaceful landing sites to hike or simply relax and take it all in. Isfjorden offers a fantastic mix of landscapes, history and wildlife. Offering the best possible closure to our experience before heading back to civilization.

Longyearbyen Quarl
Fox Longyear
walrus

By morning we will have arrived back at the port of Longyearbyen. Disembarking the ship will involve saying goodbye to the new friends you’ve made but knowing you will keep the memories of the transformative adventure you shared together.

Info

Single Cabin Supplement

When booking online, you can choose the option to "Upgrade to single occupancy". This will guarantee you the whole cabin to yourself, for an additional fee. If you don't select this option, then another traveler of the same sex might be placed into the same cabin with you. Exceptions may apply.

What's included

Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities

All Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program

All shore landings per the daily program

Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping

All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals.)

Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock

Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled

A photographic journal documenting the expedition

A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions

A parka to keep

Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin

All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program

All luggage handling aboard the ship

mergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person

Transfers between Longyearbyen town center and port on embarkation and disembarkation day

What's not included

International airfare

Arrival and departure transfers in Helsinki

Passport and visa expenses

Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above

Meals ashore unless otherwise specified

Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended

Excess-baggage fees on international flights

Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned

Laundry, bar and other personal charges unless specified

Phone and Internet charges (connectivity may vary by location)

Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew

Additional overnight accommodation

Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities

Reviews

Kinfish Review

Denis Barbas Official

Kinfish Arctic Cruises

Premium

One of the best trips we ever did: We had some of the best experience with Secret Atlas on our micro expedition in Svalbard, in August 2023 onboard Kinfish. The crew was very professional and the whole experience was really smooth from start to finish. Swimming near the North Pole was easily one of the best experiences of my life. We were very lucky to see an abundance of unique wildlife every single day. Sailing on a small boat like ours (Kinfish), with only 12 guests onboard, allowed us to navigate and explore places that other (bigger) ships simply couldn't. Would 100% recommend this to anyone looking for a once in a lifetime adventure while exploring the Arctic.

Kinfish Reviews

Nonac

Kinfish Arctic Cruises

Premium

We had a wonderful adventure! The crew, guides Virg and Jonathan, and guests bonded quickly; it was a warm, collegial, friendly group. From start to finish, the adventure was seamless and proceeded with easy (at least that's how it appeared to the guests). It was as though the crew and guides worked together for years, but as we know, it was their first meeting. The crew and guides’ collaboration, professionalism, and collegiality was impressive. They had many conversations throughout the days and nights to, for example, plot and plan the most interesting, safe, exciting, and educational zodiac excursion or where best to venture to increase our chances of spotting a polar bear and find the best location for a dip in the Arctic. It was clear the Robin, Wilhelm, and the crew and Virg and Jonahtn wanted us, the customers, to have a wonderful experience. A few highlights: . Traveling north of 80degrees latitude - exciting for all the passengers . Virg and Jonathan’s presentations about ice, birds, animals, etc. enhanced our understanding and appreciation of the subject . Post-breakfast and post-lunch plans/updates for the days travels and excursion kept us informed, prepared, and excited for the day’s activities. . Daily updates on the map and whiteboard of where we went and what we saw helped to log our adventure. . Swimming in the Arctic . Special treats at the end of excursions . Karin, the chef, worked hard to accommodate dietary needs and prepared delicious meals. . Linn, the chief host (for lack of a better term) prepared a Sweden National Day event, Special wine for each dinner, special cocktails, and the last night threw a great party with singing and dancing lead by a few members of the crew . Captain Robin led a tight ship with an open-door bridge policy which became the hub of activity. The young, friendly, helpful, warm, and all-around nice crew (Viggo, Esther, Wilhelm, Freja, Harold, Calle, Karin, and Linn) all contributed positively to our adventure. . Tour of the engine room with Harold and flipping switches to start the Kinfish engine. . Boots and once-piece suits were warm, unexpected, and appreciated. . The food and drink were all excellent . The cabin, bedding, general accommodations were comfortable, and we slept well . On shore, Barbara, and Joanna, were prompt, informative, and helpful.

FAQ

When it comes to traveling to Antarctica, one of the first questions that often arises is, "Can I fly to Antarctica?". The answer is: Yes, you can. Most trips start in Patagonia (Ushuaia and Punta Arenas) and cross the Drake Passage by ship, but there are also trips that use planes to cross that infamous sea passage. Here are the Pros and Cons for each method:

Flying to Antarctica:

  • Pros: Flying to Antarctica is the quickest way to reach the continent. It offers convenience and is often the choice for those with very limited time.

  • Cons: There are limited commercial flights to Antarctica, and these are primarily reserved for research and expedition purposes. Tourist accessibility is limited, and it can be costly. Also, as not many trips include flights, you'll be limiting your choice a lot if you decide to only look for such trips.

Crossing the Drake Passage by ship:

  • Pros: If you choose to cross the Drake Passage by ship, you embark on an incredible adventure. This journey is not just a means of transportation; it's an expedition in itself. The crossing takes 1.5 - 2 days, which are filled with scientific lectures that prepare you for the experience. You'll witness diverse wildlife, including penguins and whales, as your anticipation starts building up. To us, the crossing is a quintessential experience of a true Antarctic explorer.

  • Cons: Crossing the Drake Passage takes some time, and the seas can be rough. It's not the quickest way to reach the continent, and you need to allocate more time for your expedition.

In conclusion, when it comes to traveling to Antarctica, you have these two choices. Flying offers efficiency and direct access, perfect for specific purposes. Crossing the Drake Passage by ship provides an unmatched adventure and connection with Antarctica's unique environment. Consider what truly matters to you, and you'll find the Antarctic transportation choice that suits your goals and spirit of exploration.

All cruises in the polar regions operate to itineraries that are more-or-less fixed. We say "more or less", because wildlife (breeding, seasonality) and weather always play an important role in routing. Most cruises will offer a range of land-based and water-based activities that you will enjoy at various points in your cruise, including:

  • Land excursions (including hiking trails, visitor centers, time relaxing on beaches, observing animals, etc.)
  • Bird Watching
  • Snorkeling (from ship or beaches)
  • Dinghy rides
  • Kayaking
  • Diving (on ships with diving itineraries)
  • Naturalist presentations. These usually take place every evening - on board the bigger ships also with help of projectors, microscopes etc.

All boats carry English speaking, scientifically trained guides. They will lead you on your excursions, allowing you to learn as much as possible about the unique wildlife and habitats of the Polar Regions.

Choosing the right ship for a cruise to Antarctica or the Arctic seems difficult, but it doesn't have to be. Our fleet is over 30 vessels, we are sure that there is the perfect one for you. Please, follow these simple steps, and you will be able to find your ideal ship:

  • Determine your budget and desired level of comfort: Are you looking for luxury or more budget-friendly options? On our website you can set the price range.
  • Consider ship size: Large ships offer more amenities and facilities, but they can also feel crowded and impersonal. Smaller ships offer a more personal experience, but may not have as many amenities.
  • Look at the cabins: Although you probably won’t spend much time in your cabin, look at the photos and read the descriptions to make sure you're happy with the one you choose.
  • Consider the activities on board: Are you interested in kayaking, camping, diving or a photography workshop? Or maybe you want to take part in a Citizen Science Program? These activities can enhance your overall experience. See what our ships have to offer.
  • Read customer reviews: Learn about other travelers' experiences by reading reviews.
  • Ask your Polar Specialist: Feel free to contact your Polar Specialist. They are happy to share their knowledge and are always ready to help.

In addition: We work with responsible partners who provide a great experience for their passengers. All of our providers are committed to sustainability and to preserving the beauty of the polar regions. You don’t need to worry about the impact of your cruise, because we’ve already taken care of it.

We love to help people find their dream vacation to the Arctic and Antarctic. Whether you give us a call, contact us via email, or use our website inquiry form, one of our Polar travel experts will be more than happy to answer any questions, recommend ships and itineraries, and walk you through the whole process!

Step 1: Find your perfect trip. If you have already started looking for Polar Cruises, you will have quickly noticed that the sheer amount of options can be quite overwhelming. To help you navigate the countless departures and itineraries that our fleet offers, we have put together a great filter page for Antarctic and Arctic Expedition Cruises. Use this page to filter all trips by price, date, ship category, and even destinations you wish to visit. We update all dates, prices, and availabilities daily, and are proud to host what is doubtlessly the world's most complete collection of information.

Step 2: Found something you love? We'll hold your spaces, free of charge! If you find a cruise you like, you can either inquire directly with us or make an unbinding booking online. We will then reach out to the shipowners to put a hold on your spaces for a limited time, free of charge. Once we have confirmed your block with the ship, we will send you a written confirmation of your reservation and include full payment details in an invoice. Typically, we are able to hold unpaid reservations for up to 1 week*. This gives us time to clarify all your remaining questions, and also ensures that no other passengers can book your spaces, while we continue our conversation.

Step 3: Confirm your booking. In order to confirm your booking, we ask for a deposit payment. You can pay via bank transfer or credit card. Keep in mind, that we can only hold your spaces for a limited amount of time. If we don't receive your payment after this time, we can no longer guarantee that the places will be available or that the price won't increase. To prevent disappointment, we will automatically cancel your reservation if we don't receive your deposit by the due date stated on your booking reservation.

Step 4: Booking confirmation & Payment. As soon as we have received your deposit and a completed passenger information form, we will be pleased to send your booking confirmation and updated invoice, along with your trip itinerary, important information, and other great tips for your cruise.

Step 5: Final payment. In your initial invoice, we will define a final payment date by when you need to pay us the remaining amount of your trip. Once we have received your final payment we'll send you your cruise documents and voucher. As your trip approaches, we make sure to pass along all necessary information, so you feel super prepared and stress-free.

*For last-minute bookings, we might not be able to hold your spaces for so long. We will also require the full payment of your cruise upon booking.

An expedition cruise to Antarctica or the Arctic is a big deal! Most people plan for this type of trip at least 8 months in advance. This means the earlier you book, the better chance you'll have to reserve your prefered cabins. Early bird discounts are also popular and a great way to get 10-30% off your cruise.

Most expedition cruises offer optional activities like camping and kayaking, but the spaces are limited. A cruise with 120 passengers can have only 10-15 spaces for kayaking. These are reserved on a first come first served basis. The earlier you book, the higher your chance of grabbing a spot.

Even though last minute deals do occur, keep in mind that the airline prices will be much higher if you purchase them last minute. You may save a few hundred on your cruise, but you may end up paying the most for airfare.

If you are prone to motion sickness then here are a few hints to help you.

Firstly, book a cabin in the middle of the ship. The middle of the ship will move less, both in roll and in pitch. Secondly, chose a larger ship. Bigger vessels typically are more stable, and some of them are even equipped with "stabilizers", fins under water that remove the rolling in the swells. Thirdly, take medical advice on anti-seasickness medication. Some traditional remedies are said to be very effective, such as taking ginger or using commercially-available acupressure wristbands.

Watch this informative video about life onboard an expedition ship and seasickness from our expert guide and Polartours Brand Ambassador, Kevin.

Life Onboard & Seasickness
Natural Wonders of Svalbard

5.0

(2)

Premium

Price

Upon Request


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