The Aqua-Firma team have almost 60 years combined knowledge and experience of exploring and arranging travel in the polar regions.  We have explored North Spitsbergen in depth, guiding for more than 18 years to bring you immersive wildlife voyages  onboard small vessels from expedition cruise ships to sailing yachts. 

Contact one of our guides or scientists to share their on-location expertise.

This expedition cruise, over many years, has successfully fulfilled the ambition of those keen to observe a wide array of Arctic landscapes and wildlife, including polar bears. Depending upon prevailing ice conditions, we will head to North Spitsbergen and beyond in search of the Arctic Ice edge, where Polar Bears migrate in search of their main prey: the ringed seal, out onto the vast sea ice.

These special voyages will provide fascinating insights into the behaviour and breeding of polar bears and enhance your understanding of them through talks and presentations.

In addition to polar bears, we often see walruses, ringed and bearded seals, Arctic fox, reindeer; and a great diversity of birds which include highly defensive Arctic Terns, Ptarmigan, Glaucous Gulls, Skuas and Grey Phalaropes.

Of marine life, we have been lucky in recent years to enjoy sightings of blue whales, humpbacks, fin, minke and the all-white beluga. Nothing is guaranteed, but with all eyes peeled on the horizon we have 24 hours when the sun never sets to see as much as possible.

Your base for this voyage will be a modern and comfortable ice strengthened research vessel. These small ships (108 or 170 passengers) are open to all; including decks at all levels and the ship's bridge from which you can enjoy awe inspiring panoramic views. The ship itself often provides the best vantage point for observing wildlife, especially as we move through sea ice.

Onboard expert guides will enhance your understanding of the Arctic through a programme of inspiring talks and recaps which might cover wildlife, birdlife, ecology, history, geology and conservation. You can also refer to the onboard library of Arctic natural history guides and reference books.

A full complement of rigid inflatable zodiacs provide opportunities to explore amongst the sea ice, close to dramatic glacier fronts and the shoreline of Spitsbergen. These can provide excellent platforms for photographing wildlife, such as bearded seals in the water or polar bears if they come within range. Whilst polar bears tend to be solitary in nature, the carcass of a whale or walrus can act as a attract larger numbers of these huge predators.

Optional hikes at a length and pace to suite all will be taken to experience the Arctic on land, walking in places where we hope to avoid any contact with polar bears, but to experience the tundra, mountains and  dramatic fjords of Svalbard. Spitsbergen's historical sites may also be visited, where guides will focus on past human endeavour in the region and the woeful tale of a whaling industry, which once almost decimated seals and whale populations in these waters.

Snowshoe walking may be an option for the early season departures if conditions are right. This activity will require a brief introduction on how to use snowshoes which will be made freely available onboard. Kayaking is also offered on select departures.

We had an unforgettable trip on Ortelius. It was everything and more than expected. Lots of polar bears, some very close to the ship; walrus; blue whale; very, very rare sighting of bow head whale; beluga whale; minke whale; arctic fox; loads of birdlife; breath-taking scenery; excellent off ship trips. The ship was excellent with staff and crew to match.

I think you have got this one nailed!

J Woodburn

Contact our Polar Team to discuss voyage options