July 30–August 10, 2026 | 11 Nights | 11 Spots Only
Join polar expert Becky Kagan Schott for an intimate Arctic adventure in Svalbard, Norway, aboard an ice-class ship hosting just 12 passengers. This Arctic Expedition 2026 focuses on up-close wildlife photography, targeting polar bears, walruses under the midnight sun. With only 11 spots, this small-group journey offers unparalleled access to the Arctic’s raw beauty and world-class imagery opportunities.
Contact Becky for more information. Becky’s Antarctica photos are available here.
Svalbard Explorer: A Photographer’s Dream
Venture 300–500 miles from the North Pole, drifting through pack ice to capture polar bears in their icy domain. Svalbard’s glaciers, fjords, and flowering tundra provide a stunning backdrop for photographing walrus colonies, seabirds, actic fox, reindeer, seals, and whales during 24-hour daylight. With no set itinerary, we adapt to wildlife sightings, ensuring optimal photography in soft Arctic light.
Trip Highlights:
- Polar Bear Encounters: Drift with pack ice to photograph curious bears up close, without disturbance.
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Walrus Photography: Spend days at colonies, attempting unique over/under shots with Becky’s guidance (pre-planning required).
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Wildlife Diversity: Spot Arctic foxes, reindeer, beluga whales, and seabirds.
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Small-Group Intimacy: Only 6 per zodiac, allowing crowd-free, extended wildlife observation.
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Midnight Sun: Leverage 24-hour daylight for flexible, late-night zodiac excursions.
Photography & Wildlife Focus
Perfect for photographers of all levels—and nature lovers—this trip offers personalized coaching from Becky Kagan Schott. Capture portfolio-worthy images with expert guidance. Non-photographers are welcome to immerse in the Arctic’s wonders.
Special Opportunity: Walrus Over/Under Shots
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Experiment with unique underwater imagery at walrus colonies (no diving/snorkeling).
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Requires strong photography skills and animal behavior knowledge; pre-trip planning with Becky is essential.
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Contact Becky to prepare for this rare, carefully managed opportunity.
Itinerary: Flexible Exploration
This expedition adapts to wildlife and ice conditions, maximizing photography opportunities:
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Day 1: Meet in Longyearbyen, Norway, for a group dinner (arrive early to explore the Svalbard Museum or coal mines).
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Days 2–10: Sail north of Spitsbergen, exploring pack ice, fjords, walrus colonies, bird cliffs, and landing sites for reindeer and Arctic foxes.
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Day 11: Disembark in Longyearbyen. Note: No fixed schedule—guides prioritize wildlife sightings for extended, immersive encounters.
What’s Included in Your Arctic Adventure
Your journey is crafted for comfort and immersion, with everything needed to focus on wildlife and photography:
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Pre-Expedition Stay: 1 night in a Longyearbyen hotel on July 30, 2026, with breakfast (early arrival recommended for luggage delays).
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10 Nights Aboard an Ice-Class Ship: Cozy accommodations in 6 shared cabins (4 twin, 1 double, 1 bunk, all en-suite, remodeled 2025).
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All Meals Onboard: Enjoy European breakfasts, hearty lunches, and Norwegian/Swedish dinners (dietary needs accommodated).
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Beverages: Tea, coffee, water, juice, and soft drinks included.
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Zodiac Excursions: Rapid-deployment zodiacs (6 passengers each) for close wildlife encounters.
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Expedition Gear: Float suits and PFDs provided for warmth and safety during zodiac trips.
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Photography Coaching: Personalized tips and critiques from Becky, tailored to your goals.
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Educational Lectures: Learn about Svalbard’s wildlife and history from local guides.
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Transfers: Seamless transport from hotel to ship in Longyearbyen.
Not Included:
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International airfare to/from Longyearbyen (LYR; SAS recommended).
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Gratuities for the crew.
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Alcoholic beverages.
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Waterproof boots (highly recommended; not provided).
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Travel insurance (strongly advised).
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Additional nights in Longyearbyen (book early due to high demand).
Pricing for Your Arctic Journey
Secure one of 11 exclusive spots aboard our ice-class ship, designed for polar exploration. Price is per person in US dollars, based on double occupancy across all cabin types.
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Price: $17,900 per person
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Payment Schedule:
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Deposit: $7,000 due at booking (non-refundable).
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Second Payment: $6,000 due October 1, 2025.
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Final Balance: Due January 2, 2026.
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Pricing Notes: Limited to 11 passengers. Contact us for additional Longyearbyen nights.
Why This Trip Stands Out
Unlike crowded cruise ships with rigid schedules, this expedition offers a small-group experience (12 passengers) with flexible timing to maximize wildlife encounters. The midnight sun and ice-class ship enable extended zodiac trips, while Becky’s photography expertise ensures stunning images. The unique chance to capture walrus over/under shots sets this trip apart, making it a photographer’s dream and a nature lover’s paradise.
Join the Arctic Adventure
From polar bears pacing pack ice to walruses sparring in fjords, this expedition promises unforgettable moments. With only 11 spots, book now to capture the Arctic’s wild heart!
Ready to explore Svalbard? Contact Becky Schott here or email Becky to reserve your spot for this Arctic journey.
