18–21 July 2027 | 4 Days / 3 Nights
Live onboard the sailing yacht Ylva
Experience one of Svalbard’s most remarkable wildlife areas on a small-group expedition with See & Explore.
This four-day voyage takes you to Alkhornet, the iconic bird cliff at the entrance to Isfjorden, where dramatic Arctic landscapes, abundant birdlife and excellent opportunities to observe Arctic foxes create unforgettable experiences. The expedition is designed for wildlife photographers, nature enthusiasts and anyone wishing to experience the Arctic in a quiet and authentic way.
Whether your goal is to capture unique photographs or simply enjoy the wildlife and scenery, this expedition offers plenty of time ashore to explore at your own pace.
A Unique Time of Year
During this period, thousands of Brünnich’s Guillemot chicks leave their nests high on the cliffs and make their first dramatic journey towards the sea. This remarkable event usually takes place during these days, although nature follows its own schedule and exact timing can never be guaranteed.
If conditions are right, you may witness one of Svalbard’s most spectacular wildlife events as Arctic foxes wait below the cliffs for birds that fail to reach the water. Observing this natural interaction is a privilege few visitors experience.
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The Expedition
The expedition begins in Longyearbyen, where we meet at 10:30 at Port of Longyear, alongside our partner sailing yacht Ylva.
After a welcome briefing, we sail approximately 22 nautical miles west through Isfjorden towards Alkhornet. The voyage normally takes around 3.5 hours, depending on weather and sea conditions.
Upon arrival, we anchor in a sheltered bay near Alkhornet, where Ylva will remain for the next three nights.
Lunch is served shortly after arrival before we make our first shore landing by Zodiac during the afternoon. We spend the evening exploring the area on foot, photographing wildlife and enjoying the spectacular surroundings before returning to Ylva for dinner.
Whenever weather and light conditions allow, additional evening or late-night photography sessions may be arranged.
The following two full days are flexible. Together with the guide, captain and crew, we adapt the daily programme according to weather, wildlife activity and the wishes of the group. This allows us to make the most of the opportunities available each day.
On the morning of 21 July, we leave Alkhornet and sail back to Longyearbyen, where arrival is expected around 14:30, subject to weather and sailing conditions.
Wildlife
Alkhornet is one of Svalbard’s richest bird cliffs and offers excellent opportunities to observe a wide variety of Arctic species.
Birds commonly seen include:
- Brünnich’s Guillemot
- Little Auk
- Atlantic Puffin
- Black-legged Kittiwake
- Northern Fulmar
- Black Guillemot
- Svalbard Rock Ptarmigan
- Pink-footed Goose
- Barnacle Goose
The surrounding tundra is home to the Arctic fox, which is especially active during the seabird breeding season. The unique Svalbard reindeer, found nowhere else in the world, is also frequently seen grazing below the cliffs.
Other wildlife may include seals, whales and numerous additional seabird species.
As with all wildlife expeditions, sightings cannot be guaranteed, but this is widely regarded as one of the best locations on Svalbard for observing Arctic foxes during summer.
Accommodation
Guests stay aboard the comfortable sailing yacht Ylva, anchored close to Alkhornet throughout the expedition.
Accommodation is in shared twin cabins, with two guests sharing each cabin. Cabin arrangements are agreed individually before departure.
Each cabin has its own private bathroom.
Expedition Facts
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Departure: 18 July 2027
Meeting time: 10:30
Meeting place: Port of Longyear, Longyearbyen
Accommodation: Sailing yacht Ylva
Maximum participants: 8 guests
Price: NOK 35,000 per person (shared cabin)
Meals & Drinks
Full board is included throughout the voyage.
This includes:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Snacks
- Coffee and tea
Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase during dinner and at other appropriate times.
Crew & Expedition Guide
Your expedition is operated by an experienced crew consisting of:
- Professional Captain
- Mate
- Expedition Guide from See & Explore
The crew is responsible for:
- Safe navigation and sailing operations
- Zodiac transfers and shore landings
- Onboard hospitality and meal service
Your expedition guide leads all activities ashore and shares knowledge about Svalbard’s wildlife, history and natural environment.
Arctic Conditions
Svalbard is genuine Arctic wilderness. Weather, sea conditions and wildlife always influence expedition travel.
Participants should expect:
- Rapid weather changes
- Sea ice and glacier activity
- Limited infrastructure and emergency services
- Possible encounters with polar bears
- Flexible itineraries adapted to conditions
Safety always takes priority over the planned programme.
Captain’s Authority
The Captain has final authority regarding the safe operation of the vessel.
The Captain may alter the itinerary, postpone or cancel landings, or modify activities whenever required for safety, weather or environmental reasons.
The expedition guide may also adjust activities based on wildlife conditions or guest safety.
No refunds are provided for programme changes made for safety or environmental reasons.
Physical Requirements
Participants should be in good general health and capable of taking part in expedition activities.
Guests must be able to:
- Board and leave the Zodiac safely, including climbing a rope ladder of approximately one metre
- Walk on uneven natural terrain
- Spend several hours outdoors in Arctic conditions
- Manage potential seasickness independently
- Understand that medical assistance and evacuation may be delayed in remote Arctic areas
Please inform us in advance of any medical conditions that could affect your participation.
Recommended Camera Equipment
From cellerphone to Professional camera gears – DM us for questions.
Recommended Packing List
Weather conditions on Svalbard can change quickly, even in summer. We recommend dressing in layers and bringing clothing suitable for cold, wet and windy conditions.
Please bring:
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Waterproof and windproof trousers
- Warm wool base layer (top and leggings)
- Warm mid-layer, such as a wool or fleece sweater
- Warm hat
- Warm gloves
- Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support
- Several pairs of warm socks, including extra socks in case your feet get wet
To help keep the yacht clean and comfortable, please bring a separate set of comfortable indoor clothing that is only used onboard, for example:
- T-shirt or light sweater
- Comfortable trousers or leggings
- Indoor shoes or warm socks (optional)
Outdoor boots should not be worn inside the yacht.
- Small backpack for shore excursions
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Personal medications
- Camera, binoculars and spare batteries
- Bag for camera equipment and personal belongings
- Reusable water bottle
If you are unsure whether your clothing is suitable for Arctic conditions, please contact us before your expedition. We are happy to provide advice.
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory.
Your insurance must include:
- Trip cancellation and interruption
- Emergency medical treatment
- Medical evacuation from remote Arctic regions
- Repatriation
Included
- Three nights aboard Ylva
- Shared twin cabin with private bathroom
- Full board throughout the voyage
- Tea, coffee and snacks
- Zodiac landings
- Professional captain and crew
- Expedition guide from See & Explore
- Wildlife and photography opportunities at Alkhornet
Not Included
- Flights to and from Longyearbyen
- Accommodation before or after the expedition
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal travel insurance
- Personal equipment and clothing unless otherwise stated
- Optional personal expenses
