Puffin Photography Expedition – Svalbard

Live aboard the sailing yacht Ylva

16–18 August 2027 | 3 Days / 2 Nights
19–21 August 2027 | 3 Days / 2 Nights
22–24 August 2027 | 3 Days / 2 Nights

Experience Svalbard’s Puffins in the High Arctic

Join See & Explore on an exclusive small-group expedition to one of Svalbard’s hidden wildlife gems.

This three-day voyage takes you to a small, remote island in Isfjorden, where dramatic Arctic landscapes provide the perfect setting for observing and photographing the charismatic Atlantic Puffin. Designed for wildlife photographers, bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, this expedition offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the Arctic in a peaceful and authentic way.

Whether you are looking to capture stunning wildlife photographs or simply enjoy the spectacular scenery and birdlife, you’ll have plenty of time ashore to explore and photograph at your own pace.

A Unique Time of Year

By mid-August, Svalbard is still bathed in continuous daylight, with the Midnight Sun lasting until 25 August. This creates outstanding opportunities to photograph puffins in the warm, golden light of the Arctic evening and night, often with beautiful backlighting when conditions are right.

At this time of year, the puffin chicks have fledged, and the adult birds continue to use the colony while regularly flying to sea to feed. Their constant arrivals and departures provide excellent opportunities to photograph every aspect of puffin behaviour—from close-up portraits to flight photography and creative backlit compositions.

With long hours of natural light and a relaxed pace, you’ll have time to experiment with different photographic techniques and make the most of changing weather and light conditions.

Want to know more?

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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 15 nautical miles through Isfjorden to our destination. The voyage normally takes 2–2.5 hours, depending on weather and sea conditions.

Upon arrival, we anchor in a sheltered bay near the island, where Ylva will remain for the next two nights.

Lunch is served shortly after arrival before our first Zodiac landing during the afternoon. We spend the rest of the day exploring the island, photographing puffins and other wildlife before returning to Ylva for dinner.

Whenever weather and light conditions allow, additional evening or late-night photography sessions may be arranged.

The following day is flexible. Together with your guide, captain and crew, we adapt the programme according to weather, bird activity and the wishes of the group, allowing us to make the best possible use of the available light and photographic opportunities.

On the final day, we enjoy one last photography session before returning to Longyearbyen. Arrival is expected around 15:00, subject to weather and sailing conditions.

Birdlife

The Atlantic Puffin is the main focus of this expedition, but the island is also home to a rich variety of Arctic seabirds.

Species commonly observed include:

Atlantic Puffin
Little Auk
Black-legged Kittiwake
Northern Fulmar
Black Guillemot
Great Skua
Pink-footed Goose
Barnacle Goose

Other wildlife may include seals and occasionally whales in the surrounding waters.

As with all wildlife expeditions, sightings can never be guaranteed. However, this island is regarded as one of the finest locations on Svalbard for observing and photographing Atlantic Puffins during the late summer season.

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.