14 independent reviews for Arctic sailing voyages, North Spitsbergen
Reviews for Arctic sailing voyages, North Spitsbergen
Jill Key review 1 Jul 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Hard to say! The whole trip was amazing. I had particularly wanted to see walrus so maybe the encounter with a large group on day 1 would have to be that.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
All the info you provided was very good. The only (small) thing which turned out to be misleading was the description of storage space on the vessel as "ample". There was very little storage space! Enough to squeeze in a suitcase, but nowhere to actually unpack it and barely enough for 2 people sharing a cabin to hang wet coats, lifejackets, over-trousers, socks, etc.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
No, I don't think so.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Read the operator's response here:
Hello Jill,
We are very happy that you had such a memorable Arctic sailing expedition with us, many thanks for your 5 star feedback.
As regards your answer to whether you think this trip was responsible: Our team adore Spitsbergen and through guiding and exploring this region for more than 20 years, we witness both its magic and vulnerability. Our heritage is marine and environmental science and conservation, so responsibility to protect the unique environments we visit is paramount. We are therefore keen for you to understand the ongoing efforts being made towards conservation as part of your trip with us.
From the on-set our global experiences continue to support reforestation and wildlife protection projects around the World. Your voyage financially contributed towards this work and we always invite you to match our own conservation donation. On your booking form we attach a sheet explaining our strategy entitled “Why Polar bears love the Rainforest”.
In terms of Spitsbergen itself, community support is not our focus as it has no local Inuit indigenous culture. It is however home to as many Polar bears as people and partly because of tourism, these benefit from the most stringent regulatory wildlife protection in the World, in sharp contrast to other Arctic areas where polar bears continue to be hunted, including Canada and Greenland.
Your ship’s operations is a founding member of AECO, helping establish very high regulatory codes of conduct. These are implemented throughout your visit to protect and conserve the wildlife and nature of the area as summarised in the mandatory video you enjoyed onboard.
We always encourage smaller ships, with fewer people and impact and that is why we always provide our sailing ship option with this in mind. The ship you were onboard was one of the smallest ships in the Arctic). Her food supplies are locally sourced (where possible), eco-friendly toiletries supplied for use onboard, re-fill rather than plastic water bottles provided and all water generated onboard.
This operation is one of the founding participants of Clean Up Svalbard, a waste removal program supervised by the governor of Svalbard in coordination with AECO, the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators. This programme removes around 20 tons per year of waste from the beaches of Svalbard, pollution collected the length of the Gulf Stream largely from industry, shipping and commercial fishing.
Your vessel operations are Arctic pioneers - one of the first to take non-scientist on expedition cruises and continues to contribution in this respect:
- Delivering scientific equipment such as ARGO floats, which measure water temperature, salinity, and pressure to discover out how climate change impacts the oceans.
- Hosting researchers onboard who study ice cores, weather fluctuations, and CO2 concentrations in order to advance our knowledge of climate change,
- Hiring many scientists as lecturer-guides, enabling these professionals to share their important and fascinating research with passengers.
Donations are also made to environmental conservation programs and bird protection projects (i.e. Save the Albatross campaign) researching by the catching of seabirds in fisheries.
We welcome any questions you may have about our Responsible Travel credentials or ships operations environmental policies and look forwards to seeing you again soon.
Roderick Edwards review 19 Jun 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
EVERYTHING. It was amazing in all aspects.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Prepare for the experience of a lifetime, follow Responsible Travels guidelines.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
All three, but enviromental and conservation is something for every individual to protect and be aware of in times of climate change.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Outstanding, thank you Responsible Travel and the operator. An excellent combination.Richard Dean review 3 Aug 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
3 Polar bears approached us while we were on land. Wow, so cool!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Get a great camera lens and plenty of SD cards.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The crew pulled a net out of the ocean and cleaned up rubbish from every landing.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Exceeded expectationsJoan Findlay review 24 Jul 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing amazing wildlife and scenery.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be sure that you are fit and confident enough for walking on some fairly challenging terrain, although distances not great.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Travelling under sail avoiding using fuel. Great care was taken to prevent us damaging the environment.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
The combination of wonderful land and seascape, excellent guides and great crew on a beautiful (if not luxuriously comfortable) sailing vessel constituted a remarkable experience. Plus 5 polar bears!Marion Harms review 6 Jul 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing the charismatic wildlife up close in their natural habitat closely followed by the beauty of the natural surroundings and especially the glaciers.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Make sure you are fit so that you can enjoy the hikes and bring an open mind so that you can enjoy the company of new friends and the rich stories of the guides in the science lectures.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, we visited museums and all made some purchases to help local business. We obeyed polar environment rules. We used wind energy for mobility as much as we could. The diesel engine did leave CO2 emissions unfortunately.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent! Thanks much to the very friendly and capable guides, as well as the crew and pre-trip information.Sonja Boelaert review 21 Jun 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
In terms of wildlife sightings, we have been very lucky. We saw, for example, hundreds of Beluga whales (twice); several pods of walruses; a blue whale (twice). Of the many wildlife sightings our favourite memory is this: we were able to observe a polar bear mother and her cub for one and a half hours. It was a very moving scene. The mother bear started to nurse her cub for quite a while and then momma bear and her cub took a nap in the snow. We were able to move in silently and observe them going about their lives totally undisturbed by our ship. We left when both bears were still napping in the snow . The captain told us that he had witnessed such a scene only once before, about ten years ago.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take the clothing advice seriously. It can get pretty cold up North. Invest in a good pair of rubber boots. These are essential for walking during the landings. A good pair of binoculars will bring joy. We had some pretty heavy weather during one day, so if you suffer easily from motion sickness, bring appropriate remedies along and take them one hour before the heavy weather is coming. And finally: enjoy the digitial detox!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We were privileged to sail on a tall ship with a small number of passengers. The crew and guides were strict and we abided by their advice: leave nothing behind in the environment. We picked up trash that we found during our landings, even small pieces of plastic. We learned during our lectures of the devastating impact of plastic trash on aquatic birds.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We have had the best adventure holiday of our lives thus far.Kevin Mcloughlin review 24 Sep 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
On the first day out of Longyearbyen, we had to sail in quite unsettled and stormy conditions and this made for an interesting and entertaining start to the trip. We were very lucky with polar bear sightings and on one shore trip we were able to approach quite closely in the zodiacs to a bear onshore without risk to ourselves. The two glacier excursions by zodiac were amazing, especially the one on the last day, when we had perfect weather and the sea ice was just beginning to form. The beauty and tranquility of this setting will remain with me for a very long time. Finally, I mustn't forget to mention the crew and the guides: they were very able, friendly and professional and helped us to make the best of our holiday.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be flexible. The weather will decide the itinerary; wherever you end up is likely to be wonderful so there's no need to feel tied to a particular plan. Be prepared for some discomfort and surprises, this is an adventure after all. Follow the advice in the Expedition Manual and if you're a photographer, bring a second camera as a backup if possible. It's good fun to help out with the simple sailing tasks on this beautiful vessel and it makes the experience of being on this trip so much more rewarding and enjoyable.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I think that the fact that we were traveling on a smaller sailing vessel certainly helped to reduce the environmental impact when approach shore and entering more confined landing spots. The guides were were very aware of the damaging effects of discarded fishing nets and plastics on the beach; reindeer can become trapped in the nets and even drown in rising tides. We tried to take as much trash as we could back with us to Longyearbyen to be properly disposed off. I think this was a very positive attitude on the part of the crew and my fellow passengers.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic, certainly the trip of a lifetime. The beauty of Spitzbergen truly took my breath away at times. Great value trip and worth every penny. Possibly one of the best ways to visit the islands.Mike Bradburn review 15 Sep 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
From start to finish, this was well organised, professional, and flexed the wishes and abilities of the passengers with the weather and the available opportunities. Spitsbergen itself was without doubt the star, with spectacular scenery, rapidly changing lighting and fascinating history. The birdlife was sparse at the start of autumn as expected, but we saw polar bears, whales, arctic fox, reindeer and walrus.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The boat is warm, comfortable, but not luxurious. You do not need to be fit, but you do need to be agile to clamber in and out of the Zodiacs and for some of the walks. Most landings are "wet" and you need well fitting waterproof boots both for the landings and the walking. Do not underestimate the variability of the weather. You need good quality breathable waterproofs, both for the rain and the wind. Take enough flash cards for your camera and more than 1 battery (and charging kit!)3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We retrieved plastic from the environment at every opportunity, and respect for the environment was stressed and shown at all times. The wildlife was not disturbed and indeed, seemed as curious about us as we were of them4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Outstanding. The memories will stay for ever and many new friendships were madePaul Stubbs review 9 Jul 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The whole experience was amazing being our first trip into the Arctic. The landscapes and wildlife were stunning. The experience of which made much more enjoyable and meaningful by the talks, explanations and guidance by the incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic expedition leaders. There were so many ‘highlights’ it would be difficult to single them out but for sure the experience of sitting quietly above the 14th of July glacier ‘listening’ to the total silence broken only by the grinding of the stones under the glacier. Also the whole experience of being at sea in Arctic in this classic ship, particularly under sail in ever changing weather conditions - sometimes glassy flat calm sometimes choppy Force 5 or 6, sometimes dark with low cloud other times bright blue skies and sunshine. We were totally captivated by the wildlife sightings, some at very close range (reindeer, walrus, seals) and some not so close but still amazing (arctic foxes, two sightings of Polar Bears, dolphins and Beluga whales). We saw so many different types of bird I couldn’t list them all but particularly in our memory are ptarmigan, puffins, eiders, guillemots, snow buntings, terns, kittiwakes and barnacle geese. The experience of life on board this classic ship really made the holiday for us - topping off the whole experience. A lovely ship and wonderful friendly crew. And great food!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
To make the most of this trip you do need to be fit enough for two landings with hikes ashore most days. Although not particularly long, the hikes can involve rough terrain and or snow. Having said which, long versus easier options were offered most days. Wellington boots are needed for the landings from the Zodiacs and most people wore these for the hikes.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The focus of the whole holiday was on wildlife and the Arctic environment with emphasis on conservation and climate. Activities ashore were pretty much zero impact involving wild-life hikes in small numbers and leaving nothing behind. Also collected plastic from the shore and took back on board for later disposal. At sea switched off the engine and went under sail whenever winds allowed.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Absolutely stunning - exceeded expectations.Emily Shields review 6 Jun 2018
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The twice daily trips out on the Zodiaks. We sawa something different every time, be it wildlife or landscape. It was very varied.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Not to worry about the hikes. You're split into 3 groups so you can find a pace that suits you.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Absolutely magical. The boat, crew, food, trips, fellow passengers, weather, everything was amazing.Caterina Sanders review 30 Jun 2017
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We had some amazing wildlife sightings! Polar bears and blue whales!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Lined rubber boots, lots of memory cards for your camera and look forward to lots of cool walks.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We collected a (sadly) large amount of garbage off the beaches when we came across it.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Outstanding!! Totally worthwhile, inspiring and invigorating!Susan Lett review 22 Sep 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing a group of about 20 walrus from only 20 metres or so, seeing their antics, and watching one of them make his way onto land to re-join the group2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take plenty of warm clothing which I guess is only logical, warm gloves and headwear, and make sure you have enough space on your SD card or similar because if you are anything like me you will take a huge amount of photos3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
To a certain extent in as much as the group spent money in Longyearbyen, the Russian mining town, and Ny Alesund. The crew certainly reduced environmental impacts and supported conservation4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was brilliant, one of the best things I have done during my many years of overseas travel, and the weather was really kind to usGayna Wallis review 26 Jul 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We had so many memorable moments. A Blue Whale and her calf cut across our bow when we were sailing, it was so exciting. Hoisting the sails was an exciting moment and everyone was keen to join in. We saw three polar bears, loads of walruses, Minke Whales, a Fin Whale and several Arctic Foxes, one had even stolen a goose egg!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Definitely need a snood to keep your face warm, but also bring shorts and tee shirt as it got very warm walking. Also something nice to wear for the Captain's dinner at the end of the trip. The meal was fantastic!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, we visited a couple of inhabited places, sailing also reduced environmental impact. We managed to get the sails hoisted three times on our trip. A real treat!!4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Far exceeded everything I was expecting. The whole trip was extraordinary. Thoroughly recommend it.Ian McGuire review 11 Jul 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Watching blue whales feeding while manning the helm of the yacht.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take plenty of warm clothing, particularly gloves. Don't expect a profusion of wildlife in the Arctic in summer. Be prepared to hunt for encounters and often view animals from a distance.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Smaller scale voyages benefit local communities because people generally stay and shop locally before and after. One of our aims for this trip was to expose our children to the environmental challenges that the Arctic faces and we feel the voyage on the vessel achieved this aim superbly.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic voyage aboard a real yacht with a diverse group of like-minded people. The owners and their crew were attentive and interested, with a deep understanding and love for the environment.Holiday Reviews
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