Early season means a bewitching pastel light in sub-zero temperatures – a call to adventure for any landscape photographer. Answer the call on this compact spring photo tour.
All-action photographer Piet van den Bemd is the perfect guide to have with you on this specially shortened tour. His boundless enthusiasm and endless energy will make sure you get the maximum from your Svalbard photography adventure in just over a week.
There is no place on Earth like Svalbard in the spring.
It’s a rite of passage for landscape photographers, and your dynamic photo guide, Piet van den Bemd, will help you capture it in photos that will last forever.
Picture-perfect snow-capped mountains. Fjords littered with crystalline sea ice. Wildlife taking their first tentative steps after the long winter. The soft light of the rising sun and pastel-coloured sunsets.
The frozen springtime landscape of ice-strewn fjords and undisturbed snow is the perfect canvas on which to elevate your photography skills. The light at this time of year has a studio-like softness – sunrise and sunset are sublime. 
Patience is a virtue when photographing Arctic animals in their snowy element. But take your time and you’ll capture some of the best wildlife shots of your life.

  • This compact expedition is specially designed to get you photographing the very best of Svalbard in the spring in fewer days – no fear of missing out
  • The best time to visit the Arctic for landscape photography, capturing frozen seascapes, crystalline icebergs, and snow-covered mountains in soft-hued light
  • A chance to encounter wildlife, including whales, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, walruses, seals, and polar bears, against a snowy backdrop
  • We only work with award-winning legends of polar photography who are in-field tuition experts – you’re learning from the very best

Freya

Vessel Type: Ice Class Small Ship
Length: 45 meters
Passenger Capacity: 12
Explore the Arctic in style aboard our small expedition ship, the MV Freya. With a recently upgraded interior and a solid ice strengthened hull, this vessel is perfect for traversing Arctic waters, whilst retaining first class comforts. Originally used as a lighthouse-building vessel, MV Freya boasts spacious cabins and multiple viewing decks to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Arctic.
What we love about Freya
- The highest strength ice class hull ensures it is a go anywhere expedition ship.
- Classic style expedition ship with lots of space.
- All cabins have en-suite with comfortable beds.
- Large bridge area where guests are welcome to observe.
- On deck hot tub and sauna to warm up in after a day exploring.
- Multiple deck heights and viewing areas.
Key Features
- Accommodates 12 guests in 1 x double, 5 twin & 2 single cabins with windows and en-suite
- All cabins are spacious and cosy
- Large dining saloon with bar
- Passenger lounge with sofas.
- Equipped with 2 Zodiac landing crafts for shore landings
- Ample deck space to enjoy the view
- Fully staffed with experienced captain, crew and expedition leaders
Exterior
- On deck hot tub
- Multiple decks for wildlife viewing and photography with great vantage points
- Semi enclosed decks at the stern
- Accessible bow area 
- Open bridge policy with seating area to observe operations
Interior
- Guest lounge with comfortable sofas and library
- Large saloon with bar and dining area for 18 seated persons
- Classic style interior with a cosy charm
- Spacious cabins all above deck with ensuite





ship image

Pricing

Depart: 2 May, 2026 Return: 9 May, 2026

Signature Twin/Double

Signature Twin/Double

For 2 Guests Comfortable Twin or Double Bed Ensuite shower and toilet 15 m² Located on deck 1 Window Desk & chair Wardrobe Cabins 1 - 4

Price: $14900 USD

Signature Single

Signature Single

For 1 guest 10 m² Located on decks 1 and 2 Window Wardrobe Cabin 5 - 7

Price: $17800 USD

Signature Penthouse (Double)

Signature Penthouse (Double)

For 2 Guests Comfortable double bed Ensuite shower and toilet 15 m² Located on deck 3 Windows Desk & chair Wardrobe Cabin Number: 8

Depart: 9 May, 2026 Return: 16 May, 2026

Signature Twin/Double

Signature Twin/Double

For 2 Guests Comfortable Twin or Double Bed Ensuite shower and toilet 15 m² Located on deck 1 Window Desk & chair Wardrobe Cabins 1 - 4

Price: $14900 USD

Signature Single

Signature Single

For 1 guest 10 m² Located on decks 1 and 2 Window Wardrobe Cabin 5 - 7

Price: $17800 USD

Signature Penthouse (Double)

Signature Penthouse (Double)

For 2 Guests Comfortable double bed Ensuite shower and toilet 15 m² Located on deck 3 Windows Desk & chair Wardrobe Cabin Number: 8

Price: $17800 USD

Depart: 17 May, 2026 Return: 24 May, 2026

Signature Twin - Cabins 1–2 & 4–5

Signature Twin - Cabins 1–2 & 4–5

Sleeps 2 in lower twin berths Ensuite shower and toilet Window

Price: $13900 USD

Signature Single - Cabins 6–7

Signature Single - Cabins 6–7

Sleeps 1 in a lower berth Ensuite shower and toilet Window

Price: $16700 USD

Signature Penthouse (Double)

Signature Penthouse (Double)

Cabin 3 Sleeps 2 in a double bed Ensuite shower and toilet Window

Depart: 24 May, 2026 Return: 31 May, 2026

Signature Twin - Cabins 1–2 & 4–5

Signature Twin - Cabins 1–2 & 4–5

Sleeps 2 in lower twin berths Ensuite shower and toilet Window

Price: $13900 USD

Signature Single - Cabins 6–7

Signature Single - Cabins 6–7

Sleeps 1 in a lower berth Ensuite shower and toilet Window

Price: $16700 USD

Signature Penthouse (Double)

Signature Penthouse (Double)

Cabin 3 Sleeps 2 in a double bed Ensuite shower and toilet Window