Arctic: Sailing Expedition Svalbard, Iceland, Greenland

Imagine setting sail through some of the most remote and awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth—craggy fjords, towering glaciers, icebergs the size of buildings, and volcanic peaks rising straight from the sea. That’s essentially what this 17-day Arctic sailing expedition offers. Based on detailed descriptions and traveler reviews, this tour promises a true taste of polar wilderness, combining adventure, wildlife, and cultural encounters in a small-group setting.

What makes this journey stand out? First, the focus on navigating some of the Arctic’s most dramatic waters—scores of fjords in Greenland, the remote island of Jan Mayen, and the icy waters of Svalbard. Second, the opportunity to experience off-the-beaten-path locations like Jan Mayen’s volcanic summit and Greenland’s towering fjords, which are rarely visited by travelers.

Of course, this isn’t a casual cruise—preparing for variable weather, cold temperatures, and the need for some sailing know-how is part of the package. A potential downside? The journey’s length and remote nature mean it’s not suited for travelers seeking quick, relaxed sightseeing. But if you’re craving an authentic, adventure-filled Arctic expedition, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially fitting for those who love wildlife, superb scenery, and are comfortable with small-group travel in rugged conditions.

This tour tends to suit adventurous travelers who enjoy sailing, photography, and exploring wild landscapes. It’s ideal for those who want an active, immersive experience rather than a luxury cruise.

Key Points

• Remote Arctic access: Explore seldom-visited spots like Jan Mayen and Greenland’s fjords.
• Wildlife opportunities: Expect chances to see Arctic animals and marine life, including whales.
• Expert crew and small groups: A professional captain guides the journey, with only 8 participants onboard.
• Authentic sailing experience: Participate in navigation, watch systems, and learn about polar weather.
• Unique landscapes: View glaciers, icebergs, volcanoes, and towering fjords.
• Weather and gear: Prepare for cold, variable conditions—think thermal layers and waterproof gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A closer look at the journey

Starting point: Longyearbyen, Svalbard

Your adventure begins in Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in Svalbard, a hub for polar expeditions. This town offers an intriguing mix of old mining history and modern scientific outposts. Before setting sail, you’ll get a safety briefing and meet your crew—who are experienced and eager to share their knowledge of the Arctic environment.

The voyage south through South Spitsbergen

The initial days focus on exploring South Spitsbergen’s rugged coastline. Expect to see glaciers calving into the sea and possibly encounter Arctic wildlife—polar bears, seals, and seabirds are common sights. The crew often emphasizes the breathtaking scenery, where “glaciers meet the sea,” creating a sense of untouched wilderness.

The highlight: Jan Mayen

After a few days at sea, you reach Jan Mayen, a volcanic island with the imposing Beerenberg volcano rising 2,277 meters. As one reviewer put it, “approaching Beerenberg is a jaw-dropping moment,” with its snow-capped summit and rugged slopes. The island’s remoteness means fewer visitors, and hiking here offers a rare chance to explore volcanic landscapes and rugged coastlines. The five-day ocean crossing to Jan Mayen is an adventure in itself, with the crew managing navigation through open waters, often with wildlife sightings along the way.

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Greenland’s Scoresby Sound

From Jan Mayen, you sail toward Greenland’s east coast, entering Scoresby Sound—the world’s largest fjord system. Here, the scenery becomes even more dramatic, with towering cliffs and floating icebergs creating a surreal landscape. Several days are spent exploring this massive fjord network, visiting Inuit settlements, and observing wildlife. Reviewers highlight the “raw beauty” of Greenland’s wilderness and the “incredible ice formations” that drift through the waters.

Final stretch: Iceland’s Westfjords

The journey concludes in Ísafjörður, a charming town surrounded by fjords and mountains. This area is known for excellent whale-watching, with “mini-Drake” waters teeming with marine life. You might find yourself scanning the sea for whales, porpoises, or seabirds before the trip ends. The tour’s last days focus on relaxing, exploring local culture, and reflecting on the vast landscapes you’ve traversed.

What is daily life like onboard?

Life aboard the yacht is a mix of sailing, wildlife watching, and learning. You’ll help with navigation, participate in watch systems, and gain insights from your crew about Arctic weather and ice navigation. The vessel offers double or twin cabins, with comfortable bedding, towels, and safety gear. The crew prioritizes safety and comfort, but travelers should expect the adventure to involve some physical activity and preparation for cold conditions.

Most reviews praise the professional crew’s expertise and the quality of the accommodations, emphasizing that the experience feels both authentic and well-organized. You’ll also get opportunities to take photos, hike ashore, and learn about Arctic ecosystems from guides and crew.

Onboard amenities and logistics

The yacht provides all fuel, port fees, and permits, keeping logistical worries to a minimum. Food costs are shared among participants (about $30/day), and travelers are encouraged to bring personal medications, warm clothing, and personal items suited for cold weather. As the trip is limited to 8 participants, you’ll enjoy a personal feel and the chance to connect with fellow travelers.

Weather considerations

Expect temperatures from 0°C to 10°C, with wind making it feel cooler. The summer timing means you’ll experience long days and possibly the midnight sun, though some late August departures might see the return of darkness. Packing waterproof clothing, thermal layers, and warm accessories is essential for comfort and safety.

Is this experience worth the cost?

While the price includes accommodations, expert crew, and most logistics, travelers should consider the added costs of flights and personal expenses. Compared to the value of experiencing remote Arctic wilderness, wildlife, and glaciers—plus the personal growth of navigating such challenging waters—the trip offers excellent value for those seeking an adventure rather than luxury.

Many reviews note how well-organized and immersive the experience is, with travelers feeling they received more than just a cruise—they gained insight into Arctic ecosystems and local cultures.

Who will love this trip?

This expedition is best suited for adventurous spirits comfortable with small-group travel, cold weather, and active participation in sailing. It appeals to wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those eager to explore uncharted territories. If you’re looking for a trip that combines sailing, wildlife, and genuine Arctic landscapes, this journey hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Arctic sailing expedition offers a compelling blend of adventure, wildlife, and remote landscapes. It provides a rare chance to witness the raw beauty of Greenland’s fjords, the volcanic grandeur of Jan Mayen, and the icy majesty of Svalbard—without the crowds of more commercial tours. The small-group format and experienced crew focus on authentic experiences, making it ideal for travelers who want to actively participate and learn about the environment firsthand.

While the journey demands some resilience—expect cold weather, variable conditions, and long days at sea—the sense of accomplishment and awe you’ll feel at the end is well worth it. This tour is an exceptional choice for those craving a genuine Arctic adventure packed with spectacular sights and meaningful encounters.

If you’re someone who treasures off-the-beaten-path destinations, wildlife spotting, and hands-on exploration, this expedition will likely be a highlight of your travels. It’s about immersion, discovery, and respecting the pristine wilderness of the far north—truly an unforgettable experience.

FAQ

Do I need special skills or experience to join this tour?
No specific sailing experience is required, but comfort with cold weather and being active onboard is important. The crew offers sailing instructions and safety briefings to help everyone participate confidently.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers twin/double cabin accommodation, safety gear, crew expertise, port fees, permits, fuel, and pantry essentials. Food costs are shared at around $30 per day, but flights and personal expenses are not included.

How many people are on the yacht?
The small-group size is limited to 8 participants, allowing for a personalized experience and better access to guides and crew.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Expect opportunities to see Arctic animals like whales, seals, seabirds, and possibly polar bears, especially during wildlife-rich passages near Greenland and Iceland.

What should I pack?
Bring waterproof jacket and pants, thermal underwear, warm fleece or down jacket, non-slip deck shoes, beanie, sailing gloves, personal medications, sunglasses, headlamp, and a soft bag (no hard suitcases). Luggage should be no more than 8-10 kg.

When does the trip run?
The expedition runs in summer, providing long daylight hours, with some departures possibly in late August when darkness begins to return.

Is there any cultural interaction?
Yes, visits to Inuit settlements and local Greenlandic communities are part of the experience, offering cultural insights alongside natural beauty.

This Arctic sailing adventure offers an authentic, well-organized way to see some of the most remote corners of the planet. For those craving a mix of adventure, wildlife, and icy landscapes, it’s a journey worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: