Noorderlicht Captains Choice Svalbard

Vessel:

Where: Svalbard, Norway

Duration: 0 days / nights

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Sail high into the Arctic circle and discover the remote island of Svalbard with an expedition sailing adventure on tall ship Noorderlicht.

Join tall ship Noorderlicht in Svalbard for an Arctic sailing holiday adventure to remember. With fairy tale white landscapes, floating sea ice home to polar bears, seals & walruses, the absence of busy tourism and fresh cold air blended with crystal clear skies; there really is no better way to discover Svalbard than under sail.

Sailing with tall ship Noorderlicht is perfect for adventure travellers whether travelling solo or in groups. Sailing in this fascinating part of the world certainly leaving life-long memories. Noorderlicht is fully crewed but guests are welcomed to get actively involved with all aspects of sailing.

Skippered sailing
Private cabins
All-inclusive board
Bucket list location
Polar bears!

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Talk to the team

Telephone: +44 (0)1872 487288
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +44 7804 472592

Tickets & booking

The voyage

Your Sailing Area

Svalbard, Norway

The Svalbard archipelago sits high in the Arctic circle and is the world’s most northernmost town, sitting halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. From mid-May until the end of September, the island is referred to as “the island of the midnight sun” where it remains light for 24 hours a day.

Ice covered fjords, colossal glaciers and soaring mountains really hit home how wild, rugged and fragile this beautiful landscape is. Discovering Svalbard under sail with a tall ship is by far the best and most sustainable way to see the very best of this Arctic archipelago. Svalbard has strict tourism policies in place with travellers unable to leave the main town of Longyearbyen without a registered guide. Noorderlicht has been given special permission to sail and explore this magical landscape with a registered guide onboard meaning guests are in safe hands at all times.

Below is an intended but suggested itinerary. Due to the wilderness of Svalbard, the boat and crew will need to make sure they are following the appropriate weather guidance to ensure the safety of guests.

Day 1: Embarkation in Longyearbyen

Longyearbyen is the largest inhabited settlement in Spitsbergen and the world’s most northerly inhabited town with more than 1000 inhabitants. Discover the fascinating history of the island as you join Noorderlicht on the ‘floating pier’.

Enjoy a welcome from the crew and captain, before a delicious first dinner on board while the ship sets course towards Trygghamna bay, where it will anchor for the night.

Day 2: Visit to seabird cliff Alkhornet

Head ashore to explore the whaling and hunting station off the Pomor in Trygghamna. From here you can hike to Alkhornet cliff, where some 10,000 pairs of different seabirds breed.

The cliffs are composed of carbonate rock, which is more than a billion years old where the tundra at the bottom of the cliff receives nutrients from the sea birds and provides meadows for reindeer, nesting sites for geese and shelter for Arctic foxes and Polar Bears.

If the entrance of the fjord at Forlandsundet is free of ice, Noorderlicht will sail overnight into the St. John Fjord. This beautiful and sheltered fjord system contains multiple glaciers and is one of the Captains favourite spots!

Day 3: The Ice limits & wildlife in the Forlandsundet

With guidance from the expedition leader, a spot will be selected to go ashore and explore before hoisting the sails to make our way out of the fjord. Depending on the accessibility of the ice at Grimaldibukta, Noorderlicht will look for an anchorage for the night. After a 3-course dinner, we hope to make an evening walk to admire the walrus populations at Sarstangen.

Day 4: Panoramic view from Prins Karls Forland

Murraypynten, named after a Scottish oceanographer, is a peninsula north of the Grimaldibukta. From the hills, you have a beautiful panoramic view of the rugged mountain and glacial landscape of Spitsbergen and the flat landscape at the foot of the mountain makes it wonderful and easy to walk. On the south side of Murraypynten, you can visit a ruin of a hut built by a German expedition in 1963. Continue the journey south, back to the Isfjord, where Noorderlicht will anchor in the sheltered bay at Ymerbukta for the evening.

Day 5: Ghost Town in Soviet-style: Barentsburg

The Esmarkbreen glacier flows into the bay of Ymerbukta providing panoramic views while walking. Explore the historic mining town of Barentsburg. In 1926 the mining town was taken over by the Russians, after which it grew into a town of miners with more than 1000 inhabitants. Today there are still about 400 people of mainly Russian or Ukrainian descent.

In the evening you can enjoy the locally brewed beers and Russian snacks, together with part of the crew of the Noorderlicht.

Day 6: In Borebukta searching for Polar bears

After a morning walk through Barentsburg, Noorderlicht will set sail for Borebukta. At this time of the year, it is usually partially or completely frozen so there is a high chance of encountering arctic animals such as the polar bear here. We will try to get as close to the northwestern end as possible to get a look at the steep glacier front of the Borebreen. We then continue to the west side of the bay, close to the Nansenbreen, where we will anchor for the night.

Day 7: Sailing towards Longyearbyen

After breakfast, it’s time for one last stop at the historic mining settlement of Cape Bohemanflya before our sail back to Longyearbyen.

Day 8: Goodbye Noorderlicht!

After a hearty breakfast, you can disembark by 09:00.

Travel insurance notes

As this is an active adventure holiday, we advise that everyone has the appropriate personal accident travel insurance whilst onboard in addition to standard travel insurance which would cover you in the time between making your booking and departing for your adventure. These policies can sometimes be combined so please check with your travel insurance provider.

This voyage will be not more than 12miles offshore.

Life on board

Life on board Noorderlicht

Sailing and exploring the wilderness of Svalbard with expedition vessel Noorderlicht is an experience of a life-time. Exploring this fascinating landscape from the comfort of your own tall ship is a bucket list holiday, perfect for the adventure traveller.

Noorderlicht has been sailing and exploring Svalbard for over 10 years so her crew are well versed in the nuances of this remote and wild location. On all Svalbard expeditions, not only is there a full crew but a qualified and verified guide is present at all times. Guests are not permitted to go ashore without the guide due to the risk of Polar bears and the harshness of the environment. The guide is permitted to carry a shotgun for the safety of the guests and crew. Guests will be briefed upon arrival but ultimately, the crew’s aim is to make this adventure a fun, awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience.

Sleeping and Relaxation

The interior of Noorderlicht // Reade Swan is authentically decorated giving an informal, cosy and nautical atmosphere below decks. There are spacious seating areas in the upper-and lower deck salon for all the passengers. There is a small board library available filled with informative lecture about the concerning area, but also some fine novels. Besides there is a small, cozy bar in the upper deck salon.

The sleeping area is situated at the lower deck in 10 twin cabins. All cabins have upper and lower berths, a built-in closet, a washbasin with cold and warm water and a mirror. In your cabin you will also find 220V power outlet to charge your electronics. Furthermore the ship has 5 toilets and 4 showers which are for common use.

The food

If we have learned anything from our years of experience on sailing ships, it is the importance of good and nutritious food on a ship! Although the Arctic area gives rise to limitations on the possibilities and supplies of the food onboard, our professional cook will prepare you excellent meals from the international kitchen three times a day.

To Note…

Full kit information will be given at the time of booking or can be requested beforehand- please just email us at [email protected]

A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking with the final balance due 90days before departure.

What's included

What’s included

All inclusive meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and hot drinks)
All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet)
Full crew plus tuition
Marina and fuel fees
All tender trips to and fro the boat
Lifejacket

What’s not included

Alcohol
Any flights
Transit hotels
Travel to and from the boat on the day of joining/leaving
Travel insurance
Sailing Insurance (Please read our Sailing Insurance page for more information)
Crew tips
Personal expenses

Kit list

Noorderlicht has good storage in the cabins. Please consider travelling as light as possible. There is no storage for rigid/hard cases. Please pack your items in a soft bag or rucksack, something that can be packed flat or rolled up.

We recommend a travelling-light approach with lightweight, easy-drying layers. Below is a list of recommended items. It can be a few degrees colder out at sea; please bring layers even if the forecast seems like a warm week. These are not mandatory, and those who have sailed before may have their own preferences!

CLOTHING RECOMMENDATIONS

Dress in layers. In polar regions, we recommend the 3-layer principle: a base layer, a warm mid-layer, and a water-repellent outer layer.
Don’t overdress. If it is too warm, you start sweating, which can cool you down too much.
Use natural materials such as wool. Avoid cotton. Synthetic fabrics designed for cold weather are also good.
Be careful with Dow; when it gets wet, it loses its insulating value. Primaloft or polar fleece are good options.
Wear loose layers. Insulation is pockets of hot air. If you dress without room for these air pockets to fill with warm air, it can be cold. Only the base layer should be snug. Make sure it is not hindering your blood flow. Avoid super-tight shoes and socks.
Keep hands and feet dry. You usually lose a lot of heat via your extremities (hands and feet). Mittens are warmer than gloves. Make sure there is a waterproof outer layer.
Wear a hat! A significant amount of body heat is lost from your head. By keeping your head warm, you will also notice a difference in the rest of your body.

Don’t forget the wind! Wind chill can make zero degrees feel like -20. Please make sure your outer layer is both windproof and waterproof.

FOOTWEAR

Rubber boots (VERY IMPORTANT). We request that you bring a pair of knee-high rubber/wellington/sailing boots. These will be worn in virtually all shore landings. Pull-on rubber and completely waterproof boots, fitting just below the knee, with a firm, ridged, non-skid sole, are ESSENTIAL for landings. We often walk in water and on icy, slippery surfaces, so even standard snow boots, hiking boots, and low rubber boots are not satisfactory.
Sturdy hiking boots are optional. Most hikes/landings will be done with the rubber boots. Occasionally, people switch to hiking boots on land, but you will need to carry your rubber boots for water crossings and wet tundra.
Comfortable, warm trainers/shoes are practical to wear around the ship.

CLOTHES

Long- and short-sleeved t-shirts to wear on board, as temperatures are comfortably warm below deck.
Warm trousers, such as ski pants, can be worn over long thermals. Thick ski pants can be too warm for long hikes, but are great on deck.
Waterproof trousers, such as Gore-Tex, are to be worn over regular trousers.
Thermal layer of wool, silk or polypropylene
A sweater or a medium-weight polar fleece jacket.
Turtlenecks work well as an extra layer.
Mittens and gloves (and more than one pair), such as thin wool or polypropylene gloves that can be worn underneath your mittens
A woollen hat and scarf to protect your ears and neck
Warm, tall, sturdy socks, layered over a thinner pair of silk, polypropylene, or wool socks. We prefer wool since it does not contain any odour.
Waterproof/windproof jacket (waterproof above all) with an attached hood that can be worn over your under layers with reasonable comfort

ACCESSORIES

Waterproof (or resistant) backpack with shoulder straps for keeping your hands free and your camera (and other gear) dry
Consider using sleep masks and/or earplugs if you’re sharing a cabin (also useful at night when motoring)
Sunglasses of good quality (polarised), as the glare from the water and surrounding snow/ice can be severe even when the sky is overcast
Binoculars for viewing all the beautiful landscapes and wildlife. A camera with plenty of memory cards or film.
Headlamp for spring or autumn trips
Refillable water bottle
Swimsuit and swim towel (optional!)
Charging cables for personal devices (there are USB and EU 2-pin sockets in the cabins – please bring an adaptor as required)
A good book to read!
Cash as required

Travel Documents

Please assume full responsibility for checking and verifying any passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements for the country/as required.

Travel planning

From: Longyearbyen

To: Longyearbyen

GETTING THERE

Fly from most UK airports to OSLO, Norway where you can continue to Longyearbyen. Norwegian Airlines or SAS airlines offer affordable flights.

Boat info & deck plan

Noorderlicht

Guest berths: 12 Rig: Schooner

High above mainland Norway, the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard sits. An icy wilderness that tall ship Noorderlicht has called home since 1994. Spending her summers exploring Northern Norway & Svalbard, she takes guests on whale watching holidays along the south-west coast and offers longer adventures circumnavigating the whole island. She also offers expedition voyages across the Barents Sea for those seeking a more exhilarating, hands-on adventure with plenty of sailing.

A traditionally rigged tall ship, guests are invited to get involved with all aspects of sailing, although the wind in Svalbard can be unpredictable, so some time is spent under motor. Guests can still take the helm and help plot the course on charts with the crew.

Low-impact, environmentally friendly travel goes hand in hand with Noorderlicht’s ethos. Her ability to explore this part of the world is the best way to enjoy the beautiful, unspoiled nature. From glacier walks, birdwatching, whales, polar bears, and abandoned mining stations, Noorderlicht’s voyages are perfect for those wanting to discover remote locations far from the tourist crowds.

You don’t need any sailing experience to join Noorderlicht’s adventures, but a good level of fitness is recommended so you can hike the hills comfortably for dramatic views and take the opportunity to explore a sleeping village at night in the midnight sun. There is a good balance aboard to rest and relax, read a book or chat with fellow travellers as you travel between landing spots.

With comfortable accommodation for up to 12 guests in private twin cabins, her size and draft allow her to reach some of the most remote areas of Svalbard, making her a great way to discover the hidden gems this breathtaking part of the world has to offer. The galley and downstairs seating area sit in the middle of the ship, with another seating area and bar in the deckhouse.

Deck plan

More about Noorderlicht

FAQs

Are all meals included?

Yes, all meals on board are included in the price. (Breakfast, lunch, dinner and hot drinks) Alcohol and soft drink are not included.

Can you cater for dietary needs?

We can cater for vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free. We cannot cater for a vegan diet.

Are there any added extras?

There is an honesty bar for alcohol and soft drinks. You can pay your honesty tab by card but tips are left in cash.

What are the sleeping arrangements?

6 x twin bunk cabins with shared bathrooms.

Is there a porthole in my cabin?

Yes, each cabin has a deck hatch for light and ventilation. We recommend bringing an eye mask during the summer months for the midnight sun.

How many toilet/showers does she have?

4 shower rooms and an extra single toilet.

Are bedding and towels provided?

All bedding and towels are provided.

Is there a hairdryer on board?

Please do not bring one. The sea breeze makes a great natural alternative!

Will I be able to wash my clothes?

Noorderlicht does not have laundry for guests unless you are taking part in the 16day circumnavigation, where you will be able to wash underwear/small items if needed.

Is there heating on board?

Most definitely! The generator runs continuously so the boat is fully heated.

Do I need to tip the crew?

Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew.

What language is spoken onboard?

Dutch/English

Is there Wi-Fi?

There is no wifi on-board and there will be times when you are out of range when sailing in Svalbard. When you're in range to local towns, you should be able to pick up 4/5G so please make sure you have the appropriate data roaming set up on your mobile phone.

Can I charge my phone/camera?

Yes. There are power points in all cabins. Please bring 2-pin European adaptors.

What is the currency on board?

Euro's

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, life-jackets are provided and there are safety demonstrations once you board.

How do I get on and off the boat?

Noorderlicht is always at anchor so you'll need to be comfortable climbing in and out of the tender dinghy and climbing up the boats step ladder over the gunwale - there will always be a crew member to steady.

Are waterproofs provided?

Noorderlicht does not have waterproofs for guests so please bring your own.

Do I need sailing experience?

Absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.

Does the boat have any water toys?

Noorderlicht does not have any water toys.

Will I be sea sick?

Everyone reacts differently but we recommend if you are at all worried to take some medication 24 hours before departure.

Is there an age limit?

Yes. No children younger than 11. Above aged 16 is fine, but ages 11-16 we must check directly with the boat on a case by case basis.

Boat schedule

Arctic Spring Sailing and Walking in Svalbard

13 Jun 2026

8 days Days

£3,640.00€4,250.00

Noorderlicht Captains Choice Svalbard

Sail high into the Arctic circle and discover the remote island of Svalbard with an expedition sailing adventure on tall ship Noorderlicht.

Need some help?Talk to the team

Your Sailing Area

Svalbard, Norway

Day 1: Embarkation in Longyearbyen

Day 2: Visit to seabird cliff Alkhornet

Day 3: The Ice limits & wildlife in the Forlandsundet

Day 4: Panoramic view from Prins Karls Forland

Day 5: Ghost Town in Soviet-style: Barentsburg

Day 6: In Borebukta searching for Polar bears

Day 7: Sailing towards Longyearbyen

Day 8: Goodbye Noorderlicht!

Travel insurance notes

Life on board Noorderlicht

Sleeping and Relaxation

The food

To Note…

What’s included

What’s not included

GETTING THERE

Noorderlicht

Deck plan

Are all meals included?

Can you cater for dietary needs?

Are there any added extras?

What are the sleeping arrangements?

Is there a porthole in my cabin?

How many toilet/showers does she have?

Are bedding and towels provided?

Is there a hairdryer on board?

Will I be able to wash my clothes?

Is there heating on board?

Do I need to tip the crew?

What language is spoken onboard?

Is there Wi-Fi?

Can I charge my phone/camera?

What is the currency on board?

Are life jackets provided?

How do I get on and off the boat?

Are waterproofs provided?

Do I need sailing experience?

Does the boat have any water toys?

Will I be sea sick?

Is there an age limit?

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