Svalbard - Around the Arctic Circle
9 nights on board R/V Kinfish 🇳🇴
If you like the following, this trip might be for you:
Try Out Expedition 👣
As humans have explored such big parts of our planet, places where tourism hasn't yet established itself are hard to find. This expedition to Svalbard is a "try out" for us to see what there is to find. Based on information from insiders, we will go and explore spots that are said to boast a ton of Arctic wildlife! Because of the try-out nature, this trip is heavily discounted!
Walrus Colonies 🧊
Characterized by their long tusks and blubbery bodies, the Arctic waters are home to large colonies of giant Walruses. The icy waters provide an abundant supply of clams, mollusks, and other bottom-dwelling creatures that walruses feed on. An extremely rare animal with astonishing body features, and a dream to photograph!
Polar Bears 🐻❄️
Polar bears, the apex predators of the Arctic, rely on sea ice as a platform for hunting seals, their primary prey. For many people these almost mythical and hyper powerful creatures in a dream to observe and photograph. Usually only to be seen on TV or wildlife photographer, this trips offers an awe-inspiring glimpse into the resilient bears of the Arctic.
Stunning Scenery ❄️
The landscape around Svalbard in the Arctic is a breathtaking blend of rugged mountains, expansive glaciers, and pristine fjords, all bathed in ethereal light during the midnight sun or polar night. This remote archipelago's wild beauty provides a dramatic backdrop to go spot Arctic wildlife, from polar bears to arctic foxes, puffins, seals and walrus.
Whale Wonders 🐋
During summer in the Arctic Circle, the nutrient-rich waters come alive with whales like blue whales, humpbacks, belugas, and bowheads, taking advantage of the light to feast on abundant prey. These gentle giants often breach or surface near the ice edges, offering unforgettable encounters in the serene polar environment.
Expedition Kinfish 🛥️
The Kinfish is a small ship with a rich history and raw character. The vessel is used for research quests during the winter months, such as uncovering the history of Norway and finding Viking remains. With a fantastic stabilisation system, this vessel provides a high level of comfort for a superior cruising experience.
Discovery Trip
This is the first time we take on a trip to Svalbard. That means we will discover and try-out spots that were recommended to us by locals, to see if they live up to the expectation!
The Arctic Circle
Cruising through icy waters and dramatic fjords provides unparalleled access to remote regions, where encounters with with wildlife are real. This journey into the pristine wilderness delivers an awe-inspiring connection to nature and its most resilient creatures living in ice environments.
Direction North Pole
- Marcel Wilpernig, Behind the Mask Travel-
Meet your BTM Trip leader
Mads Odgaard
Arctic Explorer
Svalbard - Around The Arctic Circle
Aug 20 - 29, 2025
Trip price:
- per person (see details below for what is included in this price)
Included:
- 10 Days / 9 nights on the expedition ship
- 2 Scandinavian expedition leaders fluent in English
- 2 Zodiacs for small group excursions
- “Ice Day”- snorkel among icebergs
- Search for polar bears, seals, walrus colonies and other indigenous wildlife
- Whaling stations visits
- Full program of activities and excursions
- All meals & snacks
- Water/tea/coffee
- Wine, beer, alcohol & soft drinks
- Thermal oversuit for scouting on ship & landtours
- All governmental taxes and port fees
Important as to the polar bear sightings: new regulations as per 1 January 2025 restrict visitors to get closer than 300m if polar bears are spotted.
Not included:
- Flights
- Transfers
- Tips for crew
- WiFi
- Mandatory Emergency Evacuation Insurance to a minimum benefit of US$ 200,000 per person
- Later implemented laws/regulations causing extra taxes/fees/costs over which BTM Travel has no control.
Our terms & conditions apply!
We highly recommend DiveAssure insurance, which covers force majeure cases and single missed days of diving due to sickness. 
Start and finish is in Longyearbyen, located close to the airport of Svalbard.
After arrival on the 20th, we’ll embark on a thrilling 9-day voyage from Svalbard, navigating the Arctic’s untamed waters where each day’s itinerary will be shaped by the weather and the ice.
This dynamic journey promises unparalleled adventures, from exploring secluded fjords to encountering majestic wildlife in their pristine natural habitat. Here is a sample itinerary:
Day 1 – Embark on the R/V Kinfish
Begin your Arctic adventure in Longyearbyen, where you’ll board the small expedition ship, R/V Kinfish. Meet the crew, expert naturalist guides, and your fellow travelers. After settling in, set sail through the pristine wilderness of Svalbard, marking the start of an unforgettable journey.
Days 2–9 – Exploring the Arctic
Over the next eight days, immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of the Svalbard Archipelago. Your itinerary will adapt to weather, pack ice conditions, and wildlife activity, ensuring the best possible experiences. Explore iceberg-filled fjords framed by dramatic mountains, glide past towering cliffs teeming with seabird colonies, and witness massive glaciers calving into the icy waters. Search for polar bears hunting seals along the ice, get close to massive walrus lounging in colonies on remote beaches, and keep an eye out for blue whales and beluga whales traversing the frigid seas.
As something special we will do an “Ice-Day” where we swim near glaciers among small icebergs and paddleboard and swim below towering bird cliffs with thousands of auks.
Along the way, visit historic whaling stations and research outposts, uncovering the region’s ecological and cultural heritage. Experience the Midnight Sun’s ethereal glow, and if conditions allow, you may even complete a full circumnavigation of Spitsbergen Island.
Day 10 – Disembark R/V Kinfish
The ship is expected to arrive in Longyearbyen the evening before disembarkation, giving you time to prepare for your departure. Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner hosted by the Captain. On your final morning, enjoy an early breakfast before heading to the airport for your onward travels.
M/V Kinfish
Step aboard the RV Kinfish, where adventure and comfort meet in perfect harmony. With room for up to 12 guests, our ship offers an intimate and exclusive experience as you explore the stunning natural beauty of your chosen destination, led by our expert crew of guides and naturalists.
Relax in our spacious and comfortable cabins, each with en-suite facilities, as you take in the breathtaking scenery from your own private window. Our onboard restaurant serves up exquisite cuisine, prepared by our talented chefs using the freshest local ingredients, while our bar is fully stocked with a selection of fine wines, spirits, and cocktails to enjoy at your leisure.
The RV Kinfish also features a range of amenities designed to enhance your experience. Take a dip in our hot tub on the upper deck, relax on the sun loungers, or make use of our kayaks and paddleboards to explore the surrounding waters up close. With our state-of-the-art technology and equipment, including radar and sonar, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the natural world like never before.
At Behind the Mask, we’re committed to sustainable travel and minimizing our impact on the environment. The ship is designed with eco-friendly technology, including solar panels and a water treatment system, to ensure we leave the smallest possible footprint on the beautiful wilderness we explore.
Vessel Specifications:
Vessel type Expedition and Research/Survey
Flag / Port of registry Sweden / Göteborg
Built / rebuilt Stord 1958 / Båtservice 1986, Kimek 1996, NRS 2017
Class DNV +1A-1 ICE-C – E0 (bow strengthened to ICE 1B1)
Length (LOA) 37.25 m
LBP 31,38 m
Beam 7.01 m
Max draft / Air draft 4.25 m / 16.25 m
Tonnage 329 GT / 98 NT
Displacement 442 tonnes
Material hull / superstructure Steel / Aluminium
Speed (cruising / max) 9 knots / 11 knots
4 spaces!
Top rated Liveaboard
