About
Experience Svalbard’s Puffins in the High Arctic & Live aboard the sailing yacht Ylva
Join See & Explore on an exclusive small-group expedition to one of Svalbard’s hidden wildlife gems.
This three-day voyage takes you to a small, remote island in Isfjorden, where dramatic Arctic landscapes provide the perfect setting for observing and photographing the charismatic Atlantic Puffin.
Designed for wildlife photographers, bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, this expedition offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the Arctic in a peaceful and authentic way.
Whether you are looking to capture stunning wildlife photographs or simply enjoy the spectacular scenery and birdlife, you’ll have plenty of time ashore to explore and photograph at your own pace.
A Unique Time of Year
By mid-August, Svalbard is still bathed in continuous daylight, with the Midnight Sun lasting until 25 August.
This creates outstanding opportunities to photograph puffins in the warm, golden light of the Arctic evening and night, often with beautiful backlighting when conditions are right.
At this time of year, the puffin chicks have fledged, and the adult birds continue to use the colony while regularly flying to sea to feed. Their constant arrivals and departures provide excellent opportunities to photograph every aspect of puffin behaviour—from close-up portraits to flight photography and creative backlit compositions.
With long hours of natural light and a relaxed pace, you’ll have time to experiment with different photographic techniques and make the most of changing weather and light conditions.
The Expedition
The expedition begins in Longyearbyen, where we meet at 10:30 at Port of Longyear, alongside our partner sailing yacht Ylva.
After a welcome briefing, we sail approximately 15 nautical miles through Isfjorden to our destination.
The voyage normally takes 2–2.5 hours, depending on weather and sea conditions.
Upon arrival, we anchor in a sheltered bay near the island, where Ylva will remain for the next two nights.
Lunch is served shortly after arrival before our first Zodiac landing during the afternoon. We spend the rest of the day exploring the island, photographing puffins and other wildlife before returning to Ylva for dinner.
Whenever weather and light conditions allow, additional evening or late-night photography sessions may be arranged.
The following day is flexible. Together with your guide, captain and crew, we adapt the programme according to weather, bird activity and the wishes of the group, allowing us to make the best possible use of the available light and photographic opportunities.
On the final day, we enjoy one last photography session before returning to Longyearbyen. Arrival is expected around 15:00, subject to weather and sailing conditions.
Accommodation
Guests stay aboard the comfortable sailing yacht Ylva, anchored close to Alkhornet throughout the expedition.
Accommodation is in shared twin cabins, with two guests sharing each cabin. Cabin arrangements are agreed individually before departure.
Each cabin has its own private bathroom.
Expedition Facts
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Departure: 18 July 2027
Meeting time: 10:30
Meeting place: Port of Longyear, Longyearbyen
Accommodation: Sailing yacht Ylva
Maximum participants: 8 guests
Physical Requirements
Participants should be in good general health and capable of taking part in expedition activities.
Guests must be able to:
- Board and leave the Zodiac safely, including climbing a rope ladder of approximately one metre
- Walk on uneven natural terrain
- Spend several hours outdoors in Arctic conditions
- Manage potential seasickness independently
- Understand that medical assistance and evacuation may be delayed in remote Arctic areas
Please inform us in advance of any medical conditions that could affect your participation.
Contact us for further information and booking: Puffin Photography Expedition – Svalbard | See & Explore AS
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