Photography & Wildlife Expedition to Alkhornet – Svalbard - See & Explore

About

Experience one of Svalbard’s most remarkable wildlife areas on a small-group expedition with See & Explore.

This four-day voyage takes you to Alkhornet, the iconic bird cliff at the entrance to Isfjorden, where dramatic Arctic landscapes, abundant birdlife and excellent opportunities to observe Arctic foxes create unforgettable experiences. The expedition is designed for wildlife photographers, nature enthusiasts and anyone wishing to experience the Arctic in a quiet and authentic way.

Whether your goal is to capture unique photographs or simply enjoy the wildlife and scenery, this expedition offers plenty of time ashore to explore at your own pace.

A Unique Time of Year
During this period, thousands of Brünnich’s Guillemot chicks leave their nests high on the cliffs and make their first dramatic journey towards the sea. This remarkable event usually takes place during these days, although nature follows its own schedule and exact timing can never be guaranteed.

If conditions are right, you may witness one of Svalbard’s most spectacular wildlife events as Arctic foxes wait below the cliffs for birds that fail to reach the water. Observing this natural interaction is a privilege few visitors experience.

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 22 nautical miles west through Isfjorden towards Alkhornet.
The voyage normally takes around 3.5 hours, depending on weather and sea conditions.

Upon arrival, we anchor in a sheltered bay near Alkhornet, where Ylva will remain for the next three nights.

Lunch is served shortly after arrival before we make our first shore landing by Zodiac during the afternoon.
We spend the evening exploring the area on foot, photographing wildlife and enjoying the spectacular surroundings before returning to Ylva for dinner.

Whenever weather and light conditions allow, additional evening or late-night photography sessions may be arranged.

The following two full days are flexible. Together with the guide, captain and crew, we adapt the daily programme according to weather, wildlife activity and the wishes of the group. This allows us to make the most of the opportunities available each day.

On the morning of 21 July, we leave Alkhornet and sail back to Longyearbyen, where arrival is expected around 14:30, 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.

Included
- Three nights aboard Ylva
- Shared twin cabin with private bathroom
- Full board throughout the voyage
- Tea, coffee and snacks
- Zodiac landings
- Professional captain and crew
- Expedition guide from See & Explore
- Wildlife and photography opportunities at Alkhornet

For booking or other inquiries, please contact us: Photography & Wildlife Expedition to Alkhornet, Svalbard – cliff jumping birds | See & Explore AS