SMALL SAILINGS IN SVALBARD

A small-ship expedition cruise line has unveiled ‘micro-cruises’ for just 12 guests travelling to the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard.

Secret Atlas offers the smallest group sizes in the Arctic and Antarctica but the highest guide- to-guest ratio, with one expert leader for every six passengers. The cruises take place on ice- strengthened, purpose-built vessels, calling at smaller and more remote ports.

Among the new itineraries is a 10-day expedition, Natural Wonders of Svalbard, which departs from Longyearbyen between May and August to make the most of the midnight sun. Guests can spot polar bears, walruses, whales, Arctic foxes and reindeer. Prices start at £6,800 per person full-board with shared facilities.

Amateur photographers can join a nine-day Natural Wonders of Svalbard Photo Tour in May 2023, led by wildlife photographer Chase Teron, from £7,000 per person (secretatlastravel.com).