Svalbard Pack Ice Polar Bear Expedition 2026 | Magnificent Landscapes and Exceptional Wildlife Encounters | World Photo Travels | Photo Workshops, Guided Tours, Safaris & Expeditions
- Mike Reyfman
Autumn Magic in the Kingdom of the Polar Bear• Photography Expedition Cruise. August/September 2026
Start: August 29, 2026, Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway
End: September 9, 2026, Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway
Price: €12300 | Single accommodation supplement: 1.8×
Group: Maximum 12 guests
Photography Leader:
Mike Reyfman
Expedition Leader / Photography Guide:
Vide Brandt
Expedition & Photography Guide:
Jens Wikström
SOLD OUT
Svalbard Pack Ice Photo Expedition
Nothing can prepare you for Svalbard. It is an incredible wilderness at the top of the world, a wildlife photographer’s dream! A high Arctic archipelago situated between Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard is a place of deep fjords, snow-capped mountains, massive sheets of ice, and magnificent wildlife. Travel aboard highes ice class Arctic Expedition Ship M/S Kvitungen in a small group, limited to 12 guests, search for the iconic symbol of the Arctic — the polar bear — and witness these majestic creatures in their natural environment.
A comfortable ship, an experienced crew, and seasoned Expedition and Tour Leaders who understand wildlife, ice, and light offer the best possible conditions for unforgettable photography. The rest is up to Mother Nature.
The whole ship is at our exclusive disposal and we decide where and how long we can stay and when to dine. We use two Zodiacs (6 clients per boat and not 10-12 as on standard cruises). 2 armed guides travel with us in case of meeting the masters of the Arctic – Polar bears.
The main objectives of our trip are wildlife in the context of the rigid Northern scenery, and dramatic Arctic landscapes themselves.
Our goal during this photo safari is to photograph and experience as much of Arctic's beauty as possible. From polar bears and walruses to arctic foxes and whales, this photo safari promises not only unbelievable photo opportunities but memories that will last you a lifetime.
Get your cameras ready – we are going to Svalbard!
☛ FEATURE: EXTREME HIGH ICE CLASS "1A-SUPER" SHIP that allows you to venture comfortably deep into the Arctic pack ice. We do what we want, when we want! Enjoy the small group flexibility our expeditions provide.
☛ FEATURE: PACK ICE EXPERIENCE. Navigate deep into the pack ice of the far north for close-up wildlife encounters and greatly increased opportunities for stunning images!
☛ FEATURE: GOLDEN LIGHT. In late August and early September, the Arctic is bathed in richer, more vibrant light. After the long summer of endless daylight, stunning sunsets and sunrises return, creating unforgettable moments and spectacular photographic opportunities.
Expedition Itinerary
Day 0 | August 29, 2026
- It's possible to arrive in Longyearbyen on August 30 th just before the ship will leave the dock, but we advise you to come earlier, get acclimatized, walk along the cozy streets and buy some souvenirs. After all - Longyearbyen is the Northernmost capital in the world and the weather could be moody here. There is always a possibility of a flight delay due to inclement weather conditions such as fog, heavy winds, etc.
- We strongly recommend arriving in Longyearbyen a day in advance on August 29th, 2026. We will provide hotel recommendations for your overnight stay and help you choose the best option for a comfortable start to the expedition.
- There are daily SAS flights from Oslo/Tromso to Longyearbyen. Norwegian also has direct flights from Oslo on select dates.
Day 1 | August 30, 2026
- You can photograph landscape on the shore of the Ice Fjord in the morning and look for birds or even arctic foxes on the outskirts of the town.
- We board our expedition ship at 16:00 and our Ice Odissey starts!
Days 2-9 | August 31 - September 7, 2026
- Just north and east of the Svalbard Archipelago, out in the high Arctic Ocean, lies a remarkable wilderness known as "the pack ice." This floating world is the true domain of polar bears, where they roam the drifting floes in search of seals once the fjord ice has vanished for the summer.
- New regulations in Svalbard now prohibit approaching polar bears closer than 500 meters (300 meters in August-September). To ensure we can observe and photograph Arctic Kings without such restrictions, our expedition will travel beyond Svalbard's 12-mile territorial waters and into the pack ice, where these rules do not apply. This allows us to explore the bears' natural habitat with greater freedom and enhanced opportunities for intimate close encounters.
- Traveling deep into the pack ice is an adventure in itself. The ice resembles a vast, unnamed, ever-shifting continent shaped by wind, tides, and ocean currents. Navigation can take time, but the rewards come quickly once we begin spotting wildlife.
- By late August and early September, the Arctic light becomes especially striking. After the long period of continuous daylight, the return of sunsets and sunrises bathes the ice in rich color, creating exceptional conditions for photography.
- Along the shores of Svalbard, we will also visit walrus haul-outs and search for Arctic foxes. This is the season when fox kits are especially active and playful, offering excellent opportunities for observation and photography.
- We are in the Arctic, a region shaped entirely by ice, weather, and constant movement. Our exact itinerary depends on these natural forces. The primary goal of our expedition is to experience and photograph the wildlife and landscapes of Svalbard, with a strong focus on finding and photographing the King of the Arctic, the polar bear, in the best possible settings and light.
Day 10 | September 8, 2026
- Today we sail in Longyearbyen direction. We stop at places where we may see Arctic foxes and deer. In autumn, the fox kits are especially entertaining to watch, often playing around the tundra and sometimes already wearing their white winter coats. We arrive in Longyearbyen in the evening and spend the night on board.
Day 11 | September 9, 2026
- Our expedition ends and the participants may fly home. Will have to leave the ship after breakfast before 9.00 a.m. Taxi service is available and the ride to the airport takes around 10 minutes. You can go directly to the airport and fly home at noon. If you decide to fly from Longyearbyen later in the day, you can store your baggage on board and explore the town on your own. In this case, you should pick up your bags no later than 2:00 p.m.
Possible Expedition Routes
We built this itinerary trying to make our expedition the most effective. We have favorite places on the archipelago, and always try to visit them. Nevertheless, the route depends not only on our desires but also on the current weather and ice situation and the latest data on the whereabouts of animals. In the history of our voyages to Spitsbergen, the route never repeated.
We'll explore the western and northern parts of the archipelago, and if weather conditions allow, we will spend as much time as possible in the pack ice. Our route will be planned based on our captain's expertise, current weather and ice conditions, and updates from other ships in the area. We will remain highly flexible to make the most of our time in the Arctic.
What is Included
INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
- Accommodation aboard an ice class 1A Super Arctic expedition ship;
- All meals on board;
- Coffee and tea 24/7
- Two Zodiacs for excursions, landings, and shooting from water level;
- Armed guides and safety equipment;
- Photographic guiding and instruction;
NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
- Travel to and from Longyearbyen, Svalbard;
- Passport and visa fees (if applicable);
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks;
- Medical & Evacuation Insurance (required);
- Airport and harbor transfers;
- Tips to the crew;
M/S Kvitungen — Extreme high ice class 1A Super Arctic Expedition Ship
Our tours are designed for small groups of passionate wildlife photographers, offering a unique opportunity to share experiences and capture stunning Arctic wildlife.
Drift ice cruises in the Arctic Ocean north of Svalbard are only possible with high ice-class vessels. We are excited to offer one of the highest ice-class small ships available, allowing you to travel comfortably deep into the Arctic pack ice. With M/S Kvitungen, these limitations are a thing of the past.
Built in Norway, M/S Kvitungen was specifically constructed to navigate the challenging pack ice along Greenland's east coast. Over the years, it has served in various logistical roles throughout the Arctic. Starting in 2025, M/S Kvitungen is operating primarily on pack ice expeditions.
With engine capacity three times greater than most ships in its category and a 1A Super ice class—matching some of the Arctic's most capable vessels—M/S Kvitungen opens new horizons for our guests. The international waters of the pack ice are the true kingdom of the polar bear, and this is exactly where we aim to take you.
M/S Kvitungen is expertly designed for sailing in dense pack ice. Every detail has been carefully considered: both rudder and propeller are reinforced and protected from moving ice, and the hull is built to genuine icebreaker standards. However, Arctic expeditions are not only about technical specifications—they are about people. As a Norwegian ship with a Norwegian crew, the captain and officers bring decades of experience operating vessels in pack ice. Together with our seasoned guides, they will lead you to the most remote corners of the Arctic Ocean, far from other ships.
M/S Kvitungen is not a typical ultra-luxury cruise ship. Instead, she is a rugged expedition vessel, perfectly suited for wildlife photographers seeking authentic adventure and access to the heart of Arctic action.
Onboard, we offer both single and double cabins with shared facilities.
Booking and Payment Schedule
Please register for this expedition using the form below. A deposit payment of €4000 is required upon booking. We will send you payment instructions for a deposit payment upon registration. The remaining balance is due April 29, 2026.
Registration
Desert & Stone Landscape Workshop | California 2025
One of the most wonderful and memorable trips I have ever taken. Mike Reyfman proved to be an excellent organizer, and the itinerary was thoughtfully planned from start to finish. Weather is always a crucial factor on landscape-focused photo tours, and November in California can be unpredictable, but Mike always had alternative locations ready for any challenge we encountered. We never had to wait for the weather. There was always an opportunity to photograph, and the results speak for themselves. I came home with many strong, impressive images.
We traveled comfortably in a spacious, terrain-capable vehicle along the iconic roads of the Far West, soaking in the spirit of the place, and stayed in authentic American motels that felt straight out of a Hollywood movie. Most important of all was the warm, friendly atmosphere throughout the trip, which made the experience truly special.
– Alex Zelinskiy, Russia/Spain
Svalbard 2024 Expedition Cruise
This was our second expedition with WorldPhotoTravels and we had a wonderful experience both times!
The trip is very well organized down to the last detail. Mike was working very hard with Pieter-Jan and Yves to make sure the group had the best opportunity for the best shots!. Personally, for photo travel, I would not consider any other company. Highly recommend to anybody!
Thank you again, and looking forward to the next adventure together!
– George & Ilona Pall, USA
Japan Wildlife in Winter & Winter Landscape workshops 2025
I had an excellent experience on a two-week photo tour with Mike Reyfman. From breathtaking landscapes to dancing cranes, eagles, snow monkeys, and other wildlife, every moment was unforgettable.
Mike led the group with a great attitude, ensuring everyone found the best perspectives, perfected their camera settings, and resolved any challenges along the way.
Beyond the incredible photography experience, I was deeply touched by the kindness and hospitality of the Japanese people. It’s something you have to experience for yourself—it left a lasting impression on my soul.
– Vladimir Vorobeychik, United States
Japan Wildlife in Winter & Winter Landscape workshops 2025
I had a great time and captured amazing photos during Mike’s workshops in wintertime Japan!
Those were my second and third trips with him as a guide and photo tutor, and I will surely join one of his future workshops!
– Marco Brazzola, Switzerland
South Georgia 2023 & Svalbard 2024 expeditions
I attended two trips with Mike, both were very well organized and value for money. I returned with many jaw dropping shots, and experiencing those animals in real life was even more exhilarating. I would go with him again and again - and eventually will.
– Agnes Koltay, UAE/Hungary
South Georgia, Patagonia & Iguazu Falls workshops 2023
I just came back from a four-week trip to South Georgia Island, Patagonia, and Iguazu Falls with Mike. It was a trip of a lifetime. Some of these places are remote and hard to get to. Mike managed and organized all of it. I would probably have never gone to these places if I had not joined his group. He had been very responsive and helpful during the time leading up to the trip; I asked him countless questions about camera gear, backpacks and clothing items to bring. He patiently answered them all. He was also extremely helpful during the trip, offering technical support, giving suggestions, and even offering an extra day to make up for a rained-out day. Overall, I had a wonderful time and took loads and loads of photos to take home to process.
– Ruyin Ye, US/Hong Kong
South Georgia Expedition 2023
I want to thank you for an amazing trip to South Georgia. My last-minute switch to your trip was a blessing in disguise. It was definitely one of my best trips ever- and the group made it so special. With the focus on photography with all of the amazing photographers you brought from all over the world - it could not have been better
– John Rubin, US
South Georgia Island Photography Expedition 2023
One of my favorite trips of all times! Mike Reyfman was very responsive the full year before we left. I was in good hands every step of the way with the expedition team. I saw everything I'd hoped to see (and more). Highly recommend!
– Barbara Tricarico, US
Multiple trips with World Photo Travels in 2009-2022
I am a recreational photographer and have taken multiple trips with World Photo Travels. I love going on tours with this group because you will be immersed in opportunities to photograph beautiful places. I've taken other photo trips with companies and none have compared to World Photo Travels. You will be treated to golden hour photography mornings and evenings and the spots are scouted in advance to make sure it is a smooth experience. After that, all you will need is for mother nature to cooperate with her magic wand!– Iza W
Namibia 2017 workshop
From the first time I saw Mike's captivating Namibia pictures, I knew this is the place I must see. I signed up for the next expedition without hesitation. And yes, I got everything and even more than I expected: spectacular scenery of Namib Desert and Sossusvlei, mesmerizing ghost town Kolmanskop, surreal sights of Deadvlei, scenic helicopter rides over the desert and ocean with mind-blowing views, desert "rollercoaster" rides, and safari game drives. It had been an unforgettable and unique experience. The logistics of the trip were extremely complex, but they were very well and thoughtfully crafted by Mike, with attention to details such as exclusive lodge locations where we stayed, ensuring we enjoyed the accommodations and were always in the right place at the right time.
Mike's leadership, professionalism, and willingness to help every member of the team go above and beyond. He shared his experience, knowledge, and skills and made sure we were able to get That perfect shot. Participating in Mike's expeditions is always a very inspirational, enriching, and learning experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have shared it with such a passionate and talented photographer.
– Svetlana Magdel, US
Greenland 2018 & 2022 Scoresby Sund Expeditions
I did two Greenland trips with World Photo Travels and I was absolutely impressed by the outstanding service provided by the company's founder Mike Reyfman. Both times the planning and expectations for the adventure were very well communicated and executed. Mike provided sufficient pre-departure information and helpful tips for the participants to properly prepare for the sailing photo tour in the Wild North.
Everything was handled perfectly during the trip. The boat, the crew, the guides, and the itinerary they chose were excellent. Everybody did their best to make the most out of the trip. It was a great Arctic adventure with comfortable onboard accommodations and elaborate cuisine. There were two photo guides so we had plenty of opportunities for one-on-one feedback and professional help and tips to boost our photography skills. The shooting locations and times were carefully selected; the guides and the boat captain worked as a team choosing the best route and navigation to give us paramount vantage points for shooting.
World Photo Travels is not just about photography but the experiences, the people, great social time, and lots of fun!
– Diana G, Canada
Svalbard 2023
Great trip. Mike worked constantly with the crew and expedition guides to maximize our opportunities at all times of day and "night" - photo opportunities 'round the clock in the Arctic midnight sun - even waking us for 0-hour zodiac excursions. Can't say enough about the ship crew and the tour leads in making it the best trip possible.
– Steven Wachtel, US
Svalbard June 2023 Expedition
Svalbard was a five-star plus photo expedition The location offers an unprecedented number of photo opportunities; both wildlife and landscape. It is truly dramatic. Each day of the expedition brought a new experience as we sailed around the archipelago. Mike was a first-class leader of the expedition always on hand to offer support and advice with each photo opportunity. Mike has a wealth of experience and knowledge.
It is also worth highlighting his partnership with Yves, our Expedition Leader. Yves was a critical element to the overall success with his in-depth knowledge of Svalbard and its wildlife inhabitants. Freya is a "first-class base" for the trip; well-equipped, superb crew, great food, and extremely comfortable cabins and social space. Over and above the "photography side" of the trip, it was a very sociable trip with many very talented amateur photographers coming together from different continents.
– Keith Fleming, UK/Scotland
Scoresby Sund Expedition, Greenland, 2022
I had the pleasure of taking a trip with World Photo Travels and it was the most amazing trip! It was organized perfectly and Mike is an amazing photographer, but most of all, he is an amazing teacher. If you want to see exotic places, not think about any of the logistics, and most of all, take your photography to a totally different level - Mike and World Photo Travels are exactly what the doctor ordered. I'll be definitely traveling with Mike more!– Alla Gribov, US
Greenland 2022 Scoresby Sund Expedition
I enjoyed every second of this trip, not only because of the scenery but also for the perfect organization. Both the tour leader and the guides were knowledgeable, kind, and prepared to take you when and where the most interesting scenes could occur. Also, I'd like to emphasize the multicultural environment we were in, and last but not least - the tasty kitchen.– János Demeter, Hungary
2022 Scoresby Sund Expedition
Amazing and well-organized journey. Tons of great memories and stunning photos. Thank you Mike Reyfman for the unforgettable experience– Evgueni Strok, Canada
Svalbard 2023 Expedition
I just got back from an EPIC trip ice-breaking through Svalbard. Usually, when I go on these trips as weather and animal sightings can be so unpredictable, my expectation is to go home with ONE framable photo! However, on this trip, I easily have 10 framable photos plus many hundreds of great images of rare animals in their natural habitat! Beautiful!
One of the things I love about Mike's trips is that they are for real photography, there is no compromise. If we don't sleep in days to get the shot, then we don't sleep! But get the shot. Too many of these tours end up being travel and not photography. So for this reason, if you want the shot, you book one of Mike's trips. This is my second time with him and another thing that stands out is the quality of the guides, they have always been above excellent and super dedicated to the cause, which is always enjoyable and refreshing. This trip was truly great as we also had an amazing mixed group of nationalities. Look forward to the next trip!
– Alex Ferri, UK
Cypress Swamps 2021 Workshop
Mike and Dmitry thank you for making my first Photo Workshop with you and my first workshop since Covid so fantastic! The effort and energy that you put into securing canoes, kayaks, and wonderful accommodations in remote locations made for such an enjoyable and memorable trip. We made photos during the day and formed friendships in the evening as we shared wonderful home-cooked meals, discussed our day, and learned photo tips for composition while on the water. I look forward to traveling with you again!– Brenda Mitchell, US
Cypress Swamps 2022 Workshop
For many years now I wanted to go to the swamps. The workshop really exceeded by far my expectations. The spots were beautiful, the timing was excellent, learned a lot, took beautiful pictures, and had a great time with all of you. Could not ask for more. Thanks a lot! Hope to see you on another trip.– Laura Greenham, Mexico
Cypress Swamps 2022 Workshop
I attended a fantastic photographic workshop in the swamps of Louisiana and Texas. Our leaders Dmitry and Mike were perfect teachers, organizers, and best friends. We all had a great time, and I would highly recommend this experience to anybody passionate about photography. I can't wait to book some other destination with them.– Marco Brazzola, Switzerland
Cypress Swamps 2021 Workshop
I just got back from an AMAZING photo tour to the Cypress Swamps hosted by Mike Reyfman and Dmitry Arkhipov! Mike and Dimitry planned and executed everything beautifully. They know exactly where and when to take you for the best photographs, as he knows these swamps so well. Mike and Dmitry both are world-class photographers and they shared their knowledge with us throughout the trip. If we had questions (no matter what kind of cameras we had), they had answers. It was also a great group! For a few days, we stayed in these cabins and it was a fun time collaborating on photography, cooking, and eating meals together. and establishing friendships...it really made this tour special!
I will definitely be taking another tour with Mike and/or Dmitry...hopefully soon!
– Valerie Laney, US
Svalbard 2019 Expedition
Trip of a lifetime I have dreamt about seeing the Arctic for years and when I heard about 10 days on a small ship with a bunch of photographers from various backgrounds, I was sold. Mike and Dimitry were great photography leads, helpful regarding photography tips, and genuinely concerned about their client's experiences. Before the expedition, Mike and Dimitry advised on gear, travel, and photography equipment. They also talked with me on the phone to ensure I would be a good fit for the group as the trip does involve being on a boat for 10 days with strangers. By the end of the trip, you are all singing, drinking, laughing, and sharing photos.– John Di Tomaso, USA
