British Isles, Jan Mayen & Svalbard
You can start this unique voyage from two iconic points, Edinburgh and Reykjavik. Edinburgh Castle famously rises above Scotland’s capital to give a sense of the city’s eclectic and eventful history. The quaint town boasts not only medieval buildings, but also 18th century architecture in its newer parts. By choosing Reykjavik, however, you will get a glimpse of this magnificent volcanic island. It’s also the only national capital in the world with its very own puffin colony!
Regardless of your starting point, you will visit Jan Mayen before continuing to Spitsbergen, part of the renowned High Arctic archipelago of Svalbard. Visitors will explore fjords on the west side of the island as they search for polar bears and other iconic wildlife. Stunning landscapes and the area’s rich anthropological and geological history will guarantee an unforgettable Arctic experience!
Why travel with Poseidon Expeditions?
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
It’s one of the few truly remote places on Earth and only accessible by boat. This volcanic island boasts incredible vistas of the northernmost active volcano in the world. We’ll set foot on Jan Mayen’s volcanic beaches, visit a functioning Norwegian weather station and discover historic remains from the heydays of the whaling industry.
Spitsbergen’s varied landscape of mountains, tidewater glaciers and flowering tundra is home to impressive colonies of seabirds, a variety of seal and whale species, and a high concentration of polar bears stalking the ice. We may also visit Ny-Ålesund, a research settlement complete with a museum, post office and gift shop. There may even be a chance to swim in the Arctic Ocean.
The British Isles offer a mix of wild birding destinations and historical sites. You can visit the sandstone St. Magnus Cathedral, the Ring of Brodga, a huge ceremonial circle of stones dating back almost 5000 years, and the 5000-year-old village of Skara Brae. Fair Isle is a birdwatcher's paradise with lush grasslands and cliffs hosting over 345 bird species.
Itineraries
Svalbard Travel Guide
Everything you wanted to know about Svalbard and more: useful travel tips, polar bear safety procedures and human endeavor at the northern realms of our planet. Learn about the glaciers and landscapes of Svalbard and the ways you can actively explore this pristine polar wilderness. The guidebook is complete with a detailed wildlife account and a packing checklist.
Activities
PHOTOGRAPHY
FREE OPTION
This voyage offers a wealth of photographic opportunities for novice and experienced photographers alike. Our free photography program gives you the chance to learn and practice your photography skills alongside an expert photographer.
In Svalbard, charismatic megafauna abound in dramatic Arctic icescapes. Species include walrus, bearded seal, and, of course, the photogenic polar bear. While at sea, whales and seabirds also make excellent subjects.
From the cliffy shore of the British Isles to Jan Mayen’s icy volcano and spectacular views of Spitsbergen, this voyage promises a wide range of great landscape photo opportunities too. Our expert will be available to help you make the most of this bounty in your viewfinder.
Our expedition ship
discover your
next adventure
Contact us today and we'll help you plan your perfect vacation!
