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Leica Photo Adventure: Svalbard | May 19-26, 2027

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Leica Photo Adventure: Svalbard | May 19-26, 2027

  • Description
  • Details
  • Itinerary
  • Policies, etc.


  • Some places don't just offer photographs. They offer a different way of seeing.

    Svalbard in May is one of those places. We've partnered once again with Secret Atlas to explore this remote Arctic wilderness, and in the spring, it presents its wilder side. The archipelago is emerging from the depths of winter, and everything feels new. A fresh page of white snow lies before us. The light is soft and pastel and seemingly endless. For a photographer, it's close to paradise.

    This is an 8-day expedition for just twelve guests, aboard the MV Vikingfjord. From the deck, you'll photograph dramatic landscapes bathed in that extraordinary Arctic light: towering glaciers, sculpted icebergs, and mirror-like waters reflecting the endless sky above. Zodiac excursions bring you right up close to the raw, untamed wilderness, where every moment presents a new opportunity to capture something extraordinary.

    Wildlife encounters are simply part of life up here. Polar bears patrol the ice. Walruses lounge on drifting floes. Seabirds soar overhead. And on land, you might catch the fleeting moment of a fox moving through the tundra, or find yourself drawn into the intricate textures of ancient ice. Svalbard rewards the patient eye and the curious one in equal measure.

    Whether you're an experienced photographer or still finding your vision, this journey is designed to deepen your practice. You'll be guided by two expert trip leaders and supported throughout by two dedicated Leica specialists, Colin McKinley and David Farkas, ensuring an unparalleled experience from first light to last.

    We'd love to have you with us!



     Expedition Highlights

    • Spring is the best time to visit for quintessentially Arctic scenery of frozen seascapes, crystalline icebergs, majestic glaciers, fjords and snow-covered mountains.

    • Chance encounters with wildlife, including whales, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, walruses, seals, and polar bears, against a snowy backdrop.

    • Use 2 Zodiacs for exploring and close-up photography of wildlife.

    • See Europe’s last great wilderness wrapped in the soft light of the early season, lit up by pastel sunrises and sunsets.

    • Enjoy a friendly and inclusive atmosphere with a small, intimate group size of just 12 like-minded explorers.

    • Be led by world-class expedition leaders.



  • Dates:

    Wednesday, May 19 - Wednesday, May 26, 2027

    Cost: 

    $16,995 - Double occupancy cabins (can be 2 twin beds or 1 double bed)
    *Two Signature single cabins available for an additional $4500
    *One Signature Penthouse available for additional $3000

    Size:

    Limited to 12 attendees



    Included in the cost of the trip:

    • Double occupancy cabins w/ private facilities 
    • Two Signature Single cabins available for $4500 each
    • One Signature Penthouse available for additional $3000
    • Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
    • Alcoholic drinks with evening meals
    • Expert Svalbard expedition leaders
    • Lectures on Svalbard
    • Highly experienced captain and crew
    • Zodiac expeditions for shore landings and photo opportunities
    • Rubber boots for shore landings
    • All airport transfers and ground transportation to and from vessel
    • Gratuities for guides and crew
    • In-the-field photography instruction
    • Adobe Lightroom post processing instruction
    • 1-on-1 critique/review sessions

    Not included in the cost of the trip:

    • International flights to and from Longyearbyen (LYR)
    • Comprehensive travel insurance
    • Additional hotel nights before or after the trip
    • Alcohol (aside from dinners)
    • Items of a personal nature
    • Visas (if necessary)

    *Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but our guides and captain will put us in the best possible position to find them.

    About MV Vikingfjord




    The MV Vikingfjord is the most environmentally friendly small expedition vessel in the Arctic with new systems creating a 95% reduction in NOX emissions and increased efficiency. Rebuilt from the ground up around the guest experience, Vikingfjord offers a new level of comfort with en suite cabins, an open plan panoramic lounge and restaurant, on deck sauna and hot pool with a view, a large mud room and ample equipment storage. It features a presentation TV, a mini bar, and a hot beverage service for all guests.



    Designed to deliver an outstanding expedition experience, Vikingfjord has an ice strengthened hull for navigating the pack ice and is equipped with 2 zodiacs for exploring. 
 


    Passenger cabins include:



    4 x Signature Twin/ Double cabins
 (can be 2 twin beds or 1 double bed)
    2 x Signature Single
 cabins
    1 x Penthouse Double (1 double bed - requires 2 paid guests)


    Signing Up

    To sign up for this photo adventure, checkout here on our website, call 305-921-4433 or email us ([email protected]). We are happy to answer any questions you may have. A $4995 deposit is required to hold your spot. The first balance payment of $6000 will be due on November 19, 2026 and the final balance payment of $6000 will be due on February 19, 2027.

    We look forward to seeing you in Svalbard!

  • Possible Itinerary (We prefer to embrace spontaneity and make the most of every opportunity nature presents to us. This is how we believe a true, authentic expedition should run. After all, the thrill of adventuring into the unknown is more rewarding than a journey that runs on tracks! So all our listed itineraries are for guidance only. The day-to-day activities may vary depending on the ice, the weather, and the wildlife. Landings are subject to site availability and permissions, and always in line with AECO regulations.)

    Day 1 (May 19) - Welcome aboard! Embarkation in Longyearbyen at 16:00

    We begin our expedition in the most Northerly town in the world, Longyearbyen. The airport code is LYR and you'll most likely fly through Oslo (OSL) to get here. In the afternoon we will embark on our expedition vessel at 4pm, after an introduction from our expedition leader and a safety briefing from the captain. We’ll set sail out through Isfjorden and past the striking cliffs of Fuglefjella (Bird Mountain). As we leave civilization behind, this first evening offers an introduction to Arctic light, low contrast, soft tones, and subtle shifts in color as the sun dips toward the horizon.

    *We recommend arriving a day early, on May 18th, for this trip just in case there are any travel or weather delays. You really don't want to miss the boat departure on the 19th at 4pm!


    Day 2 (May 20)

    At the mouth of Isfjorden, Alkhornet marks a dramatic geological transition from plateau landscapes to sharp, alpine forms. Snow-covered slopes and bird cliffs provide opportunities to work scale and layering within the frame.

    Later, we land at Poolepynten on Prins Karls Forland, home to a walrus haul-out and historic burial site. This is a location where patience matters, waiting quietly as light and behavior align can result in powerful, intimate wildlife images set against a stark Arctic shoreline.



    Days 3-7 (May 21) 

    We venture toward the ice edge, a constantly shifting environment defined by texture, contrast, and atmosphere. This is prime territory for seals, seabirds, and polar bears, and a masterclass in reading light on ice. 

    Land at Sallyhamna, a hut built in 1937, rich in history and cultural remains from the 1600s whaling period.

    Explore the island of Kvitøya, taking in the walrus colony and cultural remains of the Andreeneset headland.

    Take a Zodiac cruise to see Storisstraumen and a ship cruise to Bråsvellbreen of the Austfonna ice cap, Europe's third-largest glacier by volume and area.

    Marvel at Alkefjellet, a stunning bird cliff, nesting location of Brünnich guillemot.
    See the historical site at Bruceneset in beautiful Alicehamna bay, during a Zodiac cruise or hike. 

    Land at Hamburgbukta to view remains from the 1600s whaling industry. 
    Visit Ny-Ålesund Research Station, the world’s northernmost year-round research facility, and Kongsfjorden, with landings and cruises to its two glaciers, Kronebreen and Kongsbreen.


    Alkhornet showcases the change in geology from plateau to edge-dominated, alpine mountainous landscape.


    Day 8 (May 26) - Departure

    By morning we will have arrived back at the port of Longyearbyen. Disembarking the ship will involve saying goodbye to the new friends you’ve made but knowing you will keep the memories and photographs of this transformative adventure you shared together. We'll disembark at 9:00am so feel free to make flight arrangements from Noon departures onward.


  • Payment

    A $4995 deposit is required to hold your spot. The first balance payment of $6000 will be due on November 19, 2026 and the final balance payment of $6000 will be due on February 19, 2027.

    Withdrawal and Refund Policy

    Enrollment is limited to 12 participants, and once you sign up, we are counting on your attendance. As we have chartered the MV Vikingfjord, our investment in this tour is non-refundable. Therefore our cancellation policy is different than our normal workshops and tours. This is our refund policy:

    *PLEASE NOTE: Your deposit will be non-refundable if we cannot fill your spot. 

    If you cancel and we find someone to fill your seat, we will refund you the full amount you have paid towards the tuition, minus a $250 service charge and any credit card processing fees    . If you cancel and we cannot find someone to fill your seat, then you will be refunded according to the following schedule:

    At least 6 months before the start of the workshop: Full refund minus your deposit
    Between 6 months and 3 months before the start of the workshop: 50% refund minus your deposit
    Less than 3 months from the start of the workshop: No refund

    If you need to withdraw from this workshop, please notify us in writing (email is acceptable) as soon as possible.

    Course Cancellation and Other Terms

    Leica Store Miami reserves the right to cancel a reservation if full payment has not been received by 6 months prior to the start of the trip.

    In the event that this workshop must be canceled due to inadequate enrollment, all fees and deposits will be refunded in full or may be transferred to another workshop within 24 months.

    In the unlikely event of illness, accident or injury to one of the instructors, Leica Store Miami reserves the right to replace that instructor with a comparable instructor.

    In the event of a natural disaster or severe weather event, Leica Store Miami reserves the right to postpone or cancel the workshop.

    Travel Insurance (required)

    It is a requirement of booking that guests provide evidence of comprehensive travel insurance to cover cancellation and curtailment, medical and emergency expenses (including repatriation), personal accident, injury and death in addition to loss of/damage to luggage and possessions, personal possessions and flight cancellations/delays. Companies like Travelex and Allianz Global Assistance are reputable but you can choose any vendor you like. Leica Store Miami is not responsible for reimbursement of non-refundable airline tickets in the event of a workshop cancellation, nor are we responsible for trip cancellations due to medical emergencies, personal emergencies or other unforeseen events.

    Camera Gear Insurance (STRONGLY recommended)

    We advise all of our workshop attendees to insure their camera gear against damage, theft, loss, etc. If your gear is not already insured, check with your home owner's insurance to see if they offer coverage. There are several photo specific insurance policies out there as well.

    Solo Attendees

    As there are only 2 single cabins on this expedition and 7 cabins in total, chances are you'll be paired up with another solo traveler of the same gender. If there is not another solo attendee of the same gender, we reserve the right to cancel your reservation. *Of course, we will do all we can to make the pairings work.

    Communicable Illness Protocols

    Our main goal on all of our tours is to keep everyone safe. To that end, we ask that everyone do their best to avoid exposure to communicable diseases like Covid-19, influenza, RSV, etc before and during our trip. If someone in our group becomes ill on the trip and we deem it to be harmful to the group, we reserve the right to remove them from group activities where social distancing is not possible.

    Transfers

    If for any reason you wish to transfer your deposit or workshop fee, please notify us by email. You must register and complete a new workshop within 24 months of the withdrawal. We reserve the right to accept or deny any transfer.

    There are no exceptions to our Cancellation and Transfer Policy.

  • Description
  • Details
  • Itinerary
  • Policies, etc.


  • Some places don't just offer photographs. They offer a different way of seeing.

    Svalbard in May is one of those places. We've partnered once again with Secret Atlas to explore this remote Arctic wilderness, and in the spring, it presents its wilder side. The archipelago is emerging from the depths of winter, and everything feels new. A fresh page of white snow lies before us. The light is soft and pastel and seemingly endless. For a photographer, it's close to paradise.

    This is an 8-day expedition for just twelve guests, aboard the MV Vikingfjord. From the deck, you'll photograph dramatic landscapes bathed in that extraordinary Arctic light: towering glaciers, sculpted icebergs, and mirror-like waters reflecting the endless sky above. Zodiac excursions bring you right up close to the raw, untamed wilderness, where every moment presents a new opportunity to capture something extraordinary.

    Wildlife encounters are simply part of life up here. Polar bears patrol the ice. Walruses lounge on drifting floes. Seabirds soar overhead. And on land, you might catch the fleeting moment of a fox moving through the tundra, or find yourself drawn into the intricate textures of ancient ice. Svalbard rewards the patient eye and the curious one in equal measure.

    Whether you're an experienced photographer or still finding your vision, this journey is designed to deepen your practice. You'll be guided by two expert trip leaders and supported throughout by two dedicated Leica specialists, Colin McKinley and David Farkas, ensuring an unparalleled experience from first light to last.

    We'd love to have you with us!



     Expedition Highlights

    • Spring is the best time to visit for quintessentially Arctic scenery of frozen seascapes, crystalline icebergs, majestic glaciers, fjords and snow-covered mountains.

    • Chance encounters with wildlife, including whales, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, walruses, seals, and polar bears, against a snowy backdrop.

    • Use 2 Zodiacs for exploring and close-up photography of wildlife.

    • See Europe’s last great wilderness wrapped in the soft light of the early season, lit up by pastel sunrises and sunsets.

    • Enjoy a friendly and inclusive atmosphere with a small, intimate group size of just 12 like-minded explorers.

    • Be led by world-class expedition leaders.



  • Dates:

    Wednesday, May 19 - Wednesday, May 26, 2027

    Cost: 

    $16,995 - Double occupancy cabins (can be 2 twin beds or 1 double bed)
    *Two Signature single cabins available for an additional $4500
    *One Signature Penthouse available for additional $3000

    Size:

    Limited to 12 attendees



    Included in the cost of the trip:

    • Double occupancy cabins w/ private facilities 
    • Two Signature Single cabins available for $4500 each
    • One Signature Penthouse available for additional $3000
    • Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
    • Alcoholic drinks with evening meals
    • Expert Svalbard expedition leaders
    • Lectures on Svalbard
    • Highly experienced captain and crew
    • Zodiac expeditions for shore landings and photo opportunities
    • Rubber boots for shore landings
    • All airport transfers and ground transportation to and from vessel
    • Gratuities for guides and crew
    • In-the-field photography instruction
    • Adobe Lightroom post processing instruction
    • 1-on-1 critique/review sessions

    Not included in the cost of the trip:

    • International flights to and from Longyearbyen (LYR)
    • Comprehensive travel insurance
    • Additional hotel nights before or after the trip
    • Alcohol (aside from dinners)
    • Items of a personal nature
    • Visas (if necessary)

    *Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but our guides and captain will put us in the best possible position to find them.

    About MV Vikingfjord




    The MV Vikingfjord is the most environmentally friendly small expedition vessel in the Arctic with new systems creating a 95% reduction in NOX emissions and increased efficiency. Rebuilt from the ground up around the guest experience, Vikingfjord offers a new level of comfort with en suite cabins, an open plan panoramic lounge and restaurant, on deck sauna and hot pool with a view, a large mud room and ample equipment storage. It features a presentation TV, a mini bar, and a hot beverage service for all guests.



    Designed to deliver an outstanding expedition experience, Vikingfjord has an ice strengthened hull for navigating the pack ice and is equipped with 2 zodiacs for exploring. 
 


    Passenger cabins include:



    4 x Signature Twin/ Double cabins
 (can be 2 twin beds or 1 double bed)
    2 x Signature Single
 cabins
    1 x Penthouse Double (1 double bed - requires 2 paid guests)


    Signing Up

    To sign up for this photo adventure, checkout here on our website, call 305-921-4433 or email us ([email protected]). We are happy to answer any questions you may have. A $4995 deposit is required to hold your spot. The first balance payment of $6000 will be due on November 19, 2026 and the final balance payment of $6000 will be due on February 19, 2027.

    We look forward to seeing you in Svalbard!

  • Possible Itinerary (We prefer to embrace spontaneity and make the most of every opportunity nature presents to us. This is how we believe a true, authentic expedition should run. After all, the thrill of adventuring into the unknown is more rewarding than a journey that runs on tracks! So all our listed itineraries are for guidance only. The day-to-day activities may vary depending on the ice, the weather, and the wildlife. Landings are subject to site availability and permissions, and always in line with AECO regulations.)

    Day 1 (May 19) - Welcome aboard! Embarkation in Longyearbyen at 16:00

    We begin our expedition in the most Northerly town in the world, Longyearbyen. The airport code is LYR and you'll most likely fly through Oslo (OSL) to get here. In the afternoon we will embark on our expedition vessel at 4pm, after an introduction from our expedition leader and a safety briefing from the captain. We’ll set sail out through Isfjorden and past the striking cliffs of Fuglefjella (Bird Mountain). As we leave civilization behind, this first evening offers an introduction to Arctic light, low contrast, soft tones, and subtle shifts in color as the sun dips toward the horizon.

    *We recommend arriving a day early, on May 18th, for this trip just in case there are any travel or weather delays. You really don't want to miss the boat departure on the 19th at 4pm!


    Day 2 (May 20)

    At the mouth of Isfjorden, Alkhornet marks a dramatic geological transition from plateau landscapes to sharp, alpine forms. Snow-covered slopes and bird cliffs provide opportunities to work scale and layering within the frame.

    Later, we land at Poolepynten on Prins Karls Forland, home to a walrus haul-out and historic burial site. This is a location where patience matters, waiting quietly as light and behavior align can result in powerful, intimate wildlife images set against a stark Arctic shoreline.



    Days 3-7 (May 21) 

    We venture toward the ice edge, a constantly shifting environment defined by texture, contrast, and atmosphere. This is prime territory for seals, seabirds, and polar bears, and a masterclass in reading light on ice. 

    Land at Sallyhamna, a hut built in 1937, rich in history and cultural remains from the 1600s whaling period.

    Explore the island of Kvitøya, taking in the walrus colony and cultural remains of the Andreeneset headland.

    Take a Zodiac cruise to see Storisstraumen and a ship cruise to Bråsvellbreen of the Austfonna ice cap, Europe's third-largest glacier by volume and area.

    Marvel at Alkefjellet, a stunning bird cliff, nesting location of Brünnich guillemot.
    See the historical site at Bruceneset in beautiful Alicehamna bay, during a Zodiac cruise or hike. 

    Land at Hamburgbukta to view remains from the 1600s whaling industry. 
    Visit Ny-Ålesund Research Station, the world’s northernmost year-round research facility, and Kongsfjorden, with landings and cruises to its two glaciers, Kronebreen and Kongsbreen.


    Alkhornet showcases the change in geology from plateau to edge-dominated, alpine mountainous landscape.


    Day 8 (May 26) - Departure

    By morning we will have arrived back at the port of Longyearbyen. Disembarking the ship will involve saying goodbye to the new friends you’ve made but knowing you will keep the memories and photographs of this transformative adventure you shared together. We'll disembark at 9:00am so feel free to make flight arrangements from Noon departures onward.


  • Payment

    A $4995 deposit is required to hold your spot. The first balance payment of $6000 will be due on November 19, 2026 and the final balance payment of $6000 will be due on February 19, 2027.

    Withdrawal and Refund Policy

    Enrollment is limited to 12 participants, and once you sign up, we are counting on your attendance. As we have chartered the MV Vikingfjord, our investment in this tour is non-refundable. Therefore our cancellation policy is different than our normal workshops and tours. This is our refund policy:

    *PLEASE NOTE: Your deposit will be non-refundable if we cannot fill your spot. 

    If you cancel and we find someone to fill your seat, we will refund you the full amount you have paid towards the tuition, minus a $250 service charge and any credit card processing fees    . If you cancel and we cannot find someone to fill your seat, then you will be refunded according to the following schedule:

    At least 6 months before the start of the workshop: Full refund minus your deposit
    Between 6 months and 3 months before the start of the workshop: 50% refund minus your deposit
    Less than 3 months from the start of the workshop: No refund

    If you need to withdraw from this workshop, please notify us in writing (email is acceptable) as soon as possible.

    Course Cancellation and Other Terms

    Leica Store Miami reserves the right to cancel a reservation if full payment has not been received by 6 months prior to the start of the trip.

    In the event that this workshop must be canceled due to inadequate enrollment, all fees and deposits will be refunded in full or may be transferred to another workshop within 24 months.

    In the unlikely event of illness, accident or injury to one of the instructors, Leica Store Miami reserves the right to replace that instructor with a comparable instructor.

    In the event of a natural disaster or severe weather event, Leica Store Miami reserves the right to postpone or cancel the workshop.

    Travel Insurance (required)

    It is a requirement of booking that guests provide evidence of comprehensive travel insurance to cover cancellation and curtailment, medical and emergency expenses (including repatriation), personal accident, injury and death in addition to loss of/damage to luggage and possessions, personal possessions and flight cancellations/delays. Companies like Travelex and Allianz Global Assistance are reputable but you can choose any vendor you like. Leica Store Miami is not responsible for reimbursement of non-refundable airline tickets in the event of a workshop cancellation, nor are we responsible for trip cancellations due to medical emergencies, personal emergencies or other unforeseen events.

    Camera Gear Insurance (STRONGLY recommended)

    We advise all of our workshop attendees to insure their camera gear against damage, theft, loss, etc. If your gear is not already insured, check with your home owner's insurance to see if they offer coverage. There are several photo specific insurance policies out there as well.

    Solo Attendees

    As there are only 2 single cabins on this expedition and 7 cabins in total, chances are you'll be paired up with another solo traveler of the same gender. If there is not another solo attendee of the same gender, we reserve the right to cancel your reservation. *Of course, we will do all we can to make the pairings work.

    Communicable Illness Protocols

    Our main goal on all of our tours is to keep everyone safe. To that end, we ask that everyone do their best to avoid exposure to communicable diseases like Covid-19, influenza, RSV, etc before and during our trip. If someone in our group becomes ill on the trip and we deem it to be harmful to the group, we reserve the right to remove them from group activities where social distancing is not possible.

    Transfers

    If for any reason you wish to transfer your deposit or workshop fee, please notify us by email. You must register and complete a new workshop within 24 months of the withdrawal. We reserve the right to accept or deny any transfer.

    There are no exceptions to our Cancellation and Transfer Policy.

$4,995.00
Leica Photo Adventure: Svalbard | May 19-26, 2027—
$4,995.00

Description

  • Description
  • Details
  • Itinerary
  • Policies, etc.


  • Some places don't just offer photographs. They offer a different way of seeing.

    Svalbard in May is one of those places. We've partnered once again with Secret Atlas to explore this remote Arctic wilderness, and in the spring, it presents its wilder side. The archipelago is emerging from the depths of winter, and everything feels new. A fresh page of white snow lies before us. The light is soft and pastel and seemingly endless. For a photographer, it's close to paradise.

    This is an 8-day expedition for just twelve guests, aboard the MV Vikingfjord. From the deck, you'll photograph dramatic landscapes bathed in that extraordinary Arctic light: towering glaciers, sculpted icebergs, and mirror-like waters reflecting the endless sky above. Zodiac excursions bring you right up close to the raw, untamed wilderness, where every moment presents a new opportunity to capture something extraordinary.

    Wildlife encounters are simply part of life up here. Polar bears patrol the ice. Walruses lounge on drifting floes. Seabirds soar overhead. And on land, you might catch the fleeting moment of a fox moving through the tundra, or find yourself drawn into the intricate textures of ancient ice. Svalbard rewards the patient eye and the curious one in equal measure.

    Whether you're an experienced photographer or still finding your vision, this journey is designed to deepen your practice. You'll be guided by two expert trip leaders and supported throughout by two dedicated Leica specialists, Colin McKinley and David Farkas, ensuring an unparalleled experience from first light to last.

    We'd love to have you with us!



     Expedition Highlights

    • Spring is the best time to visit for quintessentially Arctic scenery of frozen seascapes, crystalline icebergs, majestic glaciers, fjords and snow-covered mountains.

    • Chance encounters with wildlife, including whales, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, walruses, seals, and polar bears, against a snowy backdrop.

    • Use 2 Zodiacs for exploring and close-up photography of wildlife.

    • See Europe’s last great wilderness wrapped in the soft light of the early season, lit up by pastel sunrises and sunsets.

    • Enjoy a friendly and inclusive atmosphere with a small, intimate group size of just 12 like-minded explorers.

    • Be led by world-class expedition leaders.



  • Dates:

    Wednesday, May 19 - Wednesday, May 26, 2027

    Cost: 

    $16,995 - Double occupancy cabins (can be 2 twin beds or 1 double bed)
    *Two Signature single cabins available for an additional $4500
    *One Signature Penthouse available for additional $3000

    Size:

    Limited to 12 attendees



    Included in the cost of the trip:

    • Double occupancy cabins w/ private facilities 
    • Two Signature Single cabins available for $4500 each
    • One Signature Penthouse available for additional $3000
    • Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
    • Alcoholic drinks with evening meals
    • Expert Svalbard expedition leaders
    • Lectures on Svalbard
    • Highly experienced captain and crew
    • Zodiac expeditions for shore landings and photo opportunities
    • Rubber boots for shore landings
    • All airport transfers and ground transportation to and from vessel
    • Gratuities for guides and crew
    • In-the-field photography instruction
    • Adobe Lightroom post processing instruction
    • 1-on-1 critique/review sessions

    Not included in the cost of the trip:

    • International flights to and from Longyearbyen (LYR)
    • Comprehensive travel insurance
    • Additional hotel nights before or after the trip
    • Alcohol (aside from dinners)
    • Items of a personal nature
    • Visas (if necessary)

    *Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but our guides and captain will put us in the best possible position to find them.

    About MV Vikingfjord




    The MV Vikingfjord is the most environmentally friendly small expedition vessel in the Arctic with new systems creating a 95% reduction in NOX emissions and increased efficiency. Rebuilt from the ground up around the guest experience, Vikingfjord offers a new level of comfort with en suite cabins, an open plan panoramic lounge and restaurant, on deck sauna and hot pool with a view, a large mud room and ample equipment storage. It features a presentation TV, a mini bar, and a hot beverage service for all guests.



    Designed to deliver an outstanding expedition experience, Vikingfjord has an ice strengthened hull for navigating the pack ice and is equipped with 2 zodiacs for exploring. 
 


    Passenger cabins include:



    4 x Signature Twin/ Double cabins
 (can be 2 twin beds or 1 double bed)
    2 x Signature Single
 cabins
    1 x Penthouse Double (1 double bed - requires 2 paid guests)


    Signing Up

    To sign up for this photo adventure, checkout here on our website, call 305-921-4433 or email us ([email protected]). We are happy to answer any questions you may have. A $4995 deposit is required to hold your spot. The first balance payment of $6000 will be due on November 19, 2026 and the final balance payment of $6000 will be due on February 19, 2027.

    We look forward to seeing you in Svalbard!

  • Possible Itinerary (We prefer to embrace spontaneity and make the most of every opportunity nature presents to us. This is how we believe a true, authentic expedition should run. After all, the thrill of adventuring into the unknown is more rewarding than a journey that runs on tracks! So all our listed itineraries are for guidance only. The day-to-day activities may vary depending on the ice, the weather, and the wildlife. Landings are subject to site availability and permissions, and always in line with AECO regulations.)

    Day 1 (May 19) - Welcome aboard! Embarkation in Longyearbyen at 16:00

    We begin our expedition in the most Northerly town in the world, Longyearbyen. The airport code is LYR and you'll most likely fly through Oslo (OSL) to get here. In the afternoon we will embark on our expedition vessel at 4pm, after an introduction from our expedition leader and a safety briefing from the captain. We’ll set sail out through Isfjorden and past the striking cliffs of Fuglefjella (Bird Mountain). As we leave civilization behind, this first evening offers an introduction to Arctic light, low contrast, soft tones, and subtle shifts in color as the sun dips toward the horizon.

    *We recommend arriving a day early, on May 18th, for this trip just in case there are any travel or weather delays. You really don't want to miss the boat departure on the 19th at 4pm!


    Day 2 (May 20)

    At the mouth of Isfjorden, Alkhornet marks a dramatic geological transition from plateau landscapes to sharp, alpine forms. Snow-covered slopes and bird cliffs provide opportunities to work scale and layering within the frame.

    Later, we land at Poolepynten on Prins Karls Forland, home to a walrus haul-out and historic burial site. This is a location where patience matters, waiting quietly as light and behavior align can result in powerful, intimate wildlife images set against a stark Arctic shoreline.



    Days 3-7 (May 21) 

    We venture toward the ice edge, a constantly shifting environment defined by texture, contrast, and atmosphere. This is prime territory for seals, seabirds, and polar bears, and a masterclass in reading light on ice. 

    Land at Sallyhamna, a hut built in 1937, rich in history and cultural remains from the 1600s whaling period.

    Explore the island of Kvitøya, taking in the walrus colony and cultural remains of the Andreeneset headland.

    Take a Zodiac cruise to see Storisstraumen and a ship cruise to Bråsvellbreen of the Austfonna ice cap, Europe's third-largest glacier by volume and area.

    Marvel at Alkefjellet, a stunning bird cliff, nesting location of Brünnich guillemot.
    See the historical site at Bruceneset in beautiful Alicehamna bay, during a Zodiac cruise or hike. 

    Land at Hamburgbukta to view remains from the 1600s whaling industry. 
    Visit Ny-Ålesund Research Station, the world’s northernmost year-round research facility, and Kongsfjorden, with landings and cruises to its two glaciers, Kronebreen and Kongsbreen.


    Alkhornet showcases the change in geology from plateau to edge-dominated, alpine mountainous landscape.


    Day 8 (May 26) - Departure

    By morning we will have arrived back at the port of Longyearbyen. Disembarking the ship will involve saying goodbye to the new friends you’ve made but knowing you will keep the memories and photographs of this transformative adventure you shared together. We'll disembark at 9:00am so feel free to make flight arrangements from Noon departures onward.


  • Payment

    A $4995 deposit is required to hold your spot. The first balance payment of $6000 will be due on November 19, 2026 and the final balance payment of $6000 will be due on February 19, 2027.

    Withdrawal and Refund Policy

    Enrollment is limited to 12 participants, and once you sign up, we are counting on your attendance. As we have chartered the MV Vikingfjord, our investment in this tour is non-refundable. Therefore our cancellation policy is different than our normal workshops and tours. This is our refund policy:

    *PLEASE NOTE: Your deposit will be non-refundable if we cannot fill your spot. 

    If you cancel and we find someone to fill your seat, we will refund you the full amount you have paid towards the tuition, minus a $250 service charge and any credit card processing fees    . If you cancel and we cannot find someone to fill your seat, then you will be refunded according to the following schedule:

    At least 6 months before the start of the workshop: Full refund minus your deposit
    Between 6 months and 3 months before the start of the workshop: 50% refund minus your deposit
    Less than 3 months from the start of the workshop: No refund

    If you need to withdraw from this workshop, please notify us in writing (email is acceptable) as soon as possible.

    Course Cancellation and Other Terms

    Leica Store Miami reserves the right to cancel a reservation if full payment has not been received by 6 months prior to the start of the trip.

    In the event that this workshop must be canceled due to inadequate enrollment, all fees and deposits will be refunded in full or may be transferred to another workshop within 24 months.

    In the unlikely event of illness, accident or injury to one of the instructors, Leica Store Miami reserves the right to replace that instructor with a comparable instructor.

    In the event of a natural disaster or severe weather event, Leica Store Miami reserves the right to postpone or cancel the workshop.

    Travel Insurance (required)

    It is a requirement of booking that guests provide evidence of comprehensive travel insurance to cover cancellation and curtailment, medical and emergency expenses (including repatriation), personal accident, injury and death in addition to loss of/damage to luggage and possessions, personal possessions and flight cancellations/delays. Companies like Travelex and Allianz Global Assistance are reputable but you can choose any vendor you like. Leica Store Miami is not responsible for reimbursement of non-refundable airline tickets in the event of a workshop cancellation, nor are we responsible for trip cancellations due to medical emergencies, personal emergencies or other unforeseen events.

    Camera Gear Insurance (STRONGLY recommended)

    We advise all of our workshop attendees to insure their camera gear against damage, theft, loss, etc. If your gear is not already insured, check with your home owner's insurance to see if they offer coverage. There are several photo specific insurance policies out there as well.

    Solo Attendees

    As there are only 2 single cabins on this expedition and 7 cabins in total, chances are you'll be paired up with another solo traveler of the same gender. If there is not another solo attendee of the same gender, we reserve the right to cancel your reservation. *Of course, we will do all we can to make the pairings work.

    Communicable Illness Protocols

    Our main goal on all of our tours is to keep everyone safe. To that end, we ask that everyone do their best to avoid exposure to communicable diseases like Covid-19, influenza, RSV, etc before and during our trip. If someone in our group becomes ill on the trip and we deem it to be harmful to the group, we reserve the right to remove them from group activities where social distancing is not possible.

    Transfers

    If for any reason you wish to transfer your deposit or workshop fee, please notify us by email. You must register and complete a new workshop within 24 months of the withdrawal. We reserve the right to accept or deny any transfer.

    There are no exceptions to our Cancellation and Transfer Policy.