Svalbard… So much more than wildlife

 

Yes, Svalbard is home to polar bears, walruses, and Arctic foxes. But that’s just the start. For those who venture deeper, this far-north archipelago reveals a rich geological legacy, centuries of human history, and a living ecosystem shaped by time, ice, and fire. 

“At Secret Atlas, we offer something far beyond sightseeing—we offer real exploration, led by world-class experts who make every journey personal, educational, and unforgettable.”

— Michele D’Agostino, Secret Atlas Co-founder 

With a maximum of just 12 guests, our Expedition Micro Cruises create space for insight, intimacy, and adventure. And at the heart of these expeditions are our guides.
People like Bob Gilmore, who live and breathe the polar regions, and who elevate the experience far beyond the expected. 

 When Bob Gilmore steps onto a glacier, he’s not just guiding. He’s decoding a complex story millions of years in the making. With over 20 seasons in Antarctica and more than a dozen in Svalbard, Bob’s journey from forest ranger to polar expert is as inspiring as it is unique.
“It’s never just about the ice,” Bob says. “It’s about understanding the systems that shape our planet.”

At Secret Atlas, we don’t run ‘regular cruises’. We offer meaningful expeditions shaped by people like Bob—guides who combine scientific rigour, creative flair, and real polar experience.
“With 12 guests, everyone becomes family,” says Bob. “We’re not tourists—we’re explorers.”

We’ve expanded our high-demand Svalbard voyages for 2026, running a full season from April to September. These will include a range of immersive Micro Cruises, photography expeditions, and private charters.

With just 12 guests per journey, our unique small-ship expeditions offer a more intimate, flexible, and low-impact experience—perfect for travellers seeking meaningful wildlife encounters and exceptional photographic opportunities. Our adaptive itineraries let us respond to wildlife sightings and shifting Arctic conditions, ensuring every adventure is shaped by the environment—not the clock.

These departures sell out fast, and demand continues to grow—especially for peak-season photo tours. Don’t miss the opportunity to secure places for your clients.
 

About the author

Nicola is the Managing Director of Micro-Cruising. Small ships great trips. Micro-Cruising sells trips on ships of 100 passengers or fewer. We are the specialists in small ships with over 700 vessels worldwide.