Svalbard Sailing Expedition 2023

Quick UpdateOur Arctic adventure has taken an exciting turn in the last few hours, evolving into a true expedition. The team is in high spirits, with lots of fun and camaraderie to keep us going.

We're thrilled to share that our expedition has reached an impressive 80°37N latitude, coming incredibly close to Phipps Island. Despite challenging ice conditions, we've managed to navigate almost to the island, halting just 10 nautical miles (18 km) away due to packed ice.

Discover the unforgettable experience of a serene day on the bay, where calm waters and exciting challenges lead to triumphs and joyful moments. Standup paddling, kayaking, and daring feats atop a 23-meter mast make this day truly remarkable.

We woke up to the breathtaking sight of a glacier. Niv prepared a delicious Shakshuka, which we enjoyed on deck with the glacier as our backdrop. The constant rumbling of the ice was a reminder of nature's raw power, and when a large chunk finally broke off and splashed into the water, we couldn't help but cheer, "Go, Buddy! You can do it!" With clear skies and the sun shining brightly, we began our journey north.

Experience endless daylight and boundless adventures at Shooting Ranch in the Arctic North. When the sun never sets, every moment becomes an opportunity for excitement and discovery. Our skilled Tour Guides and Skippers, Andy and Peter, ensure that each day is packed with unforgettable experiences.

It's 00:10, and the shift has just changed. Hilde and I take the helm as we continue our journey toward Ny Alesund, the northernmost point of civilization at 79°50' N. The path ahead is foggy, and with a strong headwind and a starboard current, navigation becomes a constant challenge. Using the compass, depth sounder, and GPS, we push through two more shifts, finally arriving in a glacier-lined bay where we anchor for a brief rest. Large ice blocks drift by, a reminder of the Arctic's icy grip.

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the Arctic, as we set sail from Longyearbyen, the gateway to Svalbard. Our adventure takes us through breathtaking landscapes, close encounters with wildlife, and the raw beauty of the northernmost reaches of our planet. Join us as we recount our thrilling voyage, from the calm fjords to the icy waters of Ny-Ålesund.

My 23rd birthday was celebrated in the most unexpected way. Just before midnight, Saeny decided to bake a special Brownie Cake for the occasion. Despite our unfamiliarity with the oven, we finally savored the delicious cake at 2:30 AM. The wait was well worth it!

After months of meticulous planning and countless hours of preparation, we have finally reached our ultimate destination: Svalbard. Our expedition team is almost complete, with 6 out of 8 members now aboard the ship. We've had our first taste of life at sea, and tomorrow, once the final two members arrive, we'll be ready to embark on our Arctic adventure. If all goes well, we hope to set sail by Friday, or maybe even earlier.