There’s no better way to understand the scale of Svalbard than from the water. This Svalbard open boat safari is fast-paced when it needs to be, but often slow and still, offering time to absorb what’s around you. It’s the kind of experience that sits in the memory long after you’ve warmed back up.
SVALBARD OPEN BOAT SAFARI
A half-day boat safari along Svalbard’s remote western fjords, passing bird-filled cliffs, drifting ice, and wild stretches of Arctic coastline rarely seen from land
About SVALBARD OPEN BOAT SAFARI
This half-day Svalbard open boat safari explores some of the most remote and spectacular coastal scenery in the High Arctic. Travelling by RIB (rigid inflatable boat), you’ll journey across the Isfjorden to visit two extraordinary natural landmarks — the bird cliffs of Alkhornet and the towering blue face of Esmark Glacier.
The cliffs at Alkhornet come alive in summer, home to thousands of nesting seabirds including guillemots, kittiwakes, and fulmars. You may also spot Arctic foxes below the colony, scavenging for fallen chicks or eggs. From here, your Svalbard open boat safari continues across the fjord to the Esmark Glacier, where you’ll drift quietly beside the ice, listening for the deep cracks and groans of its slow movement.
Insulated suits, boots, and lifejackets are provided — this is an exposed, raw Arctic experience, but expertly managed and deeply memorable.
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Highlights
- Journey through Svalbard’s wild west coast by open boat
- Witness thousands of seabirds nesting at the Alkhornet cliffs
- Drift in silence beside the Esmark Glacier
- Spot wildlife from the water — seals, Arctic foxes, even whales
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BEST TIME TO GO Svalbard open boat safari
The Svalbard open boat safari runs from June to early September. This is the best time to see birdlife at the cliffs and to access the glacier by water. Arctic weather is unpredictable — departures are weather-dependent and always safety-first.
BEST TIME TO GO Svalbard open boat safari
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“From the moment you speak to Natural High to when you get home the service and attention to detail is wonderful. Everything is so well planned and organised that you can just sit back and really enjoy your holiday. We couldn’t recommend husky sledding in the north of Sweden more. We all agreed it was one of the best family holidays ever.– The Fortescue family
Svalbard Open Boat Safari (FAQs) Need to Know
Is the Svalbard open boat safari suitable for everyone?
This experience is best for travellers comfortable with cold, open conditions and some movement on the water. It’s not physically strenuous, but it’s exposed to the elements.
Will I be cold on the boat?
Thermal flotation suits, boots, and gloves are provided. Dress in warm base layers and bring a hat and sunglasses — the windchill and reflected light can be strong.
Can I bring a camera or phone?
Yes, but bring a dry bag or waterproof casing. Conditions can be wet, especially when close to the glacier or cliffs.
Where can I check conditions before the trip?
You can find accurate weather updates for Svalbard on the link below, which is used locally by guides and operators.https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-2793998/Norway/Svalbard/Svalbard
What else is there to do in Svalbard?
Please follow the link below to see our other Itineraries in Svalbard,
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A print anthology of safari and wilderness travel with over 220 pages of travel inspiration.