Svalbard & Greenland Expeditions: Phase 2

SVALBARD 78-80° to GREENLAND 74°N 2025

In 2025 we have FOUR INTERCONNECTED EXPEDITIONS: each leg of can be undertaken independently, or together for the ultimate arctic expedition.

With the expeditionary tradition of the past and the trappings of the future, an array of dramatic nature and Arctic wildlife awaits you!


DEPARTS: 14 AUG (Longyearbyen, Svalbard)

RETURNS: 28 AUG (Reykjavik, Iceland)

Duration: (14 days, 13 nights)
Passengers: 12 (Spots remaining: 3)

CURATED & HOSTED BY JOE SHUTTER WITH S/V LINDEN

For PHASE TWO of FOUR, we sail west from Svalbard, following the edge of the Arctic Sea Ice (a paradise for Arctic fauna) into the world’s largest National Park (Northeast Greenland National Park).

EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS

  1. Cross the Arctic from Svalbard to Greenland

  2. Get a taste of the golden age of exploration on a traditionally rigged, wooden sailing vessel

  3. Follow  edge of the Arctic Sea Ice, a paradise for Arctic fauna

  4. Visit some of the most remote, ice-free fjords in East Greenland

  5. Explore the world’s largest National Park (The Northeast Greenland National Park)

  6. Participate in an active scientific programme which seeks to collect data about the Arctic (entirely voluntary)

  7. Navigate one of the most remote parts of the whole Arctic region, a place almost nobody visits!

  8. Undertake the expedition with a small ground of 12 amazing people from all over.

  9. Enjoy stunning Arctic vistas and landscapes with the trappings of civilisation

  10. Pursue an intentional, knowledge-oriented expedition experience with respect to the destination

  11. Experienced crew and Expedition Leader that are at least as excited to be there as you (!)

  12. Eat well, drink well and live well (in the Arctic)

After completing this journey, the expedition sails south into Scoresby Sound, the world’s largest fjord system and then sailing south to Reykjavik, Iceland.

Where are we going? Click/tap to expand

To join this expedition, you need to apply!

The Great Expedition Company invites those with an expeditionary spirit to join us on a voyage of breath-taking scenery and unforgettable wildlife encounters high into the quiet sanctuary of the Arctic

Read through all of the information on this page.

Find the Zoom call scheduling window at the bottom of the page. Apply and book a call with Joe to discuss your participation in this expedition.

We only want people who have read the whole web page to apply! Why? Because we want people to understand what they’re in for: the adventure of their lives!

Citizen Science: A Call to Action

We have taken the decision to run a scientific programme on board this expedition, owing to the remoteness of the locations we will be travelling in and the general lack of data about the Arctic. The purpose of this programme is to shed light on the continuing influence of the changing climate on the Polar Regions.

In Practice, this means that the crew will be collecting data at regular intervals throughout the expedition relating to water temperature at, the presence of microplastics (if any), salinity and acidity levels as well as keeping a rigorous log on sighted wildlife along the way.

At the end of the expedition, all the data will be collated into a report which will be disseminated to Scientific databases which can be used to aid in further research about the Arctic.

All passengers are invited to participate in this ongoing programme on board and involve themselves. It must be said that there is no obligation at all, and participation is entirely voluntary.

THE MAGIC OF THE ARCTIC SEA ICE

As the fast ice breaks up in fjords all around the Arctic with the advance of summer, some sea ice remains. Very, very few people ever really get the chance to comb the Arctic Sea Ice, and this is precisely what we set out to do. If following an ice edge sounds a little bit droll or boring to you, hold that thought, because it is anything but boring: The edge of the Arctic Sea ice is home to some of the largest concentration of fauna (wildlife) anywhere in the Arctic.

From Svalbard to Greenland. Connecting the Arctic on a Great Voyage

Our expedition time will be spent sailing west from Svalbard, along the edge of the arctic sea ice, and eventually reaching Greenland, the world’s largest island. Once there, we will explore the Northeast Greenland National Park, the world’s largest National Park. The ancient landscape is filled with dramatic granite fjords which rise vastly in excess of 1000m straight out of the sea, with the highest peak in Kaiser Franz Josephs Fjord, Istoppene, in the heart of Andrée’s land, rising to 2201m.

Referenced from: The Sea Ice Portal: https://www.meereisportal.de/en/learn-more/sea-ice-biology/sea-ice-as-habitat

What’s so special about the Arctic Sea Ice?

Here’s how it works: light and heat from the sun lead to blooms of diatoms (single celled organism that make chains spanning several meters) protozoa, zooplankton and phytoplankton blooms. These are organisms that flourish in their billions at these latitudes. These blooms attract cetaceans (whales and dolphins), fish, birds and seals, which use the Arctic sea ice as a resting stop inbetween feeding. In turn, the seals attract polar bears, which patrol the edge of the arctic sea ice in search of their main food source. It is a complex and interdependent ecosystem taking place across many trophic levels.

Now, you begin to get some idea of how important there Arctic Sea Ice for supporting the biodiversity of Arctic ecosystems, and how important it is for our potential wildlife sighting along the course of the expedition. It is in the context of this Arctic paradise that we set the first part of phase two of our expedition.

Abundant Arctic nature.

The landscapes of the northern latitudes of Greenland are simultaneously brutal, yet charming. It’s hard to believe that there is any life here at all. And yet, life finds a way. Dramatic glaciers and fjords will glisten under the midnight sun, demanding your attention, inviting your imagination to feast upon the grandeur of the vast beauty of the world’s largest Island, and one of the oldest parts of the world. .

We aim to foster a deeper understanding and respect for the often controversial history and fragile ecosystems you will explore on this expedition. Our ethos is simple: “arrive curious, leave inspired”, and we promise to deliver just that.

OUR PEOPLE MEAN EVERYTHING TO US. MEMORIES FROM YEARS PAST.

JOINING YOU ON BOARD

The Great Expedition Company has no back-office. Expedition leader Joe Shutter has carefully curated this unique sailing itinerary, along with the expertise of S/V Linden’s Captain, Rasmus Jacobsen, and together they will sail with you through the wonders of the Svalbard seas.

Founder of The Great Exped & Expedition Leader

Welcome, curious explorer! Joe here. British-Brazilian, I made Iceland my home 10 years ago.

I’ve spent many summer seasons sailing in Eastern Greenland and traversing the harsh highlands of Iceland. In recent years, I have had the pleasure of depending my knowledge of the Arctic and Antarctic.

My affinity for the Polar Regions has no limits. Through my lens and many years of exploration, I have honed the artful skill of curating positive and purposeful experiences which I take great joy in sharing with fellow explorers.

I prosecute a gratuitous and exuberant expedition leading style. I believe fervently in enjoying myself and fomenting an atmosphere of merriment and jubilation with my expedition parties. I strive to use my expedition time on the most remote and unique places and experience, but I’m always ready for whatever nature has lined up for me. I am always there for my people.

For me, seducing the spirits of fellow explorers and sharing in the wonders of the Arctic is my eternally-repeatable aim. Bringing people together with a common passion has always been my favourite thing: there’s a special energy in this that I have never found anywhere else.⁣

@joe_shutter

Rasmus Jacobsen

YOUR ARCTIC CAPTAIN

Captain of S/V Linden & Experienced Navigator

Growing up in Denmark and living on a yacht, my family raised me within a maritime lifestyle and eco-friendly culture from childhood. Since then, I’ve enjoyed over 30 years on the ocean thus far: working on galleons, square rigs, research vessels and passenger ships.

My passion lies in seeking out the most untouched arenas of the Arctic, placing a great emphasis on exploring without any signs of human activity. 

My crew and I are committed to embodying an environmentally-friendly approach to sailing, inspired to seek out the abundant beauty of Svalbard in a purposeful manner. Hence, collaborating with The Great Expedition Company is a harmonious eco-expedition match.

@sv__linden

Joe Shutter

YOUR EXPEDITION LEADER

A personal note from Joe:

Captain Rasmus is a gentle soul with kind eyes; I have no doubt that you will feel welcomed and at ease in his presence, and safe in his sailing skills. He is a breathe of fresh air on the seas: intelligent yet humble, he is committed to exploring in an intentional and eco-friendly manner, which was the very basis for which I decided to form a collaboration between The Great Expedition Company and S/V Linden. We have a mutual respect and understanding for the fragile Arctic we intend to sail in, and as such, we can plan to explore with purpose and wonder. I am beaming with excitement just writing these words, knowing what lies ahead of you and I: awe-inspiring natural beauty, thrilling wildlife encounters, and genuine human connection amongst our intimate group as we set sails under the Arctic sun.

ARCTIC MEMORIES

WE ARRANGE

  • Accommodation on board, incl. bedding & towels

  • All meals, snacks, tea and coffee throughout.

  • Your return flight from GREENLAND to ICELAND via a chartered private plane at the end of the expedition.

  • Provision of a complimentary “Great Expedition Kit” : a curated collection of Expedition essentials to enhance your expedition.

  • Expedition champagne

  • Expedition port supply.

  • Usage of the ship’s cigar humidor

  • Free use of onboard sauna

  • Extensive Pre-Departure Preparation Material

    • Equipment and Information Pack

    • Destination-specific Expedition Preparation Guide - everything we think you need to know about your location before you get there.

  • Pre-Expedition Welcome Dinner aboard the ship the night before the start of the expedition (Day 0)

  • All guided hikes ashore

  • All guided zodiac excursions to shore

  • Educational and Informational services from the Expedition Leader and crew

  • Port surcharges, permits and landing fees

  • Photography guidance and tuition in-the-field, as-we shoot

  • Editing session on board in the salon upon request

  • Some other goodies and extras that are not mentioned

YOU ARRANGE

  • Your flights to Longyearbyen

  • Your flight from Iceland at the end of the expedition.

  • Additional Alcoholic beverages beverages on board (outside of champagne and port form the expedition supply)

  • Personal travel & health insurance

  • Crew gratuities (entirely discrentionary)

  • Personal equipment and gear for the expedition

DETAILS

  • Dates: 14 Aug - 28 August  2025

    (14 days, 13 nights)

  • Berths: 12

  • Price: €11,995

  • Starts: Longyearbyen, Svalbard

  • Ends: Reykjavik, Iceland

  • Linden Saloon

  • Linden beside a glacier in Svalbard

  • Linden Cabins made up

  • Linden Saloon: rear.

  • Learning the ropes

LIFE ON BOARD S/V LINDEN

S/V Linden is undeniably a swoon-worthy vessel.  This elegant 50 meter three-masted tall ship captures everyones attention as she glides on the polar seas. She is very strong, capable, and best suited scouring the ice in the Arctic. Built in 1993, as a modern take on the original Linden from 1923, she has been sailing for more than thirty years around the northerly seas, proving that she is trustworthy and made for arctic adventures.

Linden will host us in her bright and comfortable main saloon, where plenty of windows provide a panoramic view for you to watch the waves roll by. Accommodation is made up of 5 twin bunk-style cabins and 2 single cabins. Home-cooked meals by the on board chef will be enjoyed in her main saloon, amid a well stocked library of polar literature. Day to day life on board is exciting yet easy-going: we will discuss the upcoming route over a hearty breakfast, plan our days activities, share life experiences over warm tea, and keep our binoculars in hand whilst we look out for wildlife.

Having been built in Finland there is, of course, a well-sized sauna on board, which will be the perfect refuge after a polar-plunge!

TECHNICAL DATA:

Length overall: 49.5 meters / 164 ft.
Beam Breath: 8.8 meters
Draft: 3.1 meters
Passengers: 12
Crew: 6-8
Cargo space: 35 Ton
Crane: SWL1,1T4M
Deck space: 80m2
Tenders: 2x ZodiacMk5, 1xZodiac MOB 4,56m
Sail area: 690 square meters
Speed on sails: 8 knots avg.
Speed on Engine: 6 knots
Range: Unlimited

EXPEDITION ITINERARY

Below is our intended sailing route, but please take into consideration that wind and weather conditions may adjust our sails. This is a natural part of the adventure of sailing. Our strength is to abide by the conditions which nature gives us, never against it, still making the best out of our time.

All expedition itineraries are approximate and are designed to give you a rough idea of the sorts of places we will go and the sorts of places we will see. A true expedition must respond to the prevailing conditions such as the weather, ice, and wildlife opportunities. That being said, the backbone of the expedition will head north and then down south again roughly on the following basis.

EXPEDITION OBJECTIVE

With 14 days and 13 nights at our disposal, we really have a strong time budget for this expedition; and we need it, because we have a lot of amazing stuff to see! This expedition will de-emphasise the Svalbard element somewhat, although we most certainly will stop in one or more spots in Svalbard so that people get to see at something from Svalbard before setting off.

Sailing at the edge of the sea ice will be the most fruitful use of our expedition time along with sailing in the fjords in Greenland.

DAY 1

We will aim to throw off the ropes shortly after lunch and briefly visit a glacier front in Isfjord, which is the large fjord in which the main town in Svalbard, Longyearbyen, is found. Who knows, we may strike lucky with an early bear or a whale in the fjord to start things off own a good footing. If weather and condition allow, once we have enjoyed some scenery in Svalbard, we will move on, sail west, pass out of the archipelago and begin our epic journey towards the arctic sea ice.

DAY 2-3

Day 2 is likely to be a sea day, and if we’re lucky we will be visited by whales and dolphins, and of course we can slow down and take our time to enjoy these encounters. We will be well looked after by the crew and properly fed along the way. 

DAY 4-6

We anticipate to be able to get our first sighting of the Arctic sea ice by the fourth day, at which point the expedition will take a southwesterly direction, heading towards Greenland. When we hit the sea ice, our speed will decrease considerably and we will be on the lookout for wildlife along the edge of the sea ice.

DAY 7-12

After crusing along the edge of the Arctic Sea Ice for a few days, the expedition will be approaching the mainland of Greenland and we will seek to enter Kaiser Franz Joseph’s Fjord, an enormous fjord with towering granite columns and gigantic  icebergs floating down. We will marvel at the palaces of ice and cruise around the very special ones with unique shapes, as is the tradition. 

DAY 11-13

As we go deeper into Kaiser Franz Joseph’s Fjord, we will turn south and enter King Oscar Fjord. Using sheltered anchorages and landing where possible to explore the area, we have the chance to see some of the most remote fjords in Greenland, and we are very likely to be the only vessel in sight in any direction.

By the end of day 13, we will be nearby to the landing strip at Mestersvig at the Danish Scientific Research Base where your private charter flight will arrive to pick you up, our of =which you will fly the following day.

DAY 14

The last day! Much of the morning will be spent packing and preparing for departure, but if there is time to explore to go for a short walk on shore, we certainly will. Your charter flight will arrive and take you away back to Iceland and your life after the most incredible Arctic expedition is about the begin. You’ll probably be dreaming about the next time, like we always do! 

FAQ’s

Below are some answers to a few commonly asked questions, with some additional suggestions. If you have any questions that aren’t answered here, then you can raise it with us via a Zoom call.

  • What level of photography do I require?

    • This is not expressively a photography workshop, but Joe will be happy to assist and guide you as you wish. You can be as photographically creatively active or as inactive as you like, and we welcome many other forms of creativity. We even had a dressmaker join us on expedition once and it was amazing to watch her conjure up her design based on the inspiration she was getting from nature.

    How fit do I need to be?

    • You can engage in as much or as little physical exertion as you like, but you do need to be able to get into and out of the ship and zodiac, and go up and down the stairs.

    What & where will we eat?

    • All meals will be prepared and served by a chef on board Linden, and dietary requirements can be supported.

    Will we see the Northern Lights?

    • No, not during the Arctic summer as the midnight sun reveals itself for longer periods. Although it is rare, it can also rain in Svalbard too.

    What will the weather be like during June in Svalbard?

    • The weather in June will be near 5 °C / 40 °F throughout the day, dropping to 0 °C / 30 °F at night. With this said, windchill may decrease the temperature - please see the ‘Clothing’ FAQ section. Our "Equipment and Information" One of the aspects of our extensive pre-departure material, will make sure you have all the bases covered.

  • Althopugh we provide an exhaustive list of what to pack in our "Equipment and Information Pack", part of our extensive Pre-Departure material, wee do offer the following as a guide for the initially curious.

    There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes! It’s essential to dress appropriately for arctic conditions. Below are our recommendations:

    • Sturdy hiking boots for getting off the boat and exploring land (if you wish to)

    • Comfy and warm shoes for below deck, such as slippers

    • 1st layer: base layer, like merino wool or bamboo long-sleeve & leggings

    • 2nd layer: mid-layer, like a wool jumper, fleece, or packable puffy jacket

    • Main outer layer: like a down-filled coat. We will be sailing in “summer”, but the Arctic does not follow any usual weather rules, so you must come prepared

    • Waterproof layer: GORE-TEX zip-up coat or similar, and ideally it’s also windproof to tolerate any windchill.

    • If you enjoy reading then definitely bring a book or two. You’ll likely cherish that book in the future, knowing where you read it

    • If you like journaling and writing then bring along a pen & notebook

    • Sunblock! The Arctic sun has no mercy, and reflects strongly off the snow, ice and sea water

    • In the same vein as sunblock, bring lip balm, as the Artic summer is drying

    • A water bottle. It’s much easier to use on board than a regular cup

    • Finally, don’t forget to bring your expeditionary spirit!

    • Bring something from your home country to share with the group!

WHO ARE YOU?

A proper expedition is always comprised of an elaborate mosaic of characters, each with their own story and each with something to offer to the expedition group. Our job is to put together an incredible group of people: similar enough to embrace the spirit of adventure in the Arctic, different enough to introduce healthy diversity and counterpoint in the individual and shared experience of the Arctic.

We need to ensure that everyone who seeks to join us on our expeditions are a positive, forthcoming and interesting individual, hence why The Great Expedition Company follows a curation protocol when selecting guests to join us. This is why our selection process is curated.

Having “what it takes” simply means you’re open to new places, new people and unforgettable sights. We’re all smart in different ways, and it’s up to team leading the expedition to put together a truly excellent group for a truly exceptional experience.

Find the Zoom call scheduling window below, tell us something about yourself and then book a call with us to discuss your participation.