Svalbard Expeditions: Phase 1
SVALBARD 2025 - 78-80°N
EXPED CONCEPT: PROSPICE EX ANIMO
Prospice ex animo (latin) = To Move Forward, with Courage/from the Heart
OUR GRAND CONCEPT FOR 2025: FOUR INTERCONNECTED EXPEDITIONS FROM THE HEART OF THE ARCTIC TO THE SUB-ARCTIC
Each leg can be undertaken independently, or together for the ultimate arctic expedition.
NEW DATES ADDED
Expedition A:
DEPARTS: 28 JUL (MON)
RETURNS: 08 AUG (FRI)
Duration: (12 days, 11 nights)
SOLD OUT
Expedition B:
By Popular Demand
DEPARTS: 14 JUL (MON)
RETURNS: 25 JUL (FRI)
Duration: (12 days, 11 nights)
Passengers: 12 (Spots remaining: 08)
CURATED & HOSTED BY JOE SHUTTER, KRISTIAN GILLIES WITH S/V LINDEN
With the expeditionary tradition of the past and the trappings of civilisation, an array of dramatic nature and Arctic wildlife awaits you!
In PHASE ONE, The Great Expedition Company is venturing to 80° North, circumnavigating the isolated and rugged Coast of Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago.
After completing the circumnavigation, we will sail west, following the Arctic Sea Ice to Greenland for the second leg of our Grand Expedition.
(Prospice ex animo. Meaning: To Move Forward, with Courage/from the Heart)
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
Circumnavigate Svalbard in a sail vessel, a journey that very few ever enjoy
Travel traditionally rigged sailing vessel
Visit some of the most remote areas of Svalbard
Have the opportunity to see amazing Arctic wildlife over 12 days
Undertake the expedition is a small ground of 12 amazing people from all over.
Enjoy stunning Arctic vistas and landscapes with many of the trappings of civilisations
Pursue an intentional, knowledge-oriented expedition experience with respect to the destination
Experienced crew and Expedition Leader that are at least as excited to be there as you
In case you’re wondering: where is Svalbard? Its here!
HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO DO :
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 Circle: Svalbard.
APPLY TO JOIN US
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!
To apply to join the expedition, book a Zoom call
with the with Expedition Leader Joe, below
EXPEDITION INTRODUCTION
As the fast ice breaks up, ushering in a change of seasons, the long summer sun makes its return to Svalbard, setting this region alight with an array of warm hues. From this time, the sun will ebb and flow in the sky, but never dip below the horizon. This brief resurgence of summer will be the ideal backdrop for which we can set sail under the fairytale-like kiss of the Arctic sun as we journey across the remote, otherworldly landscapes of the Arctic Circle: Svalbard.
Our expedition time will be focused on the most remote and difficult-to-access locations in Svalbard, focusing on the east of the archipelago, filled with remote fjords and ice front. A true arctic paradise awaits us.
The first leg of an our Great Expedition, which rests upon circumnavigation of the the largest island on the Svalbard archipelago, Spitsbergen, rests on this ice free season. We seek to navigate the remotest waters of the Hinlopen Strait, itself teeming with wildlife and with wonder.
Abundant Arctic nature.
The landscapes of Svalbard are simultaneously brutal, yet charming. Dramatic glaciers and fjords will glisten under the midnight sun, demanding your attention, inviting your imagination to feast upon the grandeur of Svalbard’s vast beauty.
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.
Meet the locals.
Surviving in Svalbard is a laborious feat. Yet, this merciless archipelago is a safe haven to an array of wildlife.
None of the wildlife that we may see will be baited: this is unethical and not how we operate. Therefore, wildlife is by no means guaranteed. However, since we will be sailing quietly along remote coastal edges, we stand a good chance of discovering marine wildlife and terrestrial mammals: polar bears searching for their next meal, curious seals, playful arctic foxes, bathing walrus and the shy (often elusive) minke whales - all in their natural habitat.
The wildlife in Svalbard enjoy their existence on their own terms, and are therefore not accustomed to people. We will keep a safe and respectful distance if and when we find any wildlife. As such, bring a pair of binoculars and be prepared to be on the look out.
Tranquility. Intentionality. Seclusion.
For us, big ships and fragile landscapes don’t mix. Tourism in the Arctic is steadily increasing. Enormous cruise ships carrying hundreds, if not thousands of people, become a figment of a dystopian imagination.
Our experience could not be further from this.
Think about what it is like to go somewhere and be alone, and be the only people around for hundreds of miles. There are even times and spaces for you to be completely alone. Pure seclusion. Think about what it means to really leave the world behind, with all of its trials and tribulations, and bask in the glory of nature’s Arctic bounty. This is what we propose to you.
Our expedition is fundamentally based on a small group dynamic. . On this voyage, our tall ship S/V Linden is able to manoeuvre the rugged coastline of Svalbard in a carbon-friendly manner, far from where other cruise ships simply cannot reach. We travel in waters which are much too shallow for the likes of them.
With our intimate group of just 12 passengers onboard S/V Linden, we guarantee to tread lightly.
Learn the ropes.
A message from our Captain, Rasmus:
“ Linden has a long history training young seafarers and competing in tall ships races around Europe. On board, you will get an exceptionally fun, challenging, unfiltered experience of how it is to sail a 3 masted tall ship in the northern Arctic Circle. My crew and I are capable, but not numerous, so we are dependent on your help with the sails if we are to travel by the wind as we strive for. You will quickly see how energetic everyone becomes once we hoist the sails. “
Creative curiosity.
The raw, unspoilt beauty of Svalbard will affect you. Jotting notes in a dedicated journal, capturing photos on your iPhone or professional camera - whatever your preference is - you will feel inspired to record what seems like a dream, but is your lived reality.
Whilst this expedition is not a photography workshop, Joe will happily support you with any photography-specific endeavours.
Stretch your sea legs.
You can be as active or inactive as you desire. We will have opportunities to take a zodiac ashore and hike along the various coastlines to explore the Arctic tundra on foot. We will will discover interesting historical relics, geographic formations, rare Arctic botany, as well as observing terrestrial mammals such a reindeer, muskox and the Arctic fox.
Mind offline.
The idea of being disconnected from the outside world may seem disconcerting at first, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how quickly you adjust to being offline. The benefits from leaving behind the external noise and stresses of daily life are tenfold. After a few days offline, picking up your phone will feel foreign, which is a refreshing notion.
During your time offline, you will have the space to fully immerse yourself into absorbing the abundant beauty of Svalbard, as we sail and discover all it has to offer us.
An authentic & transformative experience.
A personal note from Joe:
“ My very purpose for curating these expeditions is to foster an inclusive atmosphere, connecting humans and nature alike. My former expeditions have reconfirmed to me that my greatest joy is in bringing a mixture of people together, seeing them relate to and befriend one another, in the presence of awe-inspiring nature.
We have an opportunity to share life stories - the ups, the downs, the curveballs - learning from one another, about each other, and about ourselves, whilst exploring the plethora of the Arctic. At the end, we say farewell with full hearts, departing with new friends and stories. These expeditions are made to leave a lasting, positive impact. “
OUR PEOPLE MEAN EVERYTHING TO US. MEMORIES FROM YEARS PAST.
To apply to join the expedition, book a Zoom call
with the with Expedition Leader Joe, below
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 pursue 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.
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.
Joe Shutter
YOUR EXPEDITION LEADER
A personal note from Joe on the collaboration with S/V Linden:
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 breath 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.
Kristian Gillies
EXPEDITION SCIENTIST
Wildlife Biologist, Expedition Guide and Intrepid Cavalier
Kristian Gillies is a Wildlife Photographer, Expedition Guide and Biologist based on Vancouver Island, B.C. Growing up on the beautiful South Coast of New South Whales in Australia, Kristian was immersed in the ocean and surrounding seascapes from a young age, quickly developing a passion for surfing. Spending every spare minute in the ocean, Kristian developed an interest in its inhabitants leading him to study Conservation Biology at the University of Wollongong.
After completing his degree, Kristian travelled to California where he undertook an internship studying the largest animal to ever live - the blue whale. During this internship, Kristian picked up his first DSLR camera and began his journey photographing wildlife.
After spending four years working as a Wildlife Biologist, Kristian found himself on a ship to Antarctica for his first season guiding and has never looked back. Kristian now works full-time as a Guide and Photographer, working in some of the planet's most pristine and remote environments.
Kristian hopes to use his imagery to inspire others to care for the natural world by promoting the beauty and grandeur of the animals and landscapes around him.
Kris will be on board for Expedition B: July 14-25
SVALBARD MEMORIES
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
WE ARRANGE
Accommodation on board, incl. bedding & towels
All meals, snacks, tea and coffee throughout.
Provision of a complimentary “Great Expedition Kit” : a curated collection of Expedition essentials to enhance your expedition.
Expedition champagne and 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
YOU ARRANGE
Your flights to and from Longyearbyen
Additional Alcoholic beverages beverages on board
Personal travel & health insurance
Crew gratuities (entirely discrentionary)
DETAILS
Dates: 28 July - 08 August 2025
(12 days, 11 nights)
Berths: 12
Price: €8,995
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.
Although this is a sailing expedition, we will of course be landing at scenic locations along the way so that we are not on the boat the whole time.
EXPEDITION OBJECTIVE
The overarching expedition objective is to spend as much time as possible in the most remote and difficult to reach area of the archipelago. What that means in practice is skipping or pass some of the more familiar parts of the west coast of Svalbard and instead spend the bulk of the expedition “time budget” on harder-to-reach locations.
Doesn’t that sound like a serious expedition objective?
DAY 1
We aim to anchor our first night in Ny Ålesund, the northernmost settlements in the world. The village is mainly uninhabited besides for some inspiring arctic scientists, and it is known for being the starting point of polar expeditions led by Amundsen and Nobile. Arctic foxes and reindeer may be hanging around and polar bears can often be sighted.
DAY 2
Pushing further north, we will continue on towards Magdelaenafjorden. Vast and deep, and is filled beautiful spots on the west coast of Svalbard where we intend to land to knock in some wildlife sightings early on. We are aware of some stunning walrus colonies with a glacier backdrop which we absolutely love.
DAY 3
Pushing north still and then in an easterly direction, we will want to start to slow down our pace and start to scan the coast for polar bear tracks and start watching for breaching whales and dolphins, especially the white ones: the belugas, the ghosts of the Arctic. They are known to have move in and out of these fjords, as we have personally witness this ourselves.
DAY 4-5
The primary objective of the expedition is the Hinlopan Strait. Navigation here will be slow and hopefully very rewarding; the Hinlopen Strait is renowned for its bear population and if we are lucky and diligent, we should hopefully be rewarded. Nothing is guaranteed in these wilds, and although Lady Fortuna is a fickle mistress, fortune does favour the bold and the brave.
DAY 6-8
After exploring the Hinlopen Strait, it’s not over yet, not by a long shot. Next, we have the remote islands of Barentsøya and Edgeøya, and the coatline of these islands has the potential to yield magnificent views and sightings.
DAY 9-11
We will continue our southern journey, and enjoy ourselves along the way. We will pass by the stunning coastline of southern Spitsbergen and, if time and conditions allow, enter the magnificent Hornsund and potentially set anchor under the majestic Hornsundtind. At 1431m, it is one of the tallest mountains in Svalbard.
Our last anchorage will be in Barentsburg, the Russian town in Svalbard which is a very interesting place to visit. With its friendly inhabitants and the resident arctic fox family. There are a couple of interesting shops, a great bar and some other interesting things to see. The obvious thing you will notice is how different it is from the Norwegian town of Longyearbyen where you will have landed.
DAY 12
On the last day of our expedition, we will leave the quay in Barentsburg early in the morning and set sail for Longyearbyen, aiming to be in port slightly before midday, with disembarkation shortly following.
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Linden Saloon
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Linden beside a glacier in Svalbard
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Linden Cabins made up
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Linden Saloon: rear.
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Learning the ropes
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.
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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 thre aspect fo our extensive pre-departure material, will make sure you have all the vbases covered.
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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.
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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!
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.
