Our June 30 - July 10 2028 expedition embraces the new wildlife guidelines while delivering exceptional opportunities for polar bear encounters, Zodiac cruising, and Arctic photography.
All images on this page were take after the 2025 regulations were put in place.
Exploring Svalbard After the 2025 Wildlife Regulations
Conservation That Enhances the Experience
Image taken on our 2025 photo expedition
NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S
In 2025, Svalbard introduced updated wildlife protection measures designed to preserve one of the world’s most pristine Arctic environments. For our small expedition group, these changes have minimal impact on the experience.
One particularly positive aspect is that the regulations do not restrict Zodiac cruising within national parks and nature reserves. Guests can still enjoy immersive exploration by Zodiac, accessing remote coastlines and wildlife viewing areas.
Wildlife Viewing Distances
Image taken on our 2025 photo expedition
NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR at 420mm
The updated regulations require vessels and Zodiacs to maintain respectful distances from polar bears once they are spotted:
March 1 - June 30: Minimum viewing distance of 500 metres
July 1 - February 28: Minimum viewing distance of 300 metres
Because our expedition runs from June 30 - July 10, we spend one day under the 500 metre spring guideline before operating under the 300 metre distance requirement for the remainder of the voyage.
A 300 metre viewing distance still provides exceptional opportunities for observation and photography, especially when paired with a long lens.
The Arctic Doesn’t End at the Coastline
Image taken on our 2025 photo expedition
NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR at 600mm
An important detail is that the 300 - 500 metre polar bear distance requirements apply only within Norwegian and Svalbard waters.
Our itinerary extends well beyond these areas, taking us into the pack ice. These regions remain among the most productive locations in the Arctic for wildlife encounters and continue to offer outstanding opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
Image taken on our 2025 photo expedition
NIKKOR Z 28-400mm f/4-8 VR at 105mm
More Than Polar Bears
While polar bears are undoubtedly an Arctic icon, Svalbard offers an incredible diversity of wildlife.
You can look forward to opportunities to observe and photograph:
Walruses
Svalbard reindeer
Arctic foxes
Seals
Guillemots and other seabirds
Puffins
Image taken on our 2025 photo expedition
NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S
Image taken on our 2025 photo expedition
NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR at 560mm
With continued Zodiac operations, access to the pack ice, exceptional wildlife diversity, and excellent photographic opportunities, our June 30 - July 10 expedition remains every bit as exciting, immersive, and rewarding as ever.
