High above mainland Norway lies the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard — an icy wilderness that the sailing vessel Noorderlicht has called home since 1994. During the summer months, she explores Northern Norway and Svalbard, taking guests on whale-watching excursions along the southwest coast and offering longer adventures around the entire archipelago. For those seeking a more adventurous and active experience, she also organizes expedition voyages across the Barents Sea, with ample opportunities for sailing.
Exploring the world is the best way to enjoy unspoiled nature. From glacier hikes and bird-watching excursions to spotting whales, polar bears, and abandoned mining stations, Noorderlicht’s voyages are perfect for those who want to discover remote areas far from the tourist crowds.
With comfortable accommodations for up to 12 guests in private double cabins, Noorderlicht can reach some of the most remote areas of Svalbard thanks to her size and draft. This makes her an excellent way to discover the hidden gems of this breathtaking region. The galley and lounge below deck are located amidships, while an additional seating area and bar can be found in the deckhouse.
Life on Board
Exploring the Arctic Circle and the wilderness of Svalbard aboard the expedition sailing vessel Noorderlicht is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This breathtaking landscape is best discovered from the water, comfortably from your own sailing ship. With a small group of up to 12 guests, the atmosphere is far more intimate than on larger cruise ships.
Active Participation
Guests are encouraged to take an active role in all aspects of sailing. The wind in Svalbard can be unpredictable and sometimes challenging, but in favorable conditions it’s “all hands on deck” to hoist the sails manually. Often, however, the ship also sails under motor—for example, to reach a specific location on time—without detracting from the guests’ experience. Throughout the voyage, guests can take the helm and help plot the course on the charts alongside the crew, experiencing the adventure up close.
Climbing the mast while the ship is anchored in front of a three-mile-wide glacier is undoubtedly a highlight. Guests can also climb into the bowsprit net to help prepare the sails.
Sleeping and Relaxation
The interior of Noorderlicht is authentically furnished, exuding a relaxed and cozy nautical atmosphere. Spacious seating and dining areas on both the upper and lower decks provide plenty of room for 12 guests to enjoy meals, compare photos, or simply relax and read. Onboard, there is also a small library with informative books about the wildlife, history, and geology of Svalbard.
The upper salon houses the bar, with a coffee pot always ready for use, and guests can help themselves to the bar, settling on an honesty basis. The sleeping quarters are located on the lower deck, featuring 10 double cabins, each equipped with bunk beds, built-in storage, a sink, a mirror, and charging points. Bedding and towels are provided, so there’s no need to bring your own. Onboard, there are four shared toilets and showers, cleaned daily during landings, each stocked with dispensers for shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
A Typical Day
Wake up to the smell of fresh coffee as mist rises over dramatic landscapes. Noorderlicht’s summer voyages in Svalbard take place under the midnight sun, meaning 24 hours of daylight. Breakfast is served continental-style and is followed by the first landing around 9 a.m. Landings ashore are always weather-dependent—if the fog is too dense or visibility is poor, the risk of encountering a polar bear is too great! The schedule is flexible, and the guides keep guests informed throughout the day.
After the first landing, a hearty lunch is served onboard, often while the ship sails to the next anchorage. The afternoon is usually relaxed—reading, napping, chatting, or simply enjoying the stunning natural surroundings.
Noorderlicht aims for two landings per day, but these are entirely optional. Guests who prefer to stay onboard are, of course, welcome to do so. The second landing usually takes place in the late afternoon, before dinner.
Dining Onboard
Good meals onboard are just as important as on any other sailing vessel. Although the Arctic region imposes limitations on the availability and quality of food, our professional chef prepares excellent international dishes three times a day. Breakfast is served at 8 a.m., featuring fresh bread, boiled eggs, cold cuts and vegetables, cheese, yogurt, cereals, muesli, and fresh fruit. Lunch usually follows around 1 p.m., depending on the timing of land excursions. Coffee, tea, and soft drinks are available throughout the day at the bar, and fresh fruit and cookies are always on hand. Dinner is served around 7:30 p.m.
Guests with dietary requirements are encouraged to discuss them briefly with the chef on the first day. The chef can accommodate vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free meals, but is unable to provide vegan options.
Safety
Noorderlicht sails with a rotating crew: captain, first mate, chef, deckhand, and engineer. To comply with the strict regulations in Svalbard, each voyage includes one or two registered guides (depending on the number of guests). This ensures the protection of local culture and environment, and—most importantly—the safety of both guests and crew. The guides are certified through the Svalbard Guide Training (SGO), and many have also completed Arctic Nature Guide (ANG) training.
