Into the Arctic: My Svalbard Expedition Aboard FREYA

Two of our Ocean Independence Charter Managers, Stephanie Archer and Emily Hopkins, recently had the unique opportunity to embark on an unforgettable familiarisation trip aboard the exceptional FREYA, one of our charter yachts based in the Arctic Ocean.

A charter on board FREYA is truly unlike any other, and Stephanie Archer and Emily Hopkins experienced this first-hand. This remote corner of the world offers breathtaking scenery, dramatic terrain, and the rare chance to observe incredible wildlife in its natural habitat.

In this article, Stephanie shares the highlights of her once-in-a-lifetime journey, from polar bear encounters to hot tub soaks in one of the most remote destinations on Earth.

1 Day 1 First Impressions of Longyearbyen

Arriving in Longyearbyen, I was immediately struck by the sheer remoteness of the place. Surrounded by dramatic snowy peaks and undisturbed silence. This town is the largest settlement in Svalbard and marks the gateway to the archipelago. We began our adventure with a visit to the charming Husky Café, a warm and cosy spot that celebrates the island’s close relationship with sled dogs.

After settling in, we spent the afternoon exploring the town. Longyearbyen may be remote, but it boasts real character, featuring colourful buildings set against dramatic arctic backdrops and a strong sense of community spirit.

That evening, we gathered for dinner at Vinterhagen Restaurant with the Secret Atlas expedition team. Tucked inside a glass greenhouse, this restaurant was glowing with warmth and served an array of authentic local dishes, including reindeer, seal and whale steaks. This was an ideal setting to interact with our guides and fellow travellers ahead of the adventure to come.

2 Day 2 Boarding FREYA and Beginning the Adventure

The morning began with free time in Longyearbyen before we boarded FREYA, the expedition yacht that would be our home for the coming days. Built for high-latitude cruising and rugged environments, FREYA is perfectly suited for a Svalbard yacht charter and is beautifully decorated with a modern yet cosy interior, inspired by her surroundings.

We set a course north, reaching 80° North latitude, close to the famed Seven Islands. While thick ice prevented us from landing, simply reaching this remote northern point was exhilarating.

Staying aboard, we enjoyed a photography lecture from the onboard expert, covering everything from DSLR settings to how to get the best wildlife shots using just a phone. This was followed by a wildlife presentation by the lead expedition guide, with fascinating insights into walruses, glaciers, and the delicate ecosystems of the Arctic.

3 Day 3 Polar Bears and Belugas

This morning brought our first wildlife encounter, we travelled to the north of Von Otter where we spotted two walruses hauled out on the icy shore. Soon after, we were rewarded with a breathtaking sight, a polar bear and her two cubs walking across the ice. It’s important to note that we were more than 500 metres away at all times, and all photos were taken using long lenses to ensure no disturbance to the wildlife.

Back on board, we attended a polar bear presentation that provided us with insight into their behaviour and conservation. This felt all the more meaningful having just observed them in the wild.

After lunch, we cruised north toward Odinjokulen with hopes to approach a towering bird cliff, teeming with wildlife. However, the weather had other plans. Adapting quickly, the crew redirected us to a bay in Brageneset. Here, we boarded the Zodiacs and glided past the glacial fronts, where we were lucky enough to spot beluga whales swimming through the waters.

4 Day 4 Fjords, Bird Cliffs and Walrus Haul-Outs

In the morning, we arrived into Magdalenefjorden, a stunning bay on Svalbard’s northwest coast. After breakfast, we boarded a Zodiac and cruised to the surrounding bird cliffs where we saw thousands of Little Auks. We continued around the fjords, spotting a group of over 10 walruses lounging on the shore near a distant glacier.

We landed ashore and took a short walk across the snow towards the sleeping walruses, careful to keep a respectful distance. A short hike up a nearby hill offered spectacular panoramic views of the fjord, the glacier, and FREYA below.

Back on board, our afternoon was filled with enriching presentations. We continued our polar bear lecture with the expedition guide and later enjoyed another photography session focused on capturing the Arctic’s shifting light and moods. That evening, we arrived at Lilliehöökfjorden, northwest of Svalbard and home to an impressive 7 km-long glacier.

5 Day 5 Life at the Top of the World

Today we visited Ny-Ålesund, a small town in the west island of Spitsbergen and one of the northernmost settlements on Earth. This tiny town is home to a fascinating international research base where teams from 10 nations and more than 20 nationalities study atmospheric science, marine studies, terrestrial research and investigations into snow and ice.

We departed just before lunch, and the afternoon brought two insightful lectures, one on editing landscape and wildlife images, and another on Arctic foxes, which we were all hoping to see.

In the evening, we arrived at St. Jonsfjorden, a beautiful fjord where we enjoyed an outdoor BBQ on deck, paired with picturesque views. At 8:30pm, we boarded the Zodiacs and embarked on a tranquil evening cruise around the fjord, in search of seals and Arctic foxes. The night ended with a soak in FREYA’s hot tub, surrounded by snow capped mountains.

6 Day 6 Farewell to the Arctic

Our final morning began in Protektorfjellet, where we boarded the Zodiacs once more. We cruised across the fjord, spotting a pair of seals before anchoring and climbing ashore to hike a snow hill towards a cliff. From the top, the views were phenomenal, rugged peaks, expansive ice and the unmistakable silhouette of FREYA making her way toward us.

As we gazed upon the view, we spotted reindeer and listened to the echoes of birds nesting on the cliffs above. It felt like a final send-off from the Arctic itself.

After lunch on board, we cruised around the Nordfjorden, soaking in every last moment of the extraordinary wilderness. That evening we returned to Longyearbyen, ready to disembark the following morning.

Final Reflections

This familiarisation trip aboard FREYA was nothing short of exceptional. The undisturbed and natural beauty of Svalbard is something that I’ll never forget. From polar bears and belugas, to seals and walruses, each day brought new and humbling encounters.

FREYA proved to be the ideal vessel for such a journey, small and versatile enough to navigate the most remote corners of this region, yet offering all the comforts of a luxury expedition yacht. With an expert crew and world-class guides, every moment felt seamless, safe and deeply enriching.

For any guest seeking the ultimate adventure, a Svalbard charter aboard FREYA is truly an experience like no other.

To begin planning your Arctic experience aboard FREYA, contact Stephanie Archer or Emily Hopkins today or enquire below.

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Stephanie Archer