Spitsbergen West Coast Expedition
In the footsteps of the polar bear!
On the borders of Europe and the Far North, even beyond the Arctic Circle and the North Cape, Spitsbergen is the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago.
A land full of mystery, once reserved for trappers and whalers, explorers and scientists, populated by spectacular wildlife - polar bears, reindeer, seals and other birds.
What you should know before you go
Embark on Tánana means to become a full member of the crew.
Don't worry, you don't need to have a long sailing experience.
Life on boat is also living together means sharing space.
You will participate in maneuvers, keepwatches (under the guidance of the professional crew) and life on board.
We will share this adventure and our passion for the Deep South with you!
Everything will be done to ensure that the cruise goes well, to respect the program and to be on time, but it must be kept in mind that we will navigate in areas where nature is queen and the wind sometimes capricious. The itinerary proposed in the day by day is therefore purely indicative, it will be necessary to accept any change.
Circuit characteristics
Embark on a discovery of the North-West coast of Spitsbergen, a concentrate of the Arctic with typical landscapes and a very varied fauna...
Whether you are new to navigation or already seasoned, this is the ideal trip for those who wish to discover this unique territory by taking advantage of a means of transport that respects the place and is comfortable, all within an experienced crew.
It is aboard this magnificent aluminum sailboat cut out for polar expeditions, both Arctic and Antarctic, that you make this participative trip to discover the riches of this territory, at the gates of the North Pole.
The icebergs of the icefjord, the glaciers of the king's bay and Monacobreen, the sightings of northern bears and abandoned whaling stations will be highlights of this extraordinary trip in which you will be one of the actors.
The day by day program
(indicative program and subject to change depending on the weather conditions of the moment.)
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DAY 1: Arrival in Longyearbyen:
Boarding the sailboat Tánana. Take the time to get comfortable on board and meet the crew. Depending on your arrival time, you can visit the Svalbard Museum and the small town of Longyearbyen. Short navigation at the end of the day to reach a panoramic anchorage.
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DAY 2: Discovery of the first glacier, Baie de la Croix:
As there is no night during the summer in Spitsbergen, we can take advantage of the permanent daylight to sail as we see fit and therefore cover greater distances if the conditions are favourable. First great navigation towards the Baie de la Croix, an impressive glacial tongue awaits you. Sailing: 3-4 hours.
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DAY 3: Navigation to the North:
Short hike to appreciate the plunging view of the glacier and the delicate vegetation of the Far North. Navigation to the North in the afternoon. Hike: 1-2 hours, Navigation: 4-5 hours.
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DAYS 4 and 5: Magdalenfjord and the North West Islands:
The magnificent Madeleine Fjord offers multiple possibilities and dramatic landscapes beneath its tapering peaks. We will therefore alternate between navigation and walks on land. Remnants of the whaling that took place in the 16th century are still present and give a unique aspect to our shore excursions! Hiking activities: 4-5 hours/day.
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DAYS 6 to 9: North Coast of Svalbard:
We are far from civilization! The wildlife here is abundant so it's time to observe reindeer, seals and inevitably the polar bear! The Monaco glacier is impressive and the emotion will certainly win you over when you see it! Again, depending on the conditions, hiking or kayaking are planned. 6-hour navigation to reach the North Hiking activities: about 3-4 hours/day.
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DAYS 10 to 11: Navigation to the south, Ny Alesund then, Longyearbyen:
We now descend to the south through the Mushamna canal. A stop is planned in Ny Ålesund, the northernmost village on the planet! A stopover in Barentsbourg is also possible. Last sighting of walruses before reaching Longyearbyen. Sailing 4-5 hours per day Shore Excursion: 2-3 hours.
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DAY 12: Departure from Longyearbyen:
Disembarkation at Longyearbyen in the morning.
Number of participants
8 Passengers/crew and 2 to 3 crew members
Beginning of stay
Embarkation and disembarkation atLongyearbuen
12 days
A physical training
On all the courses offered, it is not necessary to be a great sportsman but a good physical condition is required. Each team member must be able to get on and off in the tender, walk for a few hours on unmarked terrain, climb a drop of 300 meters and know how to adapt to the climatic conditions of the areas of the Deep South.
Equipment
Advice on equipment will be given to you when you register concerning clothing, footwear and accessories adapted to the climatic conditions. Rest assured, nothing rocket science!
Health
The French maritime authorities impose a very complete pharmacy and your captain is trained and authorized to deliver it if necessary.
However, the first dentist or other specialist is within a few days of access.
Note that a French-speaking doctor is in satellite connection for each trip.
Air
Barring exceptions, departure and arrival are from Ushuaïa. An arrival is nevertheless possible at the small airport of Puerto Williams for flights from Santiago de Chile via Punta Arenas.
Security
On board of our boats, all the safety equipment is present: life jackets, harnesses, life raft, ERPIB1 beacon, PLB beacon, MOB (Man Over Board) device, VHF, satellite telephone.
Formalities
You need a valid passport, it should be valid for at least 3 months after the end of the cruise. No visa for the Swiss, Belgians, Canadians and French. Upon arrival, you will be issued with a 3 month residence permit. Full Covid 19 vaccination is mandatory for Antarctica.
The price includes
Accommodation on board the boatand travel management.
The price does not include
Repatriation cancellation insurance, airport/boat transfer, any hotel nights before and after the trip following your flight, wines and strong alcohols, meals taken ashore and on-board cash of 40€/day/pers.
Next departure dates & prices
for our expedition on the northwestern coast of Spitsbergen
Date of departure
Return date
Number
days
Price
28/07/24
08/08/24
12
5300€
11/08/24
22/08/24
12
5300€
25/08/24
07/09/24
14
1900€
Ready to go?
Are you Tánana with us?
Fill out the form below.
We will contact you to discuss this together.
Expedition to the northwest coast of Spitsbergen and, if necessary, book your place!