Svalbard X-Bow Ships
First introduced to Svalbard in 2019, these futuristic X-Bow ships with their state-of-the-art technology, exceptional stability, comfortably appointed cabins and generous …
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5 reasons to choose a micro ship in Svalbard
- Travelling with only 12 people feels like you’re on your own private ship and allows for a greater degree of personalisation around your interests than on a larger vessel
- With so few fellow travellers on board, a micro ship is perfect if you're looking for an intimate Svalbard experience exploring alongside like-minded people
- As getting 12 people off the ship is much quicker than 100+, you benefit from greater spontaneity and the ability to quickly react and maximise opportunities
- Micro ships excel at helping you spend as much time off the vessel as possible – up to 6+ hours a day – which is ideal for those wanting more time on land
- A shallower draught and permission to access landing sites with a limit of only 39 people mean micro ships are able to access places larger vessels can't
Swoop says
These micro ships are particularly well suited to photographers and wildlife enthusiasts who value a flexible itinerary, the ability to react quickly to opportunities, and extended time on land.
Alex Mudd Head of Swoop Arctic
Our top cruises on micro ships
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
Circumnavigate Spitsbergen on board a choice of three small ships and in the company of specialist guides. Travelling in such small groups allows you more time to explore, and some late-season departures benefit from stunning autumn light. Ask about special…
- 12 Days
- $8,790
Explore the fjords and ice of Svalbard keeping a close watch for polar bears onboard a choice of three truly exceptional small expedition ships. Spend time on deck, on land and in zodiacs with the hugely experienced guides learning about…
- 9 Days
- $6,990
MS Sjøveien's bow
MS Sjøveien's dining area
MS Stockholm's bow
MS Stockholm's lounge
MS Stockholm's dining room
Polarfront in the Arctic
Polarfront's Superior Suite
Balto in the Arctic
Balto's lounge
Balto's bar area
Explorer navigates the ice
Explorer's Lounge
Kinfish among icebergs
Kinfish's dayroom
Planning guide to micro ships
What to consider when choosing a micro ship
The bridge
- With capacity for only 12 guests, these ships can fill up quickly, so youll need to book ahead to secure your preferred dates and cabin category
- With their polished brass and lovingly maintained wooden features, each of these ships has great character and an appealing and convivial atmosphere on board
- Typically, there’s a choice of 2-5 different cabin categories to choose from, and a range of comfort levels across different vessels
- For all their benefits, micro ships have certain limitations. Specifically, cabins don’t have balconies like on more modern, larger ships; kayaking isn’t typically offered as an optional activity; and you'll need to bring your own parka jacket
- While these micro ships offer good value for money, they aren’t the lowest priced because of the small number of people on board to cover the operating costs
- These older ships typically travel at lower average cruising speeds than their larger, more modern competitors, but in Svalbard, where distances between places of interest are typically fairly short, this isn’t a disadvantage
Who do micro ships suit?
From experience, we know that micro ships particularly appeal to:
- Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts who appreciate the extended time on land and the spontaneity of a micro ship to quickly be able to respond to and maximise wildlife sightings
- Anyone who enjoys the heightened intimacy, conviviality and more personalised overall experience of travelling as part of a small group
Out on deck
Discover more about Svalbard
Svalbard Expedition Ships
The great allure of expedition ships lies in their original working roots, classic lines, no-frills style and authenticity. Travelling on one is an experience in its own right. …
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Svalbard Luxury Ships
Whether luxury for you means exceptional service, world-class dining, top-tier guides, an extensive wine list or relaxing spa treatments, these ships have you covered. With …
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When to visit Svalbard
While Svalbard may be an almost year round destination, the changing weather, number of daylight hours, amount of ice and snow conditions through the year all have a marked effect …
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2
Match
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3
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Our team of experts are ready to help you with any questions about a trip to the Arctic.