Svalbard Ships

Our colleague Sarah was Expedition Leader on MS Expedition.

Naturally biased, she rates this ship in Svalbard for its spacious outer decks for great wildlife viewing, the captain and staff with their many years of experience, its capable 1C ice strength hull and the cavernous mudroom, where you leave your outdoor gear.

Few ships are more capable in heavy ice than these sister ships. Coupled with their quietness through the water, allowing them to manoeuvre closer to wildlife, they're ideal for exploring Svalbard.

Other things we like are the optional kayaking, large expedition staff and generous outer decks so there's no jockeying for position when wildlife is sighted. Plus, the loan of full outer clothing is a nice add-on and simplifies packing.

Built in 1976 for the Dutch navy, Plancius was remodeled for passenger exploration in 2009 and has spent a huge amount of that time in the ice around Svalbard.

We like her for her large open deck spaces and cosy atmosphere on board, as well as a hugely experienced onboard team

A true workhorse of polar exploration and with a 1A ice class rating meaning she can get places others can't. Built in Poland in the 1980s there is a definite rustic feeling that really makes any expedition feel a little bit more real.

With plenty of deck space from which to look out for wildlife and take in the stunning scenery, she is a perfect basecamp for any expedition to Svalbard.

Ocean Nova is our colleague Loli's favourite ship. She may be biased having worked on her for many years, but we all agree. In Svalbard, her strong hull and experienced captain means she can get deep into the pack ice where other ships can't go.

Clean Scandinavian lines and functional cabins are complimented by her intimate size and a well established onboard team.

A former Russian 'spy boat', what this small ship may lack in finesse she more than makes up for by her character and capabilities. Perfectly at home in heavy ice, the very experienced captain and expedition staff know Svalbard really well.

Plus, travelling with such a small number of passengers (max. 54) makes a real difference - it's more intimate. The kayaking programme on this ship is excellent.

Travelling as part of such a small group, sailing rather than motoring where possible, with the chance to actually get involved with the running of the ship, this traditional ship offers a very different, more adventurous Svalbard experience.

The cabins may be basic cabins, but this won't lessen the appeal for somebody looking for a more elemental experience.

If you want to explore Svalbard in ultimate luxury and yet not sacrifice any of the expedition aspects then it is hard to look beyond the Silver Explorer. With spacious cabins and impeccable service, the ship is an incredible place to find yourself after a day out on the ice.

• Ocean Adventurer
• Le Lyrial & Le Soleal 
• Rembrandt van Rijn
• Sea Spirit 
• National Geographic Explorer & Orion