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Delivery: Crossing to Svalbard

Starts
Europe/Oslo
Ends
Europe/Oslo
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Discover the crossing to Svalbard aboard T/S Saeftinghe.

From 17 April to 1 May 2027, we sail from Tromsø to Longyearbyen. Leaving the Norwegian coast behind, we head north across the Barents Sea towards the remote Arctic archipelago of Svalbard.

This early-spring passage can still bring true winter conditions. Cold temperatures, changing weather and a demanding open-sea crossing are all part of the journey. At this time of year, winter slowly begins to release its grip, while the returning sun transforms the Arctic landscape.

As we sail further north, the days become longer until darkness disappears completely. During the voyage, we experience the first period of 24-hour daylight of the new season—an extraordinary moment that marks the return of the midnight sun to Svalbard.

A challenging and rewarding ocean passage for those who want to experience real life at sea and reach Svalbard in an Out Of The Ordinary way.

  • Embark at: Tromsø, Norway
  • Disembark at: Longyearbyen, Svalbard
  • Estimated number of nautical miles: 600
  • Full Board
  • Classification: 3 icebergs

Our programme during this trip

Embarkation

T/S Saeftinghe will be ready for you in Tromsø, Norway. Embarkation is scheduled on Saturday 17 April 2027 from 17:00 onwards.

After settling in aboard, we introduce you to the ship, the crew and the safety procedures for the voyage ahead. Together, we prepare Saeftinghe for the crossing and discuss the expected weather and route towards Svalbard.

Our Program

Once we leave Tromsø, we set course north and gradually leave the shelter of the Norwegian coast behind. Ahead of us lies the Barents Sea: a vast stretch of open water between mainland Norway and Svalbard.

This is a true ocean passage rather than a journey with a fixed daily itinerary. Our course and progress depend on the wind, waves, weather and sea conditions. Whenever circumstances allow, we sail and become part of the rhythm aboard. During the crossing, everyone has the opportunity to participate in life at sea, from keeping watch and navigating to setting sails and sharing daily tasks.

April is still early spring in the High Arctic. We may encounter calm seas and clear skies, but also strong winds, cold temperatures, snow and wintery conditions. These elements make the crossing demanding, but they are also what makes arriving in Svalbard by sea so rewarding.

With every mile north, the daylight increases. During this week, Svalbard welcomes the return of continuous daylight, and we experience the first 24-hour sunlight of the new season. Even late at night, the Arctic landscape remains illuminated.

As the mountains of Svalbard appear on the horizon, we enter a completely different world. Reaching Longyearbyen aboard Saeftinghe is more than arriving at a destination, it is the conclusion of a genuine Arctic crossing.

Disembarkation

The voyage ends in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, on Saturday morning 1 May 2027 after breakfast.

This trip is in full board

Participants are required to bring their own bedding and towels: pillowcase, single duvet cover (or sleeping bag), fitted sheet and towel!

What is included in Full Board?
  • Welcome on board
  • Accommodation on board based on 2 persons per room. A room consists of 2 single beds (bunk beds) with shared washroom.
  • Breakfast, Light lunch, Dinner
  • Water, coffee and tea à volonté
  • Performance captain and one crew member
  • Use of safety equipment
  • Use of the ship for the purposes described in the programme (mooring fees, fuel costs, maintenance, insurance,...)
What are the extras?
  • Travel and accommodation costs other than on board
  • Transfers from or to the port of arrival or the port of departure
  • Excursions if not mentioned in the programme
  • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Communication costs
  • Appropriate clothing and footwear
  • Costs for excursions, restaurant,... if not specifically mentioned in the programme.

For whom is this trip suitable?

With our voyages, we aim to introduce beginners to sailing and the ocean on the one hand, and experienced sailors who want to do something different on the other. But of course, not every trip is the same... That's why we distinguish between heaviness and effort. That way you have an idea of what you can, should and should expect.

This trip has 3 icebergs.

These voyages are defined by longer crossings, which may range from two days to several weeks at sea. Routes often lead into remote regions where weather, sea state and conditions can become demanding, and where assistance may be further away than in more populated sailing areas. Participants should be prepared for a more intensive experience and a higher degree of self-reliance. This is the level where sailing becomes a true expedition and where the journey itself is the destination.