Svalbard Polar Bears 2027
Ship-based Polar Pack Ice Expedition

Leighton Lum

Hawaii native Leighton Lum’s jaw-dropping images simply speak for themselves. Led by his creative eye and passion for adventure, Leighton has traveled the globe to destinations like Africa, South America, Iceland, Indonesia, and Antarctica, leading photography workshops and making his own award-winning photographs. Leighton hopes his photography inspires others and raises awareness about conservation to ensure future generations can enjoy the natural world he cherishes. Read more about Leighton and see a selection of his images.

We understand life happens and plans may change. If you need to cancel your reservation, the following policies apply :

Deposits are NOT refundable but may be transferred to another Art of Seeing workshop for up to 24 months from date of cancellation in accordance with the following schedule:

Regardless of when you cancel, if we fill your spot*, you will receive a refund of all fees paid less your deposit and $150 processing fee. If we cannot fill your spot, the amount of your refund is based upon the cancellation date:

• Cancellation 120 days or more from workshop start date: 100% refund of fees paid less deposit and $150 processing fee. Deposit transferrable up to 24 mos.

• Cancellation 90 – 120 days from workshop start date: 50% refund of fees paid less deposit and $150 processing fee. Deposit forfeit.

• Cancellation less than 90 days from workshop start date: No refunds.

*Canceled spots are filled after the workshop reaches full capacity

All cancellations must be made in writing. Refunds will be paid by the same method that the original payment was made. 

Payments made for private workshops that you arrange with us are not refundable.

Travel Insurance

A travel insurance policy which covers medical evacuation is a requirement for participation in this workshop.  Such policies typically also provide other benefits, including coverage for lost luggage or trip cancellations.

If you've traveled with us before, thank you!  You're the reason our passion is our profession, and we are deeply grateful for this blessing.

To express our appreciation, we've launched our Alumni Rewards Program which gives our 'frequent flyers' discounts on future Art of Seeing Photography Adventures. Click here for full details

Q: How should I book my flights?

A: Book your inbound flight to arrive at Longyearbyen Airport (LYR) in Svalbard by 2 PM on July 28. Your homeward flight should depart LYR after 12 PM on August 7. Additional travel logistics information will be provided to registered participants.

Q: Do I need a visa/ETA for Norway?

A:

• US passport holders: You'll need to apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before your trip. ETIAS is an online pre-travel authorization that costs €20.

• Other Nationalities: check online or with the Norway  embassy or consulates in your country for Visa or ETA requirements.

Q: What camera gear do I need?

A: Long glass is essential—400mm minimum, 500mm or 600mm ideal. Most shooting happens from Zodiacs at varying distances. You'll be handholding or using a monopod/bean bag for support (tripods don't work in Zodiacs). Image stabilization and fast, accurate autofocus are critical. Modern mirrorless bodies with animal eye-tracking are huge advantages. A second body is highly recommended. More detailed gear suggestions will be provided to registered participants

Q: What are the cabin/accommodation like on the M/S Kvitungen?

A: The M/S Kvitungen offers recently renovated double-bunk cabins with en-suite bathrooms. Single cabins will have a shared bathroom. All cabins are spacious and equipped with warm duvets and blankets, EU standard two-prong electrical outlets for charging, and closets for gear storage.

Q: What fitness level is required?

A: This workshop is rated as easy. However, most polar bear photography happens from Zodiacs, not from the main vessel. You need to be comfortable with:

• Boarding and exiting Zodiacs from the ship (requires stepping over the rail and climbing down/up a ladder or boarding platform)

• Sitting in a Zodiac for extended periods (sometimes 2-4 hours) while maintaining camera steadiness

• Handling long telephoto lenses and camera gear in a moving Zodiac

• Working in cold conditions

• Navigating stairs and uneven surfaces on the vessel between Zodiac excursions

If you have mobility issues, knee/hip problems, or balance concerns that would make getting in and out of Zodiacs difficult or unsafe, this trip may not be suitable. The Arctic doesn't offer alternatives—if you can't work from Zodiacs, you'll miss the core photography opportunities.

Expect long days at odd hours. Wildlife photography demands patience, willingness to shoot whenever bears are active, and comfort with Arctic unpredictability.

Q: I'm traveling solo. Can you arrange a roommate?

A: Yes, just select the Shared Lodging option when registering and we will pair you with a same gender roommate. If a roommate is not available, you will get a private room, but the Single Lodging fee will apply.

Q: Can my non-photographer partner come along?

A: Absolutely, travel partners who may not share your passion for photography are very welcome. Just make sure they can handle being part of a group that wants to do nothing but eat, sleep and talk about photography. Unfortunately, we cannot offer discounts or alternate activities for non-photographer partners.

 Q: What about seasickness? How rough is the sailing?

A: We'll have some open ocean crossings, but generally we hug the coast for a smoother ride. That said, Arctic weather changes fast—wind and sea conditions can shift at any moment. If you're prone to seasickness, bring medication. It's smart regardless of how steady your sea legs usually are.

Q: What kind of clothing/layers do I need for Arctic conditions?

A: You'll be outfitted with Arctic survival suits for the duration of the voyage—essential for Zodiac operations and ice landings. Under the suit, layering is everything. July-August temperatures in Svalbard typically range from 35-45°F, but wind chill on the water drops significantly. Think moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (fleece or down), and wind-resistant outer layers for when you're not in the survival suit. We'll send a detailed information packet covering clothing, gloves, hats, and other Arctic-specific gear.

Q: What happens if we don't see polar bears on the pack ice?

A: There are no guarantees with wildlife—that's the reality of working in genuine wilderness. Polar bears are wild animals. That said, our crew will do everything possible to find bears. Spotters are on the bridge scanning the horizon nearly 24 hours a day. We follow the ice and go where conditions are most productive. It's why we chose this vessel, this route, and this time of year. But understand: we're working with nature on nature's terms.

Q: Are there laundry facilities on board?

A: No laundry service is available onboard. Pack enough layers and clothing for the 11-day expedition.

Q: What's the power situation? (Voltage, outlets, charging)

A: The vessel uses standard European electrical outlets (220V, Type C/F plugs). Bring a European travel adapter if your gear uses different plugs. Electricity and charging aren't issues—you'll have power in your cabin to keep batteries topped off. When you're shooting for extended periods in cold conditions, keeping spare batteries warm in inside pockets is more critical than outlet access.

Q: Can I bring a drone?

A: Once we're in international waters, drone use may be possible under the guidance of our expedition team.

Q: What about communications/wifi/cell service?

A: The ship has wifi, but there's a fee per GB. Speed and connection quality will vary based on our location.

Q: What's your cancellation policy?

A: Deposits are non-refundable but may be transferable to another Art of Seeing workshop for up to 24 months from the cancellation date, according to this schedule:

• Cancellation  120+ days before departure: 100% refund of fees paid (less deposit and $150 processing fee). If we fill your spot after the workshop reaches capacity, you receive a refund of all fees paid less deposit and $150 processing fee, regardless of timing.

• Cancellation 90-120 days before departure: 50% refund of fees paid (less deposit and $150 processing fee). Deposit forfeited.

• Cancellation less than 90 days before departure: No refunds.

All cancellations must be submitted in writing. Full terms and conditions are available on our website. Travel insurance that covers trip cancellation is mandatory for this expedition—not just recommended.