The day began with a jolt of excitement—the kind that only the Arctic can deliver. We went all the way up north to spend a full day in the Pack ice. But before the morning coffee had even brewed, the ship’s PA system bim-bomed to life: "Good morning everyone – we have a polar bear!"
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Within seconds, the energy on board shifted. Cabins came to life, boots thudded down hallways, and sleepy faces lit up with anticipation. I was already halfway into my thermals, ready to help our guests witness something extraordinary. As one of the expedition guides, these are the mornings you live for—equal parts chaos and wonder.
The bear was a challenge to spot—far off on the ice, blending seamlessly with its frozen world, and moving quickly. With binoculars in hand, I helped guests find it, ’follow the large iceberg, or behind the little piece of water “ until the moment of, “Yes I got it !” Watching the amazement spread across their faces as they locked eyes on the Arctic’s most iconic predator.
Once the excitement faded and breakfast was behind us, it was time to prep for the morning Zodiac cruise. We couldn’t have asked for better conditions—crystal-clear skies, no wind, and dazzling light bouncing off the sea ice. I drove one of the zodiacs, weaving carefully through the ice floes, always scanning for wildlife.
We made a beautiful landing on a stable ice floe—a rare and special opportunity. Guests stepped out, cameras clicking, and we snapped a group photo against the surreal backdrop. Before continuing our cruise, we paused for a moment of silence out in the ice—a tradition of sorts. Then I pulled out my trusty JBL speaker and hit play on my polar playlist. Music in the middle of the ice—it brings emotion, to become a wonderful memory.
The afternoon brought more magic. Back aboard the ship, we pressed deeper into the pack ice, the ship gliding smoothly through a mosaic of white. I was up on the bridge when I spotted something black – a hooded seals lounging on a nearby ice floe. We gathered everyone on deck quickly. These impressive animals are rarely seen, even by seasoned Arctic travellers. Just as the excitement settled, another one appeared. Two in one day – an incredible stroke of luck.
As the sun dipped lower, painting the ice in hues of gold, the crew pulled off something special: a full BBQ on the outer deck. It was chilly, of course, but no one cared. Hot dogs, hamburgers, drinks in gloved hands – and a whole lot of laughter. Some danced, others just took it all in: the endless ice, the glow of the Arctic evening, the mountains of Svalbard silhouetted in the distance.
Out here, no two days are ever the same. But some – like this one – are simply unforgettable. The light, the wildlife, everything aligned.
This is why we explore. This is why we return.
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© Niklas Nilsson -
© Niklas Nilsson -
© Niklas Nilsson -
© Niklas Nilsson -
© Niklas Nilsson -
© Niklas Nilsson
Please note: Depending on the lens used for a photo or video shot an animal may appear to be closer than it is. We always follow strict wildlife guidelines to ensure that we do not cause any disturbance.
