About the ship
Passengers
12Crew
7Built
1953Flag
SwedenCruising Speed
9 knDraft
3,7 mLength
40 mBeam
8,8 mIMO Number
8226612Ice class
1AGuides
2Inflatable boats
2With space for just 12 guests, M/S Stockholm offers one of the most personal and intimate small-ship expedition experiences in Svalbard and Northern Norway. Originally built in 1953 for the Swedish National Maritime Administration, she is a true piece of Scandinavian maritime history. After a complete refit in 1998, she began a new career as a comfortable and characterful expedition ship, perfectly suited for expedition cruises in the Arctic. To enhance exploration, the ship is equipped with two Zodiacs, and you will be accompanied by two knowledgeable guides with a deep passion for these remote regions.
A CLASSIC 12-PASSENGER SHIP LOVED BY MANY
With her beautiful brass details and wooden decks, M/S Stockholm is a stunning piece of maritime history, loved for her warm and characterful interior. With space for just twelve guests, every voyage offers a personal and relaxed atmosphere. The small group size allows flexibility without queuing, quick landings and a strong sense of expedition spirit. The spacious deck areas provide plenty of room without crowds and offer the perfect platform for photography or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery.
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Gerry Van der Walt
The trip was absolutely amazing and I cannot commend the staff and crew of the Stockholm enough. The sightings and weather obviously takes care of itself but the Captain and his team made the experience truly next level. They are a very special group of people.
ONE OF THE MOST EXPERIENCED SHIPS IN SVALBARD
Boasting more than 25 years of navigating Svalbard’s challenging waters, M/S Stockholm and her Swedish crew know the region like few others and can reach sites that are inaccessible to larger ships. The crew’s genuine enthusiasm for the Arctic’s unique wildlife and pristine environments is central to the authentic expedition cruises offered on M/S Stockholm. It creates a warm and familiar atmosphere that reflects the true spirit of small-ship exploration. Travelling with just twelve guests also makes operations smooth and efficient, giving you more time to enjoy landings and Zodiac cruising. A journey through these northern waters, with their unparalleled wildlife and untouched landscapes, is an experience of a lifetime.
A SHIP THAT FEELS LIKE HOME
Enjoy delicious meals in the homely dining room, then head to the saloon for a drink, a chat with fellow travellers or a quiet moment with the breathtaking views. The food on board is of a high standard, and all beverages are included in the price. The atmosphere on board is informal and friendly – more like being on a private tour than travelling on an expedition ship. The bridge is open to visitors and invites you to visit the captain or simply enjoy the scenery as the ship navigates the icy waters.
COZY CABINS WITH PRIVATE FACILITIES
M/S Stockholm offers six twin cabins, each with private facilities, bunk beds and small portholes. The cabins are simply furnished yet comfortable, providing everything you need for a pleasant stay at sea. After a day of Arctic adventure, your cabin becomes a peaceful retreat where the soft hum of the ship and the gentle movement of the sea lull you to sleep.
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25 years exploring Svalbard
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Accommodates only 12 guests
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All bevarages included
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1 guide for every 6 guests
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Brass details and wooden decks
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Immersive historical charm
Trips with M/S Stockholm
Said about the trips
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Annie Katz
I have finally come up for my first breath of air and had to write you & tell you about our trip. It was, simply put…..WONDERFUL in ALL respects. The Stockholm is the best ship. I just loved being on her again. Our guides could not have been a better choice for us. Both of them full of life, adventure, knowledge about the Arctic and all of the flora and fauna to be met there. The cook was fabulous! The food was exceptional….his cookies are to absolutely die for. We saw every animal and bird there was to see in Svalbard. As you mentioned, every trip is different, and I think this time I got to photograph things I did not see the last time. What a plus! The trip was just plain PERFECT.
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Mary Ann McDonald
Every one of the crew worked very hard to give us the best trip possible. They went out of their way to look for bears and seals, to provide Zodiac excursions and to help make it like ‘home’ on the M/S Stockholm. Both our guides spent many hours either up in the crow’s nest, or awake during the night in the bridge, helping to look for photo subjects. We couldn’t have asked for more.
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Blair & Jacob Briggs
Jacob and I enjoyed the trip on board M/S Stockholm very much. It was truly an incredible experience. Our guide was very helpful and qualified. He was always pleasant and willing to answer questions for everyone.
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Gerry Van der Walt
The trip was absolutely amazing and I cannot commend the staff and crew of the Stockholm enough. The sightings and weather obviously takes care of itself but the Captain and his team made the experience truly next level. They are a very special group of people.
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John Stanford, United Kingdom - June 2025
The cruise was very well organised. The guides were very knowledgeable about the wildlife, geology and landscapes and clearly explained the intentions for the following day, whilst also explaining the need for flexibility. They were also very supportive with equipment, getting on and off Zodiacs and on landings. The crew of MS Stockholm was very helpful with advice and support. The food was absolutely first class. Ms Stockholm is a very attractive ship of great character, Its size promotes a team ethos and allows more flexibility than a larger ship.
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Anders Norlander, Sweden - June 2025
Knowledgeable and dedicated guides. A lovely ship with skilled crew. Great food. The whole trip was very successful and actually an experience of a lifetime. It is possible to pour praise and in summary it was “as good as it gets”.
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Birgitta Kimber, Sweden - June 2025
The highlights of our trip were the amazing crew who were so helpful and the incredibly good food, as well as the beautiful ship. And of course the experience of seeing all the wildlife in their natural habitat.
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Rowan Forster, United Kingdom - May 2025
Visiting Svalbard itself is the most important aspect, but second to that is the unique experience of the M/S Stockholm and crew, as well as the expertise of the guides.
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Dave Berrington, United Kingdom - May 2025
We have recently returned from our Arctic expedition around Svalbard on the MS Stockholm, a small classic ship (12 passengers) with an ice-strengthened hull. The 2 guides and the crew were excellent, the food (buffet breakfast and lunch, and 3-course dinner) was varied and so good and catered for both vegetarian and vegan passengers. We reached the Arctic pack ice to the north (80 47”) which was stunning and surreal, then visited many gorgeous fjords down the west of the archipelago. With 2 zodiacs, our daily excursions were comfortable, safe and very respectful to the wildlife we encountered. We were equipped with weather-proof suits which were great to keep us dry and warm on the zodiacs though bringing our own thermal rubber boots (Muckboots) was useful. We were so fortunate with the wildlife - many walrus and seals, arctic fox (gorgeous), Minki and Baluga whales, Reindeer and 4 Polar bear sightings! Between the stunning scenery, the wildlife, the fantastic guides and crew, and a ship with huge character, this was an unforgettable experience.
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Britt-Marie Chrona, Sweden - May 2025
I have long had a trip to Svalbard on my bucket list, but it was conditional, I would go with a smaller group. The trip in May met expectations. Crew and guides were top ten. What a nature experience we got to be part of. One of the travellers had also previously been on a trip with Stockholm and that says a lot.
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Eric Schneider & Cathrine Humphries, USA
We already have been recommending Polar Quest to friends/colleagues/family even though we are not even home from our vacation yet. For many reasons: intimate experience with such a small manifest of passengers; M/S Stockholm perfect for navigating the rough seas and ice pack — while also small enough to get us up close to the best sites; incredible guides (Zet and Annette) who were attentive to all our interests including birds and Zet especially looked after our 12 yo son; wonderful crew who also introduced us to Swedish Midsummer celebration; exceptional culinary experience (thanks to Kalle, Charlie and Viktoria) that we did not expect as this was not emphasized pre-departure . We ended up taking hand-written notes on recipes. You should publish a Ship’s recipe book as a souvenir ! This will be hard for any future trips to live up to. We were spoiled — thank you!!"
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Claudia Paschen, Germany - August 2025
Everything was great. The guides, the team, the food, the boat, the passengers and above all the sightings so close to the wonderful arctic animals and the great arctic landscapes. Thank you very much for this wonderful trip.
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Anne Ringland, United Kingdom - August 2025
The M/S Stockholm is a wonderful ship. The food is fabulous and the crew are so helpful, friendly and welcoming. Love it!
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Sven Tyrberg, Sweden - August 2025
Everything we experienced was 10 out of 10. The food on board was superb, thanks to the excellent chef. The entire crew was incredible, ensuring that EVERYTHING was perfect and a wonderful experience for us travellers. The guides were very knowledgeable and excellent. A once-in-a-lifetime trip! Do you have the opportunity to go? Don't hesitate to travel with MS/Stockholm!
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Ralf Ekqvist, Sweden - August 2025
M/S Stockholm is a pleasant ship. Nice crew, Swedish service and great guides.
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Elisabeth Åkerström, Sweden - July 2025
Everything was fantastic and exceeded our expectations. We had many wonderful experiences with our skilled guides. Very pleasant crew on the M/S Stockholm.
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Lars Svensson, Sweden - July 2025
Svalbard is fantastic. The expedition feeling makes the trip even more attractive. The knowledgeable and dedicated guides complete the trip. Of course, I must also mention the ship M/S Stockholm and its crew. A great combination.
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Elisabeth Håkansson, Sweden - July 2025
Great service, wonderful nature experiences, and thanks to the small group size, we saw lots of animals.
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Gösta Rådén, Sweden - July 2025
The trip gets 10 out of 10 for the overall experience with nature, plants and wildlife, but also for the first-class food and service on the boat. Knowledgeable crew and competent guides. Nice ship in exemplary condition. Always having the travelers' best interests as the goal.
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Gun von Krusenstjerna, Sweden - July 2025
The trip gets 10 out of 10 because the flexible itinerary; You follow the weather, wind, etc, Flexibility is key.
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Alf Lindberg, Sweden - September 2025
Consistently high quality in all aspects of a great travel experience. Good information before the trip, knowledgeable and friendly guides, the Stockholm ship and its crew are very pleasant to travel with, and both the guides and crew work hard to ensure that I, as a traveller, had a great experience, from wildlife and nature to culture and excellent food. In short, you feel well looked after in every way.
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Susanne Zuelli, Switzerland - September 2025
I enjoyed every minute of the trip, the wonderful people of the crew, the two excellent guides, the expert photographer, the outstanding chef. Actually, I don’t know what to name first because at the same time, it was also the incredible landscapes and the wonderful animals
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Madelene Eriksson, Sweden - September 2025
The trip gets 10 out of 10. Especially the expedition leader and guides' enthusiasm, knowledge and commitment.
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Peter Hergesheimer, USA - May 2025
All three of our PolarQuest trips have been wonderful experiences. Everything from the office staff to the guides and ship crews have been excellent.
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Anthony Medawar, United Kingdom - November 2025
The ship M/S Stockholm is a genuinely charming vessel, full of atmosphere with well-appointed, comfortable accommodation and excellent food. Our guides were perfect in their roles. Authoritative and entertaining, and inspiring in their enthusiasm. The crew - excellent. You felt very safe in their hands.
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Julie Hill, United Kingdom - November 2025
We loved the small group travel and the guides are just the best!! The crew on the ships are also super friendly. We love the way they all tried to be away from the crowds and do something a little different. Everything worked perfectly.
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Susanna Ekengren, Sweden - October 2025
This is our second trip with PolarQuest and M/S Stockholm. It is also the second time we have had Beau and Christian as our guides. This trip was just as enjoyable as the Svalbard trip. We were extremely fortunate with both the weather and what we got to see. Five stars to the chef.
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Jörgen Davidsson, Sweden - October 2025
The trip was 10 out of 10, thanks to clear information about the trip and fantastic staff on the boat. We got to experience everything we wanted and more. A cozy ship and superb food!
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Lena & Anders Luts, Sweden - November 2024
Expedition feeling, good guides, small group, commitment, nice ship.
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Liselotte, Sweden - November 2024
A fantastic experience and completely professionally executed. Feels genuine and exclusive in that you get to be part of something that is not a dozen goods. Superb guides that do everything to give us guests the best possible experience. In addition, a very pleasant and family atmosphere on board the ship, which the whole crew contributed to. Can only recommend!
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Lauren Boyd, Wildlife Worldwide, United Kingdom - October 2024
The tour leader and our group had the most incredible time aboard the M/S Stockholm! The ship, crew, expedition team, and itinerary was a dream!
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Lars Ekberg, Sweden - October 2024
My trip to Northern Norway was a fabulous experience that proves the value of knowledgeable guides (and crew) to give us an unforgettable experience. Given the weather and northern lights forecasts I read the week before the trip, I had rather low expectations. But they were exceeded by far.
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Helene Darrieutort & Florence Garoscio, France - November 2023
We would recommend this trip because of the spirit of PolarQuest. I mean the organisation (both the administration and on board) are so professional and attentive. They care a lot about everything. Because we were so lucky about the nature (orcas,whales, northern lights). Because we had so lovely guides who knew how to do where and when, and take decision, so it’s a talent to be a guide like that. They communicated passion and happiness! The crew was perfect with very good quiet ambiance. And finally because it’s like a little sweden family that we had during few days and it was so nice.
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Russell Brimelow & Philippa Marshall, United Kingdom - November 2023
Absolutely wonderful trip. Atmospheric boat and everyone working on it was great.
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Gisela Thorildsson, Sweden - November 2023
PolarQuest's trips are unique in different ways. My first trip with PolarQuest in October 2023 to the Galapagos Islands cannot be described in words. And this trip to Northern Norway was no worse, completely beyond expectations considering what we saw and experienced. The guides impressed us all. I am super happy and look forward to the Svalbard trip with PolarQuest in 2024 with great anticipation!
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Carina Lüppert, Sweden - November 2023
My expectations were exceeded as we saw so many whales up close! Liked the flexible arrangement. Lovely ship, M/S Stockholm, with fantastic crew, all meals were great. The guides so knowledgeable and dedicated.
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Marianne Hörding, Sweden - November 2023
PolarQuest has a unfailing ability to always look for the unique and different and not to take the easy way out with places where all other tourists are! We have never been disappointed in our now nine trips with PolarQuest and are ambassador to anyone who wants to know which travel agency to go with. Not the cheapest but the best! As always, you get what you pay for, but with PolarQuest you get a little more!
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Lena Näslund, Sweden - October 2023
Travelled with Polarquest twice now. Both times it has been very well organised trips with knowledgeable guides and very nice crew. Also good and well cooked food.
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Carin Berghult, Sweden - October 2023
Apart from the desire to see whales and the northern lights, the crew and guides were absolutely fantastic and contributed to a familiar and cosy feeling. The chef served food that was amazingly good. The superlatives never end!
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Harriet Berghult, Sweden - Oktober 2023
Fantastic experiences, Orcas in masses, humpback whales that put on a show, fantastic northern lights etc. And to go on such a fantastic ship as M/S Stockholm. In addition, super guides, super staff and fantastic food, plenty of good, cosy, in short such a nice experience, thanks to everyone at M/S Stockholm.