Arctic Wildlife Photography Workshop
Svalbard, Norway
July 21-31st, 2026
Explore the High Arctic and Photograph Its Wildest Inhabitants
Join professional wildlife photographer Joe Desjardins for an immersive photography expedition through the stunning fjords and remote coastlines of Svalbard, Norway—one of the last truly wild places on Earth. This workshop offers an unparalleled opportunity to photograph polar bears, walrus, Arctic foxes, seabirds, and dramatic polar landscapes, all from the unique perspective of a small expedition ship designed for serious photographers.
Timed for optimal wildlife encounters and dramatic Arctic light, we’ll sail deep into the Svalbard archipelago, navigating ice flows and secluded inlets where wildlife still rules the land and sea. With 24-hour daylight during this season, the photographic opportunities never stop.
You’ll capture polar bears on the pack ice, massive walrus hauled out along the shore, cliffside bird colonies in full swing, and the raw, glacial beauty that defines the high Arctic—all while receiving professional guidance in fieldcraft, composition, and storytelling in extreme environments.
This is not a cruise—it’s a true photographic expedition. Every decision, from itinerary to timing, is made with photography in mind.
📸 What You’ll Experience:
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Polar bear photography from a small ship with expert guides and crew
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Close encounters with walrus, seals, seabirds, and Arctic foxes
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Towering glaciers, sea ice, and remote Arctic landscapes
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Zodiac landings for intimate scenes and diverse compositions
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A collaborative, small-group environment for serious photographers
✅ What’s Included:
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All meals on board the ship
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Accommodation aboard the MS Terschelling
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Zodiac excursions (when conditions allow)
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Warm polar suits and life jackets for zodiac outings
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Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and juice 24/7
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All onboard presentations, image reviews, and personal photography instruction
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Guides, crew, and expedition leader
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Emergency helicopter evacuation coverage
❌ What’s Not Included:
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Flights to/from Longyearbyen, Svalbard
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Accommodation before/after the expedition
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Travel and cancellation insurance (required)
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Airport transfers
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Alcohol and personal expenses
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Waterproof boots
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Optional onboard Wi-Fi
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Tips/gratuities for guides and staff
(This workshop starts and ends in Longyearbyen International Airport)
July 21-31st, 2026
ITINERARY (10 NIGHTS)
DAY 0: ARRIVAL IN LONGYEARBYEN
Your flight arrives, and you will be accommodated at your hotel in Longyearbyen. Take in the local sights, get rid of that jetlag and have a nice dinner at a local restaurant. Please advise us if we can help you make a hotel reservation. We strongly encourage all our guests to arrive at least 24 hours before the start of their voyage. If you experience delays during air travel or have luggage that goes missing, you will have some spare time in your back pocket.
DAY 1, July 21st, EMBARKING THE SHIP AT 16:00
At 16:00 / 4 PM, we are ready to welcome you on board the ship that will be your home for the following days. At the floating pier called the “tourist harbour” in Longyearbyen, you will find a ship, MS TERSCHELLING.
When you come on board, we will conduct a safety briefing and shortly thereafter leave civilization behind. The first evening, we will sail out through the massive fjord where Longyearbyen is located, Isfjorden. Your adventure begins here, and the chances to see wildlife start right away. In Isfjorden, there is a bountiful presence of seabirds, and we often encounter whales and sometimes even dolphins here as well.
DAY 2-10, July 22nd- 30th, AT SEA
When you wake up on the first morning onboard, we will already be far away from Isfjorden and Longyearbyen. On most of our trips, we begin by sailing north, but every expedition is different. In the polar regions, we are at the mercy of the gods. The weather and the ice will dictate where and when we go. On these expeditions, flexibility is the key to success.
Somewhere, north or east of Svalbard, lies the pack ice. Exactly where we cannot write today, because this is a floating and dynamic landscape that is ever-changing. We closely follow the movements of the pack ice and always have a plan for the best entry point into this frozen kingdom.
With the MS TERSCHELLING, the pack ice will always be our primary region of operation. However, on the way there and back, and in windy weather, we will also have many chances to make detours into the fjords. Here we can launch our zodiacs to take you out and view the impressive landscapes, glaciers and rich wildlife that the fjords of Svalbard have to offer.
Your expedition team knows all the best places to find Arctic foxes, puffins, walruses and bearded seals. Together with the captain, you have excellent opportunities to experience the Arctic. You are in good hands!
DAY 11, July 31st, DISEMBARKING
Early in the morning, we will have the last breakfast on board the ship, followed by many hugs and goodbyes. We disembark at 09.00 at the latest.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime journey designed to elevate your wildlife and landscape photography in one of the most visually stunning and biologically rich environments on the planet. Whether you’re building your portfolio or chasing a lifelong dream, Svalbard delivers—raw, remote, and real.
(Important Note on Wildlife:
While Svalbard and the pack ice are home to an incredible array of wildlife—from polar bears to walrus, arctic foxes, seals, and seabirds—nature is never guaranteed. These animals roam vast, unpredictable environments, and sightings depend on weather, ice conditions, and pure chance. Part of the adventure is embracing the wild as it is: raw, untamed, and never on a schedule.)
Workshop cost:
$21,500.00 CAD + 5% G.S.T. (Goods and Services Tax)
($5000.00 CAD deposit to secure your spot)
Based on double occupancy.
Reserve your spot today and join me for an unforgettable Arctic adventure!
