After the official declaration of the Northeast Iceland Hope Spot, the Ocean Missions team seeks to explore other similar Hope Spots in the Arctic. 

Through this inspiring journey OUR MISSION is to gain insights in marine protection and conservation efforts in Svalbard in order to bring the best ideas and strategies to protect our marine biodiversity in Iceland.

Svalbard is an Arctic wilderness archipelago comprising the northernmost part of Norway and it is without a doubt one of the most fascinating and unique places on the planet.

Almost the entire territorial waters of the Svalbard archipelago are covered by three Marine Protected Areas. On land, there are twenty-nine protected natural areas, consisting of seven national parks, six nature reserves, fifteen bird sanctuaries and one geotope protected area.

Yet, it is deeply impacted by the climate change more than anywhere else on the planet.

Take a deep breath and immerse yourself into a full mind-blowing experience at the end of the World, Svalbard. Hold fast and sail Tilvera into some of the most unexplored and remote waters of the Svalbard Hope Spot. Explore the untamed landscapes, the stunning Nordaust and Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserves at the stirring latitudes of 70 ° North, above the Arctic Circle.

OM is looking for 12 enthusiastic souls that feel the responsibility to make a positive impact on marine conservation, to become a knowledgeable inspiration source for the others and for those who want to join the change (for example, by choosing a more sustainable lifestyle). This program is recommended for people studying or just interested in Marine Science, Oceanography, Marine Biology and the art of sailing. However, we believe that everyone has a big potential and must be onboard for a change!

This route is of special interest due to its high biodiversity and wildlife, including reindeers, Arctic foxes, snow hares and walruses. It is one of the best places in the world for polar bear encounters. Different species of seals and whales, including the largest animal on Earth, the blue whales, might be spotted as they start migrating to Svalbard for the summer feeding season. Svalbard is also home to some of the northernmost settlements in the world and a renowned scientific base for climate researchers.

Starting point: Longyearbyen port
*Flights to and from Longyearbyen are not included in the fee

Together for a change

This is not a typical tourist trip. Our priority here is the environmental values. This is not necessarily a luxury trip and is not about you, it is about the oceans and all of us. As a participant, you will be trained through an exciting citizen science program where you will learn deeply about the Ocean, the marine life, the problems we are facing and how you can be part of the solution. All, in an inspiring environment surrounded by the natural elements… the wind and the seas!

You will sail the ship with us and learn about both modern and traditional navigation. You will participate in the research and we will help you to develop your own project. You will learn how to become more sustainable and make a difference to protect the oceans. We focus especially on wildlife identification, the plastic problem, fishing gear and noise pollution, but if feasible we could do some other exciting activities like whale tagging, artistic projects… etc. We are open for suggestions as it is all about getting inspired and learning from each other! Our specialist OM team is formed by whale scientists, marine biologists, expert sailors, and wildlife guides. Often, we host artists, professional photographers/video makers, aiming to provide you with an experience of a lifetime.

Program onboard

Price: 2.900 Euros. (2.600 Euros if you are under 25 years old!) in a cozy twin cabin.

Price: 3.850 Euros. (3.650 Euros if you are under 25 years old!) in a cozy twin cabin with private facilities

Included: up to 7 nights onboard, healthy food, sustainable soap kit, towels and professional crew.

As part of OM team, you will get the “Ocean Missions Membership”, with free Whale Watching activities and discounts in the Whale Museum and other activities in Hùsavík – The Whale Capital in Iceland. Flights to and from Svalbard are not included.

Notice that this is not to make us rich! Your contribution will be used to cover basic costs of this operation: the boat rent, insurances, food, equipment, fuel, crew etc. Part of it will be designated directly to maintain the NGO running and to keep our work with the educational programs with the schools in small communities in Iceland.

As well as increasing marine protected areas in Iceland.

Sailing onboard Tilvera

Sailing is one of our main passions and we want to share that with you! Tilvera means “existence”, “to be present”, in Icelandic. She is a strong, fast and elegant 22m sailing boat with an authentic spirit, definitely made for adventures and meaningful projects! Tilvera is a sail training vessel, ready to sail around the world inspiring minds and hearts and serving as a home for explorers and restless minds and she offers the perfect platform for our missions. 

Plus, she is cozy and warm inside, with eight comfortable cabins, a spacious saloon with an inspiring library and a charming deckhouse… Everyone falls in love with her. Once you are onboard this will be your home and the people become your family. You become ONE with the ship and the elements. Sometimes, you will be leading the navigation, being part of the watches systems, climbing, and of course sail handling, all done with the best mentors in sailing. By transmitting this knowledge our aim is to keep the sailing traditions and the inspiration for the sea, ALIVE!

Check on our section “previous expeditions” to read about our previous Ocean Missions expeditions.

Read more about the Tilvera project: https://tilveraexpeditions.com/tilvera/