EXPERTS
FALLING IN LOVE WITH SVALBARD
Expedition Team Leader and Svalbard expert Monica Votvik tells us why this Arctic Archipelago holds such a special place in her heart.
EXPERTS
FALLING IN LOVE WITH SVALBARD
Expedition Team Leader and Svalbard expert Monica Votvik tells us why this Arctic Archipelago holds such a special place in her heart.
Watch full video here
This issue is all about telling stories from remote destinations, and who better to deepen our understanding of a far-away place than one of our expedition leaders. After all, these dedicated individuals live, breathe and cherish the distant locales that fill our dreams.
What Expedition Team Leader Monica Votvik doesn’t know about Svalbard isn’t worth knowing. She moved to this remote group of islands in the High Arctic in 2002 for a three-month-long job, fell in love with it, and ended up staying for 15 years. Here, Monica tells us what draws her to this silent wilderness at the very edge of the world, and what you can expect on an expedition cruise to Svalbard.
Svalbard expert Monica Votvik.
Svalbard is rich with areas of raw Arctic wilderness.
Svalbard is rich with areas of raw Arctic wilderness.
Animal life abounds on both land and water throughout the Norwegian archipelago.
What made you fall in love with Svalbard?
The nature and wildlife make it difficult not to fall in love with this place! It’s a beautiful natural landscape, plus some charming old huts with lots of history – all immersed in a blaze of High Arctic flora.
About 170 plant species are thought to grow on the Svalbard archipelago.
Tell us something surprising about Svalbard
It’s said that more polar bears than people live in Svalbard, but it’s hard to say if that’s true. Around 2,500 people live here at the moment, and it’s estimated there are approximately 3,000 polar bears in the Svalbard archipelago and Franz Josef Land The total number of polar bears is probably less than that, but in summer they can be encountered anywhere in Svalbard, from the beaches to the valleys and the glaciers. In winter, they usually prowl the sea ice.
Svalbard — where bears are said to outnumber people.
Polar bears are the world's largest land predator.
What do you think is the best way to experience Svalbard?
I especially love to get guests on the water in a kayak or in our expedition boats. We get close to birds and maybe we will have curious seals checking us out. This is a true Arctic experience as we often get close — but not too close — to small icebergs.
Tick off a bucket-list item, kayaking through the chilly waters.
The luminous blue glow of the ice has to be seen to be believed.
Humans aren't the only curious creatures at Svalbard.
Having said that, if you prefer hiking, there are options for short and long hikes across the stunning landscape with our trained polar bear guards to make sure you walk safely. We might also go and explore a glacier if there’s time.
Round out your experience of this incredible landscape on an optional hike.
What makes Svalbard excursions special for you?
I’m a keen photographer, so I particularly value having an onboard photographer who can help with the settings and provide tips when we go scouting for wildlife with cameras at hand. We are always on the lookout for polar bears — and sometimes we are rewarded with a glimpse of the King of the Arctic himself! Seeing this impressive animal in its native environment is the memory of a lifetime.
Hone your wildlife photography skills.
The King of the Artic shows off his heir.
What do you think makes Hurtigruten Expeditions cruises so unique?
[Laughs] The Expedition Team, of course! Out on deck, we deliver exciting talks about the area’s history and wildlife. My colleagues in the Science Center might have collected some samples from sea or shore to show guests under the microscopes. We also have an underwater drone with us, and the Science Coordinator loves to show what life beneath the surface looks like.
Take part in a Citizen Science project during your cruise.
Experience the tranquil wonder of the Arctic silence.
The evenings are a time to relax as we sum up the highlights of the day and talk about tomorrow’s adventures. Guests can borrow our books about the destinations we’re sailing to, and my team and I are always available for a chat and to answer questions. We love Svalbard, and my Expedition Team and I look forward to sharing this Arctic love story with you!