Skipper's Choice - explore Isfjorden by RIB-boat

Skipper's Choice is a speedboat trip from Longyearbyen into Isfjord, the archipelago's second largest fjord. There is no fixed itinerary. The skipper picks the route each day from the weather, the sea and recent wildlife sightings, and the group decides together what to do. A frequent choice is the front of Bore Glacier in Borebukta bay, where icebergs fill the water and the group stops for a coffee and tea break. If the weather does not allow it, the alternatives are Tempelfjord with Tuna glacier, or Colesbay.

Guests look for seals resting on icebergs and watch for birds, and whales, walrus and a polar bear are possible sightings. The boat is called Stefi and has a partly enclosed cabin. It has six seats in a heated cockpit area and six seats outside. There is no toilet onboard. From early May until about mid-June the bays are packed with ice, so the glacier front cannot be reached then.

The trip lasts five hours and departs at 08:30. Groups have a minimum of four and a maximum of 12 guests. Guests must be between 6 and 70 years old. Included are a thermal suit, snacks, hot drinks, rescue insurance, a guide, emergency and safety equipment, fuel, and pick-up and return transport to your accommodation. Personal travel insurance is not included. The season runs from June to September.

Required clothing is base layers, thick socks, an insulating mid-layer, a warm hat and warm mittens or gloves. Recommended items are waterproof boots above the ankle, a camera with a waterproof case, sunglasses, sunscreen and medication for seasickness.