Clients’ comments

“Once we finally got past the ridiculous amount of changes, problems and hurdles that seemed to beset us before we went, we had an amazing holiday. In my previous two trips, I’d seen one polar bear per trip, distant. Two arctic foxes that almost ran past me and disappeared on the first trip, none on the second. Never seen a beluga. Well, this time, we had five bears, two really close. More arctic foxes than I can count, with gorgeous cubs coming incredibly close. Three to five belugas. The weather was mostly very kind to us. Most activities went to plan and, even on the day that a bear stopped us walking, he hung around to sleep and chill out, allowing us to get fabulous views from the zodiacs. The upgraded cabin was really nice, as was the lounge with the lovely large, low windows, perfect for wildlife watching in comfort.”
Sue Henning, Around Spitsbergen on Hondius

“Yet again thank you for making the travel arrangements to and from Sea Spirit so easy. Another educational and enjoyable trip. Including time spent in this part of the world in the early 1960s it must be about my 20+ time to have crossed 66°30’N.  After about an hour from sailing we came across a feeding frenzy which included whales (Humpback), dolphins, gannets and other sea birds. Yet another amazing sight to add to the list.”
Peter Wright, Crossing the Arctic Circle on Sea Spirit

“I felt I received a personal and accessible service from Fiona from my initial enquiry to near the time of my departure. The holiday itself lived up to all my expectations”.
Jennifer Dalmaine, Scotland to Spitsbergen Arctic voyage

“Our favourite part of the trip was observing the walrus, least favourite, the dining area was too noisy during meal times. In all other respects the trip was excellent and was hugely blessed by the quality of the lectures and lecturers.”
John and Beryl Bannister, Fair Isle, Jan Mayen, Spitsbergen

“I really enjoyed being among the ice and seeing how it moved in relation to the ship and other bits of ice. There were polar bears and walrus too, but for me the wildlife took second place to the ice and the general environment. Having talked to some of the other passengers, I think the service you provided was exemplary and I have been singing your praises…I’ve never gone on a holiday organised by someone else before so I didn’t know what to expect, but it seems that my experience was far better than some of the others. There were a few times during the trip when I felt a little ‘herded’ but I think that’s the price you pay for being in such an inaccessible part of the world. All in all, a very enjoyable experience and one I would repeat in the northern hemisphere again, in a few years’ time”.
Anne Robinson, Jan Mayen to Spitsbergen

“Particular thanks to Fiona for her courtesy, professionalism and help with booking flights back to Edinburgh. Pre-departure information very good. Excellent handling of last-minute changes caused by change of vessel.”
Mr and Mrs Norman Robb, Ann Rayner and Ronald Cramond, Aberdeen to Spitsbergen voyage

“Deepest thanks for all your kindness and help before departure and to lovely staff on board.”
Alison Lambie, St Kilda, Jan Mayen, Spitsbergen (Plancius)

“Weather – very good. Scenery – spectacular. Wildlife sightings – excellent. Boat – extremely comfortable. Expedition staff – mostly extremely good. Atmosphere – friendly and convivial on the whole. The result was one of the more memorable and enjoyable holidays we have ever had.”
Mr and Mrs John Nugée, North Rona, Faroes, Jan Mayen, Spitsbergen (Plancius)

Fiona’s travel tips

BEST TIME TO GO: May and June for the best weather.

MIDGES: Unfortunately the first midges start to appear in Scotland early June and can be around right up to the end of October! However they don’t like strong sunlight, breezes or white or light clothing. Wearing protective clothing and repellents will help keep them at bay.