UK based micro-cruise specialist, Secret Atlas operates the ideal adventures for post COVID19 travelers searching for a safe and intimate experience in the wilderness and far away from today’s new reality. Secret Atlas’s Polar expedition micro-cruises transports intrepid adventurers to a stress-free and vast environment, allowing them to reconnect with the self while experiencing an intimate journey in the company of a small group of like-minded travel companions.
By definition, a micro-cruise caters to small groups, 10 to 12 passengers, the smallest group size in today’s expedition cruise industry. Traveling aboard Secret Atlas’s vessel, the M/V Togo, an elegant and sturdy 12-passenger custom-built 102ft/31m expedition motor vessel with the highest polar cruising industry standard is an experience like no other. With the vessel’s ability to sail at close proximity to shore and the natural world, in addition to the presence of knowledgeable expedition leaders guiding each voyage, guests are given an enriching educational opportunity that deepens their appreciation for Polar destinations and the wildlife that can only be observed in these remote regions.
“We know our micro-cruising product is perfect for the times. It’s the kind of escape we all crave after being confined”, says Michele D’Agostino, Secret Atlas’s Co-Founder. “We believe in the power of ‘slow travel‘, and aim to provide our guests with the service and safety they deserve. We immerse them in the perfect environment to disconnect and reflect while discovering some of the most beautiful places on earth”, he adds.
Secret Atlas’s 2021/22 cruise season opens with a diverse collection of expedition micro-cruises ranging between 8 to 14-days. The cruise special inaugural voyage is the 11-day Bear Island and Svalbard Explorer (April 13-23 2021) followed by the 8-day Frozen Svalbard Photo Tour (April 25-May 2) with the accomplished British expedition photographer, Rick Tomlinson, and the 8-day Frozen Svalbard Cruise (May 9-16). The 9-day Natural Wonders Photo Tour (May 27-June 4), with an emphasis on Arctic wildlife, will be under the guidance of Canadian photographer Chase Teron.
The early Arctic season voyages offer breath-taking perspectives of the region’s frozen shores and winter wonderland landscapes, as well as rare wildlife viewing opportunities. The voyages will please photographers, birders, nature and wildlife enthusiasts alike as it operates during the peak summer season under a magical midnight sun. Lucky guests will also get to enjoy an additional 12-hours of light while they soak up the beauty and active wildlife of the Norwegian Arctic summer. There are also three departures of a fantastic 9-day voyage called Natural Wonders Cruise that operate June 4-12, July 4-12 and August 5-13. The 14-day Svalbard Pioneer Cruise (July 12-26) is the longest voyage of the collection and offers the circumnavigation of Spitsbergen and a detailed exploration of the spectacular archipelago. This voyage will be led by the legendary German adventurer and author Andreas Umbreit, who is known as Svalbard’s oldest and most knowledgeable expedition leader with over 30 years of land and ocean expeditions under his belt.
Two highly experienced expedition leaders on each voyage share their knowledge and passion for Svalbard and its rich wildlife. During the day, expedition leaders guide travelers ashore to explore various landing sites, from glaciers to the remains of historical settlements. Throughout the journey, pampered guests experience a warm and friendly atmosphere and delicious locally sourced meals prepared by Secret Atlas’s chef onboard.
Secret Atlas’s pricing is competitive in the industry. Prices start from USD $5,500, €5,000, or £4,300 for an 8-day voyage in single with shared facilities occupancy, including overnight accommodation, meals, snacks, and land excursions. Air travel is excluded. *Early booking promotion. Before September 1st, 2020, Secret Atlas offers a rebate of USD $500, €500, or £500 for 2021 bookings.
The overall micro-cruising experience forges solid friendships and lifelong memories in addition to creating ambassadors for the fragile environment of Polar regions. As Annie, one of Secret Atlas’s guests in 2019 said, “my trip to Svalbard changed my life and I can’t wait to go back. Look at me; I’m a micro-cruising fan that caught the ‘polar fever’!”
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