For those drawn to heritage, journey further south to Scotland’s storied isles, where windswept vistas cradle ancient treasures — from the Callanish Stones and St Kilda’s stone houses to Iona’s medieval abbey and the striking basalt columns of Fingal’s Cave.
Indulge in world-class luxury aboard Aqua Lares, an icebreaker superyacht purpose-built for unparalleled access to the Arctic’s pristine frontiers. Expert-led excursions bring the Arctic to life, while bespoke cabins, elegant social spaces, and refined dining provide five-star comfort between adventures. With the intimacy of small-ship exploration, every voyage unfolds at your own pace — whether lingering at a glacier’s edge, following wildlife across the ice, or tracing the footsteps of early explorers into the heart of the Arctic Circle.
Accommodating 30 guests, Aqua Lares features 15 elegant design cabins across five categories, including three Owner’s Suites sized between 419 and 710 sqft (39 and 66 sqm). The remaining cabins are sized between 139 and 322 sqft (13 and 30 sqm), each individually designed and custom-furnished down to the smallest detail. Warm, inviting interiors are enriched with solid wood veneers and Italian Dedar wallpaper and fabrics. Their sophisticated, artistic patterns subtly echo the natural surroundings while reflecting the vibrant cultures and textures of both Europe and Africa.
Aqua Lares presents a wide range of social spaces for relaxation and connection between adventures. Sip cocktails at the outdoor bar & lounge, indulge in a spa treatment, unwind in the sauna or massage room, and end your evenings stargazing from the sundeck. Every moment on board Aqua Lares is designed to be unforgettable.
Pick from our existing 5- to 14-night itineraries or speak to our expedition consultants to curate a bespoke private charter tailored to your every need.
Let us craft the perfect itinerary for your Arctic Circle adventure — whether it’s traversing pack ice in search of polar bears, beholding the towering bird cliffs of Alkefjellet alive with tens of thousands of guillemots, tracing the historic routes of Arctic whalers at Gravneset, or exploring the majestic Norwegian Fjords and Scotland’s storied isles.
Our expedition consultants are dedicated to ensuring your Northern Europe voyage aboard Aqua Lares is nothing less than extraordinary. Traveling with a group of wildlife enthusiasts? We can curate a journey that maximizes your Arctic adventure, from walrus haul-outs and seal-rich waters to venturing into regions frequented by beluga whales. Planning a family reunion? We can design a balanced itinerary with experiences for all ages — from guided hikes and immersive wildlife encounters to tenders excursions and cultural explorations.
Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago located between mainland Norway and the North Pole. Its vast landscapes of fjords, glaciers, tundra, and dramatic mountain ridges create one of the planet’s most remote natural environments.
A private cruise to Svalbard offers access to pristine wilderness rarely reached by larger vessels. With near-continuous daylight in summer and extraordinary wildlife density, this region is ideal for an intimate experience.
On a private cruise to the Arctic expedition, wildlife encounters are among the most memorable highlights. Guests may observe polar bears along the ice edge, walruses resting on beaches, Arctic foxes roaming tundra landscapes, and vast seabird colonies nesting on cliff faces.
Whales may also be spotted in sheltered bays. Each sailing is guided by expert naturalists who interpret wildlife behavior and habitat throughout your journey.
The Arctic season runs from June through September. During these months, snowmelt reveal hiking trails, fjords become more navigable, and wildlife activity peaks. Temperatures typically range between 3–7°C (34–47°F).
This period offers ideal conditions for a private cruise to Spitsbergen, with extended daylight allowing for flexible scheduling of landings and excursions.
All Arctic charters are operated aboard Aqua Lares, our 77-meter explorer superyacht purpose-built for polar conditions. Designed for both exploration and comfort, Aqua Lares combines advanced stabilizers with elegant interiors and expansive social spaces.
For those seeking an exclusive Arctic yacht charter, Aqua Lares features indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, a sauna, massage room, exercise area, sundeck, lounges, and five tenders for twice-daily guided excursions.
Aqua Lares accommodates a maximum of 30 guests across 15 design cabins in five categories, including three Owner’s Suites ranging from 419 to 710 square feet.
A private cruise to Svalbard allows your group exclusive access to all cabins and shared spaces, ensuring privacy and a highly personalized onboard atmosphere.
Yes, high-speed internet is available throughout your private cruise to the Arctic. Connectivity may vary depending on location and weather conditions.
Yes, our private charters offer flexibility within navigational, ice, and weather conditions. Our experienced expedition team adjusts daily routes based on sea conditions, wildlife sightings, and guest interests to ensure the most enriching experience possible.
Aqua Lares conducts twice-daily guided excursions by tender, which may include glacier viewing, tundra hikes, visits to historic whaling stations, seabird colony landings, and wildlife observation. Kayaking and paddleboarding are available when conditions permit, and on select itineraries guests may participate in a guided polar plunge.
Most private cruises to the Arctic embark and disembark in Longyearbyen, Svalbard. Certain extended itineraries may begin or conclude in Norway or Scotland, depending on the selected voyage.
Your Arctic yacht charter operates on an all-inclusive basis. The fare includes:
- All onboard meals
- Non-alcoholic beverages and selected house wines and beer
- Expert-led small-group excursions
- Use of kayaks and paddleboards
- National park entrance fees
- Onboard lectures and evening briefings
- High-speed satellite internet
- Complimentary laundry service
Flights, premium alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, gratuities, and personal purchases are not included.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for any private cruise to the Arctic, including coverage for trip cancellation, international medical care, baggage loss, and travel delays. Insurance companies such as Travel Guard and Allianz are options guests may consider.
Svalbard itself is visa-free for all nationalities; however, as travel transits through mainland Norway, some guests may require a Schengen visa. There are no specific vaccination requirements. Guests are encouraged to consult their nearest Norwegian embassy for the most current regulations.
Yes, our culinary team is pleased to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, kosher, and other dietary preferences with advance notice. Special requests may be submitted at booking or during online check-in to ensure a seamless dining experience throughout your private cruise to the Arctic.