Svalbard wildlife: polar bears, walruses and Arctic birds

Svalbard's wildlife is defined by few but distinctive species. In summer, migratory seabirds fill the cliffs in their millions. In winter, only the hardiest remain — polar bears patrolling the ice, Svalbard reindeer grazing the tundra, and Arctic foxes hunting in the snow. Boreal Yachting follows a zero-trace policy, keeping a respectful distance and observing wildlife on its own terms.

The polar bear is Svalbard's dominant predator. An estimated 3,600 polar bears inhabit the archipelago, outnumbering the human population of 2,500. They primarily hunt ringed seals on the sea ice, but in summer they can be encountered on land, swimming between islands, or resting on the shore.

Walruses are another highlight. These large animals — males can weigh up to 1,500 kg — gather in groups on rocky beaches and shallow waters. They are surprisingly agile swimmers, observed diving for clams and molluscs. Key haul-out sites include Moffen Island and Poolepynten.

Bird life is abundant during the summer months. Millions of Brunnich's guillemots, little auks, kittiwakes, puffins and Arctic terns breed on the cliffs and shorelines. The bird cliffs at 14. Juli Bukta and Alkefjellet are among the largest in the Arctic, with tens of thousands of birds nesting on narrow ledges.

Marine mammals beyond walruses include bearded seals, ringed seals and harbour seals. Beluga whales, bowhead whales and narwhals are occasionally spotted in Svalbard waters, and blue whales and fin whales visit the area in summer to feed on krill.

Our approach to wildlife favours minimal impact. We maintain safe distances, never approach animals from upwind, and leave no trace of our visits. The Svalbard Environmental Protection Act sets strict guidelines that we follow closely.