M/S Sjøveien

With space for only 12 passengers, M/S Sjøveien (meaning “the Seaway”) offers one of the most intimate and authentic ways to experience Svalbard. Built in Bergen in 1964 for the Norwegian government, she has served in many roles over the years – from a training vessel for mariners to a hotel ship along the Norwegian coast. Following an extensive refurbishment, she began a new chapter in 2017 as a classic expedition ship with a modern touch.

Travelling on a small expedition ship like M/S Sjøveien means a closer connection to nature. With only 12 passengers on board, every voyage offers flexibility and time for exploration. Thanks to her size, Sjøveien can navigate narrow fjords and reach remote anchorages that larger ships simply cannot access. Once there, two experienced polar guides and two Zodiacs ensure safe and engaging cruises and shore landings.

• Length: 40,66m
• Breadth (Beam): 8m
• Draught 3,4m

• Zodiacs: 2
• Ice Class: 1C
• Cruising Speed: 11 knots

Technology & Fuel:

• CO₂e emissions are measured across operations, including expedition cruises.
• The company offsets emissions and continues working to reduce them until renewable fuels become available.

CO2 Emissions

CO₂e emissions are measured across flights, overland transportation, expedition cruises, meals, hotel stays and office operations. Emissions from trips are carbon-offset through investments in climate projects developed with South Pole. The company states that it continues working to reduce emissions.

Waste Management

The company participates in the UNEP Clean Seas initiative through AECO, supporting efforts to reduce single-use plastics on Arctic expedition vessels. Travelers also participate in Clean Up Svalbard, collecting marine litter and garbage from Arctic coastlines.

Citizen Science Programs

For more than a decade, data on marine mammals observed during expeditions has been collected and sent to the Norwegian Polar Institute for research. Travelers are also encouraged to observe and learn about Arctic ecosystems, wildlife and the effects of climate change, helping promote greater environmental awareness.

Local First Initiative / Communities

For each passenger traveling to Svalbard, NOK 150 is contributed to the Svalbard Environmental Protection Fund. Since the contribution was introduced in 2007, travelers have contributed more than NOK 2 million to conservation projects. The company also works through AECO to promote responsible tourism and follows guidelines designed to protect nature, wildlife and cultural heritage in Svalbard.