Spitzbergen In 2012, the ‘Antigua’ will sail to Spitzbergen again for several sailing/walking voyages on and around the islands. SPITZBERGEN Spitzbergen is one of the last true wildernesses of Europe. It has a rugged fjord coast, high mountains with snow-covered tops and immense glaciers. In the past the inhabitants lived of whale fishing. Hundreds of ships from Holland visited the waters around Spitzbergen. The many Dutch names, the still visible remainders of the tear-ovens and the hundreds of graves remind us of these times. Plant life is scarce, but very special. On the rocks and cliffs we find enormous breading colonies of seabirds. On land live mammals such as Arctic foxes, reindeers and Polar bears and in the sea we find seals, walruses and many different kinds of whales.   The accent of the voyages will lie on exploring the area. We will go ashore, with the use of dinghies, on a daily basis. An experienced nature guide will accompany you at all times. They will point out the special plants and animals, geological characteristics and historical sights. While ashore, the guides are armed as a precaution for encounters with Polar bears. We therefore advise you to stay with the group the entire time during the walks. ANTIGUA The ‘Antigua’ was originally built as a ship for the fishery. In the 90’ she was rebuild to a modern Tall Ship, with feeling for tradition and style. Next to the 8 crewmembers there is room for 32 guests. During your stay you will reside in comfortable two-person cabins, with it’s own sanitary.