Svalbard travel photography on Svalbard, every day is different, and every year is different. Arctic Wildlife Tours guides leads this winter expedition on Svalbard, a remote area we know well…
Svalbard expedition ship MS Origo
M/S Origo is a traditional ship. She was built 1955 at Finnboda shipyard in Sweden for the Swedish Maritime administration as an ice-strengthen Pilot ship. She was on duty for the Administration until 1983, when she was sold and chartered out as a school ship. This is still her employment during the winter season. Many young sailors have got their maritime education on the M/S Origo throughout the years.
In the beginning of the 90´s the vessel was carefully refurbished and rebuilt to an expedition ship with space for 24 passengers. Since then she has been cruising in the Arctic waters around Svalbard every summer. On Svalbard Origo carry only 12 passengers. In 2022 she celebrated her 30th year as an expedition ship in the Arctic.
M/S Origo is in spite of her old fashion charm, equipped with the latest navigation and security equipment. She is thoroughly maintained and in good condition. Every year she is going through all safety inspections with the Swedish Maritime Administration.
Highlights Origo
Cruising Svalbard waters since 1990
No other small vessel cruise ship have been used longer than MS Origo. Origo is a older ship with great Sharm onboard and a fascinating history on Svalbard. The most tragic story is from the 90`s when the first officer onboard Origo was killed by a Polar Bear during a hike on land. The crew and officers are mostly Swedish and know the ice and waters around Svalbard. The expedition leaders and guides are from Arctic Wildlife Tours.
Facilities on-board
Sharming atmosphere
Origo do have a charming atmosphere on-board. Except from an outdoor jacuzzi Origo has a medium standard. The cabins are good and except from one it is upper and lower bunks. The Outdoor area on three different deck levels gives the best possibilities for experiencing the Svalbard nature and wildlife we encounter. Origo is also the best ship to photograph low angel pictures from, midship you are maximum 1 meter above sea level through an opening in the side of Origo. It is like made for photography. From 2023 Origo will provide limited wi-fi.
Origo Features
- Length 40m
- Breadth 8, 8 m
- Depth 3, 5 m
- Tonnage 368 GT
- Electrical system 220v
- No WiFi onboard(from 2024)
- Speed 8,5-10 knots
- Ice strengthen according class 1B
Cabins
9, 10, 25, 26 and 30
Single cabins with private facilities(Upper and lower bunks)
31
Spacious double cabin with private facilities(Side by side berths)
21
Spacious double cabin(two upper and lower bunks + one extra separate bed. Shared facilities.
22, 23 and 24
Single cabins with shared facilities(Upper and lower bunks)
28 and 29 (Guide and crew cabins)
All single cabins can be used as double cabins for
couples and people traveling together
