Arctic Voices | Empowering Communities, Enriching Journeys

LONGYEARBYEN, SVALBARD – For years, Lindblad Expeditions has invited local voices from communities in Greenland and Iceland to join its voyages, enriching the guest experience through personal stories and cultural exchange. Now, this celebrated initiative – Arctic Voices – has been expanded to Svalbard for the first time. The program brings onboard local residents to share firsthand what life is like in the High North. The result is a deeper, more authentic encounter with the Arctic, one that bridges cultures and fosters understanding between visitors and the communities they explore.

This May marked the beginning of the expedition cruise season in Svalbard, and local representatives Kristin Mork and Steve Daldorff Torgersen from Longyearbyen embarked on the expedition vessel National Geographic Resolution. Over the course of a week, they sailed from Longyearbyen to Hornsund and then north to the ice edge at 81.13°N, sharing their perspectives, stories, and everyday experiences with curious guests.

“This has been a fairytale,” says Steve. “We were invited as Arctic Voices to talk to the guests, share what it’s like to live in Svalbard, and give a presentation about our lives in the north. Guests showed genuine interest in our lives in Svalbard, and we really enjoyed sharing our stories. 

The concept is built on the local guests joining the entire voyage and not just as speakers. They dine with guests, join in on excursions, and provide insights no guidebook could offer.

“It’s about giving guests a true sense of what the Arctic is,” says Laura Macfarlane, Expedition Development Manager in Lindblad Expeditions. “Our travelers deeply appreciate meeting people who live here and can share details about daily life in a place like Longyearbyen. We’re excited to expand this collaboration with local voices to Svalbard and very grateful to AECO for helping us build local community connections.”

AECO has assisted its member in connecting the expedition cruise operator with relevant local community members.

The cruises also give Arctic Voices speakers the opportunity to learn about the expedition industry from the inside – how safety, environmental protection, and local interests are carefully managed in practice. This fosters greater mutual understanding between local stakeholders and the cruise industry and lays the foundation for sustainable partnerships.

“It was both educational and moving to be part of it,” Kristin reflects. “The ship, the crew, and the expedition team were incredibly professional. I’m proud to have had the chance to represent Svalbard in this way.

Lindblad plans to continue Arctic Voices – welcoming more local voices aboard. For the guests, it is an unforgettable experience. For the local guest speakers, a unique opportunity. And for the Arctic, a new space for connection and understanding.

Arctic Voices

Steve Daldorff Torgersen has been a resident of Svalbard since 1990. He is the owner and manager of several local businesses, including Karlsberger Pub, Stationen, and Gruvelageret. He has extensive experience in hospitality and tourism, combined with his deep roots in the community.

Kristin Mork is an active part of the local community and is active in many of the local activities, for instance the local literature festival.