R/V Kinfish

Meet R/V Kinfish - Our Arctic Home

There’s something special about stepping aboard a ship that was built for the North.

For the 2027 Arctic season, we’ll be exploring from R/V Kinfish — a sturdy, ice-strengthened expedition vessel designed to move confidently through polar waters. She’s the kind of vessel that feels right at home in wild places.

And that’s exactly where we like to be.

Built for Real Exploration

Kinfish started life as a working vessel, designed to operate in serious northern conditions. She’s strong, stable, and made to handle ice, weather, and the unpredictable rhythm of the Arctic.

For you, that means freedom.

Freedom to follow the wildlife. Freedom to adjust plans when the ice opens. Freedom to linger in a fjord because the light is perfect and the whales are feeding.

Small Ship = Big Moments

We keep our groups intentionally small. That changes everything.

When we launch the zodiacs, everyone gets ashore quickly. No waiting around. No crowding the railings. No feeling like you’re one of a hundred people trying to glimpse the same bear.

Instead, you step into quiet places. You hear the crunch of tundra under your boots. You feel the stillness when a walrus herd lifts its heads and watches you back.

On Kinfish, the experience feels personal. Shared. Real.

Comfortable, Relaxed

After a day outside, you’ll come back to a warm cabin, a hot meal, and a lounge filled with conversation. The ship is comfortable and welcoming, without excess or fuss.

There’s space on deck to scan for wildlife. Space to photograph. Space to simply stand still and take it all in.

Evenings are for recapping the day’s sightings, swapping stories, and maybe stepping outside one more time to check the horizon. The Arctic light has a habit of surprising you.

Light Footprint, Deep Respect

Kinfish’s size allows us to operate with a smaller environmental footprint than large cruise ships. Fewer guests. Less impact. More flexibility in sensitive landing areas.

We follow strict environmental guidelines and actively engage in responsible travel practices, from shoreline cleanups to conservation-focused education onboard.

Join Us in 2027

The 2027 Arctic season marks a new chapter for Arctic Tern Expeditions. Kinfish reflects who we are — curious, nimble, respectful, and always ready to explore a little deeper.

If you’re drawn to small ships, wild horizons, and the kind of travel that leaves you changed, we’d love to welcome you aboard.