Arctic Guide Essentials: Svalbard Regulations and Search & Rescue

The first lecture was given on day 2 of the course by a young guy from Svalbard’s governor team. Here are some key facts about local regulations that we learned:

2. There are several natural restrictions on how close we can get to birds, walruses, and bears. Specifically, we can’t exceed 5 knots near them or make loud noises. But, we weren’t planning to do so anyway.

3. All traces of human activity before 1946 are considered cultural heritage. So if you come across a rusty can or remnant of an engine, it's likely not trash. However, we still collect plastic from the beaches. Another good practice is removing old wires and ropes sticking out, even if they are from before 1946, as reindeer often get their antlers tangled in them.

We also visited the search and rescue station at the airport, where we had the chance to listen to both a pilot and a rescuer. They both told that “working on Spitzbergen in our profession is super cool and prestigious; we want to stay here until retirement.” I also had a brief chat with the mechanic who services the helicopters and operates the winch during rescue missions.

Here are some useful takeaways for sailors:

1. VHF radio works perfectly. Start on channel 16, then switch to channel 10 during the operation.
2. If it’s safe to evacuate the injured person from the boat to shore, to a dinghy, or a life raft—do it. It’s much easier and quicker for the helicopter to land there than to attempt a rescue from a yacht with all its masts and rigging.
3. If the rescue is happening directly from the yacht, the ideal setup is to motor into the wind (30 degrees on a port tack) at about 6 knots. If there’s a swell, raise minimal sails to add extra stability.
4. To pull this off, you need to get yourself into the right position in advance, if possible:

• Ensure you have 2-3 nautical miles (20-30 minutes) of safe water ahead to maintain that 30-degree port tack.
• Be in a zone with steady wind—no sudden gusts or shifts in direction
• And of course, secure everything on deck, because you’ll be dealing with 40-50 knots of downdraft from the rotor blades.

This Arctic Guide Course was more than a just certification—it was a deep dive into Svalbard’s regulations, safety protocols, and the realities of operating in one of the world’s most remote environments. With this knowledge and experience, I feel prepared to lead responsible, well-planned expeditions that prioritize both safety and respect for the Arctic wilderness.