Vikingfjord and Freya: Arctic Cruises where exploration and onboard experiences redefine the journey with Mariano Curiel | Travel Blog

The polar areas present themselves as unique travel destinations which deliver both exciting experiences and restricted access and health maintenance and ecological balance to travelers who want an all-encompassing journey. 

The second edition of SCAPE Magazine which focuses on Wellness and Gastronomy features an exclusive interview with Mariano Curiel owner, operations Guide, and polar guide at Secret Atlas.

With just 12 guests on board, these small-group expeditions invite a deeper connection with nature in some of the most remote corners of the planet. 

Table of contents

• The Vision Behind Secret Atlas
• Polar Cruises and An Intimate Experience
  - M/V Vikingfjord
  - M/V Freya
  - The difference: real expeditions on a “micro” format
• Wellness in the Polar Regions
  - The Power of Disconnection
  - Mariano's favorite photo
• Gastronomy in Extreme Environments
  - Elevated Culinary Standards
  - Personalized Menus
• Sustainability at the Core
  - Minimal Footprint
  - Human Values First
• SCAPE Featured
• A Message for Ice Lovers
• FAQs
  - How many guests join each expedition?
  - How does the experience promote wellness?
  - Are dietary requirements accommodated?
  - How can I book a polar expedition aboard the M/V Vikingfjord or M/V Freya arctic cruises?

Continue reading to discover a more mindful way to explore the polar world!

The Vision Behind Secret Atlas

Founded in 2019 as a concept by Michele D’Agostino, a partner of Mariano’s. The idea came about during a three-month expedition to Greenland, and Mariano joined the project, contributing his professional expertise and experience in polar operations.

The name reflects its philosophy:

• Secret: This represents hidden places and the magic of nature, which always holds secrets, and every journey is an opportunity to discover them.
• Atlas: This symbolizes the world, knowledge, and exploration.

   

Together, they represent a journey across the planet to its most hidden corners.

Polar Cruises and An Intimate Experience

Vikingfjord and Freya are two cruise ships designed exclusively for 12 passengers, where the onboard experience is a fundamental part of the journey and the traveler’s well-being.
 

M/V Vikingfjord

M/V Vikingfjord is the flagship cruise ship because they were involved from the very beginning of the project and achieved an outstanding result: a refurbished vessel that meets the highest standards of comfort and style. Its design is inspired by elegance, featuring panoramic windows, and it was renovated in 2023.

M/V Freya

If you're a solo traveler and would like to sail on a Swedish-flagged ship with a Scandinavian crew and a strong sense of identity, M/V Freya offers you:

• A warm, welcoming atmosphere on board with a Scandinavian cabin-style vibe.
• A friendly and fun crew
• A sustainable cruise featuring organic products on board

 

The difference: real expeditions on a “micro” format

What sets these cruises apart is their focus on micro-expeditions: small groups, greater flexibility, and a more authentic connection with the surroundings. 

Each itinerary is designed to let you enjoy: “The vastness of nature, the intimacy of the micro.”
 

Wellness in the Polar Regions

What sets these cruises apart is their focus on micro-expeditions: small groups, greater flexibility, and a more authentic connection with the surroundings. 

Each itinerary is designed to let you enjoy: “The vastness of nature, the intimacy of the micro.”

In places where silence dominates and human impact is nearly invisible, travelers experience a rare mental reset.

The Power of Disconnection

The polar experiences you can enjoy include:

• Zodiac excursions in pristine landscapes
• Reflective evening briefings
• The Northern Lights in Greenland
• Quiet personal time onboard
• Meaningful conversations with experts

“There’s a moment when everything clicks when you look around and truly understand where you are. That moment changes something inside you.”
 

Mariano's favorite photo

When we asked Mariano about his favorite photo, he took us back to a moment during a ski trip in Greenland. For him, the essence of polar expeditions is captured in that “click”: being completely alone, surrounded by ice, frozen sea, and glaciers, with no sign of other people.

It is in that instant that everything makes sense: the vastness of the world compared to how small we are, and a total connection with the planet.

Gastronomy in Extreme Environments

Wellness also means nourishment especially in extreme climates.

Elevated Culinary Standards

Despite operating in remote regions, Secret Atlas maintains high gastronomic standards, with menus carefully planned months in advance.

“Going to these places without good food is no longer enough. Gastronomy is a key part of the expedition.”

Personalized Menus

The guests submit their dietary choices at least three months before their departure which enables the team to make proper arrangements for their needs:

• Vegan and vegetarian diets
• Allergies and medical requirements
• Tailor-made menus for private charters

“With proper planning, almost anything is possible.”

Food becomes comfort, energy, and an integral part of the experience.

Sustainability at the Core

Operating in fragile ecosystems requires absolute responsibility.

Minimal Footprint

Small vessels and limited passenger numbers significantly reduce environmental impact.

“In the vast Arctic or Antarctica, we are almost imperceptible.”

Human Values First

Secret Atlas prioritizes empathy and character within its team.

“You can train a good person to become a good professional, but you can’t train a good professional to become a good person.”

True sustainability begins with people.

SCAPE Featured

“It's an honor for us to be part of SCAPE magazine because it takes us to places we wouldn't otherwise reach,” Mariano said.

He also believes that this initiative opens doors and puts us in the spotlight for people who didn't know us before, and at the same time, he feels proud to be part of a select group of providers highly specialized in this type of experience.
 

A Message for Ice Lovers

If you ever have the chance to travel to the Arctic or Antarctica, do it! It’s a deeply transformative experience that, though hard to put into words, leaves a lasting impression. 

“Let yourself be captivated by these polar destinations that will change your life”
 

FAQs

How many guests join each expedition?

The trip allows 12 travelers to join which creates a small group for an exclusive individual experience.

How does the experience promote wellness?

Wellness develops through digital disconnection because it allows people to explore in small groups while they reflect and experience pristine natural settings.

Are dietary requirements accommodated?

Yes. The planning process includes dietary needs and restrictions which get scheduled several months before to create customized meal options.

How can I book a polar expedition aboard the M/V Vikingfjordor M/V Freya arctic cruises?

To book your Arctic or Antarctic experience and explore current offers, contact the specialized agents at Voyagers Travel Company and start planning your next adventure.