Three Arctic Islands: Iceland, Greenland and Spitsbergen – Northbound

Explore three unique Arctic regions starting in Reykjavik, where you get a glimpse of this modern city steeped in Icelandic culture and history. Then cruise high above the Arctic Circle to the remote eastern coast of Greenland and then venture to the island of Spitsbergen, the “wildlife capital of the Arctic.” Surrounded by spectacularly diverse landscapes, from vast glaciers and soaring cliffs to dramatic fjords and colorful tundra, you’ll experience the Arctic in all its natural beauty.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland

Your arctic expedition begins in Reykjavik. Arrive in the Icelandic capital in the morning and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the day to explore the city on your own.

Day 2: Embarkation Day in Reykjavik

This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead!

Days 3-4: At Sea

While sailing north through the Denmark Strait, your Expedition Team will teach you about the wildlife and history of Greenland, your next stop. You’ll learn about the history of exploration in the Arctic, as well as polar politics, glaciology and climate science. You’ll also learn about the incredible sights, geology and ecology you will soon explore.

Days 5-8: Exploring East Greenland

During your tour of Greenland’s remote eastern coast, you’ll enjoy Zodiac cruises and shore visits to several locations. Explore the remains of ancient Thule settlements and keep an eye out for grazing muskoxen—40 percent of the world’s muskoxen population lives here. If conditions allow, you may also visit Ittoqqortoormiit, the most remote community in East Greenland.

Days 9-10: At Sea

As we continue to cruise north, the Greenland Sea is your pathway toward Svalbard. On deck, you’ll learn to identify seabirds “on the wing.” Take in a presentation, share your photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar or watch a movie—there are many things to do during your time at sea.

Days 11-14: Exploring Spitsbergen, Norway

Exploring Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, rewards you with abundant wildlife and austere beauty. Here, you’ll visit spectacular glacier fronts and steepwalled fjords, with walrus, polar bears and Svalbard reindeer amongst your possible wildlife sightings. Birders will be thrilled to see arctic terns, skuas, long-tailed ducks, and kittiwakes. When conditions are right, you could sail within 10 degrees of the North Pole!

Day 15: Disembark in Longyearbyen and Fly to Oslo

The time to say goodbye has come. Your adventure ends in the frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your return group charter flight to Oslo.

Included

Adventure Options