Ultimate Svalbard, Greenland & Iceland in Depth

Today you'll arrive in the beautiful city of Oslo. The Norwegian capital is the smallest in Scandinavia but packs a punch when it comes to cultural and nature-based experiences. Half of Oslo is covered in forest and parks and its cityscape is a melange of historical buildings and cutting-edge architecture, as well as outdoor sculptures and street art. The city is home to three famous museums honouring the rich nautical heritage of the Norse race and its warrior ancestors. Enjoy an overnight stay at your hotel.

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

Longyearbyen is the biggest settlement in Svalbard. Seat of the Norwegian administration, it also has the best services and infrastructure in the archipelago. Located deep in the Adventfjord, a sidearm of the Isfjorden (Icefjord), Longyearbyen’s airport can be used all-year round, but its harbor is blocked by ice in winter. Most shops, hotels, restaurants and a hospital are within easy walking distance of the port. One of the most prominent buildings in town is the UNIS center, where several Norwegian universities have joined forces to operate and offer the northernmost higher education to both Norwegian and international students. Adjacent to UNIS, and well worth a visit, is the Svalbard Museum, covering the natural history and exploitation of Svalbard. Remnants of the former mining activity can be seen all around Longyearbyen and even in town.

Welcome to the remote wilderness of the Svalbard Archipelago, a dramatic polar desert surrounded by rugged glaciers, frozen tundra and craggy mountain peaks. Open the blackout curtains of your ultra-luxury suite and step onto your private verandah to take in the inspiring views. Each day unveils a new breathtaking vista, from the dramatic contrast of tundra and volcanic islands sprinkled with lush greenery, to the occasional snow-capped peaks that emerge majestically from the landscape.

Today, join an introductory presentation about your expedition by the Discovery Team as they explain how your Zodiac and other Discovery excursions will work in the coming days.

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

At sea, life is both exciting and challenging. Ships travel across vast stretches of water, carrying people and goods from one place to another. Sailors spend many days away from land, facing changing weather and strong waves. The endless view of the ocean can be beautiful and peaceful. After their journey, they feel happy and relieved when they finally reach shore.

Nestled beside the world's largest and deepest multi-branched fjord system, Ittoqqortoormiit stands as one of Greenland's most remote towns. Home to approximately 350 residents, this small community offers a fascinating insight into the traditional Inuit way of life. Here, people have embraced a sea-dependent existence, where the ever-changing sea ice opens up new opportunities for exploration.

Immerse yourself in the community's resilience with a guided tour. Explore key landmarks such as the museum, church, weather station, and public service building. Enjoy the chance to have your passport stamped in this unique destination, adding a unique touch to your visit.

Discovery: Weather permitting, join the Discovery Team on Zodiac excursions, explore by kayak or enjoy shore landings.

On the northern side of the entrance to the Scoresbysund fjord system stands Ittoqqortoormiit, the only permanent settlement in the region. The population here is approximately 430 people, largely dependent on a subsistence lifestyle. The inhabitants make their living hunting seals, narwhals, muskoxen and polar bears. Ittoqqortoormiit is the northernmost settlement on Greenland’s east coast, apart from a few meteorological and military stations. Brightly colored, quaint little houses and dogsled enclosures dot the rocky slopes of the settlement. It must be incredible to live here every day enjoying the magnificent views of Kap Brewster and the Volquart Boon Coast to the south.

Scoresbysund is the largest and deepest fjord system in the world, and the birthplace of many of Greenland’s glaciers. Be amazed by the mountainous surrounds, the lively wildlife and the memorable adventures. Due to the extraordinary nature of the region, the sailing and expedition schedule is flexible. Your experienced Captain and Discovery Team leader will use their expertise to give you the best experience in this extraordinary part of the world.

As we enter this magnificent fjord system, stand in awe on the Observation Terrace or your private verandah, where you can marvel at the sheer grandeur of your surroundings.

Akureyri, called the Capital of the North is the second largest urban area in Iceland, and a lively one at that. Hemmed by the 60-km (37-mile) long Eyjafjörður, Akureyri is sheltered from the ocean winds and embraced by mountains on three sides. Late 19th-century wooden houses impart a sense of history, and the twin spires of a modern Lutheran church rising on a green hill near the waterfront, provide a focal point. To the south of Akureyri is the pyramid-shape rhyolite mountain Súlur. Beyond it is Kerling, the highest peak in Eyjafjörður District.

Welcome to Vigur Island, a private island oasis off Iceland's coast and just below the Arctic Circle. The island has a history dating to the 11th century and is a time capsule of Icelandic heritage, boasting charming buildings and traditional farming for eiderdown.

Vigur Island is also designated as an internationally important seabird habitat, where you may seem some of the 7,000 breeding eider ducks, 100,000 puffins, nesting Arctic terns and Europe’s largest colony of black guillemot. There’s also a seal colony and passing whales, making this a remote wildlife sanctuary.

Vigur Island is a little more than a mile (1.6 km) in length and about 450 yards (412 m) wide. This green oasis punctuates the waters of the Ísafjarðardjúp fjord east of the town of Isafjordur. The island is home to a single farming family and has some meticulously preserved historical landmarks including Iceland’s only windmill, built in 1840 and used until 1917 for grinding imported wheat from Denmark; and a 200-year-old rowing boat, which is still in use to ferry sheep to the mainland. Summer is the best time to see large numbers of Atlantic Puffins, Arctic Terns and Black Guillemots. One of the export articles from this small island was eider down and one can see where the eider ducks nest and how the down is collected and cleaned.

Weather permitting, today we'll visit the jewel of the Westfjords, Dynjandi Waterfall. Feel the freezing mist on your face as you admire the cascading bridal veil falls and discover why it was nicknamed ‘the thunder’. Tumbling down seven tiers over 100 metres, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Marvel at nature's grandeur and wildlife spectacle as you cruise through this remote corner of Iceland.

Today you will arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital. A captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history and modern Nordic charm. Surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes and the North Atlantic Ocean, the city offers a unique mix of colourful architecture, creative culture and a welcoming atmosphere.

Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve center and government seat, is home to half the island's population. On a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh), with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colorful sight, its concrete houses painted in light colors and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In contrast to the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík has many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, as well as imported aspen, pines, and spruces.Reykjavík's name comes from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík. In AD 874, Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson saw Iceland rising out of the misty sea and came ashore at a bay eerily shrouded with plumes of steam from nearby hot springs. Today most of the houses in Reykjavík are heated by near-boiling water from the hot springs. Natural heating avoids air pollution; there's no smoke around. You may notice, however, that the hot water brings a slight sulfur smell to the bathroom.Prices are easily on a par with other major European cities. A practical option is to purchase a Reykjavík City Card at the Tourist Information Center or at the Reykjavík Youth Hostel. This card permits unlimited bus usage and admission to any of the city's seven pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and city museums. The cards are valid for one (ISK 3,300), two (ISK 4,400), or three days (ISK 4,900), and they pay for themselves after three or four uses a day. Even lacking the City Card, paying admission (ISK 500, or ISK 250 for seniors and people with disabilities) to one of the city art museums (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, or Ásmundarsafn) gets you free same-day admission to the other two.

Flatey island, is a privately owned island nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland’s northwest coast The wooden houses on this remote outcrop were built over 100 years ago but are so well-preserved you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into the past. Just a couple of farmers live here now, surrounded by pristine beaches and this charming villages frozen in time.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, join the Discovery Team on Zodiac and kayak excursions to further explore the Island.

Weather permitting, this morning you will visit the jewel of the Westfjords, Dynjandi Waterfall. Feel the cold mist on your face as you admire the cascading bridal veil falls and discover why it was nicknamed ‘the thunder’. Tumbling down seven tiers over 100 metres, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland.

Tonight, choose from up to 10 world-class on board dining experiences. Perhaps make this the evening you try Koko’s Asian Fusion, a culinary celebration of Asia’s diverse flavours.

Cruising Dýrafjörður offers travelers a chance to experience one of the most scenic fjords in Iceland. Located in the remote Westfjords region, Dýrafjörður is surrounded by steep mountains, dramatic cliffs, and peaceful coastal landscapes. While cruising through the fjord, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of waterfalls, seabird colonies, and small fishing communities. The area is also associated with Icelandic history and folklore, including the saga of Gísli Súrsson. A cruise through Dýrafjörður provides a memorable glimpse into Iceland’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Welcome to Vigur Island, a private island oasis off Iceland's coast and just below the Arctic Circle. The island has a history dating to the 11th century and is a time capsule of Icelandic heritage, boasting charming buildings and traditional farming for eiderdown.

Vigur Island is also designated as an internationally important seabird habitat, where you may seem some of the 7,000 breeding eider ducks, 100,000 puffins, nesting Arctic terns and Europe’s largest colony of black guillemot. There’s also a seal colony and passing whales, making this a remote wildlife sanctuary.

Vigur Island is a little more than a mile (1.6 km) in length and about 450 yards (412 m) wide. This green oasis punctuates the waters of the Ísafjarðardjúp fjord east of the town of Isafjordur. The island is home to a single farming family and has some meticulously preserved historical landmarks including Iceland’s only windmill, built in 1840 and used until 1917 for grinding imported wheat from Denmark; and a 200-year-old rowing boat, which is still in use to ferry sheep to the mainland. Summer is the best time to see large numbers of Atlantic Puffins, Arctic Terns and Black Guillemots. One of the export articles from this small island was eider down and one can see where the eider ducks nest and how the down is collected and cleaned.

The friendly town of Sauðárkrókur is located in a fertile valley along the south-western shore of Skagafjörður Fjord. It’s the largest town in northwest Iceland, though is home to just over 2,500 people. The charming downtown will welcome you as you stroll through the small collection of distinctive, traditional buildings where the past seems to be brought back to life.

This afternoon, your Discovery Yacht will cross the Arctic Circle. Be sure to find yourself a good vantage point for this awe-inspiring occasion. Although the line is invisible, the surrounding scenery provides stunning atmosphere.

Crossing the Arctic Circle is a special maritime and geographic experience that takes place when a ship or traveler passes the Arctic Circle in the Northern Hemisphere. This line marks the boundary of the Arctic region, where phenomena like the midnight sun and polar night occur. Many cruise ships in the North Atlantic and Arctic routes celebrate the crossing with traditional ceremonies on board. The Arctic environment is extremely cold and remote, often surrounded by sea ice, glaciers, and vast open waters. Crossing it is considered a memorable milestone for explorers and travelers visiting polar regions.

Scoresbysund is the ultimate fjord system; likely the longest, largest and deepest of any in the world. The massive fjord is tucked into the eastern coast of Greenland and on the icy western edges of the Greenland Sea. Scoresbysund’s scale deserves several days to explore, especially while plying the waters between castle-sized icebergs as they gently drift under the persuasion of the Arctic waters in the mighty fjord. Scattered in the remote bays and smaller fjords are places to discover old Inuit settlements, slowly growing over with Arctic willow and dwarf birch. The lower slopes of many mountains are draped in the herbs and grasses favoured by muskox, Arctic fox, lemmings, Ptarmigan, Barnacle Geese, and Snowy Owls. Tundra walks give impressive views of landscape, flora and fauna. Not to be neglected, the waters of Scoresbysund warrant a vigilant eye for sightings of whales, seals, narwhals, beluga whales and walrus.

King Oscar Fjord, located at the northern border of the Scoresby Land peninsula, offers stunning views with its many side arms. Cruising through this fjord in Northeast Greenland National Park offers an ideal vantage point to witness dramatic landscapes, glaciers, and wildlife.

Tonight, meet new friends in one of the all-inclusive bars and lounges and reflect on the journey so far. Shared travel experiences can forge lifelong friendships, especially in a destination as spectacular as the Arctic Circle.

Experience the midnight sun in Greenland's far north by sailing overnight through King Oscar Fjord and Kejser Franz Fjord.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, join the Discovery Team on Zodiac excursions.

Ella Island, where five iceberg-filled fjords converge, is a true gem of Greenland’s wild beauty. As the home of the legendary Sirius Dog Sled Patrol, it boasts one of the most awe-inspiring views on the planet. Picture vibrant red buildings nestled at the base of towering 1,350-metre (4,400-foot) cliffs—an almost otherworldly scene that must be experienced to be believed.

Perhaps take a moment this afternoon to unwind in your suite. Ask your butler to deliver your preferred beverage and curl up with a book or simply enjoy the incredible views beyond your private verandah.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, join the Discovery Team on Zodiac excursions, explore by kayak or enjoy shore landings.

The Nordfjord reaches a breathtaking climax at the majestic Waltershausen Glacier, the largest glacier cascading from the Greenland Ice Sheet. Dark streaks trace mesmerizing patterns across the glacier’s towering face and its sculpted icebergs. Your Zodiac excursion will take you to explore enchanting ice caves, where you’ll witness the thrilling spectacle of ice fragments breaking free and plunging into the shimmering waters below—a truly unforgettable Arctic experience.

If weather conditions permit, get ready for the exhilarating rush of a polar plunge. It’s an electrifying and refreshing adventure that will stay with you for years to come.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, join the Discovery Team on Zodiac excursions.

At sea, life is both exciting and challenging. Ships travel across vast stretches of water, carrying people and goods from one place to another. Sailors spend many days away from land, facing changing weather and strong waves. The endless view of the ocean can be beautiful and peaceful. After their journey, they feel happy and relieved when they finally reach shore.

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Grundarfjörður exudes charm with its quaint fishing village atmosphere and vibrant, colourful houses. As you wander its winding streets, you'll be captivated by the picturesque scenery at every turn.

Dominating the skyline is the iconic Kirkjufell, affectionately known as Church Mountain, which stands as a majestic backdrop to this idyllic coastal community. Its distinctive silhouette, often shrouded in mist or bathed in the golden glow of sunset, has made it one of the most photographed mountains in all of Iceland, adding to the allure of this enchanting village.

Nestled on the breathtaking Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Grundarfjörður is home to the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain and cascading waterfalls that make every photo unforgettable. Experience the charm of a traditional Icelandic fishing village, where friendly locals and serene landscapes create the perfect escape. Explore dramatic coastlines, volcanic vistas, and abundant wildlife - Grundarfjörður is your gateway to Iceland’s most captivating adventures.

Your Expedition Voyage ends this morning in Reykjavík, Iceland’s quirky and creative capital. Savour one last breakfast in your suite before saying goodbye to your new friends and the crew who shared this voyage with you.

You'll disembark after breakfast and be transferred to the airport, where magical memories of this isolated corner of the world will keep you company for your flight and many years to come.

Please book your flight to depart out of Reykjavik after 01:00 PM.

#Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board. ^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions.

Helicopter not operational in Greenland.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve center and government seat, is home to half the island's population. On a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh), with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colorful sight, its concrete houses painted in light colors and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In contrast to the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík has many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, as well as imported aspen, pines, and spruces.Reykjavík's name comes from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík. In AD 874, Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson saw Iceland rising out of the misty sea and came ashore at a bay eerily shrouded with plumes of steam from nearby hot springs. Today most of the houses in Reykjavík are heated by near-boiling water from the hot springs. Natural heating avoids air pollution; there's no smoke around. You may notice, however, that the hot water brings a slight sulfur smell to the bathroom.Prices are easily on a par with other major European cities. A practical option is to purchase a Reykjavík City Card at the Tourist Information Center or at the Reykjavík Youth Hostel. This card permits unlimited bus usage and admission to any of the city's seven pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and city museums. The cards are valid for one (ISK 3,300), two (ISK 4,400), or three days (ISK 4,900), and they pay for themselves after three or four uses a day. Even lacking the City Card, paying admission (ISK 500, or ISK 250 for seniors and people with disabilities) to one of the city art museums (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, or Ásmundarsafn) gets you free same-day admission to the other two.