Exploring Iceland and Beyond (Southbound)

Day 1

The World’s Northernmost Capital

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavík is the world’s northernmost capital city, surrounded by fantastic natural beauty including geysers, mountains, glaciers and geothermal baths. This is a city well worth exploring before embarking on your expedition ship, MS Fridtjof Nansen.

Day 2

Welcome Home

Heimaey, Iceland – Full Day

Heimaey, or “Home Island,” welcomes our visit. A zone of volcanic activity, the surrounding area is mostly comprised of steep ocean cliffs that are well-vegetated and provide a habitat for countless seabirds, including the charming puffin.

Day 3

Sagaland

Stykkishólmur, Iceland – Full Day

Stykkishólmur has well-preserved old houses in the town center and is surrounded by wonderful scenery. Enjoy exploring the town’s interesting museums or join optional excursions to iconic sites on Snæfellsnes Penninsula, such as the Lóndrangar basalt cliffs or the black sand beaches of Djúpalónssandur.

Day 4

Patreksfjörður

Patreksfjördur, Iceland – Full Day

Patreksfjördur is a charming settlement on the west coast with around 660 inhabitants. The picturesque fjord offers scenic hiking trails if conditions allow. Patreksfjördur is also close to the spectacular waterfall of Dynjandi and to Látrabjarg, a renowned site for birdwatching.

Day 5

Wonderful Westfjords

Ísafjörður, Iceland – Full Day

Flanked by towering mountains on all sides, Ísafjörður is a nearly perfect natural harbor. Stroll around to see the architecture, shop for a variety of local handicrafts and view the oldest houses in Iceland, including the structure that houses the Maritime Museum.

Day 6

Northern Center

Akureyri, Iceland – Full Day

Lively Akureyri is famous for its botanical gardens and pretty traffic lights. This is the most populous community outside Reykjavík, and the center of trade, culture and services for the north of Iceland. Akureyri is close to many of Iceland’s most renowned natural treasures, likes Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss waterfall.

Day 7

Step Across the Arctic Circle

Grímsey, Iceland – Full Day

We will use our tender boats to reach this green and grassy island. It is probably best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts across the island. With favorable conditions, you will have the chance to step across that iconic line, north to south.

Day 8

Nordic Heritage

Seyðisfjörður, Iceland – Half Day

The Norwegian heritage of the village of Seyðisfjörður is reflected in colorful Nordic-style wooden houses dating from the early 20th century. The handcrafted architecture creates a truly unique identity in the settlemet. Explore this quirky town, join an organized hike or take an optional excursion to Skálanes.

Day 9

Towards Norway

At sea

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea with onboard lectures as we head towards Norway. Our expedition team will present talks and workshops and share their knowledge and experience. You will also have the chance to visit our science center to learn more.

Day 10

The Famed Fjords of Norway

Geiranger, Norway

Geirangerfjord features stunning and idyllic villages along its 65 mile stretch. The fjord here is world famous for its beauty and UNESCO-listed as a World Heritage site. Enjoy taking in the scenery as we sail into this famous fjord, hopefully with fall colors on the hillsides.

Day 11

Towering Preikestolen

Lysefjorden, Norway

Lysefjord is 25 miles long and 1,400 feet deep. The Preikestolen plateau towers an impressive 2,000 ft over the Lysefjord. We will sail into the fjord to enjoy the amazing landcapes from on deck, and hope to have a fine view of Preikestolen from below.

Day 12

Charming Kristiansand

Kristiansand, Norway – Full Day

Kristiansand is one of the most popular summer destinations for Norwegians thanks to its beautiful beaches, charming old town, interesting local history and great nature experiences within easy reach. Visit the fish market on the dock or join our optional excursion to see more of the region.

Day 13

Relaxing Day

At sea

Enjoy an idyllic day at sea as we head towards Hamburg.  Take in the panoramic views from one of many viewpoints around the ship, relax with a book or join one of our onboard lectures.

Day 14-15

Disembarkation

Hamburg, Germany – Overnight & Disembarkation

The second-largest city in Germany, Hamburg is one of the greenest urban areas in Europe – faeturing large parks, botanical gardens and nature reserves. Enjoy an overnight stay onboard, which gives you plenty of time to explore the city and some of its many canals.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN ADVENTURE

• A rich program of included activities on all voyages designed to immerse you in the destinations you visit, including onshore exploration with the expedition team
• Professional English-speaking expedition team – an international, handpicked team of highly educated experts in various academic fields with profound knowledge of the region we sail in
• Complimentary wind- and water-resistant jacket
• Loan of boots, trekking poles, and equipment needed for optional and included activities

ENGAGING ONBOARD ACTIVITIES AND EDUCATION

• In-depth lectures on science, history, biology, geography, geology or culture that provide context to your voyage and help you understand the destinations you will experience
• Explorer Science program, with educational and Citizen Science activities that let you learn about the sights you’ll see while contributing to research
• Introductory photo lecture, including camera adjustments and tips and tricks
• Photos and film/video footage from the voyage shared in the Expedition Logbook
• Casual opportunities to engage with the expedition team and other guests, including a welcome event, daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come
• Opportunities to dine and interact with the expedition team and officers
• Destination-focused onboard library
• Port presentations providing destination insight
• A farewell event

PREMIUM ONBOARD COMFORT

• All meals including beverages (beer and wine, sodas and mineral water in all ship restaurants)
• Coffee and tea included throughout the day
• Early riser and afternoon treat offered in addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner
• A la carte restaurant (only for suite guests)
• Gym, outdoor hot tubs and sauna with windows
• Free Wi-fi onboard for all guests. Be aware that we sail in remote areas with limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
• No gratuities expected

NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR EXPEDITION:

• International flights
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners
• Optional small-group adventures with our expedition team such as kayaking, long hikes (availability pending weather conditions and safety)
• Travel protection plan
• Luggage handling

NOTES:
All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions