ICELAND, EAST GREENLAND & NORWAY
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16 DAYS
This epic journey travels from the remote reaches of Iceland to the rugged, ice-sculpted shores of Greenland and the spectacular fjords of Norway. Go ashore in the volcanic Westman Islands, then trace the route of legendary Viking explorer Erik the Red to Greenland’s ice-etched eastern coast, home to the world’s largest fjord system. You’ll chart a course north, seeking out big ice and fascinating Arctic wildlife before cruising to Norway to explore the magical Lofoten islands and fjords that carve deeply into the country’s wild interior.
ITINERARY SUMMARY
| Day | Place | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Embark Reykjavik | Explore the capital city of Iceland where you will embark on your voyage |
| Days 2 - 15 | Explore Iceland, Greenland and Norway | Explore the Islands formed by undersea volcanos |
| Day 16 | Tromsø, Norway | Disembark in the “gateway” of the Arctic |
SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY
National Geographic Endurance
Launching in 2020, the National Geographic Endurance is a next-generation expedition ship, purpose built for polar navigation. The Category A vessel is a fully stabilized, highly strengthened ship designed to navigate polar-passages and uncharted waters all year round. Designed to provide an extremely smooth ride in even the most adverse of conditions, reduced spray on deck and wave-splicing action making for superior observation.
Day 1 Reykjavík, Iceland
Overview:
Arrive in Reykjavík, the capital city of Iceland and the world’s northernmost capital. Spend the morning exploring the Old Town or delve into the Norse culture at the National Museum. You will board your ship in the afternoon to embark on your unforgettable adventure.
Days 2-15 Exploring Iceland, Greenland and Norway
As with all polar expeditions the itinerary is kept flexible as it is determined heavily on weather. Begin your journey exploring the beauty of the Westman Islands, formed by undersea volcanoes some 11,000 years ago. From here cruise to Flatey Island which was once a fishing and trading post for centuries. Sail past the Látrabjarg cliffs, the westernmost point of Iceland and home to teeming populations of bird species, including razorbills and puffins. Expore Northwestern Iceland and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the Westfjords region. Hike to a remote waterfall or enjoy a zodiac cruise beneath cliffs crowded with a variety of seabirds. Enjoy a visit to an eider farm and view how the down of these ducks is processed.
Spend a day at sea heading towards Greenland where you will be mesmerised by the country’s geological formations. With roughly eighty percent of its surface covered in ice, it is teeming with wildlife such as polar bears, seals, whales and rich bird life. Mountains rise straight from the sea and the glaciers glisten for your enjoyment. Your course will be dependent on the rhythm of the environment and the team of on board experts will take you on zodiac tours to admire the beauty of Greenland from sea level.
Continue your journey onto the extremely rare remote island, Jan Mayen where you will have the opportunity to explore dependent on the weather. Cruise towards the Norwegian mainland to the Lofoten Islands. Boasting mesmerising landscapes of enchanting villages surrounded by stunning granite peaks. Head ashore at Værøy and search for Atlantic puffins, razorbills, and guillemots and go on a zodiak adventure. Watch from the ship deck as you travel through one of the most dramatic fjords in Norway- Trollfjord and search for Noway’s mythical beings- troll’s.
The finale of the journey will be gliding through the long fjord of Tysfjorden and witnessing the small villages that cling to the rocky shores.
Day 16 Tromsø, Norway
Your cruise comes to an end in Norway’s lively capital city, Tromsø. Visit the Arctic Cathedral, view unique architecture throughout the city and visit the Polar Museum which showcases artefacts from early Arctic settlers. In the afternoon fly by a chartered flight to Oslo, Norway.