ARCTIC ODYSSEY: ICELAND, GREENLAND AND CANADA  

SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY

National Geographic Explorer

National Geographic Explorer was completely redesigned and rebuilt prior to being relaunched in 2008. The ship is equipped with an ice-strengthened hull and advanced navigation equipment making it ideal for Antarctic expeditions, and offers a well-appointed interior with vast expanses of glass for an unprecedented connection to the regions explored. The Explorer accommodates guests in 81 spacious outside cabins, most with feature windows and some with balconies. Public areas include a lounge and bar, a spa, fitness centre and sauna, and a choice of dining options that offer regionally inspired cuisine.

Day 1 Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport to the city and spend the day exploring at your own pace. Check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.

Day 2 Flatey Island

Explore Iceland’s western frontier, visiting Flatey Island, a trading post for many centuries turned sleepy summer islet. Walk around the charming little hamlet that has survived, and hike across trails that trace the cliffs past a seasonal seabird population.

Days 3 – 4 At Sea

Sail away from the Westfjords of Iceland and across the Denmark Strait. Connecting the Arctic and Atlantic Ocean, the Strait is home to the world’s largest waterfall, caused by powerful currents and glaciers. Listen to talks by experts, relax with a book in the lounge or the observation deck and keep an eye out for wildlife as the ship sails across the continental shelf.

A total solar eclipse will occur in the region on August 12, 2026. The ship will navigate to the best position within the path of totality to witness this rare, natural wonder (conditions permitting).

Day 5 Prins Christian Sund, Greenland

Sail into Prins Christian Sund, which cuts into the southern tip of Greenland, passing between soaring pinnacles and glaciers, allowing the ship to sail through the sheltered waters of this dramatic landscape. Glimpse hanging glaciers through the fjords that stretch back to the Greenlandic Ice Sheet and keep an eye out for marine and bird life in these sheltered waters.

Days 6 – 7 Southern Greenland Fjords

Home to some of the best preserved ruins of the Viking era in Greenland, Qaqortoq and Qassiarsuk will provide you with two days of insight, culture and local interactions. Walk through the ruins of Bratthlid, Erik the Red’s farm, visiting replicas of the church and the family’s longhouse. Explore the same shores from which their son, Leif Eriksson, launched the first voyages to North America—500 years before Columbus. Visit the unofficial capital of southern Greenland at Qaqortoq, with just over 3,200 residents. The colonial influence is visible throughout the town, with houses painted in primary colors and architecture dating back to the 1700’s. Stroll through the town square and visit the museum, where Greenlandic kayaks, hunting equipment and local art and handicrafts are on display. Finally, walk through the walls of Hvalsey church, located in the fjords behind Qaqortoq, the best preserved Norse ruins in all of Greenland.

Days 8 – 9 At Sea

Spend time on the bow of the ship watching for whales, polar bears and other wildlife; enjoy the ship’s amenities; edit your photos alongside photography experts; and attend expert-led talks about the Arctic as the ship navigates the massive icebergs of Davis Strait on the way to Baffin Island.

Days 10 – 13 Labrador Coast, Canada

Spend four days tracing the beautiful, wild coast of Labrador, exploring on foot and by kayak and Zodiac. As the ship weaves its way through the Lower Savage islands, you’ll keep a watchful eye for the polar bears that call these islands home and use Zodiacs as safe havens to experience their environment firsthand. Watch for peregrine falcons and other birds soaring over the rocky shorelines of the spectacularly narrow Mugford Tickle and take in the impressive sight of the 4,000-foot-high Kaumajet Mountains. Continue to scenic Battle Harbour to discover the reconstructed 19th-century buildings and legacy of this historic fishing village.

Day 14 L’Anse aux Meadows

In the 1960s, the remains of a Viking village established in the 11th century were excavated at L’Anse aux Meadows, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk among the Norse ruins and reconstructed sod huts and learn the saga of the Vikings in North America, who arrived here nearly 500 years before the explorations of Columbus.

Day 15 Eastern Newfoundland

Cliffs, fjords and beaches grace the eastern coast of Newfoundland. Hike, kayak or explore by Zodiac with your experts amid this stunning scenery, and keep an eye out for migrating birds and whales.

Day 16 St John’s, Newfoundland

Disembark in St. John’s and transfer to the airport for flights home.