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

Overview:

Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just south of the Arctic Circle. Choose an excursion to swim in the termal baths of the Blue Lagoon or learn about the hot springs and volcanic activity at the Geothermal Power Plant experience an Icelandic horse show at the Eldhestar Farm and Riding Centre. Check in to the Grand Hotel in Reykjavík for two nights.

Day 2 Reykjavik

Today there are several excursions available whihc you can choose from. You may choose to take a full-day tour of the Golden Circle, go hiking across the rolling scrublands just outside the city, ride an Icelandic horse through the Hafnarfjörður lava field, or join a cooking class at the Salt Kitchen. In the evening you will take a ferry to scenic Viðey Island, where an exclusive dinner and musical performance awaits.

Day 3 Reykjavik to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Choose a walking tour or a bike tour of Reykjavík in the morning followed by a chartered flight to Greenland and take in stunning views over the Greenland icecap. Embark National Geographic Explorer.

Day 4 Greenland’s West Coast and Sisimiut

Dozens of deep fjords carve into Greenland’s west coast, many with glaciers fed by the ice cap that covers 80% of the country. The ship will trace this ragged coastline, and search for humpback and minke whales. At Sisimiut, a former whaling port, visit the museum, wander amid 18th-century wooden buildings, and learn from locals the tradition of creating Greenlandic national clothing.

Day 5 Disko Bay & Ilulissat

Sail into Disko Bay filled with towering icebergs and set out to explore a tongue of the Greenland ice cap. Explore the archaeological site at Sermermiut, and view the Jakobshavn Icefjord and its immense, calving glacier. It is thought that the iceberg that stuck the titanic originated in this icefjord.

Day 6 Exploring Greenland’s West Coast

On your final day exploring Greenland enjoy cruising on the Zodiacs through the scenic fjords and perhaps take a hike across the tundra enjoying views of the fjords below.

Day 7 Kangerlussuaq to Reykjavik, Iceland

Disembark in Kangerlussuaq and fly to Reykjavik, Iceland, over the Greenland icecap. Check into the Grand Hotel.

Day 8 Reykjavik

Enjoy a guided tour of Reykjanes Peninsula, and learn about the country’s innovative approach to geothermal energy, or if you haven’t yet experienced the Blue Lagoon, you may wish to visit in the morning. Transfer to the airport for flights home.