SPITSBERGEN, GREENLAND, ICELAND
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15 DAYS
This expedition cruise takes you high above the Arctic Circle in Spitsbergen, Finland to Scorsbysund, on the northeast coast of Greenland, and finishes in Reykjavik, Iceland . Iconic Arctic animals such as the polar bear, musk ox, reindeer and walrus are commonly seen.
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Day Place Highlights
Day 1 Helsinki, Finland Explore this vibrant city
Day 2 Longyearbyen Embark on your voyage in Longyearbyen
Days 3 - 6 Spitsbergen View Polar bears, walrus, seabirds and incredible landscapes
Days 7 & 8 Greenland Sea Whales & sea birds
Days 9 - 12 East Greenland Visit Thule settlements and Scorebysund fjord complex
Days 13 & 14 Denmark Strait Cross the Denmark Strait
Day 15 Reykjavik, Iceland Disembark in Reykjavik
SHIPS OFFERING THIS ITINERARY
Ocean Adventurer
The expedition ship Ocean Adventurer is designed to carry 132 travelers in comfort and has a classic style and feel. She was originally built in Yugoslavia in 1976 and has undergone several renovations; in 1999, 2002 and her most significant in 2017. The Ocean Adventurer is ice-strengthened and a beautiful small ship upon which to discover the wonders of Spitsbergen, Greenland and Iceland.
Ocean Explorer
The Ocean Explorer is the newest addition to the Quark fleet, offering modern and elegant design. This 138 passenger vessel is purpose-built for polar exploration, featuring well-appointed and spacious public areas and ample outdoor viewing areas for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design and almost all have verandas. Guests can relax and find comfort in the spacious gym, sauna with large windows, and two outdoor Jacuzzis.
Day 1 Helsinki, Finland
Overview:
Your arctic adventure begins in Helsinki, where you may arrive at any time during Day 1 of your itinerary. Upon arriving you can explore this city at your leisure.
Day 2 Longyearbyen, Norway
After breakfast, the group will transfer to the airport and board the private charter flight to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s largest settlement. You will embark in the afternoon. Enjoy great views of the mountainous landscape that serves as a backdrop for this seaside town.
Days 3-6 Exploring Spitsbergen
Exploring Spitsbergen, the largest of the Norwegian Svalbard islands, rewards you with abundant wildlife and dramatic beauty. Here, you’ll visit spectacular glacier fronts and steep- walled fjords with walrus, polar bears and Spitsbergen reindeer among your possible wildlife sightings. Birders will be thrilled to see arctic terns, skuas, long-tailed ducks, kittiwakes and ivory gulls. When conditions are right, you could sail within 10 degrees of the North Pole!
Days 7-8 Greenland Sea
While sailing south through the historic Greenland Sea, you’ll learn about the wildlife and history of Greenland, your next stop. On deck, you’ll learn to identify seabirds on the wing. Take in a lecture, share your photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar or watch a movie—there are many things to do during your time at sea.
Days 9-12 East Greenland
During your tour of Greenland’s remote eastern coast, you’ll enjoy Zodiac cruises and shore visits to several locations. Visit the remains of ancient Thule settlements, and keep an eye out for grazing muskoxen; 40% of the world’s population lives here. Finally, you will sail through spectacular Scoresbysund, the birthplace of many icebergs and, some say, the most beautiful fjord system in the world.
Days 13-14 Denmark Strait
At sea, the Denmark Strait is your pathway toward Iceland. Your Expedition Team will keep you informed and entertained with presentations about the history of exploration in the Arctic and the seabirds you’ll inevitably see soaring above your ship.
Day 15 Reykjavik
You’ll disembark in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, at the end of your journey. If you have booked post-expedition accommodation, you will be transferred to a central downtown location.