UNDER THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
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14 DAYS
Explore two of the last unspoiled wilderness areas on the planet, Iceland & East Greenland. Cruising along Iceland’s mountainous Vestfjords and Greenland’s remote northeast coast, home to the largest fjord system in the world discover diverse and dramatically rugged landscapes rich in iconic arctic wildlife. Immersed in the untamed beauty of the Arctic, you’ll experience Inuit culture firsthand at Ittoqqortoormiit, visit ancient Thule sites steeped in history, and marvel at the majesty of massive icebergs and towering bird cliffs. If you’re lucky, you may also catch sight of the spectacular northern lights dancing across the sky.
ITINERARY SUMMARY
| Day | Place | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Reykjavik, Iceland | Explore this vibrant city |
| Day 2 | Rekjavik | Embark on your voyage in Reykjavik |
| Day 3 | Exploring Westfjords | Exploring fjords and shores of Iceland’s oldest region |
| Day 4 | Cruising | North across the Denmark Strait |
| Days 5 - 12 | Northwest Greenland | Zodiac cruises, grazing muskoxen, Scoresby Sund, Frederiksdal and Sydkap |
| Day 13 | Cruising | Sea Birds, Presentations |
| Day 14 | Reykjavik | Depart and continue your onward journey |
SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY
Ultramarine
The newest ship in the Quark fleet, Ultramarine is designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to discover new places, and immerse you in the best the region has to offer. Ultramarine accommodates 199 guests and is equipped with two twin-engine helicopters to offer the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. With two dining areas, four bars, a panoramic lounge, theatre, library, spa and fitness centre, Polar boutique and an ocean view sauna your days at sea can be as busy or relaxing as you decide.
Day 1 Reykjavik, Iceland
Your arctic expedition begins in Reykjavik, Iceland. Arrive in the capital in the morning and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the day to explore the city on your own. You may wish to visit the famous Golden Circle which includes the Strokkur Geysir, the parting of the tectonic plates at Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss Waterfall.
Day 2 Embark Reykjavik
This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. You will have time in the morning to visit some of the interesting sites in town before embarkation. Once on board settle into your room before meeting your expedition team and fellow travel companions.
Day 3 Exploring Westfjords
Each region of Iceland has its own appeal for nature, bird and history lovers, and the little-visited Vestfjords (Westfjords), where the land meets the sea in the most dramatic fashion, is no exception. Often referred to as ‘Iceland’s best kept secret,’ this rugged peninsula at the country’s remote northwestern tip is rife with fjords and mountains sloping down to the sea in impossibly beautiful ways. We spend the day exploring the fjords and shores of Iceland’s oldest region, enjoying its kaleidoscope of diverse land and seascapes. Here, tumbling cliffs and gushing waterfalls alternate with colorful beaches, and rolling green hills lead up to high moorlands dotted with rocky outcrops, small lakes and the occasional shaggy Icelandic sheep or horse grazing in the distance. A few little outposts of civilization, small fishing communities are nestled on fjord edges and the shores of the Denmark Strait, facing out into the mighty Atlantic and toward East Greenland—keeping alive a maritime heritage going back to the Viking days.
Day 4 Cruising
At sea, the Denmark Strait is your pathway toward Greenland. 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.
Days 5-12 Northwest Greenland
During your tour of Greenland’s remote northeast coast, you’ll enjoy Zodiac cruises and shore visits to several locations. We’ll also keep an eye out for grazing muskoxen, as 40 percent of the world’s population lives in Northeast Greenland National Park. Sailing through spectacular Scoresby Sund, the birthplace of many icebergs, you’ll immediately see why some say it’s the most beautiful fjord system on the planet. Sites such as Frederiksdal and Sydkap offer opportunities to explore the colorful tundra and the remains of ancient Thule settlements. At the entrance of the sound is East Greenland’s most northerly community, Ittoqqortoormiit, where you may spend time interacting with the Inuit people and learning about their way of life. You may also have a chance to see the northern lights here if the skies are clear. Deeper in the sound, Røde Ø offers a picturesque locale for admiring the beauty of sky-blue bergs set against striking red sandstone cliffs. Magnificent vistas also await at Kong Oscar Fjord, with possible landings at Ella Ø, renowned for its rugged cliffs and ice-choked waters, and flower-rich Botanikerbugt, on Ymer Ø.
Day 13 Cruising
As your arctic adventure winds down, take in a presentation by the onboard experts, share your photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar or watch a movie – there are many activities during your time at sea. Your Expedition Team will also be on hand to answer any questions and point out wildlife.
Day 14 Reykjavik, Iceland
You’ll disembark in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, at the end of your journey. If you have booked post-expedition accommodation, a transfer will be provided to a central downtown location.