Three Arctic Islands: Iceland, Greenland, Spitsbergen
About the Experience
Iceland, Greenland, Spitsbergen
14 Nights/15 days
Named one of National Geographic Traveler’s 50 Tours of a Lifetime, this unforgettable voyage begins above the Arctic Circle at Spitsbergen, the “wildlife capital of the Arctic,” ventures to the spectacular, remote landscape of East Greenland, and ends in Iceland.
In Spitsbergen, you’ll visit spectacular glacier fronts, steep-walled fjords, and wind-swept tundra, where wildlife sightings include walrus, polar bears, Svalbard reindeer, and thousands of birds. During your tour of Greenland’s remote eastern coast, you’ll explore the remains of ancient Thule settlements and keep an eye out for grazing muskoxen—40 percent of the world’s muskoxen population lives here.
The towering cliffs, massive glaciers, rugged fjords, and vast swaths of untouched tundra in these breathtaking environments will provide sights, sounds, and scenes you’ve never experienced, permanently transforming your connection to the planet we call home. Explore the amazing Arctic, immerse yourself in the beauty and fragility of a wondrous region, and return with unique memories that will last a lifetime.
Aboard Ocean Adventurer
Trip Itenarary
DEPARTURE DATES:
Aug 26 – Sep 9, 2022
CABINS:
Triple: USD $10,495
Main Deck Twin Porthole: USD $13,225
Day 1 - Arrive in Oslo, Norway
Your Arctic adventure begins in Oslo, where you may arrive at any time during Day 1 of your itinerary. Upon arriving in this splendid capital city, known for its green spaces and museums, you will check into your included airport hotel.
Day 2 - Embarkation Day in Longyearbyen, Svalbard
After breakfast, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s largest settlement, as part of the transfer package. As you embark this afternoon, you’ll enjoy great views of the mountainous landscape that serves as a backdrop for this seaside town.
Day 3 - 6 : Exploring Spitsbergen, Svalbard
Exploring Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago rewards you with austere beauty and opportunities to spot its abundant wildlife. Here, you’ll visit spectacular glacier fronts and steep-walled fjords, with walrus, polar bears, and Svalbard reindeer amongst your possible wildlife sightings. Birders will be thrilled to see Arctic terns, skuas, long-tailed ducks, kittiwakes, and ivory gulls. If conditions allow, you could sail within 10 degrees of the North Pole!
Day 7-8 : At sea
While sailing south through the Greenland Sea, your Expedition Team will teach you about the wildlife and history of Greenland, your next stop. On deck, you’ll learn to identify seabirds on the wing. Take in a presentation, share your photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar or watch a film—there are many things to do during your time at sea.
Day 9 - 12: Exploring East Greenland
During your tour of Greenland’s remote eastern coast, you’ll enjoy Zodiac cruises and shore visits to several locations. Explore the remains of ancient Thule settlements and keep an eye out for grazing muskoxen—40 percent of the world’s muskoxen 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. If conditions allow, you may also visit Ittoqqortoormiit, the most remote community in East Greenland.
Day 13 - 14 : At Sea
As we cruise south, 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 see soaring above your ship.
Day 15 - Depart Reykjavik, Iceland
You’ll disembark in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, at the end of your journey. If you have booked post-expedition accommodation, we provide a transfer to a central downtown location.