Overview
Join us for a thrilling journey across the Arctic to the land of Vikings, fjords, and magnificent landscapes. The glaciers and abundant wildlife of Spitsbergen, Greenland’s remote eastern coast, with its musk oxen and remains of ancient Thule settlements, the towering mountains and icebergs of Scoresbysund, optional sea kayaking—they’re all on this spectacular adventure!
The cruise was very well organized with all operations carried out very professionally.
— Dan B., Gilford, NH
Note: This cruise is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as agent in booking your reservation with the ship operator. The itinerary, lecturers, and all other arrangements are subject to change at the discretion of the cruise line.
Itinerary
Oslo to Reykjavik departures
Days 1-2
Oslo, Norway / Longyearbyen / Embark
On Day 1, arrive Oslo (or Helsinki for 2023 departures) at any time and transfer on your own to included hotel. Check in time is 3:00 pm. This evening you are on your own to explore Oslo. The next day, enjoy breakfast then you will transfer to the airport and board the private charter flight to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s largest settlement. As you embark this afternoon in Longyearbyen, you’ll enjoy great views of the mountainous landscape that serves as a backdrop for this seaside town.
Days 3-6
Spitsbergen
Exploring Spitsbergen, the largest of the Norwegian-ruled Svalbard islands, rewards us with abundant wildlife and austere beauty. Here, you’ll visit spectacular glacier fronts and steep-walled fjords with walrus, polar bear, and Spitsbergen reindeer among the possible wildlife sightings. Birders will be thrilled to see Arctic terns, skuas, long-tailed ducks, kittiwakes, and glaucous and ivory gulls. As an added bonus, when conditions are right, we might sail within 10° of the North Pole!
Days 7-8
Sailing the 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
Greenland’s Remote Eastern Coast
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 musk oxen; 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
Sailing the 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
Disembark in Reykjavík / Fly home
You’ll disembark in Reykjavík. A transfer is provided to a central downtown location. Transfer to the airport on own.
Reykjavik to Oslo departures
Day 1
Reykjavík
Your arctic expedition begins in Reykjavík. Arrive in the Icelandic capital in the morning and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the day to explore the city on your own.
Day 2
Reykjavík / Embark
This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead!
Days 3-4
At Sea
While sailing north through the Denmark Strait, your Expedition Team will keep you informed about the wildlife and history of Greenland, your next stop. You’ll learn about the history of exploration in the Arctic, as well as polar politics, glaciology and climate science. You’ll also learn about the incredible sights, geology and ecology you will soon explore.
Days 5-8
Greenland’s Remote Eastern Coast
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 musk oxen; 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. If conditions allow, you may also visit Ittoqqortoormiit, the most remote community in East Greenland.
Days 9-10
Sailing the Greenland Sea
As you continue to cruise north, the Greenland Sea is your pathway toward Svalbard. 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 11-14
Spitsbergen
Exploring Spitsbergen, the largest of the Norwegian-ruled Svalbard islands, rewards us with abundant wildlife and austere beauty. Here, you’ll visit spectacular glacier fronts and steep-walled fjords with walrus, polar bear, and Spitsbergen reindeer among the possible wildlife sightings. Birders will be thrilled to see Arctic terns, skuas, long-tailed ducks, kittiwakes, and glaucous and ivory gulls. As an added bonus, when conditions are right, you might sail within 10° of the North Pole!
Day 15
Disembark in Longyearbyen / Fly to Oslo
You’ll disembark in Longyearbyen and transfer to town to enjoy some free time on your own before being transferred to the airport for your return charter flight to Oslo, Norway’s capital.
Three Arctic Islands
