Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland

Spend the day discovering Reykjavik on your own. Visit the country’s largest church, the Hallgrímskirkja. Its iconic design with a curved spire and side wings has made it one of Iceland’s most recognised symbols. You can climb up to the top of this 244 feet structure and enjoy beautiful 360-degree views of the city. The National Museum of Iceland is a favourite stopover for history lovers. It has a fabulous collection of artefacts. Head to the bustling waterfront area for a lively lunch at one of its many fabulous cafes and restaurants. Stop by the old harbour and visit the museums and art galleries there. Spend time at the Sun Voyager sculpture, against the backdrop of Mount Esja, near the city centre. The sculpture represents hope, progress and freedom. As the sun goes down, head to the Northern Light View Point in Seltjarnarnes for a chance to view the spectacular phenomenon.

Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland and East Greenland (Day 2)

Embarkation in Reykjavik: Spend the first half of the day discovering more of Reykjavik. Those interested in shopping will find the streets of Laugavegur, Bankastræti, and Skólavörðustígur particularly interesting and rewarding. If you want to take it easy, find a good spot to sit and relax at Austurvöllur Square and watch the city go by. Grab a cup of coffee or a glass of beer and enjoy the buzz and activity surrounding this square. Pack up and head to the harbour to board your vessel in the afternoon. An adventure awaits as your ship takes you through the breathtaking Vestfjords (Westfjords) peninsula, from where you can take in sights of the island of Flatey and the amazing  Látrabjarg bird cliffs.

Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland and East Greenland (Day 3)

Today, you will get to explore the Vestfjords. Untouched and starkly beautiful, Iceland’s Vestfjords is a rocky peninsula on its north-western tip. Located away from the popular tourist circuit, this region is home to some of Iceland’s most exquisite scenery - majestic mountains, jagged cliffs and magnificent fjords. Take in panoramas of this dramatic landscape, made even more enchanting due to its remoteness. Head to the Látrabjarg, considered Europe’s largest bird cliff, that teems with razorbills, guillemots and puffins in the summer. If conditions are right, you can also visit the charming island of Flatey and spend time at the church. Admire the murals depicting everyday life on the island, including one of Jesus wearing an Icelandic sweater. 

Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland and East Greenland (Day 4)

Crossing Denmark Strait: Enjoy your time onboard the vessel as it cruises through the waters of the Arctic. Today, your ship will sail across the Denmark Strait, a narrow body of water connecting the Greenland Sea (part of the Arctic Ocean) to the Irminger Sea (part of the Atlantic Ocean). Get briefed on the adventures that await you. Listen to stories of the history and politics of the region from your expedition team. Learn about the diversity in wildlife and gain insights into the ecology, climate and geology of the Arctic. Head out to the deck and spot seabirds with the help of your team. Keep your binoculars handy; if you are lucky, you might even spot a whale or two swimming in these frigid waters. 

Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland and East Greenland (Days 5 – 12)

Exploring Northeast Greenland: Explore Greenland’s northeast coast and come upon some of the most enthralling land and seascapes. Be part of Zodiac vessel excursions that take you to some of the least visited spots on our planet. Pass by pristine icebergs and cruise on glittering waters. Spend some time at the Northeast Greenland National Park, one of the world’s largest national parks and home to 40% of the world’s muskoxen population. Watch your ship navigate around the Scoresbysund, widely considered to be one of the most beautiful fjord systems on the planet. Keep your cameras handy to click pictures of winding fjords and sparkling icebergs. Find out more about the ruins of Thule settlements when you stop over at the landing sites of Frederiksdal and Sydkap. Enjoy the opportunity to meet members of the Ittoqqortoormiit community in East Greenland and get insights into their way of life, customs and Inuit culture. On clear nights, you can see the Northern Lights too. Sail along to the Røde Øya locale, where you can witness the sight of translucent blue icebergs against a background of red sandstone cliffs and the otherworldly King Oscar Fjord. If conditions are right, you will also get the chance to visit Ella Øya Island and Botanikerbugt Bay.

Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland and East Greenland (Day 13)

Rest and relax as your ship makes its way back. Share stories and a few laughs with fellow passengers over cocktails or your favourite glass of wine. Attend a presentation about the Arctic expedition or spend time watching a movie or reading a book. Laze around on the deck and soak up more of the region’s sceneries and panoramas. Spot wildlife on the islands and mountains and capture the last few images of this unforgettable holiday.

Arrive at the Reykjavik Pier. If you are leaving Reykjavik the same day, your expedition team will arrange for you to be dropped off at the airport for you to continue your journey back home. If you are staying a few more nights in the city, the team will drop you at a convenient central location from where you can continue your trip.