Zodiac boat with Three Arctic Islands travelers in yellow coats sits among iceberg bits watching a seal sleeping on the fast ice.
arctic small ship cruise passengers hike on a grassy mountainside with the sea and ocean adventurer in the background
Close up of polar bear in white fur with large paws looking up from snow-covered ground.
3 Arctic Islands cruise guest in yellow coat walks road by water towards large red community house on a hill in the sun.
travelers stand on the arctic shore where there is a zodiac inflatable skiff waiting to take them back to the small ship
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Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Three Arctic Islands: Iceland, Greenland & Spitsbergen

Three Arctic Islands is an award-winning 15-day expedition cruise enabling travelers to check three different Arctic regions off the list, heading above the Arctic Circle to Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago, to the remote East Greenland and on to beguiling Iceland. The towering cliffs, iconic wildlife, massive glaciers and swaths of untouched tundra of these three Arctic tours de force never cease to impress. Southbound departures begin with a charter flight from Helsinki, Finland to embark the ship in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, sailing to Reykjavik, Iceland.

Iconic Arctic animals such as the polar bear, musk ox, reindeer and walrus are commonly seen while traveling from Longyearbyen, Svalbard southwest down the coast of Greenland to Reykjavik, Iceland. Home base is the elegant 128-guest Ocean Adventurer or 138-guest Ocean Explorer—the perfect expedition ships for those who enjoy soft adventure and creature comforts. Enjoy opportunities to hike, Zodiac cruise, photograph wildlife and scenery, and learn from onboard expert-led lectures. Optional added-cost activities of sea kayaking and one-time paddling excursions may also be available.

National Geographic Traveler named this itinerary as one of its 50 Tours of a Lifetime. To experience the Arctic in all of its beauty, venture to these three Arctic islands: Greenland, Iceland and Spitsbergen, Norway.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises, Svalbard cruises, Greenland cruises, Iceland cruises and Arctic land trips.



Itinerary

Three Arctic Islands: Iceland, Greenland, Spitsbergen - Northbound Itinerary

The Northbound Three Arctic Islands: Iceland, Greenland, Spitsbergen voyage embarks in Reykjavik, Iceland, sails to Longyearbyen, Svalbard and ends with a charter flight to Helsinki, Finland.

Route map for Three Arctic Islands northbound Arctic cruise from Reykjavik, Iceland to Longyearbyen, Svalbard.
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Day 1
Arrive Reykjavik, Iceland

Your Arctic expedition begins in Reykjavik. 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.

Accommodations

Included Hotel TBA

Meals

breakfast

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Day 2
Embark Reykjavik

This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead!

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer

Meals

breakfast, dinner

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Days 3 - 4
Denmark Strait

As the ship cruises north, the Denmark Strait is the pathway toward Greenland. The expedition team will teach you about the wildlife and history of Greenland, your next stop. You’ll learn about the history of exploration in the Arctic, as well as glaciology. You’ll also learn about the incredible sights, geology and ecology you will soon explore.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 5 - 8
Exploring East Greenland

During this tour of Greenland’s remote eastern coast, enjoy Zodiac cruises and shore visits to several locations. Explore the remains of ancient Thule settlements and keep an eye out for grazing musk oxen40% of the world’s population of this fascinating mammal lives here. Finally, sail through spectacular Scoresbysund, the birthplace of many icebergs and, some say, the most beautiful fjord system in the world. If conditions allow, also visit Ittoqqortoormiit, the most remote community in East Greenland.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 9 - 10
Greenland Sea

As you continue to sail north, the Greenland Sea is your pathway toward Svalbard. 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.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 11 - 14
Exploring Spitsbergen

Exploring Spitsbergen, the largest of the Norwegian-ruled Svalbard islands, rewards you with abundant wildlife and austere beauty. 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 and Brünnich’s guillemots.

Accommodations

Ocean Adventurer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 15
Disembark Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Fly to Helsinki, Finland & Depart

The time to say goodbye has come. Your adventure ends in the frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen. From here, be transferred to the airport for your return group charter flight to Helsinki.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Mandatory Transfer Package (approximate package price is $695 and includes one night’s pre-expedition hotel night in Reykjavik, group transfer from Reykjavik hotel to ship on embarkation day, departure transfer in Longyearbyen and charter flight from Longyearbyen to Helsinki); shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; select beer and wine during dinner; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by an experienced expedition leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by the expedition team and special guests as scheduled; photographic journal documenting the expedition; a pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; an official Quark Expeditions parka to keep; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard ship; emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person; Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax; transfer from port to Longyearbyen town center on embarkation day.

Excluded

International airfare; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended); excess baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified; phone and internet charges; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; additional pre- or post-expedition overnight accommodation; optional paddling activities (additional fee).

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 180 days – $1,250 fee
179 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 60 days – 75% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Northbound Three Arctic Islands voyage begins in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF) and ends in Helsinki, Finland (HEL).  Plan to arrive any time on Day 1 of the itinerary. An arrival transfer is not included. On Day 15 of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier between 7:00am and 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with an included transfer downtown. For those ending in Helsinki, a later transfer will bring you to the airport for the group flight. The scheduled flight time will be communicated in your final documents. Plan flights to depart Helsinki according to guidelines provided in your final documents. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

A group charter flight between Longyearbyen and Helsinki is required on this trip’s itinerary; see the Mandatory Transfer Package information listed in this trip’s Exclusions. There is a luggage limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 18 lbs (8 kg) cabin baggage on the flight. Please pack accordingly as there is no option to pay for additional luggage.

Activities

Hiking, Zodiac cruising, daily presentations, photography guides and the polar plunge are optional and included. Various optional activities may be available on your Northbound Three Arctic Islands: Iceland, Greenland, Spitsbergen cruise, for guests aged 16 and older, at the following per person costs: sea kayaking for $695 and one-time paddling excursion for $195. Sea kayaking is arranged in small groups of 10 people, multiple times per voyage, and only conducted during calm weather conditions. You must have some prior kayaking experience, including the capability to do a wet exit. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Contact AdventureSmith for more details and to reserve your spot on these adventure activities.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ocean Adventurer: Superior, Deluxe, Suite & Owner’s Suite

Families & Children

At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times, and may not participate in adventure options.

Travel Insurance

Emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of up to $500,000 USD per paying traveler provides coverage between the first and last day of ship-based travel and is included in the cost of this trip. For ship- and land-based trips, additional days of travel pre- and post-expedition are not covered. Travelers are responsible for having adequate international medical coverage prior to embarkation, with a minimum benefit of $50,000 USD. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers also protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditionswildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

Three Arctic Islands: Iceland, Greenland, Spitsbergen - Southbound Itinerary

The Southbound Three Arctic Islands: Spitsbergen, Greenland & Iceland voyage begins with a charter flight from Helsinki, Finland, to embark Longyearbyen, Svalbard, disembarking in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Route map for Three Arctic Islands main itinerary southbound Arctic cruise from Longyearbyen, Svalbard to Reykjavik, Iceland.
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Day 1
Arrive Helsinki, Finland

This Arctic voyage begins in Helsinki, renowned for its extraordinary architecture and intriguing mix of eastern and western influences. If arriving early, explore the many museums, galleries and restaurants, relax at a Finnish sauna or wander the vibrant Design District before retiring at the included airport hotel.

Accommodations

Airport Hotel TBA

Meals

n/a

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Day 2
Fly to Longyearbyen, Svalbard & Embark

After breakfast, transfer to the airport and board the private group charter flight to Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s largest settlement. As the ship sets sail, enjoy great views of the mountainous landscape that serves as a backdrop for this seaside town.

Accommodations

Ocean Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 3 - 6
Exploring Spitsbergen

Exploring Spitsbergen, the largest of the Norwegian-ruled Svalbard islands, rewards you with abundant wildlife and austere beauty. 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 ivory gulls. As an added bonus, when conditions are right, sail within 10 degrees of the North Pole!

Accommodations

Ocean Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7 - 8
Greenland Sea

While sailing the historic Greenland Sea, the expedition team teaches about the wildlife and history of Greenland, the next stop. On deck, learn to identify seabirds on the wing. Take in a lecture, share photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar or watch a movie – there are many things to do during this time at sea.

Accommodations

Ocean Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 9 - 12
Exploring East Greenland

During this tour of Greenland’s remote eastern coast, enjoy Zodiac cruises and shore visits to several locations. Explore the remains of ancient Thule settlements and keep an eye out for grazing musk oxen40% of the world’s population of this fascinating mammal lives here. Finally, sail through spectacular Scoresbysund, the birthplace of many icebergs and, some say, the most beautiful fjord system in the world. If conditions allow, also visit Ittoqqortoormiit, the most remote community in East Greenland.

Accommodations

Ocean Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 13 - 14
Denmark Strait

As the ship cruises south, the Denmark Strait is the pathway toward Iceland. The expedition team will keep you informed and entertained with presentations about the history of exploration in the Arctic and the seabirds that will inevitably be seen soaring above the ship.

Accommodations

Ocean Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 15
Disembark Reykjavik, Iceland

Disembark in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, at the end of the journey.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Mandatory Transfer Package (approximate package price is $695 in 2024 & 2025 and includes one night’s pre-expedition hotel night at Helsinki airport hotel with breakfast on Day 2, charter flight from Helsinki to Longyearbyen, arrival transfer in Longyearbyen and arrival transfer to central downtown location in Reykjavik); shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; select beer and wine during dinner; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by an experienced expedition leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by the expedition team and special guests as scheduled; photographic journal documenting the expedition; a pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; an official Quark Expeditions parka to keep; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard ship; emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person; Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax; transfer from Longyearbyen town center to port on embarkation day; group transfer to downtown Reykjavik on disembarkation day.

Excluded

International airfare; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended); excess baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified; phone and internet charges; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; additional pre- or post-expedition overnight accommodation; optional paddling activities (additional fee).

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 180 days – $1,250 fee
179 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 60 days – 75% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Southbound Three Arctic Islands voyage begins in Helsinki, Finland (HEL) and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF).  Plan to arrive any time on Day 1 of the itinerary. An arrival transfer is not needed, as the Day 1 hotel is at the airport. A group flight (with airport transfer) to Longyearbyen is on Day 2 of the itinerary. The scheduled flight time will be communicated in your final documents.

On Day 15 of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier between 7:00am and 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with an included transfer downtown. Plan flights to depart Reykjavik according to guidelines provided in your final documents. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

A group charter flight between Helsinki and Longyearbyen is required on this trip’s itinerary; see the Mandatory Transfer Package information listed in this trip’s Inclusions. The flight to Longyearbyen is expected to depart early. In 2024, there is a luggage limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 18 lbs (8 kg) cabin baggage on the flight. In 2025, there is a luggage limit which will be detailed in your final documents. Please pack accordingly as there is no option to pay for additional luggage in 2024 or 2025.

Activities

Hiking, Zodiac cruising, daily presentations, photography guides and the polar plunge are optional and included. Various optional activities may be available on your Southbound Three Arctic Islands cruise, for guests aged 16 and older, at the following per person costs in 2024: sea kayaking for $695 ($795 in 2025) and one-time paddling excursion for $195 ($295 in 2025). Sea kayaking is arranged in small groups of 10 people, multiple times per voyage, and only conducted during calm weather conditions. You must have some prior kayaking experience, including the capability to do a wet exit. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Contact AdventureSmith for more details and to reserve your spot on these adventure activities.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ocean Explorer: Grand & Royal Veranda Stateroom; Studio Veranda Single; Explorer, Junior & Owner’s Suite

Families & Children

At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times, and may not participate in adventure options.

Travel Insurance

Emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of up to $500,000 USD per paying traveler provides coverage between the first and last day of ship-based travel and is included in the cost of this trip. For ship- and land-based trips, additional days of travel pre- and post-expedition are not covered. Travelers are responsible for having adequate international medical coverage prior to embarkation, with a minimum benefit of $50,000 USD. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers also protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditionswildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Aug 25 - Sep 08, 2024
Ocean Adventurer • 15 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $7172USD
Per Person
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Aug 13 - Aug 27, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 15 days
brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option
From $11964USD
Per Person
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brown kayaking icon depicting offered kayaking activity Kayaking
A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option One-Time Paddling
Accommodations

Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
Ocean Adventurer

A handsome and refurbished expedition ship, the Ocean Adventurer combines travel to the Arctic with superior onboard comfort for her 128 passengers.

Expedition Ship
Ocean Explorer

The 138-guest Ocean Explorer offers refined spaces, a relaxed atmosphere, state-of-the-art technology, a design optimized for smooth and efficient cruising, an elevator servicing all decks, and a private balcony in most cabins. Come aboard this polar ship for amenities like Jacuzzis and a sauna, plus tenured guides.

Deal

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires March 31st, 2024
Save Up To 40% On Select Svalbard Expedition Cruises

Don't miss out! Save big when you book your 2024 or 2025 Arctic expedition cruise exploring Svalbard.

Expert Review

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Arielle Lightcap • January 7th, 2020
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100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

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