Arctic tundra of red, orange, gold & bright green under a misty blue sky, seen during the Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise.

Town of Sisimut, Greenland, on a clear day, with light blue church with red roof, steeple & white trim, beside a red & green building.

Traveler in a red jacket stands at lip of the giant Godafoss Waterfall of the Gods in Iceland.

Tandem kayakers paddle around icebergs in glassy water on a sunny day near Skjoldungen Island, Southeastern Greenland.

Woman in jeans & pink shirt sits & photographs purple lupin wildflowers in a grassy field on a cruise to Iceland & Greenland.

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Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise

Photo by: Ralph Lee Hopkins

Photo by: Michael S. Nolan

Photo by: Ralph Lee Hopkins

Photo by: Sven Olaf-Lindblad

Photo by: Ralph Lee Hopkins

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Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise

On this 13- to 20-day Arctic voyage aboard a variety of small expedition ships, trace the rugged coast of the world’s largest island. Follow the route of the legendary Viking Erik the Red, from Iceland’s magnificent Westfjords peninsula across the Denmark Strait to the ice-sculpted shores of Greenland. Trace the coast of the world’s largest island from the rugged eastern fjords to the fishing villages of the western coast. Search for walrus, whales and caribou, and use the ship’s exploration tools to discover the undersea. Visit archaeological sites of Viking and Thule settlements and learn about everyday life near the Arctic Circle in charming coastal villages from Flatey Island to Nuuk.

Highlights are many on this Iceland & Greenland cruise. Hike the dramatic Dynjandi Waterfall in Iceland’s remote Westfjords peninsula, and visit a farm that produces eiderdown. Explore Hvalsey and Brattahlíð, 10th-century Viking settlements founded by Erik the Red and his family in Greenland, and see the incredible Qilakitsoq mummies, preserved by freezing temperatures for some 500 years. Cruise among the dazzling icebergs calved by the Ilulissat Icefjord and encounter impressive tidewater glaciers in West Greenland. And experience local culture through visits to fishing villages and longhouses, folk performances, and tasting tours of traditional Greenlandic and Icelandic foods.

All itineraries spend time discovering western Iceland. While the main 19-day itinerary explores western Greenland, a few alternative itineraries instead focus on eastern Greenland. A shorter 13-day itinerary focuses entirely on southeastern Greenland. A longer 20-day itinerary cruises first through Norway’s stunning fjords before crossing the Norwegian Sea to explore eastern Greenland, adding a visit to the seldom-seen Jan Mayen Isle. And a 17-day itinerary operates with supreme flexibility to take advantage of the weather and wildlife, with aim to explore Svalbard, Jan Mayen Isle and eastern Greenland.

Explore aboard the 148-guest National Geographic Explorer, or 126-guest sister ships National Geographic Endurance and Resolution. These small expedition ships are technologically advanced, fully stabilized and equipped with a well-rounded set of exploration tools including an ROV and enough kayaks and Zodiacs to send all guests out exploring at the same time.

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

Itinerary

Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Itinerary

On this 19-day round-trip Reykjavik itinerary, cruise along Iceland’s less-visited Westfjords before crossing to explore south and west Greenland. Complete the trip with a charter flight back to Reykjavik for one final night.

Route map of Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise, operating round-trip from Reykjavik, Iceland, with visits to west Iceland & south Greenland.

Day 1

Fly to Reykjavik, Iceland

Depart on an overnight flight to Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just south of the Arctic Circle.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

n/a

Day 2

Explore Reykjavik & Embark

Take a walking tour of the Old Town and venture into Hallgrímskirkja, a modern, Nordic-style church whose steeple soars to 210 feet, making it the tallest building in Iceland. Learn about Nordic culture at the National Museum and browse a collection of unusual whalebone carvings and Viking treasures and artifacts. In the afternoon, embark the ship and settle in.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

lunch, dinner

Day 3

Flatey Island

Follow Iceland’s western coast north, stopping for a visit to the historic trading post of Flatey Island. Take walks around the charming hamlet that sprung up here over the centuries and explore the coast by Zodiac.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

Arnafjörður/Ísafjarðardjúp

Early this morning, glide into beautiful Arnafjörður, an inlet that reaches deep into the northern Westfjords. If desired, disembark early and hike several miles along the shore to the fjord’s end, where the spectacular Dynjandi Waterfall tumbles some 300 feet over many tiers of rock. Alternatively, join the expedition staff on the deck of the ship to watch her approach to the falls and go ashore by Zodiac to see them close up. There’s a chance to spot nesting arctic terns along the way. Later this evening, enter Ísafjarðardjúp and land at Vigur Island, a privately owned island that is home to numerous species of seabirds, including a large colony of eider ducks. Visit the family farm to learn how they process and clean eiderdown sustainably, without harming the birds.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5

Ísafjörður

The capital of the Westfjords, Ísafjörđur lies on a tiny spit jutting out into the fjord against a backdrop of steep hills. Take a culinary tour of the town, stopping to taste local produce and Icelandic specialties. Alternatively, hike through pristine landscapes to a remote waterfall or cycle along the fjord to a charming maritime museum at Bolungarvik.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 6

Crossing the Denmark Strait

Follow in the wake of the legendary Viking Erik the Red as the ship makes its way across the Denmark Strait to Greenland. Listen to talks by experts, relax with a book in the lounge or the observation deck and keep an eye out for wildlife.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 7

Exploring East Greenland

The Greenland ice sheet is the second largest body of ice in the world after Antarctica and covers roughly 80% of Greenland’s surface. The island’s coast is etched with thousands of fjords, some of which reach the ice’s edge. Spend the day exploring the islands and inlets of the eastern coast, using the ship’s underwater cameras and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to discover marine life and fascinating underwater geology. Venture deep into Skjoldungen fjord or Napasorsuaq fjord and take a Zodiac or a kayak for a foray among the icebergs.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 8

Prins Christian Sund & Nanortalik, Greenland

Sail into Prins Christian Sund, which cuts far into the southern tip of Greenland, passing between soaring pinnacles and glaciers. Anchor off the small fishing village of Nanortalik, and go ashore to explore Greenland’s most southerly town, and meet some of the residents for a performance of local folk music and dance. In the tundra outside of town, walk among multitudes of wildflowers, or explore Greenland’s only natural forest, where full-grown trees are only a few meters tall. Visit reconstructed longhouses and learn about the construction of traditional umiaks and kayaks.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 9

Hvalsey Ruins & Qaqortoq

Today, explore two remarkable sites on the Viking Trail. On the shores of Qaqortukulooq fjord lies the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hvalsey, one of the best-preserved Nordic sites in the world. Part of the settlement founded by Erik the Red’s cousins in 986 AD, Hvalsey has yielded fascinating clues to the daily life of the Vikings and their mysterious disappearance. Explore the church constructed in the 14th century, possibly by Norwegian stonemasons, and the living quarters and banquet hall for celebrations. Continue to Qaqortoq, inhabited since the Viking era and now the largest town in South Greenland—with just over 3,200 residents. The Scandinavian influence is apparent in the wooden houses painted primary colors and scattered on the hillside, and colonial architecture dating back to the late 1700s can be found in the town center. Stroll through the town square and visit the museum, where Greenlandic kayaks, hunting equipment and local art and handicrafts are on display. Sample traditional Greenlandic food this afternoon.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 10

Eriksfjörd & Brattahlíð

Follow the waterway known as Eriksfjörd to Brattahlíð, where Erik the Red established his farm in 982 AD after his exile from Iceland. Erik’s wife, Þjódhild, built the first Christian church in the western hemisphere here. Visit replicas of the church and Erik the Red’s longhouse and see the shores from which their son, Leif Eriksson, launched the first voyages to North America—500 years before Columbus.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 11

Nuuk

Perched on the seaside in the shadow of ice-capped Sermitsiaq Mountain, Nuuk is the world’s smallest capital city by population, with some 18,000 inhabitants. Watch for harp seals as we enter the harbor and take a walking tour with local residents to learn how the community has changed over the generations. At the National Museum, examine the extraordinary 15th-century Qilakitsoq mummies found near Uummannaq—a discovery that was featured in a National Geographic magazine cover story in 1985. The Arctic ice preserved these mummies so well that researchers have been able to study their tattoos, their medical conditions and even what they ate.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 12

Kangaamiut & Evighed Fjord

In the early morning, the ship enters Evighed Fjord, which winds picturesquely past steep mountains and stunning tidewater glaciers. Take a Zodiac cruise along the face of one of the many glaciers or hike over glacial moraines to a waterfall. In the afternoon, visit the small fishing community of Kangaamiut. Climb the small mountain behind the village to take in the views or walk through the village and photograph the colorful houses clustered on the seaside slope.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 13

Sisimut

Dozens of deep fjords carve into Greenland’s west coast, many with glaciers fed by the icecap that covers much of the island. At Sisimiut, a former whaling port, visit the museum and stroll among its 18th-century wooden buildings. Choose from a variety of walks to explore the town and its surroundings.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Days 14 - 15

Ilulissat & Disko Bay

Sail into Disko Bay and encounter the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Ilulissat Icefjord, a tongue of the Greenland ice cap that calves enormous icebergs into the bay. Take an extraordinary cruise among these towering sculptures in ice. Enjoy views of the bay on a visit to the town of Ilulissat, and hike to an archaeological site in the Sermermiut Valley. Spend the next day cruising Disko Bay as the ship makes her way north. Ice conditions permitting, follow the inside passage past Disko Island to the Nuussuaq Peninsula. While sailing, join the expedition team in the lounge for presentations about Greenland’s Thule people.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 16

Uummannaq & Qilakitsoq

The colorful village of Uummannaq sits on a tiny island in the Uummannaq Fjord. The dramatic peak that rises abruptly from the island’s center is so remarkable that it has been depicted numerous times in paintings and drawings. Visit the excellent community museum to learn about the area’s archaeology and history and see traditional Inuit clothing and tools along with scenes of everyday life. Then cross the fjord to the archaeological site of Qilakitsoq, where the eight Thule mummies were discovered in 1972.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 17

Ataneq Fjord

Enjoy a full day to explore the beautiful Ataneq Fjord by water and on foot. Walk the metamorphic rocks at Tunúngassoq, covered in spongy tundra, and look for arctic foxes and, with luck, caribou. Paddle a kayak along the steep sides of the fjord or ride a Zodiac to see the glacially carved landscape up close.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Days 18 - 19

Disembark Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, Fly to Reykjavik & Depart

Disembark in Kangerlussuaq and take a charter flight back to Iceland. Check into the group hotel near the airport. On the final morning, consider enjoying a soak in the Blue Lagoon or take a tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula. After lunch, transfer to the airport for flights home.

Accommodations

Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik/Keflavik (day 18); n/a (day 19)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner (day 18); n/a (day 19)

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All accommodations; meals indicated; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes.

Exclusions

One-way charter flight from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, to Reykjavik, Iceland ($795 per person in 2022); Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind. Gratuities and alcoholic beverages excluded, except for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $3,000 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:
180 or more days – $750 of deposit retained (may be applied to future trip by trip operator)
179 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 25% of total trip cost
89 to 60 days – 50% 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.

Vaccination Requirement
To join this trip, all eligible guests must provide proof of being fully vaccinated (at least 14 days after your final COVID-19 vaccine shot), including a booster shot for those eligible. There may also be COVID-19 testing or other requirements to participate; your Adventure Specialist will provide details of current policies upon booking.

Arrival & Departure

The Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). Embarkation time may vary based upon arrival of group flights. Disembarkation in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, is after breakfast on Day 18 of the outlined itinerary, followed by a charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Departure times on Day 19 may vary depending on group flights. Inquire with your Adventure Specialist upon booking for details. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

A group charter flight between Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, and Reykjavik, Iceland, is required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions. There is a strict luggage limit of two checked bags weighing up to 57 lbs (25 kg) combined, and one carry-on bag weighing up to 17 lbs (8 kg) plus a personal item that can be stowed under the seat.

Activities

Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking and kayaking. Other activities may include yoga and stretching, land treks, photography, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. 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 conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

Iceland's Wild West Coast to East Greenland Itinerary

On this 13-day round-trip Reykjavik itinerary, cruise along Iceland’s less-visited Westfjords before crossing to explore east Greenland.

Route map of Iceland's Wild West Coast to East Greenland voyage, round-trip from Reykjavik with visits to Scoresbysund.

Day 1

Fly to Reykjavik, Iceland

Depart on an overnight flight to Reykjavík, Iceland. Savor the anticipation of the Arctic adventure to come.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

n/a

Day 2

Arrive & Embark Reykjavik, Iceland

Upon arrival, explore Reykjavík’s Old Town, including Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral and the National Museum with its Viking treasures. Then, embark the ship.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

lunch, dinner

Day 3

Flatey Island

Explore Iceland’s wild western frontier. Visit charming Flatey Island, a trading post for centuries, for walks around the 19th-century hamlet and opportunities to see and photograph numerous species of birds. Zodiac cruise the coast and see where Erik the Red sailed from in the year 982 A.D., bound for Greenland.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

At Sea: Crossing the Denmark Strait

Cross the Denmark Strait, where the cold east Greenland current carries icebergs south. Enjoy presentations and be on the lookout for northern lights displays at this time of year.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Days 5 - 10

Exploring Northeast Greenland & Scoresbysund

Encompassing roughly 80 percent of the surface of Greenland, the Greenland ice sheet is the second-largest body of ice in the world. Weather and ice will dictate the exact route, but plan to explore well north of Scoresbysund in the largest national park in the world—Northeast Greenland National Park. The ship will also set a course for Scoresbysund, the largest and longest fjord system on earth, with the village of Ittoqqortoormiit at its entrance. Being the end of summer, the ice will have retreated as far as it ever does, enabling exploration of the fjords, bays, and nooks and crannies of this stunning coastline. Hope to see the iconic Arctic wildlife: polar bears, seals and whales. Also be on constant watch for the northern lights, conditions permitting.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Days 11 - 12

Crossing the Denmark Strait & Exploring the Westfjords, Iceland

Return across the Denmark Strait and head just south of the Arctic Circle to the Westfjords, a remote area backed by majestic cliffs. Explore Ísafjörður and taste some Icelandic culinary delicacies, or visit a center dedicated to arctic foxes. Learn about the fishing industry that was the mainstay of this town for generations.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 13

Disembark Reykjavik, Iceland

Disembark in Reykjavík with options to visit either the famous Blue Lagoon thermal baths or a hot spring, a geothermal power plant, and an Icelandic horse farm, prior to the flight home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, lunch

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All accommodations; meals indicated; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes.

Exclusions

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind. Gratuities and alcoholic beverages excluded, except for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,500 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:
180 or more days – $750 of deposit retained (may be applied to future trip by trip operator)
179 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 25% of total trip cost
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

Arrival & Departure

The Iceland’s Wild West Coast to East Greenland cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). Embarkation time may vary based upon arrival of group flights. Disembarkation in Reykjavik is after breakfast on Day 13 of the outlined itinerary. Departure times on Day 13 may vary depending on group flights. Inquire with your Adventure Specialist upon booking for details. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Room Configuration

Families & Children

Travel Insurance

Itinerary Notes

East Greenland: Wild Shores of the High Arctic Itinerary

On this 20-day Norway to Reykjavik via Greenland itinerary, cruise the Norwegian fjords, cross the sea via the seldom-visited isle of Jan Mayen, explore eastern Greenland and take in Iceland’s less-visited Westfjords before disembarking in Reykjavik.

Route map of East Greenland: Wild Shores of the High Arctic cruise from Oslo, Norway, to Reykjavik, Iceland.

Days 1 - 2

Fly to Oslo, Norway

Fly overnight to Oslo. Upon arrival, check into the Hotel Bristol. In the afternoon, explore this charming city. Stroll among the famed Vigeland sculptures—hundreds of life-size human figures set in terraced Frogner Park. Visit the Fram Museum, dedicated to the wooden ship sailed by Norwegian explorers Nansen and Amundsen. The evening is at leisure.

Accommodations

n/a (day 1); Hotel Bristol (day 2)

Meals

n/a (day 1); lunch (day 2)

Day 3

Fly to Tromso & Embark

Depart Oslo on a chartered flight to Tromsø and embark the ship.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

Tysfjorden

Explore the dramatic, glacier-carved Norwegian coastline of Tysfjorden, where the fjord’s almost vertical walls surround the ship. By Zodiac and kayak, get closer views of the birch forests, tumbling waterfalls and small villages on the rocky shore. Nearby, the U-shaped valley of Hellmobotn cuts nearly to Sweden and has a trail to hike almost to the border.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Days 5 - 6

Nordfjord & Svartisen

Svartisen National Park consists of a large ice field of the central Norwegian coast. Enter the park on a beautiful fjord called Nordfjord. As the ship crosses the park boundary, the sheer walls of the fjord tower above. The captain anchors the ship near the mouth of a glacier-fed river flowing down from a hanging glacier off the main ice field of Svartisen. The morning will be spent gasping at the scenery, taking walks ashore in the birch meadows, and possibly kayaking in the protected waters. Zodiac cruising along the shores is always popular to view the numerous waterfalls cascading down the rock walls. Be on deck while cruising into one of the most famous fjords in Norway, the compact yet dramatic Trollfjord, and search the cliffs for Norway’s mythical beings: trolls.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 7

Lofoten Islands

Start the day on deck as the ship glides into Trollfjorden, one of Norway’s most dramatic fjords. The Lofoten archipelago boasts an enchanting landscape of picturesque villages framed by jagged, granite peaks that rise straight from the sea. Explore the many islets, and go ashore at Værøy to hike and kayak. Seek out Atlantic puffins, razorbills and guillemots on a Zodiac cruise.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Days 8 - 9

At Sea & Jan Mayen Isle, Norway

Spend the next day at sea, enjoying the ship’s amenities as she cruises toward Jan Mayen Island. Listen to talks given by the onboard naturalists, head to the bridge to watch for whales, or relax in the sauna or library. The following day, take the extremely rare opportunity to visit Jan Mayen, a remote Norwegian island with a small military and weather station that holds the settlement’s only residents. The seldom-visited isle is presided over by the ice-capped crater of Beerenberg, the world’s northernmost active above-ground volcano.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Days 10 - 12

East Greenland, Scoresbysund

With flexibility and exploration as the priorities, head just south of the national park to Scoresbysund, the largest fjord in the world, where one may see the elusive narwhal, Atlantic walrus and beluga whales. On the nearby shore sits the brightly colored Ittoqqortoormiit, the most isolated town in Greenland. The town is blocked by sea ice for most of the year, and its inhabitants—fewer than 500 of them—survive by hunting and fishing the surrounding waters. This is also the time of year where it is possible to view the Northern Lights and onboard staff will be available to help everyone photograph the experience.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Days 13 - 16

Exploring Northeast Greenland National Park

Northeast Greenland National Park, the largest national park in the world, is a pristine swath of Arctic wilderness in the northeast corner of Greenland. Here, find towering mountains, glacial lagoons and tremendous wildlife—polar bears, musk oxen and walrus. With its advanced ice class, the ship makes it possible to navigate the region’s dense pack ice and explore up close the coastline and inlets of the park.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 17

Northwest Iceland

Explore the beautiful and peaceful Westfjords region of Iceland. Perhaps take a hike to a remote waterfall or a Zodiac cruise alongside stunning scenery. Enter Ísafjarðardjúp and land at Vigur Island to visit the Eider Farm and view the down cleaning process.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 18

Flatey Island

Explore Iceland’s western frontier. Visit Flatey Island, a trading post for many centuries, to walk around the charming little hamlet, and opportunities to see and photograph numerous species of birds. Zodiac cruise the coast and see where Erik the Red sailed from in the year 982 A.D., bound for Greenland.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 19

Westman Islands

The Westman Islands were formed by undersea volcanoes between 5,000 and 10,000 years ago and are among the youngest of the world’s archipelagos. In 1963, the world witnessed on film the birth of its newest island, Surtsey—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—which comes into view as the ship cruises past the coast. In 1973, Heimaey was threatened by lava flows that nearly closed off its harbor. Visit the crater, where the earth is still hot, and have amazing views of areas that had been engulfed by lava.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 20

Disembark Reykjavik, Iceland

Disembark in Reykjavík with options to visit either the famous Blue Lagoon thermal baths or hot springs, a geothermal power plant, and a horse farm, prior to the flight home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, lunch

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All accommodations (including one hotel night in Oslo); meals indicated; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes.

Exclusions

One-way charter flight from Oslo to Tromso, Norway ($980 per person in 2022 & 2023, subject to change); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind. Gratuities and alcoholic beverages excluded, except for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Payment & Cancellation

Terms & Conditions

Arrival & Departure

The East Greenland: Wild Shores of the High Arctic cruise begins in Oslo, Norway (OSL), and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). Embarkation time may vary based upon arrival of group flights. Disembarkation in Reykjavik, Iceland, is after breakfast on Day 20 of the outlined itinerary. Departure times on Day 20 may vary depending on group flights. Inquire with your Adventure Specialist upon booking for details. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

A group charter flight between Oslo and Tromso, Norway, is required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions. There is a strict luggage limit of two checked bags weighing up to 57 lbs (25 kg) combined, and one carry-on bag weighing up to 17 lbs (8 kg) plus a personal item that can be stowed under the seat.

Activities

Room Configuration

Families & Children

Travel Insurance

Itinerary Notes

Svalbard, Iceland & Greenland's East Coast Itinerary

On this 17-day Svalbard to Reykjavik via Greenland itinerary, enjoy a flexible itinerary. Begin with a charter flight from Oslo to embark in Longyearbyen, explore Svalbard, cross the sea via the seldom-visited isle of Jan Mayen, visit eastern Greenland and take in Iceland’s less-visited Westfjords before disembarking in Reykjavik.

Route map of Svalbard, Iceland & Greenland's East Coast cruise, from Oslo, Norway, to Reykjavik, Iceland, with visits to Svalbard, Jan Mayen & eastern Greenland.

Days 1 - 2

Fly to Oslo, Norway

Fly overnight to Oslo. On arrival (Day 2), check into the group hotel. This afternoon explore the charming city of Oslo. Stroll amid the city’s famed Vigeland sculptures—hundreds of life-size human figures set in parkland. Visit the Fram Museum, dedicated to the wooden ship sailed by Norwegian polar explorers Nansen and Amundsen. The evening is at leisure.

Accommodations

n/a (day 1); Oslo Hotel TBA (day 2)

Meals

n/a (day 1); breakfast and dinner (day 2)

Day 3

Fly to Longyearbyen & Embark

Depart Oslo on a charter flight and enjoy breathtaking vistas en route to Longyearbyen. Embark the ship.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Days 4 - 16

Exploring Svalbard, Greenland & Iceland

The day-by-day itinerary is flexible, taking into account the wisdom of the experienced captain, guides and onboard technology. Begin in Svalbard, Norway—a place of deep fjords, snowcapped mountains and massive ice sheets. Nowhere can the polar bear be seen more reliably in its natural environment than here. Venture to the foot of vast tidewater glaciers, kayak among sparkling icebergs, hike the tundra and explore fjords that split the coastline. Svalbard’s wonders are a prelude to days ahead of discoveries on unknown shores, following the ice’s edge. Discover the Arctic’s grand wilderness. Be on deck as the captain navigates between icebergs that drift from calving glaciers.

With a course set west, Jan Mayen is on the itinerary–an isolated volcanic island in the Arctic Ocean. Discover the island’s unique geology including black-sand beaches and learn of the interesting history of Jan Mayen’s storied past inhabitants. And if the ice yields, the ship will aim for Scoresbysund, on the east coast of Greenland, still awakening from winter’s long icy grip. If the ice is unrelenting, the ship will head to Iceland. The finale of this journey is the west coast of Iceland. Explore Isafjördur, a picture postcard of Icelandic life; Vigur Island, which hosts the largest eider farm in the world; and Flatey Island, a former trading post.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 17

Disembark Reykjavik, Iceland

The grand adventure ends with disembarkation in Iceland’s lively capital city, Reykjavík. Have a guided overview of the old town and visit the famous Blue Lagoon thermal baths prior to the flight home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, lunch

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Exclusions

One-way charter flight from Oslo to Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway ($380 per person in 2022 & 2023, subject to change); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind. Gratuities and alcoholic beverages excluded, except for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Payment & Cancellation

Terms & Conditions

Arrival & Departure

The Svalbard, Iceland & Greenland’s East Coast cruise begins in Oslo, Norway (OSL), and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). Embarkation time may vary based upon arrival of group flights. Disembarkation in Reykjavik, Iceland, is after breakfast on Day 17 of the outlined itinerary. Departure times on Day 17 may vary depending on group flights. Inquire with your Adventure Specialist upon booking for details. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

A group charter flight between Oslo and Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway, is required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions. There is a strict luggage limit of 50 lbs checked luggage and 18 lbs cabin baggage on the flight between Oslo and Longyearbyen.

Activities

Room Configuration

Families & Children

Travel Insurance

Itinerary Notes

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change. Please contact AdventureSmith for the most up-to-date pricing.

2022 2023

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Jul 30 - Aug 17, 2022

National Geographic Explorer • 19 days

From $20370^USD

Per Person

Sep 02 - Sep 21, 2022

National Geographic Endurance • 20 days

From $25740^USD

Per Person

Sep 20 - Oct 02, 2022

National Geographic Endurance • 13 days

From $14150^USD

Per Person

Jun 17 - Jul 03, 2023

National Geographic Resolution • 17 days

From $21230^USD

Per Person

Jul 29 - Aug 16, 2023

National Geographic Explorer • 19 days

From $20980^USD

Per Person

Sep 08 - Sep 27, 2023

National Geographic Endurance • 20 days

From $27030^USD

Per Person

Sep 26 - Oct 08, 2023

National Geographic Endurance • 13 days

From $15140^USD

Per Person

Alternative Itinerary

Accommodations

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Expedition Ship

National Geographic Endurance

The 126-guest National Geographic Endurance is the newest addition to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability and sustainability as well as for in-depth education and an unmatched range of exploration in the polar regions.

Expedition Ship

National Geographic Explorer

The National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship accommodating 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. She is fully stabilized, enabling her to navigate polar passages while providing comfort.

Expedition Ship

National Geographic Resolution

The 126-guest National Geographic Resolution is one of the newest additions to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability, efficiency, scholarship and long-range exploration in the polar regions.

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Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires January 31st, 2023

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Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on National Geographic expeditions in this special deal.

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Offer expires January 31st, 2023

Save 10% On Two Consecutive National Geographic Expeditions

Save 10% when you book two consecutive cruises aboard a National Geographic expedition ship.

Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

Todd Smith • June 17th, 2022

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Cruise Rates & Dates

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Current Deals on This Trip

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

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