From the Highlands to the High Arctic
The From the Highlands to the High Arctic voyage is an epic adventure from Edinburgh, Scotland, through the Shetland and Faroe Islands and Jan Mayen, and along Spitsbergen’s southwestern coast. Cross the Arctic Circle on this 12-day expedition with 24-hour daylight.
In 2022, travel from Scotland to explore the Orkney Islands’ capital, Kirkwall, where a historic cathedral, palaces and Viking heritage await. Birdwatchers will delight at the birder’s paradise of Fair Isle, whose over 345 bird species comprise the most recorded in all of Britain. Snap photos of rolling green hills beside brilliant blue water at the Faroe Islands, described by National Geographic Traveler as “authentic, unspoiled and likely to remain so.”
In 2023, travel from Reykjavik to explore the rarely visited Westfjords region of Iceland and its breathtaking fjords and bird cliffs, plus friendly fishing towns. Go on to visit Grimsey Island, right on the Arctic Circle, for its basalt rocks and clown-like Atlantic puffins. While exploring Spitsbergen, uniquely visit Ny Ålesund, a former mining town that is now home to an international community of Arctic researchers.
The 2022 and 2023 itineraries match up starting with a visit to the northernmost subaerial active volcano on the planet—the Beerenberg on Jan Mayen Island. Experts and guest lecturers provide insight and context along the journey. Complete the expedition by spending five days exploring Spitsbergen—one of the best places in the world to observe polar bears hunting in their preferred habitat, the pack ice. Enjoy a flexible itinerary based around sea and ice conditions that explores the spectacular fjords and coasts in the southwestern part of Svalbard. Polar bears, walruses, endangered bowhead whales and other Arctic wildlife can be spotted anywhere, anytime in and around this High Arctic archipelago. The captain and crew are determined to capitalize on every opportunity for wildlife viewing in this unique polar ecosystem.
Sailing aboard the 114-guest Sea Spirit is like floating aboard a fine hotel that is highly maneuverable and capable of navigating narrow bays and icy channels. Add the luxury of incredible amenities, a generous crew, expert leaders and onboard photography lessons and this high Arctic voyage is complete. AdventureSmith Explorations’ award-winning crew has personal experience sailing in the Arctic and can recommend the best itineraries to suit your travel interests and timeline.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises, Svalbard Cruises and Arctic trips.