Arctic Islands Discovery | Iceland, Jan Mayen, Spitsbergen: Eastbound
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 10-day Arctic expedition, traversing the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland, Jan Mayen, and Svalbard. This multi-day tour is a fusion of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural exploration. From the modern capital of Reykjavík to the remote island of Grímsey, you'll experience the magic of the Arctic. Witness the majesty of active volcanoes, soak in geothermal spas, and cross the Arctic Circle. Marvel at the diverse birdlife, spot whales, and explore the pristine wilderness of Spitsbergen National Park. This tour is a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with comfortable accommodations on the MS Fram and a variety of activities to suit every interest.
Included
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including beverages* in the Aune restaurant
Transfer from the ship to the airport in Longyearbyen after the expedition cruise
Stay in a cabin of your choice
MS Fram: Expedition Suite ,Arctic Superior ,Polar
English-speaking Expedition Team who organize and guide activities, both on board and ashore
Join informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings.
Flight in economy class from Longyearbyen to Oslo after the expedition cruise
* All other flights are not included.
Flight in economy class from Longyearbyen to Oslo after the expedition cruise
Stay in a cabin of your choice
Fine-dining À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm is included for suite guests
Complimentary tea and coffee
Complimentary Wi-Fi on board†
Complimentary reusable water bottle
Range of included activities
In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
Full use of our Science Center, extensive library, and advanced biological and geological equipment
The Citizen Science Program allows guests to contribute to ongoing scientific research projects.
Our onboard professional photographer will give photography tips and teach techniques for capturing landscape and wildlife photos.
The ship has hot tubs, a sauna, and a gym.
Escorted landings with small boats (RIBs)
Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment needed for the activities
Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
Expedition photographers will be on hand to assist you.
All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
Excursions and activities are subject to change
Please ensure you can meet all entry and boarding requirements
No gratuities are expected
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Discover Reykjavík
- Reykjavik
- Seltjarnarnes - Arrival day
- More
- Hallgrímskirkja
- Garður Old Lighthouse
- More
Begin your Arctic adventure in Reykjavík, a city brimming with art, culture, and history. Visit the renowned Blue Lagoon geothermal spa and the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church. Take a leisurely stroll along Laugavegur, the main shopping street, and explore the city's galleries and museums. Later, board the MS Fram at Reykjavík Harbor, collect your complimentary expedition jacket, and settle into your cabin.
Day 2 – Day 2: Stykkishólmur and Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- Stykkishólmsbær
- More
- Djúpalónssandur
- Snæfellsjökull National Park
- Lóndrangar
- More
Travel to the quaint fishing town of Stykkishólmur, where time seems to have stood still. Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula National Park, home to the ice-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano. Visit Djúpalónssandur's black-sand beach and the Lóndrangar basalt cliffs. Opt for a snowcat ride to the top of the Snæfellsjökull glacier or a guided coastal hike with a glacial cave tour.
Day 3 – Day 3: Patreksfjörður and its Surroundings
Day 3: Patreksfjörður and its Surroundings
- Dynjandi
- Látrabjarg
- More
Arrive in the picturesque village of Patreksfjörður, where you'll learn about local fishing traditions. Explore the stunning fjords, visit Rauðasandur beach, and see the seals. Join a tour to the magnificent Dynjandi waterfalls, the largest in the Westfjords. Birdwatchers will love a visit to Látrabjarg, Europe's largest bird cliff, home to puffins, northern gannets, guillemots, and razorbills.
Day 4 – Day 4: Akureyri - The Northern Capital
- Akureyri
- More
- Petting Zoo Daladýrð
- Goðafoss
- Akureyri Art Museum
- More
Continue to Akureyri, Iceland's 'Northern capital', nestled amidst stunning volcanic landscapes. This city is a hotspot for spotting whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbor porpoises. Visit the tranquil botanical gardens and the informative Akureyri and Norðurslóð museums. Don't miss the impressive Goðafoss waterfall, the soothing Mývatn Nature Baths, and the longest fjord in Iceland, Eyjafjörður. You can also opt for horseback riding or a thrilling 4x4 off-road exploration.
Day 5 – Day 5: Grímsey - The Arctic Circle Island
Day 5: Grímsey - The Arctic Circle Island
Travel to the remote island of Grímsey, home to just 60 people and famous for its Atlantic Puffin colonies and the Arctic Circle that cuts right across it. Arrive on the island via our small boats and participate in a special Arctic Circle crossing ceremony. Don't miss the Orbis et Globus sculpture, a large concrete sphere that is repositioned annually to rest along the shifting Arctic Circle.
Day 6 – Day 6: Sailing to Jan Mayen
Day 6: Sailing to Jan Mayen
Enjoy a restful day as we sail towards Jan Mayen. Relax in the comfort of the Explorer Lounge & Bar, soak in a hot tub on deck, or engage in fascinating lectures from the Expedition Team. Visit the Science Center for deeper insights into Jan Mayen and Spitsbergen, and consider participating in a Citizen Science project that contributes to ongoing scientific research.
Day 7 – Day 7: Jan Mayen - The Volcanic Island
Day 7: Jan Mayen - The Volcanic Island
Arrive at the rarely visited island of Jan Mayen, home to no permanent residents. If conditions allow, you'll set foot on one of the most remote places on Earth. The island's landscape, streaked with moss and lichen, is dominated by the Beerenberg volcano, the world's northernmost active volcano. The island is an Important Bird Area, supporting large populations of northern fulmars, Brünnich's guillemots, and little auks. Keep an eye out for abundant marine life in the surrounding waters, including whales and seals.
Day 8 – Day 8: Sailing to Spitsbergen
Day 8: Sailing to Spitsbergen
Spend another day at sea, preparing for the next leg of your adventure in Svalbard. Join the Expedition Team in the Science Center to learn more about the Arctic wildlife and scenery you've seen so far and what to expect in Svalbard. This is also a great opportunity to sort through your photos and pick up some tips from our onboard photographer.
Day 9 – Day 9: Northwest Spitsbergen National Park
Day 9: Northwest Spitsbergen National Park
Explore the pristine wilderness of Northwest Spitsbergen National Park. This area is a blend of steep mountains, stark glaciers, and beautiful offshore islands. Keep an eye out for Arctic wildlife such as whales, seals, walruses, and reindeer. You'll also encounter cultural relics from Svalbard's first explorers. Be ready for adventure—we'll seize any opportunity to launch our kayaks, go ashore for a hike, or participate in a beach clean-up.
Day 10 – Day 10: Departure from Longyearbyen
Day 10: Departure from Longyearbyen
Your Arctic Islands expedition cruise ends back in Longyearbyen. You'll return home with a deeper understanding of Arctic animals, history, polar ice, and climate change, as well as unforgettable memories. If you have time before your flight to Oslo, explore more of Longyearbyen and shop for keepsakes. Many guests opt to bring home a beautiful, warm Svalbard sweater.
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