Course North: Across the Arctic Circle
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day Arctic expedition cruise, a journey that takes you to the heart of the Arctic's most stunning landscapes and wildlife. This multi-day tour begins in Iceland, where you'll explore the dramatic cliffs and volcanic peaks of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. From there, you'll sail to the rugged Westfjords, the bird cliffs of Latraberg, and the small island of Grimsey. The journey continues to Jan Mayen, an island dominated by the world's northernmost active volcano, before reaching the breathtaking fjords and wildlife-rich tundra of Spitsbergen. This tour is a perfect blend of exploration, relaxation, and learning, with onboard lectures on Arctic history, wildlife, and climatology. With overnight stays on board, you'll have ample time to soak in the Arctic's mesmerizing beauty.
Included
Meals: 11×F, 10×M, 11×A
all transfers according to the program
all shore excursions, hikes, dinghy trips according to program depending on weather and ice conditions
11 nights: ship in booked cabin category
English speaking expedition team
charter flight Longyearbyen - Oslo on disembarkation day
extensive, scientifically based lecture program on board
weatherproof expedition jacket (only for m/v Sea Spirit)
sturdy hiking boots (on loan)
Map
Attractions
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
Súgandisey Island Lighthouse
LátrabjargDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Embarkation in Iceland
- Reykjavik - Arrival day
- More
Your Arctic adventure begins in the afternoon with embarkation in Iceland. Take this time to familiarize yourself with the ship and anticipate the exciting journey ahead. Enjoy an overnight stay on board.
Day 2 – Day 2: Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Latraberg Bird Cliffs
Day 2: Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Latraberg Bird Cliffs
- Súgandisey Island Lighthouse
- Látrabjarg
- More
In the morning, sail along the Snaefellsnes peninsula, a microcosm of Iceland's diverse landscapes. In the afternoon, pass by Iceland's westernmost point and the towering bird cliffs of Latraberg. Overnight stay on board.
Day 3 – Day 3: Westfjords and Hornstrandir
Day 3: Westfjords and Hornstrandir
- Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
- More
Sail around Iceland's rugged Westfjords and enjoy the view of steep mountains. Later, journey along the coast of Hornstrandir, the northernmost part of the Westfjords. Keep an eye out for whales, seals, and abundant birdlife. Overnight stay on board.
Day 4 – Day 4: Grimsey Island
Day 4: Grimsey Island
Visit the small island of Grimsey, located directly on the Arctic Circle. Marvel at the basalt cliffs and observe the countless seabird colonies, including the comical puffins. Overnight stay on board.
Day 5 – Day 5: Sea Passage
Day 5: Sea Passage
Spend the day at sea, learning about the Arctic's history, wildlife, and climatology through enriching lectures by the expedition team on board. Overnight stay on board.
Day 6 – Day 6: Jan Mayen
Day 6: Jan Mayen
Explore Jan Mayen, an island of volcanic origin dominated by Beerenberg, the world's northernmost active volcano. Look out for various seabirds nesting on the island's steep cliffs. Overnight stay on board.
Day 7 – Day 7: Journey to Spitsbergen
- Reykjavik
- More
Set sail for Spitsbergen, keeping an eye out for seabirds, dolphins, and whales. Attend lectures to prepare for the upcoming Arctic landings and to learn about Spitsbergen's unique wildlife and landscape. Overnight stay on board.
Day 8 – Day 8: Spitsbergen and Ny Ålesund
Day 8: Spitsbergen and Ny Ålesund
Embark on a true Arctic expedition in Spitsbergen, where the route depends on wind and ice conditions. Visit Ny Ålesund, one of the northernmost settlements in the world, now home to international research stations. Overnight stay on board.
Day 9 – Day 9: Exploring Spitsbergen
Day 9: Exploring Spitsbergen
Continue exploring Spitsbergen's spectacular fjords, coastal sections, and islands. Look out for polar bears, seals, reindeer, and foxes, and enjoy the sight of migratory birds under the radiant midnight sun. Overnight stay on board.
Day 10 – Day 10: More of Spitsbergen
Day 10: More of Spitsbergen
Spend another day in Spitsbergen, taking in the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. Keep an eye out for icebergs calved by huge glaciers floating in the turquoise waters of the fjords. Overnight stay on board.
Day 11 – Day 11: Last Day in Spitsbergen
Day 11: Last Day in Spitsbergen
Enjoy your last day in Spitsbergen, taking in the breathtaking views of deep fjords, narrow channels, and high snow-capped peaks. Keep an eye out for seals resting on ice floes and reindeer grazing in the flourishing tundra. Overnight stay on board.
Day 12 – Day 12: Departure
- Longyearbyen
- Oslo - Departure day
- More
After breakfast, bid farewell to your Arctic adventure. A transfer will take you to the airport for your charter flight to Oslo, from where you'll embark on your individual journey home. We recommend planning an overnight stay in Oslo.
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