Overview
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Ships
The land of ice and fire … and elves
Starting your expedition in Iceland’s culture-rich capital Reykjavik, you’ll journey north to commence your circumnavigation of the country. You’ll call at breathtaking Stykkishólmur, the tranquil fishing village of Patreksfjördur and Iceland’s second city Akureyri.
Heading onto Grimsey, you’ll cross the Arctic Circle before continuing to Bakkagerði, where elves are said to dwell. With soaring rhyolite peaks and the majestic Dyrfjöll mountain, it’s a stunning location. Finally, you’ll explore Iceland’s Pompeii, Heimaey, before arriving back in Reykjavik.
Spectacular west Greenland
From there, you’ll cross the Denmark Strait just as the Vikings did, arriving at colourful Qaqortoq. Here, you’ll meet the friendly locals, visit your first Greenlandic fjord, the Kvanefjord, and set out on a wildlife exploration day. Heading onto Maniitsoq, the ‘Venice of Greenland, and ancient Sisimiut, you’ll arrive at the jaw-dropping Ilulissat Ice Fjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Real expedition awaits in the vast Disko Bay as we explore the untouched wilderness and Arctic nature of the Vaigat Sound and the enchanting Evighed Fjord, the “Fjord of Eternity”. Continuing on to Nuuk, Greenland’s photogenic capital, you’ll also stop at eerie Ivittut and beautiful Prince Christian Sound, before completing your adventure where it all began, in Reykjavik.
- Embark on an epic 24-day discovery of showstopping scenery, fascinating cultures and Arctic wildlife as we circumnavigate Iceland before heading to pristine west-coast Greenland.
01 June, 2024 to 24 June, 2024 on Fridtjof Nansen
Prices
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Expedition Suite. From
£ 15390 GBP pp
These suites are large, well-appointed cabins with expansive windows and most have balconies. Some have a private outdoor hot tub. The suites feature flexible sleeping arrangements with comfortable sofas, sitting areas and TV. They can accomodate up to four people.
Expedition suites are exclusively in upper and mid-deck locations. Our Expedition Suite concept includes a bathrobe, espresso maker, and more. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.
Arctic Superior. From
£ 11621 GBP pp
Arctic Superior class cabins are comfortable and roomy accommodation and most have balconies. Flexible sleeping arrangements, sofa beds, TV and other features make this one of our most popular categories. Our Arctic Superior concept includes a kettle, tea and coffee. Can accommodate two to four passengers.
Polar Outside. From
£ 10470 GBP pp
The Polar Outside cabins are primarily on the middle decks with windows, most are spacious, have flexible sleeping arrangements and TV for excellent and high standard accommodation. Can accommodate two to four passengers.
show reverse itinerary
DAY 1 The start of the expedition
Start your expedition cruise in Iceland’s capital city, a centre for art, culture, history and pleasure
Your expedition cruise begins at Reykjavík, where MS Fridtjof Nansen awaits you at the harbour. Reykjavík means ‘Smoky Inlet’ and was so named because of the steam rising from its hot springs. Today, the hot water from geothermal energy supplies numerous pools and hot tubs.
The world’s northernmost capital city is simultaneously traditional and cosmopolitan, with plenty to do and see. Explore busy Laugarvegur with its delightful boutiques, outdoor shops and pubs, and drink in knowledge to your heart’s content in the wonderful museums of art, culture and history. After that, it’s time to go aboard, meet your Expedition Team and start the adventure!
Pre-Programme
Arriving a few days earlier will allow you to explore this beautiful country in more depth. Why not book a two- or four-day Pre-Programme with us to Iceland’s famous Golden Circle? Highlights such as visiting Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park, taking a dip in Iceland´s oldest swimming pool as well as hiking in unique, beautiful surroundings await you!
DAY 2 Welcome to Sagaland
Visit the fjord of a thousand islets and the land that inspired Jules Verne
Our first stop is the quaint fishing village of Stykkishólmur, located on the north side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. With an absence of traffic and a population of only around one thousand, it sometimes feels as though time has stood still here. From here you have a fantastic view across Breiðafjörður (‘Broad Fjord’) with its countless islets.
The old town centre is characterised by colourful old houses which stand out against the rugged scenery. Do take a look at the Volcano Museum and the Regional Museum, and try local delicacies at the restaurant. This region was the setting for Jules Verne’s book Journey to the Centre of the Earth!
DAY 3 The fjord of St Patrick
Look for puffins and Arctic foxes as we visit a rose-hued beach and Iceland’s highest waterfall
This tranquil fishing village was named for Saint Patrick by its discoverer back in the 8th century. The harbour has a rich maritime history and remains lively today, giving you the opportunity to learn about the many species of fish brought ashore. What’s more, you can take a dip in its outdoor pool.
Nearby Latrabjarg cliff is home to Puffins, Northern Gannets, Guillemots and Razorbills. Nesting on its face, they are safe from Arctic foxes. Also close by are Rauðsandur (‘Red Sand’) Beach, famous for its rose-hued sand, and the Dynjandi waterfalls where six falls combine to form the highest waterfall in the Westfjords.
DAY 4 Northwest Iceland
A day for spontaneous exploration in Iceland’s north-western region
One of the best things about expedition cruising is that anything can happen on any given day. That’s why we’ve set one day aside as an exploration day, with no pre-arranged plan.
We aim to be in Iceland’s Northwestern Region, but the Captain and the Expedition Team will set the final plan for the day, depending on conditions and opportunities as they arise.
Activities might include hiking, participating in a beach clean-up or launching our kayaks. If we spot a pod of whales as we’re sailing, we may decide to linger and enjoy the sight. Being adaptable to adventure is what expedition cruising is all about.
DAY 5 Capital of the north
See Iceland’s vibrant northern capital and the Waterfall of the Gods
Located at the head of Iceland’s longest fjord, the lively university town of Akureyri is aknown as the country’s northern capital. As we cruise past towering, snow-capped peaks along the fjord’s lush coastline, this is your best opportunity to spot whales of various species. The town itself has numerous top-class eateries and two fascinating museums.
You can also visit the Arctic Botanical Gardens and view the striking architecture of Akureyri Church.
Optional excursions are available to stunning Goðafoss, the ‘Waterfall of the Gods’, and to uniquely beautiful Lake Mývatn, which is a wonderful place for bird-spotting. ‘Game of Thrones’ fans may recognise this landscape!
DAY 6 Step across the Arctic Circle
Explore the island of folklore and legend as we straddle the Arctic Circle
For an unforgettable experience, you have to visit the small, grassy island of Grimsey. Steeped in folklore and legend, this island bisects the Arctic Circle, which means you can stand with your feet astride this important geographical feature. The Circle is marked by a large, concrete sphere.
There are only 60 human inhabitants, but many thousands of seabirds, and the locals sometimes intrepidly descend the cliffs in search of eggs. Boats will take you from the ship to this craggy, windswept island for your visit, and in the evening we return to the port of Húsavík for the night.
DAY 7 The land of the elves
Enjoy spectacular scenery and wildlife in the company of the so-called Hidden Folk
According to folklore, this tiny coastal hamlet of about 100 people is also home to a considerable population of elves, and when you experience the serenity and view the impressive scenery it´s not hard to see why. Surrounded by mountain peaks, Bakkagerði is a superb base for hikers, bird-watchers and all lovers of nature.
The coastal cliffs abound with Fulmars, Kittiwakes, Eider Ducks and Puffins. After your walk, you can enjoy a meal of fresh fish or the local speciality, fish soup, at one of the local cafés, or simply take in the peace and breathtaking views. Perhaps you’ll even glimpse an elf!
DAY 8 Iceland`s Pompeii
A friendly welcome awaits you on this isle of fire and turbulent history
With about 4,000 friendly inhabitants, Heimaey (‘Home Island’) is the only inhabited island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago to the south of Iceland’s mainland. In 1973, the settlement was nearly wiped out by a volcanic eruption. The volcanic cone Eldfell (‘Fire Mountain’) still towers 220 metres above the sea.
Lower down, you can see the tongue of lava which nearly blocked the harbour and was only stopped by heroic efforts. On this windy but hospitable island you can ascend the volcano and also learn about its dark and turbulent history of runaway slaves, murder, revenge, magic, and Barbary pirates.
DAY 9 Pause - beginning the next leg of the journey
Take a trip to the Blue Lagoon for an unforgettable outdoor spa experience
Returning to Reykjavík, you now have another opportunity to explore the delights you may have missed on your first visit. Don’t forget, this is a city of art, culture, galleries and museums. Or if you simply wish to relax, why not take a trip to the famous Blue Lagoon.
Here you can relax in geothermally heated water of a bright blue colour that’s derived from silica and many other minerals carried down from the volcanic landscape. As you soak, you can also enjoy a drink and chat with locals and fellow guests as you look forward to the next step on your adventure – Greenland!
DAY 10-11 Crossing the Denmark Strait
Relax and learn all about the Arctic as we follow in the wake of Viking explorers
Voyaging westward, MS Fridtjof Nansen enters the Denmark Strait, waters once sailed by Erik the Red and other Viking explorers on their way to Greenland. As we sail, the ship has plenty of onboard facilities that you can use. In the Science Center, you can learn all about the Arctic, its wildlife and its inhabitants.
Why not take some time to use the ship’s fitness room and get the blood pumping. After that, you can enjoy a relaxing sauna as you gaze out to sea. Later, chat with other guests as you enjoy a drink in the Explorer Lounge & Bar - all just suggestions, of course!
DAY 12 Picture-perfect Greenlandic town
An opportunity to savour local arts, crafts and traditions amid stunning scenery
Welcome to beautiful Greenland! This colourful and picturesque settlement has roots dating back 4,300 years, and the town is typified by its arts and crafts. On landing, you can already notice faces and fish shapes carved into the rocks, and in the shops you can buy locally made fabrics, glassware, and herbal skincare products.
Explore the lush green scenery of the surrounding hills and nearby lake; the bluffs overlooking the town offer a breathtaking view of the bay. And after your walk, you’re invited to enter a home for a kaffemik, a social occasion in which your hosts tell traditional stories as you enjoy cakes and coffee.
DAY 13 Exploration day Kvanefjord
Explore this pristine landscape of icebergs and floes in the ‘Place of Much Ice’
Unspoilt Kvanefjord is a 30-mile long inlet in Sermersooq, the ‘Place of Much Ice’. As we sail along the fjord, past icebergs and floes in pristine white and shades of blue, you can be among the few visitors to admire the majestic scenery of this almost unexplored place.
Depending on the weather and the ice conditions, your Captain and the Expedition Team will look for opportunities to set out in the ship’s expedition boats, and perhaps even go ashore to stretch your legs and view the local wildlife. Make sure to have your camera ready to record this true adventure!
DAY 14 The ‘Venice of Greenland’
Four thousand years of local culture await you in this northern ‘Venice’
Maniitsoq, whose name translates as ‘The Uneven Place’, is sometimes humorously called ‘The Venice of Greenland’ because of the many natural canals which criss-cross the archipelago. Instead of gondolas, though, you may sight a pod of humpback whales!
Greenland’s sixth-largest town, Maniitsoq was founded at the mouth of the fjord in 1755, and now has a population of 2,500. In the museum, which used to be a blubber station, you can view artefacts from 4,000 years of habitation in the area. There are also two restaurants, where the friendly and welcoming owners are eager to serve you.
DAY 15 Fur, fox holes and outdoor fun
Musk oxen, Arctic foxes, and a popular venue for adventurous activities as we pass into the Midnight Sun zone
In a spectacular location 25 miles north of the Arctic Circle, Sisimiut is a modern town. However, human settlement dates back 4,500 years, and the small museum houses many local artefacts. The people are proud of their traditions and still maintain these today.
The name Sisimiut translates as ‘The People at the Fox Holes’, a reference to the burrows of the Arctic foxes which live here. Another local animal is the musk ox, whose thick fur provides the material for qiviut fabric. The town is a regional hub and is a popular venue for back-country activities such as skiing and dog sledding.
DAY 16 Icefjord - UNESCO World Heritage Site
Enjoy a beautiful hike to an Inuit settlement from this colourful World Heritage Site
Our journey now comes to Disko Bay, one of Greenland’s major attractions. The nutrient-rich waters of Ilulissat’s bay once supported huge populations of whales, walruses and seals. Erik the Red is credited as the first European to enter the bay, in 985 CE.
Today, the area is a World Heritage Site and a vibrant hub for those seeking adventure on Greenland’s icecap. From the colourful houses by the water, you can take a short but beautiful hike to the old Inuit settlement of Sermermiut, or simply relax and watch the icebergs change hue as they slowly drift by.
DAY 17 Probing the Vaigat Sound
A day of exploration by boat and on foot in unspoiled and majestic scenery
Arriving at the northernmost point of our journey, we now have a day to explore remote and untamed Vaigat Sound. Your experienced Captain and Expedition Team will judge the weather and ice conditions to choose the best course.
All being well, there should be opportunities to explore in boats or even kayaks, and there are several locations where we could go ashore to observe the mighty glacier and the Arctic flora. The sound teems with wildlife, so watch for orcas, bowheads, and four species of seal. You’ll feel like the first ones to explore this region, and in some locations you may well be right!
DAY 18 Exploration day at ‘Eternity Fjord’
‘Eternity Fjord’ beckons you to experience its dream-like landscape of glaciers and towering mountains
The name of this magnificent feature translates as ‘Eternity Fjord’, and indeed it has a dreamlike atmosphere of permanence. Bounded by mountains towering to 6,600 ft, this fjord penetrates 46 miles inland and is up to 2,300 ft deep in parts.
At the head of the fjord, the Maniitsoq icecap meets the water in a series of ridges and ice caves, and it calves colossal icebergs. This region is sparsely inhabited, with just a few tiny fishing hamlets. Our aim on this day is to take a nature walk, but the exact programme will be determined by the Captain and Expedition Team according to the prevailing conditions.
DAY 19 The photogenic capital of Greenland
Explore Greenland’s capital and take a scenic hike in Paradise Valley
Located at the mouth of a fjord system, Greenland’s capital offers a cheery and fascinating prospect with its colourful houses and mix of old and ultra-modern architecture. Founded in 1728, Nuuk is Greenland’s oldest modern-day settlement, but still has fewer than 18,000 citizens.
This picturesque city has a cathedral, museums, and several restaurants and cafés to suit all tastes. Make sure to visit Hans Egede’s house; once the home of Nuuk’s founder, it dates to 1721 and is the oldest building in Greenland. You could also take a long nature walk through Paradise Valley, with its splendid views and small lake.
DAY 20 Muskoxen and a Norse settlement
An eery, abandoned mining town that once held the secret to Allied victory in WW II
Now a ghost town of abandoned buildings, grassed-over streets and rusting machinery, Ivittuut once played a crucial role in WW II. Here, cryolite was mined, a mineral essential in the production of aluminium. This gave the Allies the edge in manufacturing aeroplanes and was one of the keys to victory. It was even occupied by a small US Army force to prevent it falling into German hands.
The area was also home to Norse settlers a millennium ago, though no trace of their habitation remains today. Now only musk oxen and the ghosts of the past inhabit this eery but beautiful place.
DAY 21 A river of melted ice
Follow in the footsteps of explorer John Cabot among jagged mountain peaks
Expect to see some of the most incredible panoramas on the planet as we cruise into Prince Christian Sound. The explorer John Cabot compared the view, with its bergs and floes, to a ‘river of melted ice’. Jagged mountain peaks rise to 7,200 ft, their muted grey and green hues contrasting sharply with the brilliant white glaciers.
The only signs of human presence here are the weather station, installed by the US in WW II, and the small hunting and fishing village of Aappilattoq. If our passage is blocked by sea ice, we have an alternative trip planned to Cape Farewell, the southernmost point of Greenland.
DAY 22-23 Heading back to Iceland
Make the most of the ship’s excellent facilities as you reflect on your Greenlandic adventure
After exploring the wonders of Greenland, we head back across the Denmark Strait to Iceland. We may ponder whether some of the last Norse Greenlanders returned via this route as their settlements failed; all we know is their crofts and churches were found abandoned in the 15th century after decades of lost contact.
Now you have another opportunity to enjoy the ship’s top facilities and to reflect on your amazing experiences with your travelling companions. On these last evenings onboard, be sure to enjoy the social atmosphere in the Explorer Lounge & Bar.
DAY 24 The end of this saga – until the next one
Round off your adventure with a last opportunity to experience the delights of this wonderful city
MS Fridtjof Nansen will arrive back at the Icelandic capital early in the morning. Once you’ve disembarked, you have a final opportunity to explore this attractive and compact city and enjoy its wonderful ambiance and facilities.
We feel sure you’ll have had an incredible experience exploring Greenland’s west coast and Iceland with us, and we hope to see you again in the future for more adventures!
Post-Programme
Want to extend your adventure? If you'd like to discover more of Iceland, why not add on our Post-Programme before you head home, or simply extend your stay to enjoy Reykjavik and the surrounding geothermal attractions. After all, Iceland has so much to offer you may want to linger just a little longer!
Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change.
Fridtjof Nansen
Passenger capacity 530
Launched in 2020, The state of the art vessel features new and environmentally sustainable hybrid technology that will reduce fuel consumption and show the world that hybrid p…
Fridtjof Nansen
Passenger capacity 530
Launched in 2020, The state of the art vessel features new and environmentally sustainable hybrid technology that will reduce fuel consumption and show the world that hybrid propulsion on large ships is possible.
MS Fridtjof Nansen is the second of two hybrid ships to be launched cutting emissions by sailing with electrical propulsion. Hybrid technology, combined with the advanced construction of the hull and effective use of electricity on board will reduce fuel consumption and CO2-emissions on the ships by 20 percent.
The future of shipping will be silent and emission free. MS Fridtjof Nansen will lead the way towards an even more sustainable way of traveling. Sailing on electrical power is not only a great benefit for the environment, but it will also enhance the impact of experiencing nature for the guests. The ship will be specially constructed for voyages in polar waters and serve as a comfortable basecamp at sea – bringing adventurers from all over the world to the most spectacular destinations in the most sustainable way.
These ships combine state-of-the-art technology together with a premium onboard experience. All cabins are outside, half have private balconies, and aft suites even boast private outdoor Jacuzzis, to soak up the stunning scenery in style.
Facilities on board
One of the most eye-catching exterior design features of the ships will be the two-level indoor/outdoor Observation Deck wrapped around the top of the ships’ raked bow. In a vast area behind it, you’ll find the core of the onboard experience: Amundsen Science Center.
Packed with state of the art technology and high tech gadgets such as touch screens and science equipment, the immersive edutainment area will be the place guests and staff/crew meet, mingle and create a deeper understanding for the areas they explore. The flexible venue will feature lecture spaces, a small library, and speciality areas for workshops in photography, biology, and more.
The stunning scenery will be reflected in a rich and comfortable interior design. Scandinavian materials from nature, such as granite, oak, birch and wool will be used to create relaxed and stylish cabins and public areas. All cabins are outside, 50 % will have private balconies, aft suites will feature private outdoor Jacuzzis with spectacular views.
