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Highlights

Travel in the company of our passionate Expedition Team, including an expert geologist keenly familiar with the Arctic landscape and a historian well versed in the ways of the Vikings
Experience a dedicated Photography Expedition, joining our photography coach, Richard Harker, as well as guest photographer and Nikon ambassador, Michelle Valberg, for in-depth photo sessions and instruction
Explore the remote and geologically rich islands of Heimaey and Surtsey in the Westman Islands archipelago, the iceberg-covered Skjoldungen Fjord in Southeast Greenland and stunning Prince Christian Sound
Follow in the wake of Erik the Red with visits to early Viking archaeological sites that include the ancient Norse village at Eystribygg and Brattahli, the explorer's homestead
Visit remote Inuit Greenlandic villages such as Qaqortoq and Narsaq to learn of their traditional lifestyles
Explore the cosmopolitan city of Nuuk, abundant in historic and cultural treasures

Highlights

Travel in the company of our passionate Expedition Team, including an expert geologist keenly familiar with the Arctic landscape and a historian well versed in the ways of the Vikings
Experience a dedicated Photography Expedition, joining our photography coach, Richard Harker, as well as guest photographer and Nikon ambassador, Michelle Valberg, for in-depth photo sessions and instruction
Explore the remote and geologically rich islands of Heimaey and Surtsey in the Westman Islands archipelago, the iceberg-covered Skjoldungen Fjord in Southeast Greenland and stunning Prince Christian Sound
Follow in the wake of Erik the Red with visits to early Viking archaeological sites that include the ancient Norse village at Eystribygg and Brattahli, the explorer's homestead
Visit remote Inuit Greenlandic villages such as Qaqortoq and Narsaq to learn of their traditional lifestyles
Explore the cosmopolitan city of Nuuk, abundant in historic and cultural treasures
Capacity: 248, Types: Luxury Small Ship CruiseLuxury ExpeditionWheelchair accessible
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On this 12-day voyage, note the striking contrasts between the geological treasure trove of Icelands Westman Islands and Greenlands iceberg-stacked Skjoldungen Fjord as you retrace the steps of the indomitable Vikings those great Norse pirates from Prince Christian Sound to Eriksfjord.

A special photography departure means ample opportunities to capture the shot of a lifetime.

Travel in the company of our passionate Expedition Team, including an expert geologist keenly familiar with the Arctic landscape and a historian well versed in the ways of the Vikings
Experience a dedicated Photography Expedition, joining our photography coach, Richard Harker, as well as guest photographer and Nikon ambassador, Michelle Valberg, for in-depth photo sessions and instruction
Explore the remote and geologically rich islands of Heimaey and Surtsey in the Westman Islands archipelago, the iceberg-covered Skjoldungen Fjord in Southeast Greenland and stunning Prince Christian Sound
Follow in the wake of Erik the Red with visits to early Viking archaeological sites that include the ancient Norse village at Eystribygg and Brattahli, the explorer's homestead
Visit remote Inuit Greenlandic villages such as Qaqortoq and Narsaq to learn of their traditional lifestyles
Explore the cosmopolitan city of Nuuk, abundant in historic and cultural treasures

There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.

show reverse itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Reykjavik, Iceland
Arrive into Reykavik, Iceland's modern and cosmopolitan capital. You will be transferred to the city centre for a leisurely walking tour and time to explore. After lunch you are transferred to 'Le Boreal' to board your luxury expedition cruiser. The afternoon to settle in before weighing anchor (L,D).
Day 2: Westman Islands | Volcanic Archipelago
This morning, arrive in the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar), a beautiful volcanically active archipelago on the south coast of Iceland studded with giant rock stacks. The Westman Islands are also home to all of Icelands seabirds, including its iconic puffin. Visit Heimaey Island, which in 1973 experienced an eruption that created a new mountain, Eldfell, also known as Mount Fire. Excavations of the ruins of this remote island suggest there were once inhabitants here dating back to 100 BC. Today, the islands 4,500 locals share the island with a population of approximately eight million puffins during the summer months. Visit the local village, including ruins of historic farmhouses dating back to the year 650. Later, trek to Helgafell to experience the volcanic landscape. This afternoon, conditions permitting, board your Zodiac for an up-close view of Surtsey Island. Considered Icelands southernmost point, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is also considerably young: Approximately 50 years old, Surtsey was created from volcanic eruptions occurring between 1963 and 1967. Meals: B L D
Day 3: The Denmark Strait | Confluence of Waters
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea, cruising the relatively narrow strip of water that separates Iceland from Greenland and connects the Arctic Sea with the Atlantic Ocean. Watch for seabirds and whales from the deck in between thought-provoking lectures presented by your Expedition Team. This evening, join them along with your fellow guests for the captains welcome reception and gala dinner. Meals: B L D
Day 4: Skjoldungen Fjord, Greenland | Wild Wonderland
This morning the ship arrives on Greenland's Southeast Coast. Much of the day is dedicated to Expedition cruising in the stunning Skjuldungen Fjord. This u-shaped fjord is dominated by glaciers that feed directly from the Greeland Icecap. This morning, we plan to land and explore the beautiful glacial valley dubbed the "Valley of the Heart". The late summer flowers will be in full bloom supporting a wide range of birds such as Common Redpoln, Great Raven and Northern Wheatear. This afternoon, cruise in Zodiacs to view stunning glaciers (B,L,D).
Days 5-8: South Greenland | On the Viking Trail
For the next three days, Le Boreal explores Greenlands southern coast, inland waterways and remote villages. Following a flexible itinerary shaped by conditions and opportunities, look to retrace the early colonization trail of Erik the Red, who founded the first European settlement on Greenland. You also trace Greenlands history of explorations, which ultimately led to the discovery of North America. Surrounded by mountain pinnacles, fjords and dramatic ice fields, your captain and expedition leader will determine the best exploration opportunities, which may include areas such as: Prince Christian Sound: A stunning fjord that connects the Southern Atlantic with the Labrador Sea is nearly 60 miles long and approximately 1,500 feet wide, with sheer cliffs that reach as high as 3,200 feet. Qaqortoq: The area surrounding Qaqortaq has been inhabited for more than 4,300 years. Today, the village is still supported by a traditional subsistence economy. Visit the Qaqortaq Museum, which was formerly the village blacksmith shop; the beautiful village fountain, Mindebrnden, which depicts whales spouting water; and the Stone & Man project, designed to transform the town into an open air art gallery. Hvalsey Ruins: Located in the eastern settlement region (Eystribygg) of southern Greenland, this UNESCO World Heritage Site, also known as Qaqortukulooq, was settled by Erik the Reds uncle. It is considered southern Greenlands largest and best preserved Norse site. Narsaq: This colorful village is pre-dated by its ancient Norse roots that date back to 1000. Originally a trading post due to its deep water port, the present day village was and still is supported primarily by its fishing industry and sheep farming. The local population climbs just over 1,500, giving the town its status as Greenlands ninth largest community. Eriksfjord: Explore this beautiful fjord where Erik the Red chose to settle his home. Visit Brattahli, his homestead settled in 982 and site of the first Christian church in the western hemisphere. Brattahli also served as an ever important launching point for the first voyages to North America. Meals: B L D
Day 9: Nuuk | Ancient Dwelling Meets Big Culture
Nuuk has the dual distinction of being both the worlds northernmost and smallest capital city. Today, explore this quaint yet surprisingly vibrant city. Visit the prominent Nuuk Cathedral, the Nuuk Katuaq (cultural center) and art museum, and the National Museum, which features the famous 15th-century Qilakitsoq mummies. Back on board, join your Expedition Team and other newfound friends for the captains farewell reception and gala dinner. Meals: B L D
Day 10: Exploring West Greenland | Cathedrals of Ice
Today, explore the spectacular fjords of West Greenland, starting with a Zodiac cruise among towering icebergs and glaciers. Land on shore for a walk across the high Arctic tundra, alive with wildflowers and migrating seabirds. Meals: B L D
Day 11: Reykjavik | Creative Capital
Disembark 'Le Boreal' in Kangerlussuaq, Denmark and board the return charter flight to Reyjkavik. Arrive this evening and transfer to the hotel. This evening join fellow travelers and the A&K team for a farewell dinner and reception (B,L,D).
Day 12: Depart Reykjavik
This morning, enjoy breakfast and then check in for your international flight home. Meals: B
Please Note:
Due to the nature of expedition cruising, final itinerary is subject to change due to ice, weather, sea and other conditions and is at the discretion of the ships captain and Expedition Leader. This journey contains some active elements.
Le Boreal
Luxury Expedition / Cruise Ship A superb mega-yacht with 132 cabins, she is the fruit of the expertise of the Italian Fincantieri shipyard and French sophistication, as interpreted by designer Jean-…

Le Boreal

Luxury Expedition / Cruise Ship

A superb mega-yacht with 132 cabins, she is the fruit of the expertise of the Italian Fincantieri shipyard and French sophistication, as interpreted by designer Jean-Philippe Nuel. Le Boreal creates a unique atmosphere, a subtle blend of luxury, intimacy and well-being.

The best materials, discreet elegance and a tasteful décor combined with exterior and interior lines to reflect a nautical mood. On board, soothing neutral tones are enlivened by splashes of red, our signature theme linking tradition and innovation to create personal touches in the spirit of a “private yacht”.

Cuisine

Loyal to the great French tradition, the haute cuisine on board is worthy of the finest restaurants, where discreet, attentive service is the hallmark.

Choose from two restaurants for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Gastronomic Restaurant is situated on Le Liberte Deck and serves you French and international cuisine accompagnied by fine wine. In the Grill Restaurant, you have the opportuniny to eat outside and enjoy buffet lunch and themed dinner.

Life On Board

Whether you want to join other guests in the theatre or games area (Wii™ consoles, etc), or relax on your own in a quiet corner of the library, Le Boreal has been designed to meet the needs of every guest. 

Everything has been done to preserve the independence of each guest to suit their personal tastes: lounges for lectures and shows, a spa in partnership with Carita™, but also more intimate spaces such as the library and internet corner. Comfortable cabins, nearly all with private balcony, are available for families either as triples or as communicating cabins. There is also a games area with Wii™ consoles, children’s menus, and a baby-sitting ser vice. Just as if you were on a private yacht, your time is your own to do as you please.

Fitted with the latest equipment (Kinesis Wall, running machine) and in partnership with the famous Carita™ brand, the Beauty Centre on Le Boreal welcomes you for some relaxation and pampering (beauty treatments, hairdresser, hammam, balneotherapy).

Wheelchairs3 specially adapted wheelchair cabins (Deck 3 = Superior cabin no. 307, no balcony, Deck 4 = Prestige Cabin no. 407 - with balcony and Deck 5 = Prestige Cabin no 509, with balcony) and lifts to all decks/areas.

DetailsLength:  142 metres. Passenger Capacity:  264 (in twin cabins, just 200 in Antarctica). Built:  2011

Please click the following links to read more about Ponant and the other Ponant cruise ships.

Cabin layout for Le Boreal
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