Arctic tundra of red, orange, gold & bright green under a misty blue sky, seen during the Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise.
Town of Sisimut, Greenland, on a clear day, with light blue church with red roof, steeple & white trim, beside a red & green building.
Traveler in a red jacket stands at lip of the giant Godafoss Waterfall of the Gods in Iceland.
Tandem kayakers paddle around icebergs in glassy water on a sunny day near Skjoldungen Island, Southeastern Greenland.
Woman in jeans & pink shirt sits & photographs purple lupin wildflowers in a grassy field on a cruise to Iceland & Greenland.
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Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise

On this Arctic voyage aboard 148-guest Nat Geo Explorer or 126-guest Nat Geo Endurance, trace the rugged coast of the world’s largest island. Follow the route of the legendary Viking Erik the Red, from Iceland’s magnificent Westfjords peninsula across the Denmark Strait to the ice-sculpted shores of Greenland. Search for walrus, whales and caribou, and use the ship’s exploration tools to discover the undersea. Visit archaeological sites of Viking and Thule settlements and learn about everyday life near the Arctic Circle in charming coastal villages from Flatey Island to Nuuk. 

Highlights are many on this Iceland & Greenland cruise. Hike the dramatic Dynjandi Waterfall in Iceland’s remote Westfjords peninsula, and visit a farm that produces eiderdown. Explore Hvalsey and Brattahlíð, 10th-century Viking settlements founded by Erik the Red and his family in Greenland, and see the incredible Qilakitsoq mummies, preserved by freezing temperatures for some 500 years. Cruise among the dazzling icebergs calved by the Ilulissat Icefjord and encounter impressive tidewater glaciers in West Greenland. And experience local culture through visits to fishing villages and longhouses, folk performances, and tasting tours of traditional Greenlandic and Icelandic foods.

Explore aboard the 148-guest National Geographic Explorer or 126-guest National Geographic Endurance. These small expedition ships are technologically advanced, fully stabilized and equipped with a well-rounded set of exploration tools including an ROV and enough kayaks and Zodiacs to send all guests out exploring at the same time.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises, Arctic trips and Iceland cruises.



Itinerary

2023 Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Itinerary

On this 19-day round-trip Reykjavik itinerary, cruise along Iceland’s less-visited Westfjords before crossing to explore south and west Greenland. Complete the trip with a charter flight back to Reykjavik for one final night.

Route map of Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise, operating round-trip from Reykjavik, Iceland, with visits to west Iceland & south Greenland.
Read More
Day 1
Fly to Reykjavik, Iceland

Depart on an overnight flight to Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just south of the Arctic Circle.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

n/a

Read More
Day 2
Explore Reykjavik & Embark

Take a walking tour of the Old Town and venture into Hallgrímskirkja, a modern, Nordic-style church whose steeple soars to 210 feet, making it the tallest building in Iceland. Learn about Nordic culture at the National Museum and browse a collection of unusual whalebone carvings and Viking treasures and artifacts. In the afternoon, embark the ship and settle in.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Flatey Island

Follow Iceland’s western coast north, stopping for a visit to the historic trading post of Flatey Island. Take walks around the charming hamlet that sprung up here over the centuries and explore the coast by Zodiac.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Arnafjörður/Ísafjarðardjúp

Early this morning, glide into beautiful Arnafjörður, an inlet that reaches deep into the northern Westfjords. If desired, disembark early and hike several miles along the shore to the fjord’s end, where the spectacular Dynjandi Waterfall tumbles some 300 feet over many tiers of rock. Alternatively, join the expedition staff on the deck of the ship to watch her approach to the falls and go ashore by Zodiac to see them close up. There’s a chance to spot nesting arctic terns along the way. Later this evening, enter Ísafjarðardjúp and land at Vigur Island, a privately owned island that is home to numerous species of seabirds, including a large colony of eider ducks. Visit the family farm to learn how they process and clean eiderdown sustainably, without harming the birds.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Ísafjörður

The capital of the Westfjords, Ísafjörđur lies on a tiny spit jutting out into the fjord against a backdrop of steep hills. Take a culinary tour of the town, stopping to taste local produce and Icelandic specialties. Alternatively, hike through pristine landscapes to a remote waterfall or cycle along the fjord to a charming maritime museum at Bolungarvik.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Crossing the Denmark Strait

Follow in the wake of the legendary Viking Erik the Red as the ship makes its way across the Denmark Strait to Greenland. Listen to talks by experts, relax with a book in the lounge or the observation deck and keep an eye out for wildlife.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Exploring East Greenland

The Greenland ice sheet is the second largest body of ice in the world after Antarctica and covers roughly 80% of Greenland’s surface. The island’s coast is etched with thousands of fjords, some of which reach the ice’s edge. Spend the day exploring the islands and inlets of the eastern coast, using the ship’s underwater cameras and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to discover marine life and fascinating underwater geology. Venture deep into Skjoldungen fjord or Napasorsuaq fjord and take a Zodiac or a kayak for a foray among the icebergs.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Prins Christian Sund & Nanortalik, Greenland

Sail into Prins Christian Sund, which cuts far into the southern tip of Greenland, passing between soaring pinnacles and glaciers. Anchor off the small fishing village of Nanortalik, and go ashore to explore Greenland’s most southerly town, and meet some of the residents for a performance of local folk music and dance. In the tundra outside of town, walk among multitudes of wildflowers, or explore Greenland’s only natural forest, where full-grown trees are only a few meters tall. Visit reconstructed longhouses and learn about the construction of traditional umiaks and kayaks.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 9
Hvalsey Ruins & Qaqortoq

Today, explore two remarkable sites on the Viking Trail. On the shores of Qaqortukulooq fjord lies the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hvalsey, one of the best-preserved Nordic sites in the world. Part of the settlement founded by Erik the Red’s cousins in 986 AD, Hvalsey has yielded fascinating clues to the daily life of the Vikings and their mysterious disappearance. Explore the church constructed in the 14th century, possibly by Norwegian  stonemasons, and the living quarters and banquet hall for celebrations. Continue to Qaqortoq, inhabited since the Viking era and now the largest town in South Greenland—with just over 3,200 residents. The Scandinavian influence is apparent in the wooden houses painted primary colors and scattered on the hillside, and colonial architecture dating back to the late 1700s can be found in the town center. Stroll through the town square and visit the museum, where Greenlandic kayaks, hunting equipment and local art and handicrafts are on display. Sample traditional Greenlandic food this afternoon.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
Eriksfjörd & Brattahlíð

Follow the waterway known as Eriksfjörd to Brattahlíð, where Erik the Red established his farm in 982 AD after his exile from Iceland. Erik’s wife, Þjódhild, built the first Christian church in the western hemisphere here. Visit replicas of the church and Erik the Red’s longhouse and see the shores from which their son, Leif Eriksson, launched the first voyages to North America—500 years before Columbus.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 11
Nuuk

Perched on the seaside in the shadow of ice-capped Sermitsiaq Mountain, Nuuk is the world’s smallest capital city by population, with some 18,000 inhabitants. Watch for harp seals as we enter the harbor and take a walking tour with local residents to learn how the community has changed over the generations. At the National Museum, examine the extraordinary 15th-century Qilakitsoq mummies found near Uummannaq—a discovery that was featured in a National Geographic magazine cover story in 1985. The Arctic ice preserved these mummies so well that researchers have been able to study their tattoos, their medical conditions and even what they ate.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 12
Kangaamiut & Evighed Fjord

In the early morning, the ship enters Evighed Fjord, which winds picturesquely past steep mountains and stunning tidewater glaciers. Take a Zodiac cruise along the face of one of the many glaciers or hike over glacial moraines to a waterfall. In the afternoon, visit the small fishing community of Kangaamiut. Climb the small mountain behind the village to take in the views or walk through the village and photograph the colorful houses clustered on the seaside slope.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 13
Sisimut

Dozens of deep fjords carve into Greenland’s west coast, many with glaciers fed by the icecap that covers much of the island. At Sisimiut, a former whaling port, visit the museum and stroll among its 18th-century wooden buildings. Choose from a variety of walks to explore the town and its surroundings.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 14 - 15
Ilulissat & Disko Bay

Sail into Disko Bay and encounter the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Ilulissat Icefjord, a tongue of the Greenland ice cap that calves enormous icebergs into the bay. Take an extraordinary cruise among these towering sculptures in ice. Enjoy views of the bay on a visit to the town of Ilulissat, and hike to an archaeological site in the Sermermiut Valley. Spend the next day cruising Disko Bay as the ship makes her way north. Ice conditions permitting, follow the inside passage past Disko Island to the Nuussuaq Peninsula. While sailing, join the expedition team in the lounge for presentations about Greenland’s Thule people.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 16
Uummannaq & Qilakitsoq

The colorful village of Uummannaq sits on a tiny island in the Uummannaq Fjord. The dramatic peak that rises abruptly from the island’s center is so remarkable that it has been depicted numerous times in paintings and drawings. Visit the excellent community museum to learn about the area’s archaeology and history and see traditional Inuit clothing and tools along with scenes of everyday life. Then cross the fjord to the archaeological site of Qilakitsoq, where the eight Thule mummies were discovered in 1972.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 17
Ataneq Fjord

Enjoy a full day to explore the beautiful Ataneq Fjord by water and on foot. Walk the metamorphic rocks at Tunúngassoq, covered in spongy tundra, and look for arctic foxes and, with luck, caribou. Paddle a kayak along the steep sides of the fjord or ride a Zodiac to see the glacially carved landscape up close.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 18 - 19
Disembark Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, Fly to Reykjavik & Depart

Disembark in Kangerlussuaq and take a charter flight back to Iceland. Check into the group hotel near the airport. On the final morning, consider enjoying a soak in the Blue Lagoon or take a tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula. After lunch, transfer to the airport for flights home.

Accommodations

Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik/Keflavik (day 18); n/a (day 19)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner (day 18); n/a (day 19)

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Expedition parka to keep; all accommodations; meals indicated; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes. Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens. Complimentary beer & wine on National Geographic Venture, National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Sea Lion, National Geographic Sea Bird, with a complimentary full bar on all other ships.

Exclusions

One-way charter flight from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, to Reykjavik, Iceland ($835 per person in 2023, subject to change); passport; visa; immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

For expeditions departing prior to April 1, 2024:
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $3,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
180 or more days – $750*
179 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 25% of total trip cost
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

*$750 USD will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which only may be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

For expeditions departing April 1, 2024 onward:
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Vaccination Requirement
To join this trip, all guests 5 years and older must provide proof of being fully vaccinated (at least 14 days after your final COVID-19 vaccine shot). There may also be COVID-19 testing or other requirements to participate; your Adventure Specialist will provide details of current policies upon booking.

Arrival & Departure

The 2023 Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). Embarkation time may vary based upon arrival of group flights. Disembarkation in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, is after breakfast on Day 18 of the outlined itinerary, followed by a charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Departure times on Day 19 may vary depending on group flights. Inquire with your Adventure Specialist upon booking for details. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

A group charter flight between Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, and Reykjavik, Iceland, is required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions. There is a strict luggage limit of two checked bags weighing up to 57 lbs (25 kg) combined, and one carry-on bag weighing up to 17 lbs (8 kg) plus a personal item that can be stowed under the seat.

Activities

Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking and kayaking. Other activities may include yoga and stretching, land treks, photography, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditionswildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

2024 Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Itinerary

On this 18-day round-trip Reykjavik itinerary, cruise along Iceland’s less-visited Westfjords before crossing to explore south and west Greenland. Complete the trip with a charter flight back to Reykjavik for one final night.

Route map of Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise, operating round-trip from Reykjavik, Iceland, with visits to west Iceland & south Greenland.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Reykjavik, Explore & Embark

Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport and enjoy a panoramic overview of the Old Town, including Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral with its 210-foot tower, before embarking the ship in the afternoon.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 2
Flatey Island

Follow Iceland’s western coast north, stopping for a visit to the historic trading post of Flatey Island. Take walks around the charming hamlet that sprung up here over the centuries and explore the coast by Zodiac.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Arnafjörður/Ísafjarðardjúp

Early this morning, glide into beautiful Arnafjörður, an inlet that reaches deep into the northern Westfjords. If desired, disembark early and hike several miles along the shore to the fjord’s end, where the spectacular Dynjandi Waterfall tumbles some 300 feet over many tiers of rock. Alternatively, join the expedition staff on the deck of the ship to watch her approach to the falls and go ashore by Zodiac to see them close up. There’s a chance to spot nesting arctic terns along the way. Later this evening, enter Ísafjarðardjúp and land at Vigur Island, a privately owned island that is home to numerous species of seabirds, including a large colony of eider ducks. Visit the family farm to learn how they process and clean eiderdown sustainably, without harming the birds.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Ísafjörður

The capital of the Westfjords, Ísafjörđur lies on a tiny spit jutting out into the fjord against a backdrop of steep hills. Take a culinary tour of the town, stopping to taste local produce and Icelandic specialties. Alternatively, hike through pristine landscapes to a remote waterfall or cycle along the fjord to a charming maritime museum at Bolungarvik.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Crossing the Denmark Strait

Follow in the wake of the legendary Viking Erik the Red as the ship makes its way across the Denmark Strait to Greenland. Listen to talks by experts, relax with a book in the lounge or the observation deck and keep an eye out for wildlife.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Exploring East Greenland

The Greenland ice sheet is the second largest body of ice in the world after Antarctica and covers roughly 80% of Greenland’s surface. The island’s coast is etched with thousands of fjords, some of which reach the ice’s edge. Spend the day exploring the islands and inlets of the eastern coast, using the ship’s underwater cameras and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to discover marine life and fascinating underwater geology. Venture deep into Skjoldungen fjord or Napasorsuaq fjord and take a Zodiac or a kayak for a foray among the icebergs.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Prins Christian Sund & Nanortalik, Greenland

Sail into Prins Christian Sund, which cuts far into the southern tip of Greenland, passing between soaring pinnacles and glaciers. Anchor off the small fishing village of Nanortalik, and go ashore to explore Greenland’s most southerly town, and meet some of the residents for a performance of local folk music and dance. In the tundra outside of town, walk among multitudes of wildflowers, or explore Greenland’s only natural forest, where full-grown trees are only a few meters tall. Visit reconstructed longhouses and learn about the construction of traditional umiaks and kayaks.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Hvalsey Ruins & Qaqortoq

Today, explore two remarkable sites on the Viking Trail. On the shores of Qaqortukulooq fjord lies the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hvalsey, one of the best-preserved Nordic sites in the world. Part of the settlement founded by Erik the Red’s cousins in 986 AD, Hvalsey has yielded fascinating clues to the daily life of the Vikings and their mysterious disappearance. Explore the church constructed in the 14th century, possibly by Norwegian  stonemasons, and the living quarters and banquet hall for celebrations. Continue to Qaqortoq, inhabited since the Viking era and now the largest town in South Greenland—with just over 3,200 residents. The Scandinavian influence is apparent in the wooden houses painted primary colors and scattered on the hillside, and colonial architecture dating back to the late 1700s can be found in the town center. Stroll through the town square and visit the museum, where Greenlandic kayaks, hunting equipment and local art and handicrafts are on display. Sample traditional Greenlandic food this afternoon.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 9
Eriksfjörd & Brattahlíð

Follow the waterway known as Eriksfjörd to Brattahlíð, where Erik the Red established his farm in 982 AD after his exile from Iceland. Erik’s wife, Þjódhild, built the first Christian church in the western hemisphere here. Visit replicas of the church and Erik the Red’s longhouse and see the shores from which their son, Leif Eriksson, launched the first voyages to North America—500 years before Columbus.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
Nuuk

Perched on the seaside in the shadow of ice-capped Sermitsiaq Mountain, Nuuk is the world’s smallest capital city by population, with some 18,000 inhabitants. Watch for harp seals as we enter the harbor and take a walking tour with local residents to learn how the community has changed over the generations. At the National Museum, examine the extraordinary 15th-century Qilakitsoq mummies found near Uummannaq—a discovery that was featured in a National Geographic magazine cover story in 1985. The Arctic ice preserved these mummies so well that researchers have been able to study their tattoos, their medical conditions and even what they ate.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 11
Kangaamiut & Evighed Fjord

In the early morning, the ship enters Evighed Fjord, which winds picturesquely past steep mountains and stunning tidewater glaciers. Take a Zodiac cruise along the face of one of the many glaciers or hike over glacial moraines to a waterfall. In the afternoon, visit the small fishing community of Kangaamiut. Climb the small mountain behind the village to take in the views or walk through the village and photograph the colorful houses clustered on the seaside slope.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 12
Sisimut

Dozens of deep fjords carve into Greenland’s west coast, many with glaciers fed by the icecap that covers much of the island. At Sisimiut, a former whaling port, visit the museum and stroll among its 18th-century wooden buildings. Choose from a variety of walks to explore the town and its surroundings.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 13 - 14
Ilulissat & Disko Bay

Sail into Disko Bay and encounter the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Ilulissat Icefjord, a tongue of the Greenland ice cap that calves enormous icebergs into the bay. Take an extraordinary cruise among these towering sculptures in ice. Enjoy views of the bay on a visit to the town of Ilulissat, and hike to an archaeological site in the Sermermiut Valley. Spend the next day cruising Disko Bay as the ship makes her way north. Ice conditions permitting, follow the inside passage past Disko Island to the Nuussuaq Peninsula. While sailing, join the expedition team in the lounge for presentations about Greenland’s Thule people.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 15
Uummannaq & Qilakitsoq

The colorful village of Uummannaq sits on a tiny island in the Uummannaq Fjord. The dramatic peak that rises abruptly from the island’s center is so remarkable that it has been depicted numerous times in paintings and drawings. Visit the excellent community museum to learn about the area’s archaeology and history and see traditional Inuit clothing and tools along with scenes of everyday life. Then cross the fjord to the archaeological site of Qilakitsoq, where the eight Thule mummies were discovered in 1972.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 16
Ataneq Fjord

Enjoy a full day to explore the beautiful Ataneq Fjord by water and on foot. Walk the metamorphic rocks at Tunúngassoq, covered in spongy tundra, and look for arctic foxes and, with luck, caribou. Paddle a kayak along the steep sides of the fjord or ride a Zodiac to see the glacially carved landscape up close.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 17 - 18
Disembark Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, Fly to Reykjavik & Depart

Disembark in Kangerlussuaq and take a charter flight back to Iceland. Check into the group hotel near the airport. On the final morning, join an excursion and after lunch, transfer to the airport for flights home.

Accommodations

Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik/Keflavik (day 17); n/a (day 18)

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner (day 17); n/a (day 18)

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Expedition parka to keep; all accommodations; meals indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes. Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

One-way charter flight from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, to Reykjavik, Iceland ($835 per person in 2024, subject to change); passport; visa; immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion;; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

For expeditions departing April 1, 2024 onward:
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Vaccination Requirement
To join this trip, all guests 5 years and older must provide proof of being fully vaccinated (at least 14 days after your final COVID-19 vaccine shot). There may also be COVID-19 testing or other requirements to participate; your Adventure Specialist will provide details of current policies upon booking.

Arrival & Departure

The 2024 Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). Embarkation time may vary based upon arrival of group flights. Disembarkation in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, is after breakfast on Day 18 of the outlined itinerary, followed by a charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Departure times on Day 18 may vary depending on group flights. Inquire with your Adventure Specialist upon booking for details. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

A group charter flight between Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, and Reykjavik, Iceland, is required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions. There is a strict luggage limit of two checked bags weighing up to 57 lbs (25 kg) combined, and one carry-on bag weighing up to 17 lbs (8 kg) plus a personal item that can be stowed under the seat.

Activities

Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking and kayaking. Other activities may include yoga and stretching, land treks, photography, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditionswildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Jul 29 - Aug 16, 2023
National Geographic Explorer • 19 days
From $20980USD
Per Person
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Aug 06 - Aug 23, 2024
National Geographic Endurance • 18 days
From $22650USD
Per Person
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Accommodations

Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Endurance

The 126-guest National Geographic Endurance is the newest addition to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability and sustainability as well as for in-depth education and an unmatched range of exploration in the polar regions.

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Explorer

The National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship accommodating 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. She is fully stabilized, enabling her to navigate polar passages while providing comfort.

Deals

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires April 30th, 2023
No Single Supplement On Select 2023 Arctic Departures

Solo travelers! Pay no single supplement fee when you book your select 2023 departure from an array of Arctic expedition cruises.

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Offer expires April 30th, 2023
Save 10% On Two Consecutive National Geographic Expeditions

Save 10% when you book two consecutive cruises aboard a National Geographic expedition ship.

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Offer expires April 30th, 2023
Groups Save 5% On National Geographic Expeditions

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on National Geographic expeditions in this special deal.

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Offer expires April 30th, 2023
Save 20% On Select 2023 Arctic Expeditions

Book your select 2023 departure sailing in the Arctic and receive 20% off.

Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

Todd Smith • June 17th, 2022
Expert Aboard: National Geographic Resolution & Endurance Ship Review

Firsthand review of the National Geographic Resolution & Endurance. Learn what makes these the best-in-class next generation expedition ships. From X-Bow design to on deck igloos, this in depth ship review covers what you need to know.

Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

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14 - 19 Day Cruise
Spitsbergen - Northeast Greenland

Sail from Spitsbergen to East Greenland aboard a selection of small expedition ships or a motorsailor to experience the Arctic's dramatic coastline, highlighted by Scoresby Sund in East Greenland and the famed aurora borealis.

From $7000USD
Aug Sep
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12 - 15 Day Cruise
Arctic Odyssey

Explore Svalbard, Eastern Greenland and Iceland, packing in three Arctic islands into one epic voyage aboard the 114-guest Sea Spirit. Be awed by iconic arctic wildlife, historic and modern villages, icy landscapes and colorful tundra on a flexible itinerary.

From $5595USD
May Jun Aug
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9 - 12 Day Cruise
Scoresby Sund Aurora Borealis

Spend 9-12 days experiencing the natural phenomenon of the aurora borealis, or northern lights, at a maximum intensity on this special voyage to the Scoresby Sund, East Greenland, the longest fjord in the world, aboard 170-guest Hondius, 116-guest Plancius or Ortelius, or 33-guest Rembrandt van Rijn.

From $4600USD
Aug Sep
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12-13 Day Cruise
Iceland's Wild West Coast to East Greenland Cruise

On this active cruise to Iceland and Greenland, experience East Greenland’s wild ice edge and Iceland’s rugged beauty. From 126-guest Nat Geo Endurance, hike picturesque valleys, feel the spray of thundering waterfalls and cruise the largest fjord system in the world.

Special Offer
From $15140USD
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16-17 Day Cruise
Svalbard, Iceland & Greenland's East Coast Cruise

On this expedition cruise, link Iceland and Greenland with Svalbard. Step aboard 126-guest Nat Geo Resolution for stunning fjords, icebergs, remote villages and iconic wildlife including polar bears, walruses, reindeer and whales.

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9 Day Cruise
Greenland Adventure Cruise

Immerse in "Arctic Patagonia" on a compact, 9-day exploration of the world’s second-largest ice mass on this Arctic expedition by land, air and sea. The 200-guest Ultramarine provides ultimate comfort and helicopter-assisted adventures along the way.

Special Offer
From $8495USD
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Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise

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