Arctic Odyssey

After breakfast at your hotel, the morning is yours to enjoy Longyearbyen. Take in the views of icy fjords and glaciated mountains surrounding this historic former coal-mining town. Take advantage of shopping for souvenirs or some last-minute necessities such as cold-weather gear. Just remember, you will soon receive your very own parka to keep and waterproof boots to borrow on board the ship. For lunch, Longyearbyen offers quick and easy meal options including the most northerly pizzas and kebabs in the world.

In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the pier where you are warmly welcomed aboard the deluxe expedition vessel M/V Sea Spirit. Get settled in your spacious suite and explore the ship that will be your comfortable home during the extraordinary adventure to come. After getting underway, a full schedule of events kicks off with informative briefings and introductions from your expedition staff. After the first of many delicious dinners on board, step out onto the open decks to admire the gorgeous scenery in 24-hour daylight as we pass through the wildlife-rich waters of Isfjorden.

Svalbard is a true High Arctic wilderness and this part of the voyage is a real expedition. The route and exploration opportunities here are heavily dependent on the weather and sea ice conditions. The experienced captain and expedition leader decide the itinerary and continually adjust plans as conditions and opportunities warrant; be assured that the best possible advantage will be taken.

Anticipate exploring in the northwestern part of the island of Spitsbergen. This area contains the archipelago’s most impressive scenery and some of the Arctic’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. Deep fjords and narrow channels are flanked by jagged snowy mountain peaks. Immense tidewater glaciers calve icebergs into turquoise waters. Fields of flowering tundra are home to grazing reindeer and playful arctic fox. Bountiful inshore and offshore waters are home to a wide variety of marine mammals. Polar bears can be spotted anytime, anywhere in and around Svalbard. Also in this area is Ny Ålesund, a former mining town that is now home to an international community of Arctic researchers, complete with museum, gift shop and post office. This was also a staging area for historic attempts to discover the North Pole.

From Svalbard the ship heads southwest across the Greenland Sea toward East Greenland. In these far northern latitudes it is possible to encounter sea ice any time of the year. All along the way the expedition team remains vigilant for sightings of marine mammals such as whales, seals and the polar bear. As the ship heads south, darker nights create a high possibility of seeing aurora borealis.

The itinerary and exploration opportunities in East Greenland are dependent on weather and sea ice conditions. The Franz Josef Fjord and Kong Oscar Fjord systems are part of Northeast Greenland National Park, the world’s largest national park. Scoresby Sund is the largest and longest fjord system in the world. This whole area contains some of the Arctic’s most impressive scenery. Deep fjords and narrow channels, flanked by ice-clad peaks over 6,560 feet high, reach far into the mountainous heart of Greenland. Tidewater glaciers create colossal icebergs that float with wind and tide throughout the fjord system. On shore, fields of multicolored tundra are home to musk oxen and arctic hare. The landscape—vast, open and seemingly untouched since the beginning of time—is a hikers’ paradise. Throughout this area one can also find ancient Thule archeological sites, historical trappers’ huts and modern Inuit hunters’ cabins.

The Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit is the only permanent settlement in the region. The community boasts an excellent museum, a gift shop, a post office, an abundance of Greenlandic sled dogs and of course the opportunity to meet Inuit people. The days are filled with memorable excursions, sumptuous meals, presentations by onboard experts and enough stunning scenery to fill your camera and overwhelm your emotions. Each night brings new possibilities for incredible displays of aurora borealis—the Northern Lights. This is the perfect time and one of the world’s best places to experience this otherworldly celestial phenomenon.

After an amazing time in East Greenland, the ship crosses Denmark Strait toward Iceland, crossing the Arctic Circle on the way. Presentations and workshops by the expert staff, as well as a range of onboard recreation facilities, ensure that this day at sea is not idly spent. Seabird viewing and whale sightings can be enjoyed from open decks as well as exterior stateroom windows and balconies.

The last expedition day is spent in the beautiful Vestfirðir (Westfjords) of Iceland. This remote and sparsely populated region of crenulated coastlines, voluminous waterfalls and rugged mountains sees only 10% of Iceland’s visitors. Deep fjords are home to whales while estuaries abound with seals and birdlife.

After breakfast, say farewell in Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland and ending point of the expedition. Take provided transfer to the airport or to the city center if you wish to spend more time here before flying home. Reykjavík is home to a wealth of cultural institutions such as museums, galleries and the Hallgrímskirkja church. Leisure possibilities inside the city include parks, gardens, thermal baths, a wide range of shopping possibilities, excellent dining options and famous nightlife. The options for additional adventures are endless!

After breakfast at the hotel the morning is yours to explore the city. The expedition starts in the afternoon. Take an included group transfer to the pier where the M/V Sea Spirit awaits. After departure, jump into a schedule of info briefings and introductions from the expedition staff. After a sumptuous dinner, step out onto the open decks to admire the spectacular views as we sail through Faxaflói. And keep your eyes open for whale encounters!

From Iceland head toward East Greenland, crossing the Arctic Circle on the way. Presentations and workshops by the expert staff, as well as a range of onboard recreation facilities, ensure that this day at sea is not idly spent. Seabird viewing and whale sightings can be enjoyed from open decks as well as exterior stateroom windows and balconies.

The itinerary and exploration opportunities in East Greenland are dependent on weather and sea ice conditions. The Franz Josef Fjord and Kong Oscar Fjord systems are part of Northeast Greenland National Park, the world’s largest national park. Scoresby Sund is the largest and longest fjord system in the world. This whole area contains some of the Arctic’s most impressive scenery. Deep fjords and narrow channels, flanked by ice-clad peaks over 6,560 feet (2,000m) high, reach far into the mountainous heart of Greenland. Tidewater glaciers create colossal icebergs that float with wind and tide throughout the fjord system. On shore, fields of multicolored tundra are home to musk oxen and arctic hare. The landscape—vast, open and seemingly untouched since the beginning of time—is a hikers’ paradise. Throughout this area one can also find ancient Thule archeological sites, historical trappers’ huts and modern Inuit hunters’ cabins.

The Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit is the only permanent settlement in the region. The community boasts an excellent museum, a gift shop, a post office, an abundance of Greenlandic sled dogs and of course the opportunity to meet Inuit people.

From East Greenland the ship heads toward Svalbard. All along the way the expedition team remains vigilant for sightings of marine mammals such as whales, seals and the polar bear.

Svalbard is a true High Arctic wilderness and this part of the voyage is a real expedition. The route and exploration opportunities here are heavily dependent on the weather and sea ice conditions. The experienced captain and expedition leader decide the itinerary and continually adjust plans as conditions and opportunities warrant; be assured that the best possible advantage will be taken.

Anticipate exploring in the northwestern part of the island of Spitsbergen. This area contains the archipelago’s most impressive scenery and some of the Arctic’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. Deep fjords and narrow channels are flanked by jagged snowy mountain peaks. Immense tidewater glaciers calve icebergs into turquoise waters. Fields of flowering tundra are home to grazing reindeer and playful arctic fox. Bountiful inshore and offshore waters are home to a wide variety of marine mammals. Polar bears can be spotted anytime, anywhere in and around Svalbard. Also in this area is Ny Ålesund, a former mining town that is now home to an international community of Arctic researchers, complete with museum, gift shop and post office. This was also a staging area for historic attempts to discover the North Pole.

After enjoying one final breakfast buffet on board, bid farewell in Longyearbyen, the capital of Svalbard and final destination of your expedition. (Starting in 2026) After disembarkation, a captivating sightseeing tour awaits you, showcasing some of the most interesting locations in the world’s northernmost city. Then take a provided transfer to the airport, or to the town center in case you plan to stay longer in Svalbard.

After breakfast at your hotel, the morning is yours to enjoy Longyearbyen. Take in the views of icy fjords and glaciated mountains surrounding this historic former coal-mining town. Take advantage of shopping for souvenirs or some last-minute necessities such as cold-weather gear. Just remember, you will soon receive your very own parka to keep and waterproof boots to borrow on board the ship. For lunch, Longyearbyen offers quick and easy meal options including the most northerly pizzas and kebabs in the world.

In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the pier and warmly welcomed aboard the ship. Get settled in your spacious suite and explore the ship that will be your comfortable home during the extraordinary adventure to come. After getting underway, a full schedule of events kicks off with informative briefings and introductions from your expedition staff. After the first of many delicious dinners on board, step out onto the open decks to admire the gorgeous scenery in 24-hour daylight as you pass through the wildlife-rich waters of Isfjorden.

Svalbard is a true High Arctic wilderness and this part of the voyage is a real expedition. The route and exploration opportunities here are heavily dependent on the weather and sea ice conditions. The experienced captain and expedition leader decide the itinerary and continually adjust plans as conditions and opportunities warrant; be assured that the best possible advantage will be taken.

Anticipate exploring in the northwestern part of the island of Spitsbergen. This area contains the archipelago’s most impressive scenery and some of the Arctic’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. Deep fjords and narrow channels are flanked by jagged snowy mountain peaks. Immense tidewater glaciers calve icebergs into turquoise waters. Fields of flowering tundra are home to grazing reindeer and playful arctic fox. Bountiful inshore and offshore waters are home to a wide variety of marine mammals. Polar bears can be spotted anytime, anywhere in and around Svalbard. Also in this area is Ny Ålesund, a former mining town that is now home to an international community of Arctic researchers, complete with museum, gift shop and post office. This was also a staging area for historic attempts to discover the North Pole.

From Svalbard, head southwest across the Greenland Sea toward East Greenland. In these far northern latitudes it is possible to  encounter sea ice any time of the year. All along the way, remain vigilant for sightings of marine mammals such as whales and seals.

This expedition cruising is at its most authentic. Your itinerary and exploration opportunities in East Greenland depend on weather and sea ice conditions. Rest assured, your experienced captain and expedition leader will seize every chance for exceptional wildlife viewing, discovering incredible scenery and going ashore wherever possible. You will navigate through the world’s largest national park, home to the Franz Josef Fjord and Kong Oscar Fjord systems, and explore Scoresby Sund, the planet’s most extensive fjord system.

These ice-bound regions showcase the Arctic’s most breathtaking landscapes, emphasizing the natural splendor and the significant influence of climate and geography. Beyond the scenic vistas, your expedition explores the Arctic’s rich cultural heritage, from ancient Thule sites to the contemporary Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit.

This trip isn’t just about seeing beautiful places; it’s also about experiencing a rare celestial event—a total solar eclipse. It will happen on August 12, 2026 and will pass over the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, the Atlantic Ocean and northern Spain. Your ship will anchor in the best location in the waters of Greenland to ensure you enjoy this moment to the fullest. The journey is further enriched by astrophysicist Paul Sutter. Known for his ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging, Paul will enhance your eclipse experience with expert insights, making the moment of totality on August 12, 2026, even more unforgettable.

After an amazing time in East Greenland, the ship crosses Denmark Strait toward Iceland, crossing the Arctic Circle on the way. Presentations and workshops by the expert staff, as well as a range of onboard recreation facilities, ensure that this day at sea is not idly spent. Seabird viewing and whale sightings can be enjoyed from open decks as well as exterior stateroom windows and balconies.

The last expedition day is spent in the beautiful Vestfirðir (Westfjords) of Iceland. This remote and sparsely populated region of crenulated coastlines, voluminous waterfalls and rugged mountains sees only 10% of Iceland’s visitors. Deep fjords are home to whales while estuaries abound with seals and birdlife.

After breakfast, say farewell in Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland and ending point of the expedition. Take provided transfer to the airport or to the city center if you wish to spend more time here before flying home. Reykjavík is home to a wealth of cultural institutions such as museums, galleries and the Hallgrímskirkja church. Leisure possibilities inside the city include parks, gardens, thermal baths, a wide range of shopping possibilities, excellent dining options and famous nightlife. The options for additional adventures are endless!