Hardangerfjorden
Single-file hikers walk up grassy hillside under blue sky during a cruise to the Faroe Islands & Iceland.
Hiker overlooks geothermal valley with turquoise glacier melt lake & golden-orange hills under cloudy sky by Myvatn Lake, Iceland.
Two kayakers in a yellow kayak paddle in Nordfjord in the Norwegian Fjords with still blue glacial water
3 puffins with white chests, black backs & orange beaks sit in bright green grass on a hillside in Iceland.
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Polar Regions Northern Europe Cruise

Coastal Wonders of Norway, the Faroe Islands & Iceland

Follow the Viking trail on this expedition cruise from Norway to the far-flung islands and archipelagos of the North Atlantic, ending in Reykjavik, Iceland. Cruise the famed Norwegian fjords and the magical Lofoten islands, explore Stone Age sites in Scotland’s Shetland Islands and come face-to-face with the legacy of the Vikings amid the turf-roofed cottages and ancient sites of the Faroe Islands. Then trace Iceland’s most remote shorelines, witnessing geological wonders from volcanoes to thundering waterfalls.

Embark in Tromso, Norway (by way of a charter flight from Oslo) and disembark in Reykjavik, Iceland. Get out and hike, kayak and Zodiac cruise in three distinct Arctic regions. Discover welcoming, intriguing contemporary cultures and ancient sites. Observe nesting seabirds amid the towering peaks of the Lofoten islands. Encounter the Bronze Age ruins and Viking longhouses of Jarlshof, a prehistoric settlement in the Shetlands. Discover the unique culture of the Faroe Islands, where residents cling proudly to their Viking heritage. And sail past the dramatic sea cliffs of the Faroes to see cliff-nesting puffins, gannets, and northern fulmars.

Passage is aboard the 126-guest National Geographic Endurance which offers active exploration via hiking, walking, kayaking and Zodiac riding amidst stunning scenery. Options abound to make each expedition as active as you choose, and each day join a different naturalist for more viewpoints. Explore under the sure guidance of expedition leaders, an assistant expedition leader, veteran naturalists, a National Geographic photographer, a Global Perspectives guest speaker, an undersea specialist, a wellness specialist and a video chronicler. Their collective knowledge and passion ensures an extraordinary experience, plus top shots with the help of the onboard Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor.

Read on for details about this Norway, Iceland & Faroe Islands cruise, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises in Northern Europe, Iceland cruises, Arctic cruises and Arctic trips.



Itinerary

Coastal Wonders of Norway, The Faroe Islands & Iceland Itinerary

The 16-day Coastal Wonders of Norway, The Faroe Islands & Iceland cruise begins with a charter flight from Oslo to embark the ship in Tromso, Norway, and explores Norway’s fjords and most of Iceland, with the Shetland and Faroe islands in between, before disembarking in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Route map of Coastal Wonders of Norway, The Faroe Islands & Iceland cruise from Tromso, Norway, to Reykjavik, Iceland.
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Days 1
Oslo, Norway

Arrive in Oslo and check into the Hotel Bristol (or similar) in the heart of the city. In the afternoon, the  introduction to Norway begins with a tour of Oslo, including a visit to the Fram Museum, showcasing the polar ship Fram and dedicated to the explorers and wooden vessels that navigated the Arctic Sea in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail reception, followed by dinner at your leisure.

Accommodations

Hotel Bristol (or similar)

Meals

lunch

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Day 2
Fly to Tromso & Embark

Take a charter flight to Tromsø, known as the “gateway to the Arctic” due to the large number of Arctic expeditions that originated here. Visit the Arctic Cathedral, where the unique architecture evokes icebergs; and peruse the Polar Museum, which showcases the ships, equipment and seafaring traditions of early Arctic settlers. Embark the ship this afternoon.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Tysfjorden

This morning, enter the long fjord of Tysfjorden, where only a few small villages cling to the rocky shores. Glide beneath the fjord’s steep walls on Zodiac and kayak excursions; and explore Hellemobotn Fjord, which reaches far inland, ending just a few miles from the border of Sweden.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Lofoten Islands

Start the day on deck as the ship glides into Trollfjorden, one of Norway’s most dramatic fjords. Continue to the Lofoten archipelago, which boasts an enchanting landscape of picturesque villages framed by jagged, granite peaks that rise straight from the sea. Explore the many islets, and reposition to Værøy for walks and kayaking. Seek out Atlantic puffins, razorbills and guillemots on a Zodiac cruise.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 5 - 6
Exploring The Fjords of Norway

Carved by glaciers over millions of years, Norway’s northern coast is laced with steep-walled fjords, mountainous islands and chiseled peaks. Cruise in a Zodiac along vertical rock faces, kayak through serene fjords, or go ashore on a secluded sandy beach to hike amid verdant valleys and birch forests.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
At Sea & Shetland Islands, Scotland

Spend a relaxing morning at sea as the ship sails toward the Shetland Islands, an archipelago of about one hundred islands and islets located north of the Scottish mainland. Glide past the towering cliffs of Noss to view murres, puffins, kittiwakes and other seabirds. This evening, dock overnight in Lerwick.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
Lerwick & Foula

Lerwick is a town where Norse and Gaelic cultures intermingle. Explore the town, delve into local culture and history at the Shetland Museum & Archives, or embark on a bird-watching or geology walk. Alternatively, venture to the prehistoric settlement of Jarlshof to examine its Bronze Age ruins and Viking longhouses. In the afternoon, continue to Foula, a stark but spectacular island edged with towering cliffs and blanketed with peat bogs, where people are drastically outnumbered by puffins.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 9 - 10
Exploring The Faroe Islands

This morning, arrive in the Faroe Islands, an autonomous archipelago within the Kingdom of Denmark. The legacy of the Vikings persists here, reflected in the language of the Faroese and their love of the sea. Visit Torshavn, the colorful capital of the Faroe Islands, where even the government buildings are crafted in the traditional design of wooden siding with a turf roof. Visit the 12th-century St. Olav’s Church alongside the ruins of Kirkjubøur Cathedral, which was never completed. Explore one of the outer islands in this tiny archipelago to see some of the incredible, dramatic sea cliffs and deep fjords that characterize the coastline. Take Zodiacs to look for cliff-nesting puffins, gannets and northern fulmars.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 11 - 12
At Sea & Iceland: Seyðisfjörður & Grimsey

After a day at sea, awake along Iceland’s rugged eastern coast, an unspoiled stretch of rocky outcrops, hidden coves and hills that beckon hikers. Visit Seyðisfjörður , a colorful fishing village located in the mouth of a majestic fjords and surrounded by dramatic mountains. Choose to explore the town or visit Skalanes Nature Reserve to see its incredible wildflowers and bird cliffs. Continue to Grímsey on the Arctic Circle.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 13 - 14
Ísafjörđur & Flatey Island

Located in the Westfjords region, the town of Ísafjörđur lies on a tiny spit jutting out into the water against a backdrop of steep hills. Spend time hiking and watching for nesting seabirds in this remote setting. The next day, visit Flatey island, a fishing and trading post for centuries. Navigate the coast by Zodiac to see where Erik the Red is believed to have set sail around the year 982, bound for Greenland.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 15
Westman Islands

Spend the day in the Westman Islands, one of the world’s younger archipelagos, formed by undersea volcanos some 11,000 years ago. In 1973, the isle of Heimaey was threatened by lava flows that nearly closed off the harbor. Visit the Eldfell volcanic crater, where the earth is still hot, and take in views over landscapes engulfed in lava rock. Also spy Surtsey, one of the world’s youngest islands, which was formed by volcanic eruptions between 1963 and 1967.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 16
Disembark Reykjavik, Iceland, Explore & Depart

Disembark in Reykjavík and choose to either hike the active Fagradalsfjall Volcano; explore the Reykjanes Geopark; or visit hot springs, a geothermal power plant, and a horse farm. Transfer to the airport for the flight home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, lunch

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Expedition parka to keep; one hotel night in Oslo; accommodations; meals as 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; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Air transportation, including one-way charter flight from Oslo to Tromso, Norway (from $540 per person in 2024, subject to change); passport; visa; immigration fees; 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

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. 

(For expeditions booked prior to May 1, 2023: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.)

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.

Arrival & Departure

The Coastal Wonders of Norway, The Faroe Islands & Iceland cruise begins in Oslo, Norway (OSL), with a charter flight to embark the ship in Tromso, Norway (TOS), on Day 2 of the itinerary. Embarkation time may vary as it is based upon arrival of group flights. Disembarkation is after breakfast on the final day, in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF), followed by included daytime activities. Plan to depart Reykjavik anytime after 5:00pm on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

The charter flight from Oslo to Tromso is not included in the cruise price, but is arranged for you by AdventureSmith Explorations through your ship. Your Adventure Specialist will book these flights for you on the scheduled charter flight for your particular departure. Airfares vary by departure; your Adventure Specialist will detail these for you in their proposal and on your invoice. See Exclusions for sample airfare rates, subject to change. 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 on the flight between Oslo and Tromso.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, Zodiac excursions, photography, morning yoga and stretching, 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 conditions, wildlife 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.

Jun 23 - Jul 08, 2024
National Geographic Endurance • 16 days
From $22541USD
Per Person
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Jun 24 - Jul 09, 2025
National Geographic Endurance • 16 days
From $20265USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship 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.

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

AdventureSmith's founder writes this 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.

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

In conjunction with this cruise, the following options may be available for a seamless land-and-sea group travel experience with National Geographic guides and fellow passengers. Contact AdventureSmith Explorations for pricing & availability. Bergen Extension is a 1-day pre-cruise exploration of the picturesque and historic city with one hotel night. Enjoy a full day sightseeing tour including highlights like the Bryggen area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before a stunning funicular ride and special dinner. Norway’s Fjords Pre-Voyage Extension between Oslo & Bergen covers 5 days through southern Norway’s stunning landscapes, including a ride on the Flam Railway.

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The National Geographic Land of the Ice Bears cruise aboard 126-guest Nat Geo Endurance or Resolution sails to the high Arctic archipelago of Svalbard in search of polar bears, walrus and reindeer under the midnight sun.

From $14085USD
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A Circumnavigation of Iceland

Iceland's world-class geology and unique cultural heritage come alive in this Circumnavigation of Iceland aboard 126-guest Nat Geo Endurance or 148-guest Nat Geo Explorer. Cruise round-trip from Reykjavik; see glaciers, geysers and immense cliffs with world-class guides leading the way!

From $11172USD
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