Hurtigruten Expeditions Arctic Island Odyssey - Svalbard, Greenland and Iceland

15-day itinerary

Day 1: Longyearbyen arrival

Following your flight from Oslo, it’s now time for you to explore the world’s northernmost town, a vibrant frontier settlement where people are outnumbered by snowmobiles – Longyearbyen.

If you have time, be sure to explore more of what this unique town has to offer, before enjoying a relaxing evening at your leisure.

Day 2: Longyearbyen adventures

Perfect for exploring on foot, Longyearbyen offers many opportunities to see the native wildlife, including Svalbard Reindeer’s who can regularly be seen sauntering round the stunning landscape.

As part of your expedition cruise, travellers will be given the chance to join an included excursion and catch a glimpse of the fascinating polar bear-inspired region at the top of the world. After experiencing everything this charming settlement has to offer, you will then be boarding your cruise ship, the MS Fram, in the afternoon and continuing on with your Arctic adventure. If you wish to explore Longyearbyen in more depth, optional pre-programme packages are available to purchase for travellers.

Day 3: Tranquil Ny-Alesund

On the eighth day of the expedition cruise you will be discovering the peace and serenity of Ny-Alesund, whilst exploring neighbouring fjords such as Krossfjord and Kongsfjord. Take a day to detox from your phone and Wi-Fi as the Norwegian Authority’s nearby geodetic station means all devices must be switched off, so that there are no interferences with the station.

Standing as a hub for global science and climate research, travellers will be able to see the former remnants of the town’s history. Due to its geographical significance being one of the world’s northernmost settlements, Ny-Alesund was also formerly the starting point for Roald Amundsen’s northern expeditions.

Upon exploring the captivating fjords dotted around Ny-Alesund, immerse yourself in the rugged, glacial scenery of this remote town. The Expedition Team will be primed and ready to take you on an adventure; whether that be launching small expedition boats, going ashore to hike, or cruising past impressive glaciers.

Day 4-5: Getting ready for Greenland – Kalaallit Nunaat

As the cruise journey’s on following the amazing experiences in Longyearbyen and Ny-Alesund, the onboard Expedition Team will take you through the AECO regulations to ensure that operations and landings are carried out safely and respectfully in the fragile environment in Greenland. Make sure you set aside time to attend these meetings if you wish to join the planned landings.

The team will also be on hand to prepare you for the experiences ahead. In the lecture hall, you’ll find out what to expect in the epic landscapes of East Greenland National Park and the incredible fjords at Scoresby Sund, whilst also gaining insights into the indigenous Arctic communities and beautiful wildlife habitats.

Just as importantly, take advantage of the excellent facilities, including sumptuous restaurants, an onboard gym, and sauna and pool areas.

Day 6-13: Scoresby Sund and Northeast Greenland National Park Expedition

Over the next 8 days, you will be exploring the vast wilderness of Greenland’s vast and pristine east coast. Sailing calmly against the backdrop of looming mountains, crystal blue waters and glistening icebergs, you’ll be seeking out the elusive wildlife in the area, including whales and Greenlandic Gyrfalcons. With the Expedition team continually being guided by the ever-changing conditions, they’ll try to pack in as many landings, nature walks, kayaking trips, and wildlife sightings as possible.

You will also be visiting the most remotely inhabited community in the Western hemisphere, Ittoqqortoormiit. Depending on the conditions, you’ll be sailing towards the sea ice-edge to scan for wildlife. As ever, there are many Citizen Science projects for travellers to participate in, should they want to do their bit for the environment.

If conditions are considered to be suitable, the journey will continue north towards the wondrous Northeast Greenland National Park. Recognised officially as the world’s largest National Park, visiting this isolated region is a real privilege, with the area seeing very little visitors each year. Within this 375,000 square mile park, there are very few signs of human life. With the exception of a few military outposts and science research stations, this peaceful and serene park is one of the quietest places in the world. Take time to disconnect from everyday life and immerse yourself in the landscape’s sheer natural beauty.

As mentioned before, the Captain and Expedition Team will continually monitor the surroundings to work out the most favourable spots for landings. The Expedition Team’s goal will be to fit in as many activities as possible, including small boat cruises, nature walks, wildlife sightings and kayaking trips, so that you can get the most out of your adventure.

Day 14: Danish Strait

After having explored the isolated and desolate beauty of Greenland, the expedition cruise will set its course back to Iceland’s capital. Cast your mind back to your favourite experiences while on the journey as you recap on memories with your new friends, study nature in the Science Centre, or simply relax on deck during your final day at sea.

Upon reflecting on your cruise, from witnessing the fragile ecology of the fjord systems, to the sheer elegance of the floating ice, the beauty of East Greenland is sure to have left an indelible impression on you.

Day 15: Reykjavik and beyond

Your Arctic Island Odyssey expedition cruise concludes in the fascinating city of Reykjavik- this is the best opportunity to experience what this stylish city has to offer.

Immerse yourself in more of the Icelandic culture by visiting a geothermal pool or a ‘heittur pottur’, translating to a ‘hot-pot’. Still feel as though you haven’t quenched your desire to fully experience Iceland’s natural beauty? If so, be sure to visit the ‘Blue Lagoon’, often regarded as one of the true natural wonders of the world with the blend of silica, algae and minerals in its geothermal waters.

Guests will also have the option to join one of the post-programme packages to explore more of the joys of Iceland.

Flights

• Flight in economy class from Oslo to Longyearbyen before the expedition cruise

Transfers

• All transfers in Longyearbyen including an excursion and lunch before the expedition cruise

Hotel

• Overnight in Longyearbyen before the expedition cruise, including dinner and breakfast

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
• All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
• Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
• A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit
• Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
• Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
• Use of sauna, hot tubs, fitness room, lounges and more
• Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
• Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full access to the ship’s Science Centre
• Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
• Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

• Escorted landing with small expedition boats
• Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Notes

• All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
• Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight might be needed (not included)
• Mandatory Medical Screening Form to be completed by all passengers for Expeditions to Antarctica. See the help centre for more information.

What’s not included

• International flights
• Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners
• Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team

MS Fram