Hurtigruten Expeditions Serene Greenland - Exploring the Largest Fjord System On Earth

10-day itinerary

Day 1: Discover Iceland’s modern capital city, Reykjavik

Located in southwestern Iceland, Reykjavik will be the first destination on your captivating expedition cruise.  A city which boasts a rich variety of cultural, historical, and artistic context, Reykjavik is a place worth immersing yourself in.

Take a scenic walk along Laugavegur wits its charming boutiques and outdoor shops, or drop in at the fascinating Reykjavik Art Museum – before boarding the MS Spitsbergen located in the city’s harbour. Upon your expedition cruise ship, take time to familiarise yourself with the excellent onboard facilities, and settle into one of the ship’s comfortable cabins.

Depending on how much time you have, there are pre-programme packages available to travellers who wish to experience the highlights of Reykjavik in greater depth.

Day 2: Day at Sea

As the expedition sets sail towards Greenland, the world’s largest island, take time to get acquainted with your state of the art cruise ship, the MS Spitsbergen. The onboard Expedition Team will be on hand to offer their insights into what to expect from your upcoming adventure, whilst also taking you through the protocols of respecting the fragile wildlife habitats and native Artic communities.

Take some time to relax before the start of your adventure by capitalising on the onboard sauna, hot-tub and lounge facilities. Alternatively, passengers will be able to join one of the available Citizen Science project’s while onboard, an exciting and engaging way for anyone to contribute toward global research.

Day 3-8: Scoresby Sund fjord system

Over the next days you will be exploring the vast wilderness of the world’s largest fjord system, Scoresby Sund. 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.

Day 9: 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 10: Back to Reykjavik

The city of Reykjavik will be the final destination of your expedition cruise journey to Greenland. At this stage, it’s unfortunately time to say goodbye to staff, crew and your fellow travellers, but the adventure does not have to end here. Optional post-programme packages are available to all guests who wish to experience Iceland’s laid-back capital in greater depth.

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
• 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 landings 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)

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 Spitsbergen