Hurtigruten Expeditions Serene Greenland - To the World's Largest National Park

15-day itinerary

Day 1: Starting in 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 Fram in the city’s harbour. Be sure to also visit the staggering Hallgrímskirkja Church if you have some spare time.

Feel as though you want to spend more time in the city? There are pre-programme packages available to travellers who wish to experience the highlights of Reykjavik in greater depth.

Day 2: Relaxing 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 Fram. 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 Arctic 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 3-12: Scoresby Sund and Northeast Greenland National Park

Over the next 10 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 13-14: The 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: Returning to Reykjavik

Your Greenland expedition cruise concludes in the fascinating city of Reykjavik. Miss any sights when you first arrived? This is the best opportunity to experience more of what the 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.

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