Hurtigruten Expeditions - The Ultimate Fjord Expedition

13-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 Fram. 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 3-11: 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 12: 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 13: : Reykjavik and beyond

Your Ultimate Fjord 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
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages* in restaurant Aune
• À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• Complimentary tea and coffee
• Complimentary Wi-Fi on board
• Complimentary reusable water bottle
• English-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore
• Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full use of our Science Centre, library and advanced biological and geological equipment
• Citizen Science Programme where you can assist with ongoing scientific research
• Photography tips and techniques for capturing landscapes and wildlife from our onboard professional photographer
• Use of the ship’s hot tubs, sauna and indoor gym
• 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
• Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Notes

• Expedition Photographers help with your camera settings before landings

What’s not included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners
• Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team

MS Fram