Hurtigruten Expeditions Solar Eclipse Expedition 2026 - Greenland, Iceland & Svalbard

17-day itinerary

Day 1: Arriving in Longyearbyen

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 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: Commence your Solar Eclipse adventure

Prior to departing Longyearbyen to embark on your cruise expedition, join an included excursion to catch more glimpses of the elusive polar bear.

Day 4-5: 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 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 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 6-15: 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 16: 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 17: 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.

MS Spitsbergen