Day 1 Reykjavik, Iceland - Capital of Iceland
Reykjavik is the northernmost capital city in the world. The name means 'Smokey Bay', so called because of the columns of steam that rise from the many hot springs in the area. It is well worth booking a Pre-program to explore the surrounding geysers, mountains, glaciers and geothermal baths before embarking MS Fram.
Day 2 At sea - Crossing the Denmark Strait
Learn how to protect the great wilderness, both during our expedition and in the future, as part of the mandatory safety and sustainability briefing. Check out the onboard Science Center to learn more about the wildlife and ecosystems of the Arctic.
Day 3 Ittoqqortoormiit - The Most Isolated Settlement
Located on a stunning peninsula that is encased by sea ice for nine months of the year, Ittoqqortoormiit is the most remote inhabited community in the western hemisphere. Less than 500 hardy souls call this home and they’ll be proud to show you around the community, including a museum, church and even a photo exhibition.
Day 4-7 North East Greenland National Park - The Largest National Park in the World
We begin our exploration of the largest national park in the world, which is also the least visited national park in the world. Only a small number of expeditions are permitted to visit the park over its very short summer season. Thanks to our expertise and experience here, we are always one of them.
Apart from trapper huts, some science research stations, and two military outposts, there are no traces of human life here. The only others we might be lucky to meet are the Sirius Patrol park rangers who supervise the area on dogsleds.
Once inside the park, there are large fjords, giant icebergs, alpine landscapes, hanging glaciers, and vertical granite cliffs reaching as far as the eye can see. The likes of hares, musk oxen and Arctic foxes roam the coasts and tundra in the summertime. They are usually spread out across this enormous region, making it a real highlight if we do manage to spot one or more of them.
The captain and Expedition Leader will assess the ice conditions and choose the best locations for landings accordingly. You can also participate in exciting optional activities such as kayaking and long guided hikes.
Day 8 Scorebysund - Largest Fjord on Earth
Heading south, we will attempt a landing at the entrance to the Scoresbysund fjord. This is the world’s largest fjord system, which extends 217 miles inland and 1,970 feet deep. The fjord’s steep basalt mountains provide a haven for an unusual abundance of Greenlandic wildlife including various species of seabird, seal, and whale.
Day 9 At sea - Sailing along the East Coast of Greenland
Take some time just relaxing on board and allowing the experiences of the past few days to sink in. Lectures by the Expedition Team will also prepare you for the next days to come, including a bit of history about Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen’s crossing over the Greenland ice sheet.
Day 10 Umivik - A Place in History
The gentle bay at Umivik is fringed by many glaciers that calve their icebergs into the sea. This is the place where Fridtjof Nansen launched his legendary journey across the Greenland ice sheet in August 1888. Once ashore yourself, you’ll see the remains of the small Inuit community that welcomed Nansen way back then.
Day 11 Skjoldungen - “Paradise on Earth”
Skjoldungen is a large coastal island in southeastern Greenland and located between two deep fjords. Danish Arctic explorer W.A Graah described the area as “paradise on Earth” when he came here in 1829 to look for a lost Norse settlement. Humpback whales are also known to visit the area in the summertime.
Day 12 Prins Christian Sund - Narrow Channel with Spectacular Scenery
This long fjord is surrounded by mountains that reach over 3,900 feet, and up to 7,280 feet high. Many glaciers go straight into its waters, where they calve icebergs of all shapes, shades, and sizes. If the channel is blocked with ice, we will sail around Nunap Isua (Cape Farewell) instead.
Day 13 At sea - Heading for Canada
After exploring exhilarating Greenland, we set course for Canada. Spend the days at sea recapping your experiences, having fun in the Science Center or just relaxing out on deck, looking at the sea birds which follow our ship or maybe even engaging in some whale-spotting.
Day 14 Red Bay Canada’s Hidden but Rich Maritime History
Preserved in the ice-cold waters, the remains of several 17th century Basque whaling ships have led to the town being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the local museum that documents this interesting history or take the trail up to Tracey Hill for scenic views, and where, legends say, pirate captain Kidd buried treasure.
Optional Excursions
Red Bay - Red Bay Highlights Access* Included
Want to get a feel for Red Bay’s local culture and history?
Coastal Labrador and Point Amour Lighthouse tour
Drive the coastal highway and visit the tallest lighthouse in Atlantic Canada.
Red Bay Then and Now Historical Walking tour
Stroll through the intriguing village of Red Bay with local guides to provide insight into the history and culture of this remarkable community with a history of whaling.
Day 15 Corner Brook - A Classic Canadian City
Located at the mouth of the Bay of Islands and Humber River, Corner Brook is the second largest city in the province and local to the core. Explore the city center or enjoy its many walking trails along the Humber River, decorated at this time of year with vibrant autumn leaves.
Optional Excursions
Corner Brook - Gros Morne by Motorcoach
Explore the mountains, fjords, and coastal wonders of Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s recognized for its unique geology.
Corner Brook - Marble Mountain Zip Line
Experience zip lining like never before with an adventure that starts at the top of Steady Brook Falls, just outside of Corner Brook, western Newfoundland’s largest town.
Captain Cook's Trail
This excursion is a scenic exploration of the countryside with a local host who will share historic stories of the region’s rich land and sea.
Corner Brook Trails Adventure
Embrace the spectacular natural beauty of the Corner Brook woodlands during this picturesque hiking Land Adventure.
Day 16 At sea - Spend the day in the Science Center
Spend a tranquil day at sea, sharing experiences and exchanging stories with your fellow adventurers. Enjoy the amenities of our innovative expedition ship and look out for wildlife from the outer decks. In the Science Center, observe the tiniest creatures and samples taken during this voyage up close with our state-of-the-art microscopes.
Day 17 Halifax - Vibrant City on the Rise
Our incredible journey beginning in Iceland, exploring the extremes of Greenland, across to the coasts and culture of Canada, comes to an end in Halifax, capital of Nova Scotia. If you can, we definitely recommend spending an extra day or two here on one of our Post-Programs before you head home.