Arctic: Exploring Svalbard, Greenland & Iceland | 19 Days
Embark on an extraordinary 19-day, 18-night Arctic expedition aboard Silver Endeavour, departing from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, on August 2, 2028, and concluding in Reykjavik, Iceland, after exploring three of the North Atlantic's most remarkable destinations. This extensive voyage combines the polar bear habitats of Svalbard, the immense fjords and icebergs of Greenland, and the fishing villages, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes of Iceland. Begin with four days exploring northern Svalbard, where the expedition team follows sea ice and wildlife conditions in search of polar bears, walruses, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, seals, and seabird colonies, with daily Zodiac excursions and guided landings. Cross the Greenland Sea to the remote volcanic island of Jan Mayen, dominated by Beerenberg, the world's northernmost active volcano, before continuing toward Northeast Greenland National Park, the largest national park on Earth.
Discover the colorful mountains and Arctic wildlife of King Oscar Fjord, visit the isolated Inuit community of Ittoqqortoormiit, and spend three days navigating Scoresby Sund, the world's largest fjord system, where enormous icebergs and towering glaciers create spectacular scenery. As darkness returns in mid-August, there may also be opportunities to observe the northern lights. The final part of the journey explores Iceland's northern and western coastlines, visiting Siglufjörður, Ísafjörður, Dynjandi waterfall, and Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with possible excursions around Breiðafjörður Bay or the Snæfellsjökull volcano and glacier before arriving in Reykjavik.
Day 1: Longyearbyen, Svalbard: Beginning the Grand Arctic Expedition
Your Arctic adventure begins in Longyearbyen, recognized as the northernmost town in the world and located approximately 1,300 kilometers from the North Pole.
Originally a mining settlement, Longyearbyen is characterized by colorful houses surrounded by mountains and glaciers, creating a striking introduction to the landscapes of Svalbard.
Arrive in this remote Arctic town and prepare to embark on Silver Endeavour, the expedition vessel that will take you across Svalbard, Greenland, and Iceland over the next nineteen days.
Later in the afternoon, the ship departs Longyearbyen and begins its journey into the northern waters of the Svalbard archipelago.
The departure takes place beneath the midnight sun, a remarkable feature of the Arctic summer when daylight continues through the night.
As Silver Endeavour sails away, the expedition begins its exploration of some of the most remote environments in the North Atlantic.
Meals Included: Lunch / Dinner
Day 2: Northern Svalbard: Entering Polar Bear Territory
Begin the first of four days dedicated to exploring northern Svalbard, a region known for its dramatic fjords, glacial landscapes, and opportunities to observe Arctic wildlife.
The expedition does not follow a completely fixed route. Instead, the team evaluates sea ice conditions and wildlife activity to determine the most suitable areas for exploration.
Polar bears are the central focus of this part of the journey. From the ship's bridge, expedition experts carefully scan the coastline and surrounding ice for signs of these iconic Arctic predators.
Depending on conditions, Silver Endeavour may navigate through fjords such as Magdalenefjorden or Liefdefjorden, where impressive glaciers reach the sea.
Daily Zodiac excursions and guided shore landings provide opportunities to experience the landscapes beyond the ship.
The northern Svalbard exploration also offers possibilities for observing walruses, Svalbard reindeer, Arctic foxes, seals, and seabird colonies.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 3: Northern Svalbard: Glaciers and Arctic Wildlife
Continue exploring the remote northern landscapes of Svalbard as Silver Endeavour follows a route selected according to ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.
The region's fjords reveal enormous glaciers extending toward the sea, where sections of ice can break away and fall into the surrounding waters.
Possible exploration areas include Magdalenefjorden and Liefdefjorden, both mentioned in the itinerary for their impressive glacial scenery.
Wildlife observation remains an important part of the day. The expedition searches for walruses, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, seals, and the region's most sought-after animal, the polar bear.
From the ship's bridge, experts continue watching the coastline and ice-covered waters for wildlife.
Guided Zodiac outings and shore landings allow travelers to discover the surrounding Arctic environment from different perspectives.
The day's activities remain flexible, responding to the conditions encountered during the expedition.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4: Northern Svalbard: Seabird Cliffs and the Sea Ice Edge
The expedition continues through northern Svalbard, where dramatic coastal landscapes provide habitat for large colonies of seabirds.
Among the region's notable features are cliffs occupied by thousands of seabirds, creating opportunities to observe another important part of the Arctic ecosystem.
The expedition team continues evaluating wildlife activity and sea ice conditions when selecting the day's route.
If circumstances allow, Silver Endeavour may navigate toward the sea ice edge, an important area for the expedition's search for polar bears.
From the bridge, experts carefully watch the surrounding environment, while travelers can appreciate the extraordinary scenery of the northern Arctic.
Daily Zodiac excursions and guided landings provide additional opportunities to explore the coast and observe wildlife.
Potential encounters include walruses, Svalbard reindeer, Arctic foxes, seals, and polar bears, although sightings depend on the animals encountered.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 5: Northern Svalbard: Final Discoveries in the High Arctic
Spend a fourth day exploring the remote northern reaches of Svalbard, completing the expedition's extended search for Arctic wildlife and remarkable polar landscapes.
The expedition team continues adjusting the route according to sea ice and wildlife conditions, allowing the day's exploration to focus on the opportunities available.
Possible scenery includes fjords, glaciers reaching the sea, and the boundary of the sea ice when accessible.
Polar bear observation remains a priority, with expedition experts watching from the ship's bridge for signs of these iconic animals.
The region also offers possibilities for encountering walruses, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, seals, and seabirds gathered along coastal cliffs.
Guided Zodiac outings and shore landings continue to provide opportunities to experience the natural surroundings.
This final day in northern Svalbard concludes the first major exploration phase before Silver Endeavour begins its southwestward crossing of the Greenland Sea.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 6: Greenland Sea: Sailing Toward Jan Mayen
Silver Endeavour leaves the northern Svalbard exploration area and begins navigating southwest across the Greenland Sea.
After several days dedicated to Zodiac excursions, shore landings, and wildlife observation, today offers a more relaxed pace aboard the expedition vessel.
Take time to enjoy the ship's spa or simply rest while the voyage continues through the North Atlantic's remote northern waters.
The onboard program also includes presentations about the Arctic and the explorers whose journeys helped shape the history of polar exploration.
These talks provide an opportunity to reflect on the landscapes encountered in Svalbard while preparing for the next destination.
The day at sea forms a transition between the wildlife-rich environments of northern Svalbard and the remote volcanic landscapes of Jan Mayen.
Silver Endeavour continues southwest toward one of the most isolated islands featured in the expedition.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 7: Jan Mayen, Norway: A Remote Volcanic Island
Discover Jan Mayen, an isolated volcanic island in the middle of the ocean that very few travelers have the opportunity to visit.
The island is dominated by Beerenberg, recognized as the northernmost active volcano on the planet. Its summit is covered by glaciers, creating a dramatic contrast between volcanic terrain and Arctic ice.
Jan Mayen is also remarkable for its isolation. Only a small number of people associated with a meteorological station inhabit the island.
The landscape is characterized by its volcanic origins, including striking black-sand beaches along the coastline.
If sea conditions permit, the expedition may organize a landing on these beaches, providing an opportunity to experience this remote island beyond the ship.
The possibility of going ashore depends on the conditions encountered during the visit.
Jan Mayen adds a distinctive volcanic dimension to an expedition otherwise dominated by Arctic fjords, glaciers, and wildlife.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 8: At Sea: Crossing Toward Greenland
Silver Endeavour continues its journey across the northern waters toward Greenland's coastline.
This navigation day provides an opportunity to watch the surrounding ocean for wildlife and the first signs of the icy landscapes awaiting farther west.
Whales may be encountered during the crossing, making time spent observing the sea particularly rewarding.
Travelers can also watch for the first icebergs as the vessel approaches Greenland.
After the volcanic landscapes of Jan Mayen, the expedition now moves toward a region characterized by immense fjords, colorful mountains, and floating ice formations.
The day offers time aboard Silver Endeavour while the ship continues its passage toward the eastern coast of Greenland.
The following stage of the expedition will introduce Northeast Greenland National Park and the spectacular scenery of King Oscar Fjord.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 9: King Oscar Fjord: Entering Northeast Greenland National Park
Arrive in King Oscar Fjord, within Northeast Greenland National Park, recognized as the largest national park in the world.
This remarkable Arctic region is characterized by enormous mountains displaying bands of red, ochre, and golden rock.
The colorful geological formations are reflected in calm waters dotted with floating icebergs, creating a spectacular natural setting.
The expedition offers opportunities to explore beyond Silver Endeavour through guided landings on the tundra, walking excursions, and Zodiac outings.
These activities provide a closer perspective on the region's remote landscapes and distinctive wildlife.
Among the animals the expedition may search for are musk oxen, Arctic hares, and Arctic foxes.
The combination of colorful mountains, immense ice formations, and Arctic tundra makes King Oscar Fjord one of the major natural highlights of the journey.
This is the first of two days dedicated to exploring the fjord and its surroundings.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 10: King Oscar Fjord: Tundra Walks and Arctic Wildlife
Continue exploring King Oscar Fjord, where the immense landscapes of Northeast Greenland National Park provide another day of Arctic discovery.
The surrounding mountains display distinctive red, ochre, and golden bands, contrasting with the quiet waters and enormous icebergs floating through the fjord.
Guided shore landings provide opportunities to step onto the tundra and experience the region's remote natural environment.
Walking excursions allow travelers to explore the landscape while searching for wildlife associated with this part of Greenland.
Musk oxen are among the animals that may be encountered, alongside Arctic hares and Arctic foxes.
Zodiac outings offer another perspective on the fjord's impressive scenery, allowing travelers to appreciate the relationship between the mountains, icebergs, and surrounding waters.
The second day in King Oscar Fjord concludes this stage of the Greenland expedition before Silver Endeavour continues toward the isolated community of Ittoqqortoormiit.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 11: Ittoqqortoormiit: Inuit Traditions in Remote Greenland
Visit Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the most isolated settlements in the world, located along Greenland's remote eastern coastline.
Home to only a few hundred residents, the community maintains a strong connection to traditional Inuit practices and the surrounding Arctic environment.
Hunting remains an important part of local life, while dog sledding continues to be associated with the community's everyday traditions.
The visit offers an opportunity to learn about life in this remote Greenlandic settlement and discover the cultural practices that remain important to its residents.
After days spent exploring uninhabited-looking fjords, immense icebergs, and Arctic wildlife, Ittoqqortoormiit introduces a human perspective to the expedition.
The community provides a distinctive cultural experience within a voyage focused on Greenland's natural and historical heritage.
Following the visit, Silver Endeavour continues toward Scoresby Sund, where three days of exploration await in the world's largest fjord system.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 12: Scoresby Sund: Entering the World's Largest Fjord System
Silver Endeavour begins a three-day exploration of Scoresby Sund, the largest fjord system on Earth.
The region is distinguished by its immense scale, with icebergs comparable in size to buildings floating among enormous glaciers and steep rock walls.
As the vessel navigates these spectacular waterways, travelers can appreciate the dramatic contrasts between Arctic ice, towering cliffs, and the surrounding sea.
The expedition offers opportunities for Zodiac excursions among the ice formations, providing a different perspective on the size and beauty of the landscape.
With three days dedicated to Scoresby Sund, the journey allows time to discover more of this remarkable fjord environment.
The enormous icebergs and glacial scenery create one of the most memorable settings of the entire expedition.
This first day introduces the extraordinary natural features that will characterize the next stage of the Greenland voyage.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 13: Scoresby Sund: Exploring Among Giant Icebergs
Continue navigating Scoresby Sund, where immense ice formations dominate the scenery.
The fjord system is characterized by enormous icebergs, glacier fronts, and towering rock walls that descend toward the sea.
The expedition's extended stay provides another opportunity to appreciate the remarkable scale of these Arctic landscapes.
Zodiac outings among the ice are a central feature of the exploration, allowing travelers to experience the fjord system from a perspective closer to the water.
As Silver Endeavour moves through the region, the surrounding scenery reveals the extraordinary combination of rock, glaciers, and floating ice that defines Scoresby Sund.
By mid-August, nighttime darkness begins returning to the Arctic after the long summer daylight.
This seasonal change creates the possibility of observing the first northern lights, adding another potential natural spectacle to the expedition.
Aurora sightings depend on conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 14: Scoresby Sund: Final Exploration and Northern Lights Possibilities
Spend a third day discovering Scoresby Sund, continuing the expedition through the world's largest fjord system.
The landscape remains dominated by building-sized icebergs, impressive glaciers, and immense rock formations rising above the surrounding waters.
Zodiac excursions provide opportunities to navigate among the ice and appreciate the remarkable scenery from a different perspective.
The extended exploration allows travelers to experience more of the fjord system's spectacular Arctic environment.
As darkness returns during mid-August, the possibility of seeing the northern lights remains another highlight of this part of the voyage.
Although sightings are not guaranteed, the return of nighttime skies creates an opportunity to look for the aurora borealis.
This final day in Scoresby Sund concludes the Greenland exploration phase of the expedition.
Silver Endeavour then continues toward Iceland, where fishing villages, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes will provide a different perspective on the North Atlantic.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 15: Siglufjörður, Iceland: The Historic Herring Capital
Return to Iceland along its northern coastline, arriving in Siglufjörður, a picturesque fishing village surrounded by mountains.
The town is known for its history as the former herring capital, an important chapter in Iceland's maritime heritage.
Today, that history is preserved through the Herring Era Museum, described in the itinerary as one of the country's finest museums.
The visit offers an opportunity to discover the fishing traditions that shaped Siglufjörður and learn more about the community's relationship with the sea.
The surrounding mountains create a scenic setting for this historic coastal settlement.
After the immense fjords and icebergs of Greenland, Siglufjörður introduces a different aspect of northern life, highlighting Iceland's fishing heritage and small-town character.
This stop begins the final section of the expedition, dedicated to exploring the villages, natural landmarks, and coastal landscapes of Iceland.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 16: Ísafjörður: Discovering Iceland's Westfjords
Continue along Iceland's coastline to Ísafjörður, the principal town of the Westfjords, one of the country's most remote and rugged regions.
Surrounded by impressive fjord landscapes, Ísafjörður offers a charming combination of historic architecture, fishing traditions, and dramatic natural scenery.
The town is particularly noted for its historic wooden houses, which contribute to its distinctive character.
Fresh fish is another highlight of the destination, reflecting the importance of the sea to the local community.
The surrounding fjords provide a scenic backdrop for exploring this remote part of Iceland.
After visiting Siglufjörður on the northern coast, Ísafjörður introduces travelers to the landscapes and traditions of the country's western fjord region.
The stop combines coastal heritage and impressive scenery before the expedition continues toward one of the Westfjords' most remarkable natural attractions.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 17: Dynjandi: Iceland's Cascading Waterfall
Visit Dynjandi, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland's Westfjords and a memorable natural highlight of the voyage.
The waterfall descends the mountainside in a series of broad cascades, creating the appearance of an enormous white veil draped across the rock.
Its distinctive stepped formation makes Dynjandi one of the most striking landscapes featured during the Icelandic portion of the expedition.
Travelers have the opportunity to walk uphill alongside the successive cascades toward the main waterfall.
The route provides different perspectives on the flowing water and the surrounding mountain scenery.
After the Arctic icebergs and glaciers encountered in Svalbard and Greenland, Dynjandi offers another impressive example of the natural landscapes explored during the journey.
The visit continues the expedition's discovery of Iceland's Westfjords before Silver Endeavour proceeds toward the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 18: Stykkishólmur: Exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Spend the final full day of the expedition in Stykkishólmur, a charming fishing town located on Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
The peninsula is often described as "Iceland in miniature" because of the remarkable variety of landscapes found within the region.
During the visit, travelers may have the opportunity to navigate among the islands of Breiðafjörður Bay, an area noted for its rich seabird populations.
Another possible activity is exploring the surroundings of Snæfellsjökull, the volcano and glacier that forms one of the peninsula's most distinctive natural features.
These options highlight the diversity of Iceland's western coastline, from marine environments and island scenery to volcanic and glacial landscapes.
Stykkishólmur provides a memorable conclusion to the expedition's destination visits.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner aboard Silver Endeavour, marking the final night of the nineteen-day Arctic journey.
Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 19: Reykjavik: Conclusion of the Grand Arctic Voyage
Silver Endeavour arrives in Reykjavik early in the morning, completing its nineteen-day expedition from Svalbard through Greenland to Iceland.
After eighteen nights aboard the vessel, the journey concludes in Iceland's capital.
The voyage has connected three remarkable Arctic and North Atlantic destinations, beginning with the polar bear habitats and glacial fjords of Svalbard.
Along the way, travelers have encountered the remote volcanic landscapes of Jan Mayen, explored the colorful mountains of King Oscar Fjord, visited Ittoqqortoormiit, and navigated among the immense icebergs of Scoresby Sund.
The final days have introduced Iceland's historic fishing towns, impressive waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.
Following arrival in Reykjavik, disembark from Silver Endeavour and continue your onward journey.
The expedition concludes, bringing to an end an extensive exploration of Svalbard, Greenland, and Iceland.
Meals Included: Breakfast
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19 Day Artic Itinerary Includes
Luxury accommodation in an ocean-view suite
Personalized butler service
All meals onboard, including gourmet dining experiences
Selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
24-hour in-suite dining service
Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi
Gratuities for onboard staff
Guided Zodiac excursions and shore landings
Expedition activities led by experienced naturalist guides
Educational lectures and enrichment programs
Complimentary use of expedition equipment, including parkas on polar voyages
Access to onboard facilities, including fitness center, pool, and observation lounges
Port taxes and fees
Transfers and selected pre- or post-cruise arrangements, according to the booked fare
19 Day Artic Itinerary Does not Include
International flights, unless specifically included in the booked package
Travel insurance and medical evacuation coverage
Passport, visa, and other travel documentation expenses
Personal purchases and onboard boutique shopping
Spa treatments, beauty services, and selected wellness experiences
Medical consultations and onboard medical services
Optional private excursions or activities not included in the expedition program
Additional hotel nights outside the confirmed itinerary
Transfers or independent travel arrangements not specified in the booking
Premium services or special arrangements not covered by the selected fare
19 Day Artic Itinerary Highlights
19-day Arctic expedition: Travel aboard Silver Endeavour on an 18-night journey from Longyearbyen to Reykjavik, departing August 2, 2028.
Four days exploring northern Svalbard: Search for polar bears, walruses, Svalbard reindeer, Arctic foxes, seals, and seabird colonies.
Daily Zodiac excursions in Svalbard: Experience guided landings and exploration among Arctic fjords and glaciers.
The remote volcanic island of Jan Mayen: Discover Beerenberg, the world's northernmost active volcano, and potentially land on black-sand beaches.
Northeast Greenland National Park: Explore the world's largest national park through the colorful mountains and icebergs of King Oscar Fjord.
Arctic wildlife in Greenland: Look for musk oxen, Arctic hares, and Arctic foxes during tundra walks and Zodiac outings.
Traditional Inuit life: Visit the isolated community of Ittoqqortoormiit, where hunting and dog sledding remain important traditions.
Three days in Scoresby Sund: Navigate the world's largest fjord system among enormous icebergs, glaciers, and dramatic rock walls.
Northern lights possibilities: Experience the return of nighttime darkness in mid-August, creating opportunities for aurora borealis sightings.
Iceland's fishing heritage: Visit Siglufjörður, the former herring capital, and Ísafjörður in the remote Westfjords.
Dynjandi waterfall: Admire its spectacular stepped cascades and walk toward the main waterfall.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula exploration: Discover Stykkishólmur, with possible activities in Breiðafjörður Bay or around Snæfellsjökull volcano and glacier.
Itinerary Map
19 Day Arctic cruise activities
Under full instruction from your sea kayaking guide, experience true tranquillity as you paddle through clinking ice floes and realise the enormity of the surrounding scenery. Look out for breaching whales, lounging seals and penguins zipping alongside your kayak. Some experience is required.
Camp out on the ice and experience the silence which blankets the continent by night. This is your chance to completely connect with this ethereal ice world – wrap up warm and embrace the Antarctic elements.
Get a spring in your step when you slip on a pair of snowshoes in Antarctica. Enabling you to easily scale gentle slopes, this unique activity allows you to access hard to reach places and seek out the most impressive views.
Learn to capture wildlife and landscape shots in a small group photography program, including critiquing sessions and editing classes. Plus, Explorer Boat excursions with a dedicated photography expert on landings.
Achieve the best views and photographs from a forward facing Explorer Boats. They allow you to sit comfortably and securely while crackling through the ice-strewn waters. Look out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and whales as you cruise.
It doesn’t get more serene than complimentary yoga classes to the tune of glacial scenery. Join the most unique exercise setting in the world after a day of exploration. Classes are regular but are dependent on weather conditions and swell.