Northern Lights Explorer - Antarctic Cruise

Upon reaching Kirkenes, a representative will meet you and transfer you to the designated group hotel. Upon arrival, visit the hospitality desk to collect luggage tags and consult the ground operations team for pre-embarkation details or information on dining, cash withdrawal, and last-minute shopping. The rest of the day is free, with all meals at your expense.

Accommodation: Thon Hotel Kirkenes (or similar)

In the morning, ensure your cabin luggage has clearly labeled tags with your name and cabin number. Your luggage will be picked up from the hotel, transferred to the port for clearance, and delivered to your cabin before your boarding. Keep valuables with you throughout the day. After a relaxed breakfast, check out, and embark on a Kirkenes excursion. In the late afternoon, transfer to the pier for boarding. Settle into your cabin, attend safety briefings, and experience the excitement of departure. In the evening, join the Welcome Dinner to acquaint yourself with fellow expeditioners, the friendly team, and crew, marking the beginning of an exciting adventure.

Over the upcoming days, we'll explore segments of Norway's remarkable 1,000-kilometer coastline, starting from the northernmost point, North Cape, and heading south. Highlights include the Lofoten Islands, the iconic Mount Torghatten with its distinctive hole, and the potential to witness the spectacular northern lights near North Cape. A Zodiac cruise through the narrow Trollfjord, a visit to the picturesque Lofoten Islands, and an exploration of the Vega archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are among the planned experiences, providing insights into local traditions and wildlife, including eider ducks. The journey continues south of the Arctic Circle with unique opportunities for cultural and natural discoveries.

Experience the crossing to Jan Mayen, accompanied by seabirds and the possibility of whale sightings. Engage in informative talks from our expert team, connect with fellow expeditioners, stay active in the gym, or indulge in a relaxing massage at the wellness center. Keep an eye on the night skies for a chance to witness the northern lights.

The approach to Jan Mayen is breathtaking with the towering Beerenberg volcano, the world’s northernmost active volcano. The northern part of the island offers opportunities for whale and dolphin sightings, showcasing impressive glaciers that extend to the sea. If weather conditions permit, we aim to land at Kvalrossbukta, a sheltered bay on the west coast, often used to resupply the Norwegian weather station at Olonkinbyen. Our plan includes landing in front of the station, allowing us to explore before embarking on a three-hour hike (weather permitting) back to the Greg Mortimer in Kvalrossbukta, where Zodiacs will transport us back to the ship.

The onboard lecture series persists as we navigate towards the rugged East Greenland coast. Engage in discussions about sea ice, glaciers, the distinctive geology of East Greenland, and riveting stories of European exploration. As we sail through the prime zone for northern lights, don't forget to look up and catch glimpses of more than just shimmering stars.

In the upcoming days, we have a range of options to explore the east coast of Greenland, with the Expedition Team leveraging their expertise to adapt the voyage based on prevailing conditions. Expect up to two daily landings or Zodiac excursions, featuring breathtaking scenes of deep fjords, ice-clad peaks, and colossal glaciers. The tundra landscape hosts wildlife like musk oxen and arctic hares, with ancient Thule sites and trappers' huts adding historical intrigue. A visit to the Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit provides insight into local culture. Explore Scoresbysund, the world's largest fjord system, and venture into Kaiser Franz Josef Fjord for rare exploration opportunities. Hiking, sea kayaking, and wildlife sightings, including musk oxen and arctic foxes, contribute to this immersive Arctic experience.

As we sail across the Denmark Strait towards Iceland, be on the lookout for whale blows and capture images of the numerous seabirds accompanying the ship in the constant Arctic winds. The dark night skies offer additional chances to witness the mesmerizing northern lights.

In the upcoming days, we'll explore the Westfjords region, characterized by stunning landscapes featuring dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, towering table-top mountains plunging into the sea, and pristine North Atlantic vegetation. The flexible itinerary includes visits to charming towns like Isafjordur, the renowned Dynjandi waterfall, and picturesque fjords ideal for kayaking, hiking, and birdwatching. We plan to venture into the remote Hornstrandir peninsula, offering deep fjords, towering bird cliffs, breathtaking natural beauty, and chances for wildlife encounters. Húsavik awaits, known as Iceland’s whale-watching capital, promising magical encounters with the diverse whale species frequenting the area.

In the early morning, we sail into Reykjavik, and disembark around 8:00 am. Bid farewell to your expedition team and fellow passengers as you proceed with your onward journey. For your convenience, consider a transfer to Keflavik airport or your centrally located hotel.

Note: We advise against booking flights departing before 12:00 pm on the day of disembarkation, as delays may occur at the end of the voyage.