Ultimate Arctic Odyssey: Svalbard, Lofoten, East Greenland & Iceland | 18 Days

Sail aboard Discoverer on an 18-day / 17-night Arctic expedition from Longyearbyen in Svalbard to Reykjavík, Iceland, traveling through six Arctic regions across three countries on what Polar Latitudes describes as its most comprehensive Arctic expedition. The voyage begins amid Svalbard’s protected landscapes before continuing to Bjørnøya (Bear Island) and Norway’s Lofoten Islands, including Svolvær and Reine. Discoverer then crosses the North Atlantic toward remote Jan Mayen and East Greenland, where the itinerary includes Ittoqqortoormiit, Northeast Greenland National Park and the Blosseville Coast. Throughout the journey, guests encounter remote wilderness, fjords, glaciers, icebergs, wildlife-rich environments and isolated communities before crossing the Denmark Strait and completing the expedition in Reykjavík. Travel Tips: Because the expedition combines shipboard travel with guided walks, hikes, Zodiac landings and shore excursions, prepare for a journey that moves between onboard activities and outdoor exploration. Make use of the expedition briefings and follow Expedition Team guidance, particularly during Zodiac excursions and landings. The East Greenland itinerary is deliberately flexible, so travelers should be prepared for daily plans to change according to weather, wind, sea and ice conditions. Wildlife-watching opportunities occur both during exploration and on sea days, making time on the outer decks part of the overall experience. Weather Preparedness: Prepare for outdoor exploration in Arctic environments where weather, wind, sea and ice conditions can influence daily operations. The included waterproof expedition jacket and loaned rubber-style muck boots are relevant to the voyage’s Zodiac landings, shore exploration and changing expedition conditions. Because the itinerary specifically notes that East Greenland operations depend on prevailing conditions, travelers should be ready for adjustments to planned activities and destinations. The voyage also takes place during late summer, with darker nights noted as the expedition approaches East Greenland. Fitness Requirements: The itinerary includes guided walks, hikes, Zodiac landings and shore exploration, while hiking and walking opportunities are specifically described in the Lofoten Islands. Travelers should therefore be prepared for periods of walking and other active outdoor exploration as part of the expedition experience. Zodiac-based activities also involve transitioning between shipboard travel and exploration from the water or shore. The source does not provide a specific fitness level, medical requirement, hiking distance, elevation or difficulty rating.