Iceland and East Greenland Explorer (Ocean Victory)

Velkomin! Welcome to Iceland. Your adventure begins in the capital of Reykjavik, renowned for its contemporary Nordic cuisine and friendly, laidback vibe. This afternoon, you’ll board your ship – the Ocean Victory. Settle into your cabin, then you’ll have a safety and orientation briefing. After, join your Expedition Team on the outer decks as you set sail along the Reykjanes Peninsula towards the Westman Islands. Raise a glass to the start of your Arctic adventure!

Spend today exploring Heimaey – the largest of the volcanic Westman Islands. You'll join a local guide to visit the lava fields of Eldfell Volcano, which was the site of an infamous eruption during 1973 during which locals fought back, using seawater jets to cool the lava. Or maybe grab your binoculars and head to the sea cliffs to spot puffins, fulmars and gannets. Weather permitting, you’ll cruise past the UNESCO World Heritage-listed island of Surtsey as you depart Heimaey. This volcanic island is used strictly for scientific research, acting as a ‘natural laboratory’ that allows scientists to study plant and animal life without human interference.

Arrive at the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, sometimes called ‘Iceland in miniature’ due to its diversity of landscapes including beaches, lava fields, volcanoes and glaciers. Head to the charming fishing village of Grundarfjordur, where the bustling harbour is lined with colourful houses. Looming over the town is Kirkjufell Mountain (aka ‘Church Mountain’), famous for its appearance in Game of Thrones and its distinctive steeple-like shape. You can opt to go on a hike to explore this striking landscape. Grundarfjordur is also the gateway to Snaefellsjokull National Park, home to the glacier-capped Snaefellsjokull Volcano.

Venture to Vigur Island, located in the calm waters of the Westfjords. Some of Iceland’s largest bird colonies live on this small island – you’re likely to see nesting puffins, eider ducks and Arctic terns. This afternoon, you’ll visit the busy harbour town of Isafjordur – the capital of the Westfjords. Then, sail across the North Atlantic Ocean, headed for east Greenland.

Cross the Denmark Strait – a narrow passage that's teeming with marine life – as you approach Greenland. As you sail, you can head to the outer decks with your binoculars for some wildlife spotting, join the Expedition Team to learn about the ecology, history and wildlife of this region or simply relax in the onboard hot tubs.

Stretching between Ammassalik Island and the Greenland ice sheet is the vast Sermilik Fjord. This fjord’s name simply means ‘icy’ in Greenlandic, and you’ll soon learn why. Take in the sweeping landscape, filled with drifting icebergs that have broken off from the large glaciers that lie further inland. Take to the water on Zodiacs to explore this icy realm and remember to bring your binoculars – this is one of the best spots in Greenland to see whales!

This morning, visit the historic site of Ikateq, also known as Bluie East Two. Here, you’ll see the ruins of an abandoned US WWII airbase including the airfield, port, hangars and supplies. This afternoon, you’ll visit the village of Kuummiit. Meet some of the locals and get an insight into Greenlandic culture as you take in the memorable landscape of the Ammassalik Fjord.

Visit Tasiilaq – the only town on Ammassalik Island and the centre of east Greenlandic language and culture. The town was founded as a trading post in 1894. Greenland’s shamanic traditions are deeply held here, including the art form of tupilak – carved figurines of mythical creatures, believed to have protective qualities. Maybe peruse the local souvenir shops for one of these small figures of your own. Witness the long-held cultural traditions of the local Tunumiit people as you watch drum dancing and browse traditional handicrafts at the Stunk Artisan Workshop. You might also venture just out of town for a hike across the tundra, maybe meeting some sled dogs along the way.

Say farewell to Greenland and begin the journey back towards Reykjavik. Compare your favourite photos from the trip with your fellow travellers and head to the outer decks for your final glimpses of the Arctic scenery. Gather with your group and the Expedition Team to celebrate the incredible adventure you’ve shared with a slideshow of moments captured from the trip during a farewell cocktail party with the captain. Here’s to the adventure of a lifetime!

After breakfast, you’ll disembark your ship. A shuttle transfer to Reykjavik Airport is available. If you’d like to extend your stay in Reykjavik, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.