Reykjavik to Oslo

Formed by volcanic eruptions and settled by Norse Vikings, Iceland is an unforested land of volcanoes, hot springs, mountains, glaciers and northern lights. While its preserved language remains, this is a forward-thinking, eco-friendly country and Reykjavik is its capital where 60% of the population lives. Europe’s second largest island is known for whale watching and its ancient maritime history.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

The outlet for enormous Nuup Kangerlua, the world’s second-largest fjord system, gives Greenland’s capital its name – meaning “cape” in Greenlandic. Nuuk’s natural drama is matched by showstopping cultural attractions, including the Greenland National Museum and Archives, which offer a comprehensive overview of local life from prehistoric times to the modern day. You'll find the museum on the Colonial Harbour, which was founded by Dano-Norwegian missionary, Hans Egede, in 1728, and is home to the nation’s oldest buildings. Also visit Katuaq Cultural Centre, which has a striking design that echoes a rippling Northern Lights display, a natural phenomenon that paints the skies here in winter. It hosts rotating art exhibitions, a cool café and a performance space that taps into the region’s lively local music scene.

Raise your eyes to the skies as you approach Paamiut harbour, because this southern settlement is the home of Greenland’s largest population of white-tailed eagles. The Capital Region port is graced by brightly colored historic houses, and a museum that tells tales of the whaling and fur trading, which formed Paamiut’s nascent economy. Explore a backcountry crisscrossed with ancient hunting trails now welcoming adventurous hikers and cross-country skiers in winter, leading along fjords where glaciers spill down from the Greenland Ice Cap. In warmer months, this is a prime place for whale watching, with minke, fin, orcas and humpback species often seen from shore.

Qaqortoq is your gateway to uncovering Greenland's pristine natural beauty. In the 18th century, European whalers and explorers began to visit the region, leading to increased contact between the Inuit and outsiders. During the island’s Danish colonialization from 1776 to 1945 it became a hub for trade in fur, blubber, and other resources and Danish influences are still evident in the architecture and culture of the town. But this is also a place of vast, natural beauty. Hiking trails await your footsteps amidst untouched wilderness, while kayaking adventures let you glide alongside icebergs glistening in the Arctic sun. With its dramatic landscapes of majestic mountains and serene fjords, this town is a true Arctic gem. The vibrant hues of Qaqortoq's houses stand in stark contrast to the surrounding icy panoramas, creating a picturesque fusion of tradition and modernity. Engage with the local Inuit heritage through art galleries, cultural events, and encounters with friendly residents.

Traversing this waterway at the southern tip of Greenland packs in all the big-hitters of an Arctic voyage: electric-blue glaciers creeping into the calm waters of the fjord, icebergs bobbing like dazzling white deserted islands, tiny clusters of paintbox-bright wooden huts. In places, this 60-mile fjord system narrows to about 1,500ft, so to cruise through it is to slow right down and gaze in awe-struck silence at the towering granite cliffs all around – and perhaps even spot the spouts and flukes of whales in the icy sea.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Tórshavn, named after the Norse god Thor and the most populous of the Faroe Islands, is one of the smallest capitals in the world. Here, classic grass turfed-roof houses and modern buildings stand side by side. This capital may be small in size but Tórshavn's beauty lies in its abundance of mountains and valleys, culinary delights, impressive art scene and an unapologetic love for football---here, Soccer is king.

As the main town of the Shetland Islands, Lerwick offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that appeals to everyone. The town's maritime heritage is everywhere from its bustling harbor to its traditional architecture, creating an authentic, picturesque atmosphere and capturing the very essence of island living in Northern Europe. The island can trace its roots tracing back to Viking times, so visitors should expect a healthy dose of historic charm intertwined with day to day modern living. Quaint streets wind past historic buildings, inviting exploration of local shops, cafes, and cultural sites. The bustling harbor reflects Lerwick's maritime heritage, where fishing boats and yachts create a lively ambiance. Be sure to venture beyond the town, and immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes of the Orkney Islands —ancient standing stones, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches are all within reach. Lerwick's captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and island character makes it a treasure to uncover within the enchanting Orkney archipelago.

For centuries, Stavanger and its surrounding areas have played a leading part in Norway's maritime history - from the time when Viking kings battled in Hafrsfjord, through the period of the "White Sails," steamships and modern super tankers. As a result of its prime geographical location, Stavanger is considered the most important oil city in Norway.

A picturesque gem at the southernmost tip of Norway, Mandal blends glorious beaches with maritime heritage and a vibrant art scene. Just outside the town center, Sjøsanden regularly tops the Norwegian beach charts with its soft sands and shallow waters backed by a nature park and walking trails. Stroll through the Old Town to admire elegant, 19th-century wooden homes and Norway’s largest timber church, Mandal Kirke. Pop into Vigeland House to learn about the celebrated Norwegian artists, Emanuel and Gustav Vigeland, or admire works by painter Amaldus Nielsen alongside seafaring exhibits at the Mandal Museum. For panoramic vistas of the town and coast, head up to the Uranienborg Viewpoint, then mingle with locals in a cozy café over bolle – sweet, pillowy buns – and other decadent pastries.

At the head of the Oslofjord, which boasts many densely wooded islands, lies the impressive Norwegian capital of Oslo. This inspiring city is the site of many of Norway's finest historic and cultural achievements. Towering above our dock near the city center is the imposing Akershus Fortress and Castle. Graceful Viking ships, the Munch Art Museum and Gustav Vigeland's awesome sculpture collection are among the rich treasury of attractions this city has to offer.

Located at the head of the gorgeous Oslofjord, Norway's capital is encircled by wooded hills and snow capped peaks. Explore the striking Oslo Opera House, where you can walk on the rooftop for harbor views. The Viking Ship Museum showcases remarkably preserved ships from the Viking era, while Vigeland Park features over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Visit the Akershus Fortress for a glimpse into medieval history, or stroll along the waterfront Aker Brygge, filled with restaurants and shops.