Iceland, Jan Mayen, Spitsbergen – Arctic Islands Discovery (Eastbound)

Discover Iceland's modern capital

Your Arctic expedition cruise starts in Reykjavík, a city full of art, culture and history. It's well worth spending time here before you set sail. You can visit Iceland's most famous geothermal spa – the Blue Lagoon – and experience the blend of silica, algae and minerals in its warm waters. 

In the city centre, stroll along Laugavegur, the main shopping street, then head towards the striking Hallgrimskirkja church. Or why not explore the city's galleries and museums.  

MS Fram awaits you in Reykjavík Harbour. Collect your complimentary expedition jacket, settle into your cabin and get ready for adventure. 

If you'd like to discover more of Iceland, book our Pre-Programme to extend your stay.   

Gateway to spectacular Snæfellsnes 

It's as though time has stood still at Stykkishólmur, the small fishing town in Breiðafjörður bay, where colourful houses stand out in contrast to distant mountains.  

Nearby, you'll find Snæfellsnes Peninsula National Park, with the striking, ice-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano at the peninsula's western tip. It's nicknamed 'Little Iceland' for its array of volcanic landscapes. 

At the national park you can visit Djúpalónssandur's black sand beach and the Lóndrangar basalt cliffs. Or why not ride a snowcat to the top of the Snæfellsjökull glacier or take a guided coastal hike with a glacial cave tour. 

A stunning beach, waterfalls and superb birdwatching 

Patreksfjörður is unforgettably beautiful. Here, you'll learn all about the fishing traditions in Europe's most westerly village. 

Explore the surrounding area on a hike through the fjords or visit Rauðasandur beach and see the seals. You can also join a tour to the Dynjandi waterfalls – six falls combined that together make the largest and most spectacular in the Westfjords.  

Birdwatchers shouldn't miss a visit to Látrabjarg, where puffins, Northern Gannets, guillemots and razorbills cling to Europe's largest bird cliff. 

Hot springs, waterfalls and volcanic moonscapes 

Our expedition cruise continues to Iceland's 'Northern capital', Akureyri, surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes. It's also one of the best places in Europe to spot whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. 

Walk around the city and stop at the peaceful oasis of the botanical gardens. You can learn more about the city and life in the Arctic at the Akureyri and Norðurslóð museums.  

You can also visit the impressive Goðafoss waterfall; Mývatn Nature Baths; or Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord. Or why not go horse riding or explore off-road in a 4x4. 

Cross the Arctic Circle and see Atlantic Puffins 

Grímsey is steeped in folklore, including tales of the island's first settler, Grímur. This remote and windswept island, home to just 60 people, is famous for two things: its Atlantic Puffin colonies, and the fact that the Arctic Circle cuts right across it. 

We'll reach Grímsey in our small expedition boats. There, you'll enjoy a special Arctic Circle crossing ceremony. Why not hike to the Orbis et Globus sculpture? It's a huge concrete sphere that's repositioned each year to fit the northward-moving Arctic Circle. 

Enjoy a restorative day as we sail to Jan Mayen  

A day cruising through Arctic waters will allow you to relax and rejuvenate for the days ahead. Enjoy panoramic views and chat with fellow guests in the comfort of the Explorer Lounge & Bar. Or why not take a soak in a hot tub out on deck while looking for seabirds. 

Don't miss the fascinating lectures given by members of the Expedition Team, which cover topics such as local history, geology or Arctic wildlife. Visit the Science Center for more in-depth insights into Jan Mayen and Spitsbergen, and maybe participate in a Citizen Science project that contributes to ongoing scientific research. 

Visit an active volcano that's a haven for birdlife  

Jan Mayen has no permanent residents and visits to the island are rare. In fact, we're one of the few to attempt landings here. If conditions allow, you'll be setting foot in one of Earth's most remote places. 

Jan Mayen's surreal, moss- and lichen-streaked landscape is dominated by the Beerenberg volcanic cone. It's the world's northernmost active volcano and last erupted in 1985. 

You won't see land mammals here, but the island is designated an Important Bird Area, supporting large populations of Northern Fulmars, Brünich's Guillemots and Little Auks. Look out for abundant marine life in the surrounding waters too, including whales and seals.  

Unwind and prepare for more adventure  

Join the Expedition Team in the Science Center to learn more about the spectacular Arctic wildlife and scenery you've seen so far and find out about what you can expect to experience next in Svalbard. 

A day at sea is also an ideal opportunity to sort through the images on your camera and pick up some tips from our onboard photographer as we cruise towards Spitsbergen. 

Experience pristine Arctic wilderness  

Explore the natural beauty and rugged tundra of Northwest Spitsbergen National Park. In this wilderness of steep mountains, stark glaciers and beautiful offshore islands, we'll scan for animals of the Arctic – whales, seals, walruses and reindeer.  

As one of those rare parts of the world where natural beauty and fascinating history combine, you'll also encounter cultural relics from Svalbard's first explorers. 

Be ready for adventure; we'll seize any opportunity to launch our kayaks or use our small expedition boats and go ashore to hike or participate in a beach clean up.  

Ending your adventure on a high 

Your Arctic Islands expedition cruise ends back in Longyearbyen. You'll return home knowing more about Arctic animals, history, polar ice and climate change than when you arrived – and you'll have memories of an incredible experience. 

Before your flight back to Oslo, you'll have time to discover more of Longyearbyen and shop for keepsakes. Many guests opt to bring home a beautiful, warm Svalbard sweater.