Longyearbyen to Reykjavik

Longyearbyen, set in the remote wilderness of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago, offers a unique blend of rugged Arctic landscapes and a surprisingly vibrant community. The town serves as the main cruise port, welcoming visitors to explore its distinctive attractions and key landmarks including the Svalbard Museum, where the island's natural and human history come to life, and the iconic Svalbard Church.

For a taste of local life, try traditional dishes like reindeer stew or Arctic char in the town's cozy eateries. Beyond Longyearbyen, the stark beauty of the Arctic awaits. where you can embark on guided tours to witness majestic glaciers, fjords, and the elusive polar bear. The area around Longyearbyen offers opportunities for dog sledding, snowmobile safaris, and, in the right season, viewing the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

Svalbard’s northern region differs from the southern region as it is less influenced by the Norwegian Current coming through the Greenland Sea and as a result shows more ice.

The northern part of Spitsbergen Island has quite a number of impressive fjords, bays and glaciers. The east coast of the island is inlcuded in the Nordaust Svalbard Nature Reserve.

Throughout this region there are several walrus haul-outs, spectacular glaciers, bird cliffs and bird islands, as well as surprising flora in Arctic deserts and the possibility to see polar bears.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Humpback and Minke whales play and feed in the waters around the impressive island of Jan Mayen with its towering ebony peaks and broad black lava beaches. The landscape is dominated to the north by Mt. Beerenberg, an active volcano covered in glacial ice that last erupted in 1985.

With permission from the Norwegian authorities, a landing is possible at this rarely visited outpost. Visitors may walk to the research and weather station, or beyond, for birds-eye views of the meteorological station and the long black sandy eastern shore of the island.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

King Oscar Fjord, located in East Greenland, is renowned for its stunning Arctic landscapes and untouched natural beauty. This expansive fjord is flanked by towering cliffs, majestic glaciers, and rugged mountains, offering breathtaking views of Greenland’s pristine wilderness.

Exploring King Oscar Fjord by boat allows visitors to witness diverse wildlife, including seals, whales, and various seabirds. The fjord’s remote location makes it a perfect spot for hiking and photography, providing a unique opportunity to experience the raw beauty of the Arctic. With its dramatic scenery and serene atmosphere, King Oscar Fjord is an exceptional destination for adventurers seeking solitude and spectacular vistas in one of the world's most remote regions.

Ittoqqortoormiit is one of the remotest inhabited places in the world. It is bordered to the south by the vast Greenland National Park, which, at 18,000km, is the largest national park in the world. To the northwest is the world’s deepest multi-branched fjord system, Scoresby Sound.

Covered with ice and snow for nine months of the year, you will be able to discover the ancestral way of life of the last hunters of the polar region. As soon as the thickness of the ice floe allows, they set out on the trail of walruses, seals, narwhals, musk ox and polar bears, travelling by traditional dog sleds.

Scoresby Sund, located on Greenland's eastern coast, is the largest fjord system in the world, offering stunning, unspoiled Arctic scenery. The town of Ittoqqortoormiit serves as the gateway to this majestic region, where towering icebergs and dramatic cliffs create a breathtaking landscape. The local museum provides insights into the history and culture of the Inuit people who inhabit this remote area.

For adventure seekers, Scoresby Sund offers opportunities for kayaking among the icebergs, hiking through rugged terrain, and wildlife spotting, including polar bears and whales. The pristine environment and serene beauty of Scoresby Sund make it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.

The tiny town of Siglufjordur is located in the scenic north of Iceland, tucked away by a jagged wall of mountain peaks. Only a single-lane road tunnel, bored through the snow-capped mountains, provides a land link with the rest of the country.

Siglufjordur is an area of spectacular natural beauty. The mountains and the fjords are awe-inspiring and there are numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and recreation. The closeness to nature is always within reach, whether you wish to go on a hike, play golf or take a boat out around the scenic fjord.

Although remotely located in northwest Iceland and surrounded by ruggedly beautiful fjords, Isafjordur is surprisingly cosmopolitan. Surrounded on three sides by remarkable mountains jutting upwards around a gorgeous bay, this is one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever visit. Smaller ships will dock at this port, while larger ships will anchor offshore.

Top Things to Do in Isafjordur:

• visit the Osvor and Maritime Museums
• look for Puffins on Vigur Island
• journey to the Dynjandi waterfall
• cruise through the Glacier Fjords
  

Iceland is well known for its spectacular waterfalls. The iconic Dynjandi waterfall, located in the Westfjords region, is regarded as one of Iceland’s most impressive and majestic waterfalls.

At the top, the cascading water is roughly 100 feet wide and tumbles down about 330 feet into the fjord.

Its name Dynjandi means, 'the thundering one' and its vast size, enormous sound, and sheer force is overwhelming. It has also been nicknamed, ‘The Bridal Veil’ because of the way the water sprays and spreads over the rocks.

Stykkishólmur, located in western Iceland at the northern end of the Snæfellsnes peninsula, is the commerce centre for the area. Its natural harbour allowed this town to become an important trading centre early in Iceland’s history. The town centre boasts beautiful and well-preserved old houses from earlier times.

A very environmentally conscious community, it was the first in Europe to get the EarthCheck environmental certification, the first municipality in Iceland to start fully sorting its waste, and the first town in Iceland to receive the prestigious Blue flag eco-label for its harbour.

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Begin your day exploring the striking Hallgrímskirkja church, with its panoramic city views from the tower. Wander through the colorful streets of the Old Harbor, where you can find quirky shops, cozy cafes, and stunning views of Mount Esja.

Don't miss the Harpa Concert Hall, an architectural marvel on the waterfront, or a visit to the National Museum for a deep dive into Icelandic history. Recharge at one of Reykjavik's many geothermal pools, like the Blue Lagoon, just a short drive from the city. Wrap up your visit with a stroll along the scenic Sun Voyager sculpture, capturing the spirit of adventure and discovery.