| Day 1 Embarkation: Reykjavik |
The August 22, 2012 departure embarks in Reykjavik, and this itinerary reflects embarkation in Reykjavik (with a complimentary hotel stay in Reykjavik the night of August 21). The itinerary is operated in reverse when embarking in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, either August 9, or September 4, 2012, or August 4, 2013.
Depending on your airline schedule, you may have some time to explore the town before embarkation. Meals: Dinner |
Arrive in Reykjavik (or Longyearbyen, depending on dates)
|
|
| Day 2 Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) |
Named long ago for Irishmen (Westmen) enslaved by the medieval Norse-Gaels, this small archipelago, known in Icelandic as Vestmannaeyjar, is one of Iceland's gems. Here you'll learn of the area's fascinating history and famed volcanic geology while touring the town of Heimaey. There's also a good chance you'll spot large colonies of puffins on one of the outlying islands. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Sergey Vavilov / Sea Spirit |
Imagine Iceland of medieval times
|
|
| Day 3 - 4 At Sea in the Denmark Strait |
Sail through the Denmark Strait en route to Greenland's mysterious eastern shore. Your onboard expedition team keeps you informed and entertained with presentations about area wildlife, especially the seabirds you'll see soaring above your ship. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Sergey Vavilov / Sea Spirit |
Sail with the midnight sun in the Denmark Strait
|
|
| Day 5 - 8 Scoresbysund, Eastern Greenland |
During your tour of Greenland's remote eastern coast, you'll enjoy sea-level Zodiac cruises and shore visits to several locations. Sail the ice edge searching for walrus and polar bear. Visit the remains of ancient Thule settlements, and keep an eye out for grazing musk oxen, because 40% of the world's population of this fascinating mammal lives on the east coast of Greenland. Finally, sail through spectacular Scoresbysund, birthplace of many icebergs, and -- some say -- the most beautiful fjord system in the world. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Sergey Vavilov / Sea Spirit |
You'll see herds of grazing musk oxen
|
|
| Day 9 - 10 Greenland Sea |
While sailing the historic Greenland Sea, you'll learn about the wildlife and history of Spitsbergen, your next stop. On deck you'll learn to identify seabirds on the wing. Share photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar -- watch a movie -- there are many things to do at sea. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Sergey Vavilov / Sea Spirit |
Relax and enjoy the views on the Greenland Sea (photo by J. Strzelecki)
|
|
| Day 11 - 13 Exploring Spitsbergen |
Largest of the Norwegian-ruled Svalbard islands, Spitsbergen is famed for its abundant wildlife and austere beauty. Here you'll visit spectacular glacier fronts, steep-walled fjords, and the tiny international research community of Ny Alesund. Wildlife-viewing opportunities include walrus, polar bear, and the unique Spitsbergen reindeer. Birders will thrill to see Arctic Terns, skuas, Long-tailed Ducks, kittiwakes, and Glaucous Gulls. As an added bonus, when conditions are right, you could sail within 10° of the North Pole! Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Sergey Vavilov / Sea Spirit |
You'll see abundant wildlife on and around Spitsbergen
|
|
| Day 14 Disembarkation in Longyearbyen |
If you boarded the ship in Reykjavik (as described in this itinerary), you will disembark in Longyearbyen. If you embark in Longyearbyen, you will disembark in Reykjavik.
Want to stay longer, or arrive earlier? Contact us for seamless, worry-free booking of all trip extensions. Meals: Breakfast |
Disembark in Longyearbyen and consider staying a day or two
|
|
-
