Hot Springs and eternal Ice - Tour 1

Use your leisure time in Reykjavik to discover the unique charm of the world’s northernmost capital and book one of our pre-programmes (prices on request). Or explore the sights of south and west Iceland on a self-drive road trip (prices upon request). The SEAVENTURE docks in Old Reykjavik Harbor in the heart of the city, a five-minute stroll from the main squares, shopping and dining. The ship departs in the late afternoon, we recommend an overnight stay in Reykjavik.

Depending on the weather Arnarstapi or Grundarfjordur is the starting point of our adventures on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Often called “Iceland in Miniature” because of its diverse landscapes, the area is home to bird-rich Breidafjordur Bay and Snaefellsjokull glacier. This glacier sits atop of a 700,000-year-old dormant volcano that was featured in the Jules Verne novel Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Today‘s destination is Isafjordur, an idyllic town in the Westfjords region. This secluded peninsula is connected to the Icelandic mainland by only a narrow strip of land and includes many roadless areas where cars have never been. The landscape includes jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer table mountains that plunge into the sea and pristine North Atlantic vegetation. 

In the morning we visit Flatey Island. It’s a natural haven for birdlife and home to the arctic tern and puffins, which can be observed at close quarters. Around lunch time we steam further into the Skjalfandi Bay and visit Husavik.

Husavik is often called the “Whale watching capital” of Iceland. The town’s offshore waters are home to 15 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 variety of birds. Watching these graceful ocean giants in their Arctic habitat is an unforgettable experience.

Iceland’s East Fjords are best explored from the impossibly picturesque port of Seydisfjordur, nestled between the sea and steep mountains. Activities include hiking, horseback riding and exploring the natural beauties of the East.

The fishing village of Djupivogur is today’s starting point to explore the Berufjördur fjord by kayak (optional). Go on a four wheel-drive Jeep tour (optional) or take a boat trip in the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon (optional). Icebergs of all shapes and sizes are floating in the water - an unforgettable adventure.

Located off Iceland’s South Coast, the Westman Islands were formed by submarine volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. We go ashore on Heimaey, the only inhabited island, where half-buried houses remain from a violent 1973 eruption. 

After breakfast we reach the harbor of Iceland's capital Reykjavik. Explore inland areas like the Golden Circle and its famous Gullfoss waterfall or other post-cruise programs. Or simply hang out in Reykjavik, a perfect city for those who want to refresh their spirit in a place that combines invigorating outdoor activities, great food and world-class entertainment. The ship departs in the evening for our next Greenland adventure.

Today we sail across the Denmark Strait towards Greenland, following the same maritime route used by Norse settlers more than 900 years ago. Enroute you can attend fascinating presentations by our Expedition Team members to prepare for your visit to Greenland. Or of course, you can choose to just relax and watch whales, dolphins and seabirds from the deck or from your cabin.

The island is characterized by several glaciers, jagged peaks, rivers, lakes and waterfalls. There are vast green valleys and deep fjords with newly calved icebergs dropping off the ice cap into the sea. Tasiilaq, the largest town in East Greenland, is located on Ammassalik Island. With its population of approximately 2,000 people, the town is the gateway to explore East Greenland. 

When conditions are favorable, we travel along the 70 mile (112 km) long Prince Christian Sound which connects the Labrador and Irminger Seas. In this narrow, often ice choked channel, we come so close to icebergs you can almost reach out and touch one. The force of Greenland’s massive inland ice cap pushes glaciers towards the sea, where large chunks of ice break off and become floating icebergs.

With 3.000 inhabitants, Qaqortoq is the largest settlement in South Greenland. In this charming town you can find lots of strikingly beautiful colonial buildings, dating from the establishment of the town in 1775. The area has a rich history, as it has been inhabited continuously since prehistoric times. You can still see traces of Thule and Norse cultures throughout the region. 

Qeqertarsuatsiat is a small settlement with approx. 200 residents, mainly living from hunting and fishing. Visit the small mine and learn more about the extraction of precious stones.

Nuuk is the capital of Greenland and its oldest town. Founded in 1728 by Danish-Norwegian missionary Hans Egede, the city combines Arctic traditions and European urbanity. With around 16,000 inhabitants, Nuuk is considered a modern, bustling metropolis compared to the rest of Greenland.

Sisimiut has a turbulent history, especially during the 18th century when the first Danish colony was destroyed by Dutch whalers who wanted to establish their own settlement. The Danes fought back and eventually recaptured Sisimiut after several fierce battles in the 1730s. about the domination of the city. Heavy fighting between Dutch whalers and various European nations took place over the years. Because of itsthe flourishing shrimp industry, Sisimiut is one of theGreenland’s most prosperous richest cities today.in the country.

Our next stop is Ilulissat, which means “iceberg” in Greenlandic. And with good reason, as the town is located at the mouth of the iceberg-filled Ilulissat Ice Fjord. Delight in the thunderous spectacle when icebergs break off from Sermeq Kujalleq glacier and plunge into the fjord. 

The small settlement of Qeqertarsuaq is located on the south coast of Disko Island. In 1773 the first whaling base was founded. Whaling has been of great importance to the town over the past two centuries. Hunting and fishing are still the primary occupations for the island’s inhabitants.

In the morning we reach the 120-mile (190 km) Kangerlussuaq Fjord and the town of the same name. It’s time to say goodbye to the SEAVENTURE.