Grand Arctic Traverse

When Roald Amundsen recruited members for his famous expeditions, he travelled to Tromsø in order to find men (yes it was men only in those days!) with navigational experience in icy oceans; men that knew how to survive with minimal means in the Arctic. Today, Tromsø is the refined version of itself 100 years ago, and the Gateway to the Arctic.

We reach the Vesterålen Islands early next morning. As we sail along the coast there are strong chances of spotting whales from the deck, as they usually feed in the area. Myre is one of the largest fishing villages in Norway, and a place to experience local culture and enjoy hikes. In the evening we will sail through the narrow Raftsund between Lofoten and Vesterålen, with mountains stretching up 1 200 metres straight from the sea. You will then experience something extraordinary as we sail into the pristine Trollfjord. The Midnight Sun and sea eagles circling around the mountain peaks will make it even more memorable.

The picturesque fishing village of Henningsvær is comprised of a number of islets spread amongst the waters of the Vestfjord. Come ashore and discover the most well-preserved architecture of the traditional Norwegian villages, charming cafés, small restaurants, and the Hus Gallery 'an art gallery featuring Norwegian art'. In the afternoon we sail with the tidewater current through the 18-kilometre long Gimsøy strait.

This is an excellent day to participate in expert lectures from your Expedition Team.

Jan Mayen is the most isolated island in the Northern Hemisphere. Tourists visiting and actually landing on the shores of Jan Mayen are extremely rare. We will do our best to make it possible to set foot on this exotic outpost.

We will be sailing along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a tectonic plate that separates the Eurasian and North American continents. This mid-ocean ridge is a part of the longest underwater mountain range in the world.

Grímsey is where the Arctic Circle touches Iceland, and we will use our Polarcirkel boats to reach this green and grassy island. The Arctic Circle cuts across the island and you can step across that line.

As we reach the west region of Iceland, you will understand why this area is dubbed 'The Sagaland'. Take your time to explore Stykkishólmur’s diversity with lava and rock for­mations, glaciers, volcanic activity, and hot and cold springs. Participate in a range of exciting optional excursions such as kayaking, hiking and horse riding.

Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital city. Norwegian settlers named the place Reykjavik (meaning 'Smoky Bay') after the columns of steam that rose from the hot springs in the area and made such a profound impression. The surroundings offer fantastic natural beauty with geysers, mountains, glaciers and geothermal baths.

While crossing the Denmark Strait we sail in the wake of the great Norse settlers who left the shores of Iceland more than 900 years ago.

We sail through the narrow channel of Prins Christian Sund and enjoy the spectacular scenery here. If the channel is blocked with ice, we will sail around Nunap Isua (Cape Farewell).

In Qassiarsuk you will find green fields dotted with white sheep, lush vegetation and busy farmsteads; this forms a colourful contrast to the icescapes at sea. Qassiarsuk is also where Viking Erik the Red built his Brattahlíð estate in 982 A.D. It is a great area to try optional activities such as kayaking, hiking, or exploring the town on foot.

In Hvalsey you will find some of the best-preserved ruins from the Norse period; Hvalsey Church was probably built in the 14th century. We use Polarcirkel boats to get ashore so you can explore the area for yourself. Many consider Qaqortoq one of the most beautiful towns in Greenland due to the colourful houses. The excursions we offer here include an interesting visit to the only tannery in Greenland, a city walk with guide, and a kaffemik to meet the locals and share a traditional open-house coffee meet.

Nuuk is the oldest town in Greenland. It is situated at the mouth of one of the largest and most spectacular fjord systems in the world. City tours and hikes are among the optional excursions.

The Disko Bay area offers fantastic sailing with wildlife and spectacular nature. Colourful villages cling to rough, rocky hills at the feet of the mountains surrounding the inland ice. Join excursions such as kayaking, hiking or other activities. In Sisimiut you can watch the artists make jewellery and crafts from bone, leather and metal, join a sightseeing tour or hike, and taste Greenlandic specialities in a local restaurant.

Ilulissat is set in marvellous surroundings at Ilulissat Icefjord. The area was added to on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2004. You will see enormous icebergs run aground at the mouth of the fjord, just outside the town. There are a variety of optional shore excursions including hikes, a town walk with a historical theme and a boat tour to the Icefjord.

The small settlement of Itilleq has a population of 130; they are mainly involved in hunting and fishing. Visit one of the families that live here, buy some of, the area's arts and crafts, or even enjoy a game of football with the locals.

Kangerlussuaq is situated at the end of the Kangerlussuaq fjord and this is where the expedition ends. After disembarking you can join an excursion to the ice cap before you take the night flight to Copenhagen.

Your flight arrives in Copenhagen early in the morning.