Four Arctic Islands:
The Northbound Journey
13 Days / 12 Nights On Board
Reykjavik to Longyearbyen
Experience the Diversity of the Arctic in Iceland, East Greenland, Jan Mayen, and Svalbard
Experience the vast wilderness and diversity of the Arctic on this thrilling voyage to four Arctic islands. We begin in Reykjavík, the ideal gateway to Iceland’s land of ice and fire, before crossing the Denmark Strait to East Greenland and into Scoresbysund – Earth’s largest fjord system. With immense glaciers, blooming tundra, and mountains rising straight out of the icy sea, it is one of the most spectacular locations anywhere in the Arctic. We also call at Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the most remote communities on Earth, before sailing to Jan Mayen, an isolated island crowned by Mt Beerenberg, the world’s northernmost volcano. Finally, we reach Svalbard, home to walrus, reindeer, puffins, and polar bears, where our voyage concludes in Longyearbyen, the northernmost town on Earth.
Expedition Dates
Itinerary Overview
- Day 1: All aboard in Reykjavik!
- Day 2: At sea, en route to East Greenland
- Day 3: Blosseville Coast
- Day 4: Expedition Scoresbysund
- Days 5: Ittoqqortoormiit
- Day 6: At sea, en route to Jan Mayen
- Day 7: Jan Mayen
- Day 8 & 9: At Sea, en Route to Svalbard
- Day 10: Expedition South Svalbard
- Day 11: Expedition Northwest Spitzbergen
- Day 12: Kongsfjorden Area
- Day 13: Longyearbyen, Disembarkation
Day 1: Embarkation – Reykjavik, Iceland
Hallgrímskirkja Church towers over Reykjavik, a vibrant city known for Nordic cuisine, unique museums, and excellent shopping. Such a bustling capital will welcome you to your expeditions across the Arctic! Your expedition ship Ocean Albatros awaits you in the harbor; toast your departure from civilization as you sail into the Arctic wilderness, on course for adventure!
Day 2: At Sea, En Route to East Greenland
Leaving Iceland astern, Ocean Albatros sets course across the Denmark Strait toward the wild coast of East Greenland. These productive waters, where currents from the Arctic mingle with the northern reaches of the Gulf Stream, are rich in seabirds and marine life, so keep watch from the deck for fulmars, whales, and the first drifting icebergs. Settle into life aboard as the Expedition Team begins its program of lectures, or simply relax in the spa, sauna, or panoramic hot tubs as you sail toward the world’s largest fjord system.
Day 3: Blosseville Coast
The Ocean Albatros will sail south along Greenland’s Blosseville Coast, a rugged landscape shaped by volcanic activity around 50 million years ago. First surveyed by explorer Ejnar Mikkelsen, this area has long been navigated by the Inuit. If conditions allow, we may land in this now-uninhabited region of breathtaking beauty.
Day 4: Expedition Scoresbysund
Venturing deep into the maze of fjords and islands that comprise Scoresbysund, it is easy to see why this region is spoken of with awe by even experienced explorers! The exact locations we visit in Scoresbysund will be dictated by Mother Nature – this far north, all human activity is subject to wind, sea, and ice conditions. Options include the Bjørne Islands, a labyrinth of skerries which trap vast icebergs in their rocky net, the sweeping basalt mountains of Cape Brewster, and the abandoned remains of European and Inuit settlements. Wherever we visit in the depths of Scoresbysund, adventure is guaranteed!
Day 5: Ittoqqortoormiit
The only settlement in this region, Ittoqqortoormiit is among the most remote communities on Earth. While the establishment of the town by Danish authorities in 1925 was challenging, residents continue a subsistence hunting lifestyle, essential when supply ships arrive only once or twice per year. Ittoqqortoormiit is a town with a strong sense of community and traditional culture, hosting an excellent museum, a beautiful traditional church, and locals often welcome visitors wearing colourful traditional costumes. Ittoqqortoormiit is the perfect introduction to the culture and lifestyle of Greenland.
Day 6: At Sea, En Route to Jan Mayen
From Scoresbysund, Ocean Albatros will sail on towards Jan Mayen. Cold currents drifting down from the Arctic Ocean mix with the last gasp of the Gulf Stream, creating vast biological productivity. During sea days, guests can enjoy fascinating lectures, indulgent spa treatments, or simply relax and watch seabirds from the ship’s hot tubs.
Day 7: Jan Mayen
The active volcanic island of Jan Mayen is on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the ‘spine’ of the Atlantic Ocean. This enigmatic and isolated island is the only active volcano in Norway, and the northernmost active volcano on Earth. Jan Mayen is inhabited by only around 18 people, a mixture of scientists and Norwegian troops. The volcanic origin is visible all over with cinder cones, lava flows, and the Fuji-esque peak of Beerenberg looming above, while creeping tundra plants and squabbling seabirds eke out a living in the rugged cliffs.
Days 8 & 9: At Sea, En Route to Svalbard
Leaving Jan Mayen astern, Ocean Albatros sets a northeasterly course across the Greenland Sea toward the high Arctic archipelago of Svalbard. These are rich waters, where cold polar currents meet the last of the Gulf Stream to fuel abundant marine life. Join the Expedition Team for lectures on the wildlife and history ahead, take part in citizen science, or relax in the spa and panoramic hot tubs as the polar seascape drifts by and Svalbard’s snow-crowned peaks draw near.
Day 10: Expedition South Svalbard
In Svalbard, our expedition enters the greener, warmer fjords of Bellsund and Hornsund, nourished by Atlantic currents. These fertile valleys support reindeer, Arctic foxes, nesting seabirds, and drifting icebergs from nearby glaciers. Rich in wildlife and history, the area offers highlights like Alkhjornet’s bird cliffs and the historic sites of Calypsobyen and Bamsebu, making it one of Svalbard’s most diverse and captivating regions.
Day 11: Expedition Northwest Spitzbergen
Northwest Svalbard, a National Park since 1973, preserves a rich history of early Arctic exploration and whaling. First visited by William Barents in 1596, the area became a hub for Dutch and English whalers, whose haunting remnants, such as the blubber ovens and graves of young sailors at Smeerenburg, remain visible. Now heavily protected, the region has been reclaimed by nature, hosting Arctic flowers, seabirds, walrus, and polar bears, making it once again a pristine wilderness and haven for wildlife.
Day 12: Kongsfjorden Area
During the Arctic “night,” we sail past Prins Karls Forland to the stunning Kongsfjord, framed by glaciers and the dramatic Three Crowns mountains. Our next and last stop is Ny-Ålesund, Earth’s northernmost settlement, known for its scientific stations and historic role as a base for legendary polar explorers like Amundsen and Nansen. This remote outpost continues to support vital research amid its breathtaking surroundings.
During our time at sea approaching Longyearbyen, relax and reflect on your thrilling Arctic adventure. Attend final lectures from the Expedition Team, relive your adventure at the voyage slideshow, and celebrate your voyage with new friends at the Captain’s Farewell Cocktail Party.
Day 13: Disembarkation in Longyearbyen
Arrive in Longyearbyen, Svalbard—the northernmost town on Earth. Despite its remote Arctic location, Longyearbyen offers warm Nordic hospitality. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by crisp polar air, dramatic mountain views, and a polar bear warning sign reminding visitors of their wild new location. After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Expedition Team, and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime.
Activities
Sign up at time of booking - 20% non-refundable deposit required.
Sign up on board. Available to all guests on all voyages.
Important Details
Prices based on twin occupancy except for Singles (1), Triples (3), and the Brynhilde Suite (4). A limited number of twin cabins may be sold for single occupancy at 1.7 times the twin rate.
Traveling With a Group?
Reach out to our Sales team to inquire about groups of 10 or more.
Rates vary by cabin.
A Next-Generation Ship, Decades in the Making
Beneath the sleek exterior of the Ocean Albatros lies decades of learning and adaptation to the challenging Antarctic environment. Its patented and ice-conquering X-BOW offers the highest level of stability and comfort, while granting our passenger-explorers unprecedented access to hard-to-reach (and jaw-dropping to discover) corners of this wonderful and often-elusive environment. Its many on board amenities – including two hot tubs with spectacular 360 views – are designed to maximize your every Polar moment, and its spacious heated mudroom with four exterior doors makes zodiac boarding quick, safe, and effortless.
All Voyages Include:
- One Hotel Night
- Beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages with dinner
- World Class Cuisine
- Complimentary coffee/tea station
- Certified Emergency MD and Clinic
- Voyage Photographer
- Professional Photography Coach
- Dedicated Passenger Service Manager
- Expedition jacket on loan, custom down jacket to keep
Ship Facilities:
- Two Jacuzzis with panoramic views
- Sauna, SPA, gym
- Multiple observation decks
- Fine dining restaurant
- 24/7 Bistro
- Private balconies with most cabins
- Generously-sized communal spaces
- Spacious bar and lounge area
- Elevator serving all passenger decks
- Library with computers
- Citizen Science Area
All Staterooms Feature:
- Exterior views
- Fridge
- Flat Screen TV
- Telephone
- Safe to store your valuables
- Independent temperature controls
- Toiletries
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- USB socket
