In the Ice of the Arctic, from Greenland to Svalbard

Nestled on the edge of an expansive bay in the western part of the country, Iceland's capital unfolds its charms. The "Pearl of Reykjavík," Perlan, stands as a museum situated atop 'Oskjuhlið hill, providing a sweeping vista of the verdant landscapes below. Not far away, a signpost guides you to the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church and the historic centre, inviting leisurely strolls along the vibrant Skólavördustígur and Laugavegur streets, adorned with charming boutiques. For a tranquil retreat just beyond the city, visitors can explore the Reykjanes peninsula and indulge in the renowned thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.

Embarkation from 20:00 to 21:00

Departure at 22:00

Situated between Greenland and Iceland, the Denmark Strait holds historical significance as the Vikings first traversed it in the late 10th century during Erik the Red's expeditions. The waters of the strait were also a battleground during the Second World War, witnessing a clash between the Kriegsmarine and the Royal Navy on May 24, 1941. In winter, the Greenlandic coasts are enveloped by extremely dense pack ice, while the Transpolar Drift continues to transport icebergs throughout the year. However, during the summer, the strait generally remains clear of ice.

A mere century ago, the east coast of Greenland stood in relative obscurity, and to this day, it remains the most genuine and awe-inspiring region in the Arctic. Venture into a world where alpine mountains seamlessly merge with the sea, and fjords showcase towering, snow-capped peaks while icebergs gracefully drift or become trapped in the pack ice. Delve into the heart of frozen landscapes adorned with surreal beauty, where the diverse textures of various ice types weave an ever-changing tapestry.

Embark on a voyage following the path of Jules Poret de Blosseville, a French explorer and sailor. In 1833, aboard La Lilloise, he embarked on a journey to unveil eastern Greenland's isolated and uncharted expanse, bestowing French names upon various coastal sites. Unfortunately, the adventure likely ended in tragedy, as the crew was never located. Now named after him, this desolate region stretches south of Scoresby Sund. Enveloped by ice, icebergs, and fragments of pack ice, Blosseville Coast is one of those rugged and challenging terrains that only a fortunate few can explore.

On Greenland's East coast, within the snow and ice-covered Ittoqqortoormiit region for nine months of the year, you'll encounter the rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of an isolated territory and marvel at the beauty of its boundless polar expanse. The lofty alpine mountains pierce the sky, gradually revealing their dark rock edges beneath a layer of snow. Positioned at the entrance to the world's longest fjord system is the village of Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the northernmost inhabited places on the East Coast. Translating to 'great house' in Greenlandic, it serves as the home to the last hunters of the polar region, preserving their ancestral way of life.

Embark on a journey towards North-East Greenland to delve deeper into the Arctic, reaching heights that conventional ships cannot traverse during this season. Navigate through the unexpected treasures concealed within the sea ice as the play of light and the ever-changing skies set the stage for a mesmerising spectacle. Amidst the vast expanse of ice, where conventional vessels cannot venture, a breathtaking tableau unfolds, showcasing the myriad textures and states of the ice.

With a blend of patience and humility, your expedition will lead you through the pearly-white floating cathedrals and the ice carried by the Transpolar Drift. Witness icebergs brought to a standstill in their journey and pressure ridges unveiling their sharp edges. Within this frozen wilderness, beauty reveals itself in each moment's intricate details and enchantment.

In the domain of polar bears, find solace aboard Le Commandant Charcot— a specialised cocoon crafted for polar exploration. This vessel provides remarkable opportunities to observe these majestic rulers of the ice as you encounter them during your journey. Perhaps you might even witness the poignant sight of a mother polar bear and her cub traversing the pristine icy expanses, adding an extra layer of magic to your Arctic exploration.

As we depart the magnificent coast of East Greenland, spend time indulging in Le Commandement Charcot's outstanding facilities. Enjoy the view of the ice from the heated outdoor lagoon, and spend time in the indoor pool, relaxation areas or sauna. During your time at sea, our team of naturalists and scientists will undertake presentations in the ship's theatre and share their knowledge with you, ready for our next destination, Svalbard.

Since 1973, the Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve has safeguarded the northernmost and chilliest region of the archipelago, Nordaustlandet (North East Land). This extensive polar desert, draped with two ice caps, is the second-largest island in the Svalbard archipelago. Shielded by the Gulf Stream, the fjords and cliffs in the west and north harbour thriving colonies of birds and walruses. In the colder east and south, the landscapes are dominated by imposing glaciers, releasing majestic icebergs into the expansive Hinlopen Strait. Sheer cliffs serve as the nesting grounds for substantial colonies of thick-billed murres. Depending on the nesting and migration period, you might even glimpse a bear or an Arctic fox roaming nearby.

Embarking on a voyage through the Hinlopen Strait, nestled in the heart of the Arctic Ocean between the Norwegian islands of Spitsbergen and Nordaustlandet, guarantees an unforgettable experience. Within the Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve domain, this region unveils awe-inspiring vistas featuring magnificent basalt formations and an ice cap extending to the horizon, plunging into the sea. The shoreline, sculpted by fjords cutting inland, creates a magical tapestry where icebergs gracefully float, born from the majestic calving of surrounding glaciers.

While today it is a sought-after location for observing seabirds nesting in colossal cliffs, polar bears, and walruses, this place holds historical ties to 17th-century whalers. Thijmen Jacobsz Hinlopen, a director of a Dutch whaling company, bestowed the strait with its name. Subsequently, Russian trappers, European explorers, scientists, and even brave mountaineers have traversed this region, marked by its sublime yet challenging nature.

The Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve stands as the second-largest protected expanse in Norway, its establishment dating back to 1973. Spanning over 21,000 km2, this conservation area presents breathtaking landscapes, ranging from coastal scenes and rocky islets to mountain plateaux, expansive tundra plains, and drifting ice floes.

Endowed with the distinction of being recognized as an Important Bird Area, the reserve offers the opportunity, with a bit of fortune, to witness a diverse array of seabirds. Additionally, the site is conducive to spotting cetaceans, Svalbard reindeer, and possibly even Arctic foxes. Notably, Edgeoya Island is famed for providing a haven for numerous polar bears during the breeding season.

Nestled amidst ancient glaciers and sculpted mountains, Spitsbergen, often hailed as the "crown of Arctic Norway," is a realm untouched by night. Your vessel will guide you into the heart of this captivating archipelago, focusing on the Hornsund fjord. It is recognized as Svalbard's southernmost fjord and boasts a distinguished reputation for its breathtaking scenery. At the culmination of its expansive bay, eight grand glaciers gracefully descend to the sea, yielding to a multitude of icebergs that elegantly drift along its frigid and enigmatic waters.

As the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, Longyearbyen is situated on the main island of Svalbard and is the northernmost territorial capital on Earth. With winter temperatures plummeting to below -40 °C, the vistas of this mining town are genuinely awe-inspiring. The glaciers, expansive mountains seemingly extending endlessly, and the pristine wilderness collectively evoke the sensation of uncharted territory.

Arrival: early morning

Disembarkation: 08:00