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Iceland, Jan Mayen and Spitsbergen – Arctic Island Discovery from Glasgow Expedition

Iceland, Jan Mayen and Spitsbergen – Arctic Island Discovery from Glasgow Expedition

From AUD $10,397

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Description

Where nature’s elements rule Your island-hopping adventure into the Arctic begins in Glasgow (Greenock), before setting sail to Iceland – the so-called land of ice and fire. With active volcanoes, serene fjords and soaring mountains, witness the unique geology and landscapes of this fascinating country, looking out for wildlife such as whales and dolphins along the way.  
Towards the top of the world Continuing north, we head for the remote volcanic island of Jan Mayen, a bird haven that’s home to Northern Fulmars, Brünnich’s Guillemots and Little Auks. And in the Svalbard archipelago, you’ll explore an Arctic wilderness where nature reigns supreme and the majestic – if elusive – polar bear roams the icy tundra.

Trip Name
Iceland, Jan Mayen and Spitsbergen – Arctic Island Discovery from Glasgow Expedition
Days
13
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 100 metres Passenger Capacity: 335 Built / refurbished: 2009 / 2016 MS Spitsbergen is an intimate expedition vessel named after the largest island in Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, designed for deep exploration of remote polar and subpolar regions. Rebuilt in 2016 and extensively refurbished in 2025, the ship combines modern expedition capability with Scandinavian simplicity and elegance. With capacity for just 150 guests, enhanced manoeuvrability, and a compact size, she can access narrow fjords, secluded coastlines, and landing sites beyond the reach of larger ships, offering a highly immersive style of exploration supported by an experienced Expedition Team of naturalists and guides. Life onboard is calm, functional, and closely connected to the surrounding environment, with panoramic windows, open decks, and interiors inspired by the sea. Facilities include an Explorer Lounge and Bar, a central Science Centre for lectures and workshops, regionally inspired dining venues, and wellness spaces such as a panoramic sauna, fitness room, and outdoor hot tubs. Accommodation ranges from comfortable cabins to spacious Expedition Suites with private balconies, balancing practicality with understated comfort. MS Spitsbergen operates as a true floating basecamp, prioritising access, education, and meaningful engagement with some of the world’s most remote landscapes.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Embark from Glasgow (Greenock)
Start in Scotland’s stylish city of culture A former industrial powerhouse, Glasgow has reinvented itself as a cultural hot spot, packed with museums, galleries and parks. Discover the splendid Art Nouveau architecture of Charles Rennie Mackintosh before your expedition cruise begins.  With so much to see, why not arrive early to join our optional Pre-Programme, where you will explore some of Scotland´s unique nature.You’ll embark in Glasgow (Greenock), where MS Spitsbergen, one of our smaller vessels purpose-built for close-up exploration, will be waiting for you. Get to know the ship before meeting the Expedition Team – your guides for the adventure ahead – and enjoy your first dinner aboard as we set sail.
Day 2 - Day 2-3 At sea
Sailing to Iceland As we sail to Iceland, it’s time to relax and explore the onboard facilities of our expedition ship. Your Expedition Team will explain the protocols of respectfully visiting wildlife habitats and remote communities. Join our onboard experts and get a first overview of Iceland’s unique geology, learn about the sea birds on the Atlantic Ocean, and discover which whales might we encounter along the expedition. You can also join one of our Citizen Science projects and contribute to global research. Why not enjoy the gym, relax in the hot tub and warm up in the sauna, or get acquainted with the onboard restaurant – it's totally up to you.
Day 3 - Day 4 Heimaey's explosive past
Discover the town that defied a volcano  Heimaey is the only inhabited island in the Westman Islands, found off the south coast of Iceland. It has a fascinating history, and still bears the scars of a powerful volcanic eruption that nearly destroyed the island.  Visit Eldheimar, a museum that features an excavated home frozen in time, and learn more about the eruption and its aftermath. Or why not take a hike to seek out puffins at Stórhöfði, where around eight million nest every summer. Don’t miss climbing Mount Eldfell – at the volcano’s summit you’ll have incredible views of the town below.
Day 4 - Day 5 Charming Grundarfjörður
Gateway to spectacular Snæfellsnes The majestic Kirkjufell mountain, one of the best-known landmarks of Iceland, rises just two miles west of the small harbour of Grundarfjörður, a quaint fishing town in Breiðafjörður bay.  Nearby, you’ll find Snæfellsnes Peninsula National Park, with the striking, ice-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano at the western tip. It’s nicknamed 'Little Iceland' for its array of landscapes. At the national park, you can visit Djúpalónssandur's black sand beach and the Saxhóll crater. Or why not ride a snowcat to the top of the Snæfellsjökull glacier or take a guided underground tour along a gigantic lava tube.
Day 5 - Day 6 Picturesque Ísafjörður
Explore Westfjords’ beautiful harbourside town Flanked by towering mountains on all sides, Ísafjörður is a nearly perfect natural harbour and an excellent gateway to the Westfjords region. Stroll around to see the architecture, shop for a variety of local handicrafts and view some of the oldest houses in Iceland.  One of these historic 18th century buildings is home to Westfjords Heritage Museum, where you can learn about the maritime past of this fascinating port. Or if you prefer something more energetic, you could take the steep hike up to Naustahvilft - the Troll’s Throne. You’ll be rewarded for your efforts at the top by the stunning panoramic view.
Day 6 - Day 7 A relaxing day at sea
Enjoy a restorative day in the Arctic  Take time to relax on the ship day as we cruise through Arctic waters towards Jan Mayen. Enjoy panoramic views and chat with fellow guests in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, or take a soak in a hot tub out on deck while scanning for seabirds.  You can also listen to a lecture or two on topics such as local history, geology or Arctic wildlife. Or visit the Science Center for more in-depth insights into the places we'll be visiting and maybe participate in a Citizen Science project that contributes to ongoing scientific research.
Day 7 - Day 8 Volcanic Jan Mayen
Visit an active volcano that's a haven for birdlife  Jan Mayen has no permanent residents and visits to the island are rare. In fact, we're one of the few to attempt landings here. If conditions allow, you’ll be setting foot in one of Earth’s most remote places.  Jan Mayen’s surreal, moss- and lichen-streaked landscape is dominated by the Beerenberg volcanic cone. It's the world's northernmost active volcano and it last erupted in 1985.  You won’t see land mammals here, but the island is designated an Important Bird Area, supporting large populations of Northern Fulmars, Brünnich’s Guillemots and Little Auks. Look out for abundant marine life in the surrounding waters too, including whales and seals.
Day 8 - Day 9 At sea
A peaceful interlude in your adventure Spend the day at your leisure as we sail deeper into the Arctic towards the Svalbard archipelago. Savour the quiet moments, simply appreciating the peaceful feeling of being at sea. This is a rare opportunity to disconnect and get a break from the modern world. Feeling active? You can enjoy a workout in the gym or simply relax in the panoramic sauna while gazing out at the view. As ever, our Expedition Team will be on hand to answer any questions you may have and offer insights about these Arctic islands.
Day 9 - Day 10-12 Scenic Spitsbergen
Witness a land of spectacular beauty  Spitsbergen showcases Arctic beauty in its untouched glory; a wilderness of steep mountains, stark glaciers and eerily beautiful islands. Over the next three days you’ll visit some of the world’s most dramatic fjords and see glaciers preparing to calve icebergs into the sea.    Each day will be different. From landings to kayaking, be ready for anything as your Captain and Expedition Team decide on the best landing sites and activities based on the day’s conditions. Perhaps we’ll head to the snowcapped peaks of the northwest corner of Spitsbergen, or visit Ny-Ålesund, the world’s northernmost settlement and an important climate research station. If we’re really lucky, we might even see the elusive polar bear in its natural environment.
Day 10 - Day 13 Return to Longyearbyen
Enjoy a final day on top of the world Your island-hopping adventure into the Arctic comes to an end in Longyearbyen, a town on top of the world.  A transfer will take you to the airport for your flight home. You'll return with a wealth of knowledge about Arctic animals, geology, history, polar ice and climate change – and memories of an incredible experience that will last a lifetime.If you’re not ready to say goodbye just yet, why not spend some more time in the Arctic and join our optional Post-Programme. 
Day 11 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
28-05-202609-06-2026AUD $10,397Polar Inside. From
28-05-202609-06-2026AUD $12,043Polar Outside. From
28-05-202609-06-2026AUD $13,300Arctic Superior. From
28-05-202609-06-2026AUD $17,173Expedition Suite. From

Inclusions

    • Join a thrilling voyage into the Arctic setting off from Glasgow (Greenock) and exploring Iceland, Jan Mayen and Svalbard.
    • Experience breathtaking landscapes with active volcanoes, dramatic fjords, snowcapped mountains, magnificent glaciers and pristine wilderness.
    • See Arctic wildlife, including prolific birdlife around Jan Mayen, whales in the water around Svalbard and perhaps even polar bears in Spitsbergen.

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