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Four Arctic Islands Expedition Cruise

Four Arctic Islands Expedition Cruise

From USD $12,595

Description

Experience the vast wilderness and diversity of the Arctic on this thrilling voyage to four Arctic islands. We begin in the bustling city of Longyearbyen, from where we will explore the majestic high Arctic islands of Svalbard, home to a vast diversity of Arctic wildlife, from walrus and reindeer to puffins and polar bears. Marvel at the pioneering history of this archipelago, where scientists work hard to conserve this natural paradise.
From Svalbard we will sail towards Jan Mayen, an isolated island crowned by Mt Beerenburg, the world’s northernmost volcano, where fulmars, kittiwakes and gulls throng the black volcanic cliffs. Ocean Albatros will then sail towards East Greenland, visiting the fascinating and friendly settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit before heading into Scoresbysund – Earth’s largest fjord system. With vast glaciers, blooming tundra, and vast mountains rising straight out of the icy sea, Scoresbysund is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular locations anywhere in the Arctic.
Crossing the Denmark Strait, we arrive in Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, the ideal gateway to explore the land of ice and fire.

Trip Name
Four Arctic Islands Expedition Cruise
Days
13
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Passenger Capacity: 169 (95 cabins) Length: 104.4 m Built: 2022 Ocean Albatros is built for serious Polar travel, pairing long-honed expedition capability with a modern, stabilised design. Its X-BOW structure delivers a markedly smoother ride and enables confident movement through deeper ice, giving passengers access to remote regions that traditional vessels cannot approach. Spacious staterooms with wide views, extensive observation areas, near-water hydraulic platforms and a fast, heated mudroom support uninterrupted exploration. The atmosphere on board remains streamlined and functional, with amenities such as Jacuzzis, sauna, spa, gym, library and a generous lounge layout arranged to maximise comfort without distracting from the environment outside. Efficiency and sustainability are embedded into the ship’s operations. Dual diesel–electric engines reduce emissions significantly while maintaining reliable range and power, enabling the vessel to operate with a carbon footprint roughly half that of older expedition ships. Most cabins include private balconies, communal areas are deliberately generous, and dining spans both a full restaurant and a bistro. Expedition logistics - zodiacs, science activities, photographic support and medical readiness - are built into the core offering, ensuring a consistent, competent experience from the Arctic to Antarctica.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1: All Aboard 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. 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 - Day 2: 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. The first 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.
Day 3 - Day 3: 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 4 - Day 4: Expedition South Svalbard
On our final day on 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 5 - Days 5 & 6: At Sea, En Route to Jan Mayen
Departing Svalbard, Ocean Albatros heads southwest across the Greenland Sea 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 6 - 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 eek out a living in the rugged cliffs.
Day 7 - Day 8: At Sea, En Route to Scoresbysund
From Jan Mayen, Ocean Albatros will sail on towards the coast of the largest island on Earth. The sea ice in East Greenland is some of the most persistent in the Arctic; even in midsummer, the coast can be icebound, creating the perfect habitat for ice-loving species such as polar bears and belugas. If we are lucky, we will catch a glimpse of this vast icy wilderness during our passage towards Scoresbysund.
Day 8 - DAY 9: 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 9 - Day 10: 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 10 - Day 11: 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 11 - Day 12: At Sea, En Route to Reykjavik, Iceland
During our time at sea approaching Reykjavik, 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 12 - Day 13: Reykjavik, Iceland
Hallgrímskirkja Church towers over Reykjavik, a vibrant city known for Nordic cuisine, unique museums, and excellent shopping. Such a bustling capital may feel strange after the remote wilderness of the Arctic! 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.
Day 13 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
29-08-202710-09-2027USD $12,595Triple Stateroom
29-08-202710-09-2027USD $14,695Porthole Stateroom
29-08-202710-09-2027USD $15,495French Balcony Stateroom
29-08-202710-09-2027USD $16,695Superior Balcony Stateroom
29-08-202710-09-2027USD $17,595Grand Balcony Stateroom
29-08-202710-09-2027USD $19,295Balcony Suite
29-08-202710-09-2027USD $20,095Junior Suite
29-08-202710-09-2027USD $23,395Freydis Suite
29-08-202710-09-2027USD $28,395Brynhilde Suite

Inclusions

    • High Arctic to North Atlantic traverse: Svalbard, Jan Mayen, East Greenland, and Iceland in a single continuous expedition arc, crossing the Greenland Sea and major Arctic ecological zones.
    • Extreme landscapes and geology: polar deserts and glacier-choked fjords, the active volcano Beerenberg on Jan Mayen, and the vast basalt walls and iceberg labyrinths of Scoresbysund and the Blosseville Coast.
    • Remote human frontiers: Ny-Ålesund scientific outpost, subsistence life in Ittoqqortoormiit, abandoned Arctic settlements, and historic whaling and exploration sites largely untouched by modern tourism.

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