Arrive in this modern capital and transfer to your hotel. Set off on a city centre walking tour to its many museums and landmarks. Spend time visiting the Harpa concert hall and the 19th-century House of Parliament building. For amazing views over the city and beyond, scale the steps of the Hallgrimskirkja church tower with its panoramic views. Head back to your hotel to meet your fellow passengers at a welcome reception. Enjoy a leisurely morning and lunch then board Le Boreal, your luxury expedition cruiser for the next 12 nights.

This is your chance to explore Iceland’s southern volcanoes and western fjords. Starting from the archipelago of the Westman Islands, you will head to Heimaey Island and its local village. Farmhouse ruins here date back to the year 650. Then it’s time to hit the seas, conditions permitting, on your Zodiac and go to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Surtsey Island  ̶  Iceland’s southernmost point. Your trip continues around Iceland’s stunning Westfjords including Breidafjordur and Isafjordur. If possible, we will also take you to Dyndjani waterfall, Flatey island and Hornstrandir Reserve. 

Time to indulge in some wildlife watching from the boat when you spend the day at sea. Cruising along the narrow Denmark Strait, which connects the Arctic Sea and Atlantic Ocean. There’s a welcome reception and gala dinner with your captain this evening alongside your expedition team and fellow guests. Get a good night’s sleep before exploring Greenland’s Lindenow Fjord complex. Your on-board geologist will explain how the fjord was formed, then jump onto the Zodiac to see towering mountains and spectacular glacial scenery, before a walk to observe plant succession between different moraines.

It’s time to explore Greenland’s southern coast, inland waterways and remote villages. Learn about early colonisation and exploration here, including how this led to the discovery of North America. Excursions will depend on conditions but may include the village of Qaqortaq and Prince Christian Sound, a stunning 96-kilometre-long fjord. Delve into Norse history at UNESCO-listed Hvalsey Ruin, the colourful fishing village of Narsaq, which dates back to the year 1000; and beautiful Eriksfjord where you can see the homestead of Erik the Red and the first Christian church in the western hemisphere. 

Spend the day meandering around and discovering Greenland’s vibrant city of Nuuk. Despite being the smallest capital in the world, there is plenty to keep you busy for several hours. Look beyond the concrete buildings and industrial blocks and you will enjoy its wonderful setting amidst fjords and mountains. It’s also currently experiencing a cultural revival so visits to the cathedral, Katuaq (cultural centre) and art museum are a must. And don’t overlook the National Museum, where you will find the famous Qilakitsoq mummies, one of the country’s most renowned treasures.

Around half of Greenland’s population lives around the towns on the west of the country and with good reason. This area is home to large fjord systems which you will have chance to explore. Take a Zodiac ride around these and then observe huge icebergs before getting back onto dry land. This is your opportunity to walk across high Arctic tundra and experience the life that abounds there. Watch migrating seabirds and seas of wildflowers. Back on board Le Boreal, enjoy a unique moment as you cross the Arctic Circle.

Disembark Le Boreal in Kangerlussuaq where you will board your charter flight to Reykjavik. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Take advantage of the unending summertime light to make the most of this lively city. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure and revisit those places you loved at the start of this trip. Make time to enjoy a meal in one of the city’s cosmopolitan restaurants and settle into your last night in the country. Depart the next day on your flight home.