55 Days Grand Voyage: Arctic Discovery from Reykjavik to New York

Flatey island, is a privately owned island nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland’s northwest coast The wooden houses on this remote outcrop were built over 100 years ago but are so well-preserved you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into the past. Just a couple of farmers live here now, surrounded by pristine beaches and this charming villages frozen in time.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, join the Discovery Team on Zodiac and kayak excursions to further explore the Island.

Weather permitting, this morning you will visit the jewel of the Westfjords, Dynjandi Waterfall. Feel the cold mist on your face as you admire the cascading bridal veil falls and discover why it was nicknamed ‘the thunder’. Tumbling down seven tiers over 100 metres, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland.

Tonight, choose from up to 10 world-class on board dining experiences. Perhaps make this the evening you try Koko’s Asian Fusion, a culinary celebration of Asia’s diverse flavours.

Welcome to Vigur Island, a private island oasis off Iceland's coast and just below the Arctic Circle. The island has a history dating to the 11th century and is a time capsule of Icelandic heritage, boasting charming buildings and traditional farming for eiderdown.

Vigur Island is also designated as an internationally important seabird habitat, where you may seem some of the 7,000 breeding eider ducks, 100,000 puffins, nesting Arctic terns and Europe’s largest colony of black guillemot. There’s also a seal colony and passing whales, making this a remote wildlife sanctuary.

Vigur Island is a little more than a mile (1.6 km) in length and about 450 yards (412 m) wide. This green oasis punctuates the waters of the Ísafjarðardjúp fjord east of the town of Isafjordur. The island is home to a single farming family and has some meticulously preserved historical landmarks including Iceland’s only windmill, built in 1840 and used until 1917 for grinding imported wheat from Denmark; and a 200-year-old rowing boat, which is still in use to ferry sheep to the mainland. Summer is the best time to see large numbers of Atlantic Puffins, Arctic Terns and Black Guillemots. One of the export articles from this small island was eider down and one can see where the eider ducks nest and how the down is collected and cleaned.

The friendly town of Sauðárkrókur is located in a fertile valley along the south-western shore of Skagafjörður Fjord. It’s the largest town in northwest Iceland, though is home to just over 2,500 people. The charming downtown will welcome you as you stroll through the small collection of distinctive, traditional buildings where the past seems to be brought back to life.

This afternoon, your Discovery Yacht will cross the Arctic Circle. Be sure to find yourself a good vantage point for this awe-inspiring occasion. Although the line is invisible, the surrounding scenery provides stunning atmosphere.

Scoresbysund is the ultimate fjord system; likely the longest, largest and deepest of any in the world. The massive fjord is tucked into the eastern coast of Greenland and on the icy western edges of the Greenland Sea. Scoresbysund’s scale deserves several days to explore, especially while plying the waters between castle-sized icebergs as they gently drift under the persuasion of the Arctic waters in the mighty fjord. Scattered in the remote bays and smaller fjords are places to discover old Inuit settlements, slowly growing over with Arctic willow and dwarf birch. The lower slopes of many mountains are draped in the herbs and grasses favoured by muskox, Arctic fox, lemmings, Ptarmigan, Barnacle Geese, and Snowy Owls. Tundra walks give impressive views of landscape, flora and fauna. Not to be neglected, the waters of Scoresbysund warrant a vigilant eye for sightings of whales, seals, narwhals, beluga whales and walrus.

King Oscar Fjord, located at the northern border of the Scoresby Land peninsula, offers stunning views with its many side arms. Cruising through this fjord in Northeast Greenland National Park offers an ideal vantage point to witness dramatic landscapes, glaciers, and wildlife.

Tonight, meet new friends in one of the all-inclusive bars and lounges and reflect on the journey so far. Shared travel experiences can forge lifelong friendships, especially in a destination as spectacular as the Arctic Circle.

Experience the midnight sun in Greenland's far north by sailing overnight through King Oscar Fjord and Kejser Franz Fjord.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, join the Discovery Team on Zodiac excursions.

Ella Island, where five iceberg-filled fjords converge, is a true gem of Greenland’s wild beauty. As the home of the legendary Sirius Dog Sled Patrol, it boasts one of the most awe-inspiring views on the planet. Picture vibrant red buildings nestled at the base of towering 1,350-metre (4,400-foot) cliffs—an almost otherworldly scene that must be experienced to be believed.

Perhaps take a moment this afternoon to unwind in your suite. Ask your butler to deliver your preferred beverage and curl up with a book or simply enjoy the incredible views beyond your private verandah.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, join the Discovery Team on Zodiac excursions, explore by kayak or enjoy shore landings.

The Nordfjord reaches a breathtaking climax at the majestic Waltershausen Glacier, the largest glacier cascading from the Greenland Ice Sheet. Dark streaks trace mesmerizing patterns across the glacier’s towering face and its sculpted icebergs. Your Zodiac excursion will take you to explore enchanting ice caves, where you’ll witness the thrilling spectacle of ice fragments breaking free and plunging into the shimmering waters below—a truly unforgettable Arctic experience.

If weather conditions permit, get ready for the exhilarating rush of a polar plunge. It’s an electrifying and refreshing adventure that will stay with you for years to come.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, join the Discovery Team on Zodiac excursions.

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Grundarfjörður exudes charm with its quaint fishing village atmosphere and vibrant, colourful houses. As you wander its winding streets, you'll be captivated by the picturesque scenery at every turn.

Dominating the skyline is the iconic Kirkjufell, affectionately known as Church Mountain, which stands as a majestic backdrop to this idyllic coastal community. Its distinctive silhouette, often shrouded in mist or bathed in the golden glow of sunset, has made it one of the most photographed mountains in all of Iceland, adding to the allure of this enchanting village.

Today, prepare to feel freezing mist on your face as you admire the jewel of the Westfjords. Appropriately nicknamed ‘the thunder’ as it tumbles down seven tiers over 100 metres, Dynjandi Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Weather permitting, marvel at nature’s grandeur and keep an eye out for local wildlife as you sail through this remote corner of the country.

Characterized by deep, blue fjords, separated by flat-topped mountains, Ísafjörður is the largest settlement in the Westfjords of Iceland. Explore remote Iceland from one of the most stunning towns in the country, with old timber framed houses and architecture.  Bursting with a wealth of wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for birds and Arctic foxes on the cliffs, seals on the coast and whales cruising in the surrounding ocean.

Two colossal terraces of sheer rock stand either side of this extraordinarily located town - which rides a jutting spit onto an immensity of black fjord water. Surprisingly, considering the remoteness of its location and its compact size, Isafjordur is a modern and lively place to visit, offering a great choice of cafes and delicious restaurants – which are well stocked to impress visitors. The town is a perfectly located base for adventures amongst Iceland's fantastic wilderness - with skiing, hiking and water-sports popular pursuits among visitors.

Clinging to a jagged peninsula on the southwest coast of Greenland, Nuuk is the island’s capital and largest city. The area has been inhabited since 2200BC, though the present town was only established in 1728.

Nuuk’s colourful wooden buildings are a visual standout on your guided tour of the Old Harbour. The picturesque site reveals history and traditions that remain strong today, making Nuuk a hub of modern Nordic culture. Discover innovative architecture inspired by the Northern Lights and restaurants showcasing local recipes and ingredients.

Nuuk, meaning “the cape”, was Greenland’s first town (1728). Started as a fort and later mission and trading post some 240 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle, it is the current capital. Almost 30% of Greenland’s population lives in the town. Not only does Nuuk have great natural beauty in its vicinity, but there are Inuit ruins, Hans Egede’s home, the parliament, and the Church of our Saviour as well. The Greenlandic National Museum has an outstanding collection of Greenlandic traditional dresses, as well as the famous Qilakitsoq mummies. The Katuaq Cultural Center’s building was inspired by the undulating Northern Lights and can house 10% of Nuuk’s inhabitants.

Enjoy a slow day cruising through Evighed Fjord, or ‘Eternity Fjord’, considered one of the most beautiful in Greenland. Stretching for more than 75 kilometres, you’ll be awed by the endless fields of ice glittering under the sun. Tall, jagged peaks threaded with glaciers rise straight up out of the calm blue waters. Many of the glaciers are very active and you will likely hear chunks of ice calving away and collapsing loudly into the ocean. In Evighed Fjord, you’ll feel the beauty and power of nature all around you.

Ilulissat is the main town on the Disko Bay, named from the Inuit word for ‘iceberg’. It’s famous for the large number of icebergs breaking away from the nearby Ilulissat Icefjord, a World Heritage-listed site. The Icefjord is the mouth of the vast Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier, one of the world’s fastest moving and most active glaciers, calving a remarkable 46 cubic kilometers of ice annually. Listen for the rumbling sounds in the distance as huge chunks of ice break from the glacier and tumble into the water below.

Known as the birthplace of icebergs, the Ilulissat Icefjord produces nearly 20 million tons of ice each day. In fact, the word Ilulissat means “icebergs” in the Kalaallisut language. The town of Ilulissat is known for its long periods of calm and settled weather, but the climate tends to be cold due to its proximity to the fjord. Approximately 4,500 people live in Ilulissat, the third-largest town in Greenland after Nuuk and Sisimiut. Some people here estimate that there are nearly as many sled dogs as human beings living in the town that also boasts a local history museum located in the former home of Greenlandic folk hero and famed polar explorer Knud Rasmussen.

Greenland's second-largest town, Sisimiut is named after the fox dens that dot its landscape. Its charming streets, lined with colourful houses, lead to vast backcountry areas ripe for exploration. Beyond the town's tranquil facade lies a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails, kayaking routes, and wildlife encounters. Dive into the town's cultural heritage through museums and cultural centres, discovering rich Inuit traditions and early settlers' legacies.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, explore by Zodiac, kayak, submersible^, helicopter^, or join the Discovery Team on nature hikes.

Located just north of the Arctic Circle, Sisimiut is the northernmost town in Greenland where the port remains free of ice in the winter. Yet it is also the southernmost town where there is enough snow and ice to drive a dogsled in winter and spring. In Sisimiut, travelling by sled has been the primary means of winter transportation for centuries. In fact, the area has been inhabited for approximately 4,500 years. Modern Sisimiut is the largest business center in the north of Greenland, and is one of the fastest growing Greenlandic cities. Commercial fishing is the lead economy in the town‘s thriving industrial base.

Wake up in Ilulissat, the “Iceberg Capital of the World.” Home to the World Heritage-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, this stunning region showcases some of the most dramatic glacial landscapes on Earth. Formerly known as Jakobshavn, this town is famed for the spectacle of icebergs breaking away from the glacier, a sight emphasised by the rumbling sounds of calving ice from the Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier. Witnessing this natural phenomenon is a mesmerising experience, offering a glimpse into the dynamic beauty of Greenland.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, explore by Zodiac, kayak, or go onshore to explore.

Known as the birthplace of icebergs, the Ilulissat Icefjord produces nearly 20 million tons of ice each day. In fact, the word Ilulissat means “icebergs” in the Kalaallisut language. The town of Ilulissat is known for its long periods of calm and settled weather, but the climate tends to be cold due to its proximity to the fjord. Approximately 4,500 people live in Ilulissat, the third-largest town in Greenland after Nuuk and Sisimiut. Some people here estimate that there are nearly as many sled dogs as human beings living in the town that also boasts a local history museum located in the former home of Greenlandic folk hero and famed polar explorer Knud Rasmussen.

Today, we’ll cruise through the awe-inspiring Disko Bay, renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Pristine icebergs shimmer in the Arctic sunlight, while majestic glaciers carve their path through the dramatic landscape.

Take in the breathtaking views from the Observation Terrace or your private verandah, where you can fully appreciate the grandeur of this incredible region.

Glide through Evighed Fjord, aptly named “Eternity Fjord” for its endless panoramas of snow-draped peaks and dazzling glaciers, it’s considered one of the most beautiful in Greenland. Stretching for more than 75 kilometres, you’ll be awed by the endless fields of ice glittering under the sun. Tall, jagged peaks threaded with glaciers rise straight up out of the calm blue waters. Many of the glaciers are very active and you will likely hear chunks of ice calving away and collapsing loudly into the ocean. In Evighed Fjord, you will feel the beauty and power of nature all around you.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, embark on Zodiac excursions with the expert Discovery Team and take in the breathtaking landscapes.

Welcome to Baffin Island, the fifth-largest island in the world and the Jewel of the Canadian High Arctic. This remarkable destination is home to stunning fjords, ice-capped mountains, and a thriving Inuit community. In Iqaluit, the cultural heart of Nunavut, explore traditional arts and crafts markets, visit the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum and meet the Inuit people, an integral part of Iqaluit, a remote community at the head of Frobisher Bay.

Tonight, dine around the world with your Discovery Yacht’s extraordinary dining experiences, such as Sushi @ Koko’s or fine French cuisine at Lumière (both available by on board reservation).

Iqaluit is the capital of Canada’s newest territory, Nunavut, which is Inuktitut for “our land”. The community is located at the head of Frobisher Bay, an inlet of the North Atlantic extending into southeastern Baffin Island. The Bay is so long that it was first taken to be the possible entrance of a Northwest Passage. In Iqaluit, the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum and the Nunavut Legislative Assembly Building both house incredible collections of Inuit artwork with interesting local prints for sale in the museum shop.

At the southeast tip of Baffin Island, you’ll find the Lower Savage Islands. A labyrinth of rugged channels and towering cliffs, these islands are a sanctuary for Arctic wildlife.Their rocky terrain is home to polar bears, Arctic foxes, walruses, and seals, as well as thriving seabird colonies. A maze of channels winds through the islands, offering outstanding Zodiac cruising opportunities.

Discovery:
Based on the weather conditions, your Captain and Discovery Team will map out the optimal sites and activities to explore.

Where Hudson Strait meets the northeastern Hudson Bay, the remote Digges Islands rise with dramatic rocky cliffs, creating the perfect sanctuary for seabirds. This untamed wilderness is also home to thriving walrus colonies and the majestic polar bear. As we navigate the waters by zodiac, we’ll keep watch for these incredible Arctic icons, always from a safe and respectful distance, but close enough for an unforgettable encounter.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, embark on thrilling Zodiac excursions with the expert Discovery Team.

The strait from Hudson Bay to the Atlantic Ocean was navigated by Henry Hudson in 1610; today it bears his name. You’ll trace his path between Baffin Island and Nunavik to a spectacular wildlife haven. The islands are teeming with bird species while the surrounding waters are full of marine mammals. You may spot polar bears, seals, walruses and whales during your visit to this thriving ecological hotspot. While the island’s rugged cliffs are too harsh for humans, they offer an ideal nesting site for Murres, who build their homes on the narrow ledges.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, embark on thrilling Zodiac excursions with the expert Discovery Team today. Paddle through serene waters by kayak or step ashore for an unforgettable exploration with your expert guides.

Today, prepare for an unforgettable experience as your Discovery Yacht journeys through Saglek Fjord, a hidden Arctic paradise nestled in the rugged wilderness of Newfoundland. Known for its dramatic cliffs, pristine waters, and untouched landscapes, this remote fjord offers a unique opportunity to explore the raw beauty of Canada’s northern coastline. Keep your eyes peeled for abundant wildlife, from playful seals to soaring seabirds, and immerse yourself in the natural splendour of one of the world’s most pristine environments. This expedition is a true escape into nature.

Experience the charm of Rigolet, a picturesque town with a deep Inuit heritage on Labrador’s North coast. Engage with local artisans, learn about traditional craftsmanship. For wildlife lovers, this is a dream destination, and keep watch for wildlife, including whales and Arctic foxes, as you explore this fascinating region.

Nestled on Newfoundland's Great Northern Peninsula, St. Anthony is a charming town with a rich maritime heritage. It served as the base for the Grenfell Mission, established in the early 20th century to provide medical services to remote communities. The town's coastal waters are renowned for whale watching opportunities, offering sightings of majestic marine mammals during their migratory seasons. Additionally, the nearby L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marks the only known Norse village in North America, dating back to around 1000 AD.