HIGHLIGHTS
Viking heritage
Your journey starts in the historic port city of Liverpool. This
metropolis has more museums and art galleries than any other British
city outside of London. Your hybrid electric–powered ship
then sails to the former Viking settlement of Stornoway, the largest
town in Scotland’s Western Isles, the Outer Hebrides. Explore
its recently revamped castle and the mysterious Carloway Broch,
Scotland’s best-preserved fort, which dates back more than
2,000 years.
Show-stealing puffins
The colorful east-coast town of Seyðisfjörður
is our first stop in Iceland. Vibrant buildings and the famous Rainbow
Road pop out against a backdrop of mountains and waterfalls that is
utterly unique. Birdwatchers get ready, because tiny Grímsey
is a bird haven, located on the Arctic Circle. It’s home to
millions of birds, including puffins (who tend to steal the show).
Hot spring capital
Getting to Akureyri, Iceland’s second city, is as rewarding
as the destination itself. As we cruise along the stunning
Eyjafjörður fjord, catch views of snow-capped peaks, a
panoramic landscape, and the chance to see whales. After this lively
‘Northern Capital’, change pace in the peaceful
fishing village of Patreksfjörður. Finally, end your
expedition in style in Reykjavík, Iceland’s
cosmopolitan capital. Here, you’ll be just a few hours away
from of geysers, glaciers, hot springs, and waterfalls.
DATES / RATES
Rates are listed per person
|
Start Date | End Date | From EUR | From USD |
Rates are listed per person
|
Start Date | End Date | From EUR | From USD |
ITINERARY
Day 1 - Liverpool, United Kingdom
Day 2 - At sea
Day 3 - Stornoway, Lewis & Harris, Scotland
Day 4 - At sea
Day 5 - Seyðisfjörður, Iceland
Day 6 - Grímsey, Iceland
Day 7 - Akureyri, Iceland
Day 8 - Patreksfjörður, Iceland
Day 9 - Reykjavík, Iceland
Day 1 Embarkation
Your expedition starts in Liverpool. This city is exciting to explore,
so try and spend some extra time here before your expedition cruise. It
features a curious blend of the old and the modern. The sense of
history here is palpable, along with the lure of the sea in this
profoundly maritime city.
Famously, Liverpool is where The Beatles were from. Don’t
leave without going on a city tour to visit all the interesting places
associated with them. Penny Lane, Strawberry Fields, the
boys’ childhood homes, and the Cavern Club are just some of
the destinations fans can see.
The wide River Mersey made this lively city a key trade and migration
port from the 18th to the early 20th century. A sense of imperial
grandeur is still present amid the Victorian and Edwardian architecture.
Explore the city and wander along the River Mersey waterfront and
admire on the iconic mercantile buildings known as the ‘Three
Graces’: the Royal Liver Building, the Cunard Building, and
the Port of Liverpool Building. Keep an eye out for the famous Liver
Birds, the city’s very own mythological creatures.
MS Fridtjof Nansen awaits you at the Liverpool port. After checking in
and collecting your complimentary expedition jacket, you’ll
have some time to settle into your cabin and explore the ship. A
mandatory safety drill takes place just before departure, followed by a
welcome dinner and a toast by the captain. You’ll meet the
Expedition Team and key crew members, who will take you through an
important health and safety briefing.
Day 2 Toward the Outer
Hebrides
Enjoy a day at sea as we sail to our first call, the Outer Hebrides.
Days at sea can be as active or relaxing as you wish!
As we set off on our journey, perhaps spend some time getting to know
the crew and your fellow explorers? Strike up a conversation at the bar
and see what you and your shipmates have in common.
And feel free to explore the ship’s facilities. The Science
Center is a great place to start. It has scientific equipment and an
extensive library to deepen your knowledge of the places
you’ll visit.
Expedition Team members will share their knowledge of the region and
prepare you for the adventures ahead. Lecture topics vary from local
history and storytelling to biology and geology.
Day 3 Capital of the Isle
of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides
Stornoway is known as the gateway to the Hebrides, a stunning
archipelago of hundreds of islands off Scotland’s northwest
coast. Considered Scotland’s crown jewel, this is a region of
jagged mountain landscapes, superb sandy beaches, and rugged coastlines.
Originally a Viking settlement, Stornoway is the main town of the
Western Isles and the capital of the Isle of Lewis & Harris,
which is the largest and northermost of the Outer Hebrides. The heart
and soul of this town lies in its bustling harbor. It has a beautiful
waterfront with museums, art galleries, charming shops, and even a pair
of resident seals.
The stately Lews Castle imposes over the harbor, which we will explore.
The castle grounds themselves are immense. There’s plenty to
explore throughout its almost-500 acres, including a network of trails,
historical buildings, and fantastic harbor views. After a recent
extensive restoration project, the Lews Castle is should not be missed.
Further inland you can find mills and cottages used to weave hearty
Harris Tweed. There are tiny folk museums, the world-famous Callanish
Standing Stones, and the mysterious Carloway Broch—the
best-preserved ancient fort in Scotland, dating back more than 2,000
years.
The Hebrides have recently transformed into a seafood paradise and
Stornoway is no exception. Take this opportunity to try fresh
angoustines, crabs, scallops, mussels, and oysters. For a true taste of
the Western Isles, try Stornoway’s famed black pudding.
You’re in Scotland, so wash it all down with one of the
varieties of single-malt whiskey. Don’t worry, the whisky
won’t be in short supply.
Day 4 To Iceland
Days at sea offer an opportunity for you to wind down. Take in the
views in the panoramic Explorer Lounge as you recline with a drink in
hand. Watch for whales and dolphins and keep an eye on the sky for
seabirds. For even deeper relaxation, soak in a hot tub on deck and be
pampered with a luxurious treatment in the spa and wellness area.
If you like to keep active, both the indoor and outdoor gyms on board
are well-equipped and offer great views. Swimmers should be excited
too—the ship has a heated infinity pool for you to enjoy.
Join the Expedition Team in the Science Center to learn about Icelandic
culture and their belief in the hidden people, also known as Icelandic
elves. You might even have a chance to improve your knitting skills in
one of our workshops.
Day 5 Nordic Heritage
Some places just know how to make an entrance. Today’s
destination sits at the end of a 10-mile fjord lined with picturesque
mountains and waterfalls. Seyðisfjörður
(roughly pronounced as ‘say-this-further’) is a
progressive village full of character. Its colorful cast of roughly 700
people certainly makes it one of the most eclectic towns
you’ll visit in Iceland.
Seyðisfjörður is famous for its colorful
wooden houses, built by Norwegian settlers in the early 20th century.
The vibrant buildings pop out against a backdrop of mountains and
waterfalls, creating a genuinely unique identity for the settlement.
The aptly named Rainbow Road is a perfect example of this delightfully
quirky aesthetic. Not many streets in the world are painted top to
bottom with the colors of the rainbow, with an eye-catching blue church
at the end. A picture here is a must.
Remote, peaceful, and serene, Seyðisfjörður is
the perfect spot for outdoor adventures such as birdwatching, hiking,
and kayaking (as an optional excursion, if available). A short trail
leading uphill from the town brings you to
Tvísöngur, an unusual sound sculpture—a
cluster of concrete domes with incredible acoustics. For longer hikes,
head for the hills above town. Waterfall Lane is an enjoyable
4–6 mile hike that, true to its name, winds its way to
several stunning waterfalls.
You’ll find Skálanes at the edge of the fjord.
This private nature reserve is surrounded by cliffs and home to
wildlife such as reindeer, Arctic fox, and mink. Bird lovers, prepare
to spot the species vacationing at the site each summer, including
Black-tailed Godwit, Golden Plover, and—if you’re
lucky—the Gyr Falcon, Europe’s largest falcon.
Day 6 Step Across the
Arctic Circle
When people imagine a windswept, remote Icelandic isle,
they’re probably thinking about Grímsey.
We’ll use our small boats (RIBs) to reach this small, green,
grassy island. With only 60 or so residents, the only settlements here
are located on the southern and western parts if the
island—mostly around the little harbor.
Grímsey is serene, beautiful, and steeped in folklore and
legend. Legend has it that local fishermen are hardy because of
Grímsey’s first settler, Grímur. Legend
has it that he slew the giants and trolls who inhabited the island and
took one of their daughters as his bride.
Grímsey’s sheer cliffs are home to vast colonies
of seabirds—outnumbering humans 17,000 to 1. The chance to
see Atlantic Puffins, Grímsey’s iconic seabird
species, is a major attraction for bird lovers.
Grímsey is probably best known for having the Arctic Circle
so close that it actually cuts across the island—the only
part of Iceland to do so. You’ll have the opportunity to
skip, step, or do whatever dance you’d like across the line.
Explore the island on foot and hike to the ‘Orbis et
Globus’, a nine-ton concrete sphere that marks the edge of
the Arctic Circle. The walk to the monument will allow you to take in
the windswept scenery and do some birdwatching. The locals move the
globe (which is 10 feet wide) a bit each year since the Arctic Circle
creeps slowly northwards at a rate of about 48 feet per year.
By 2050, Grímsey Island will lie outside the Arctic Circle!
In the afternoon, we’ll sail to
Húsavík, where we will arrive in the evening and
stay overnight.
Day 7 Northern Center
Akureyri is located near the base of the longest fjord in Iceland,
Eyjafjörður. As we cruise along the fjord, enjoy
incredible views of snow-capped peaks and a lush coastline. The fertile
waters here also make it one of the best places in the country for
whale watching. Species including humpback, white-beaked dolphins and
harbor porpoises are regular visitors, although orcas, blue, and fin
whales have been seen here too.
Nicknamed ‘Iceland’s Northern Capital’,
Akureyri is a lively university town. With a population of almost
20,000 it is the largest metropolitan area outside of the populated
southwest region. There is plenty to delve into here, including
top-notch eateries and museums. Check out the Akureyri Museum, which
gives you insight into how Icelanders used to live. The
Norðurslóð Museum of natural history also
features exhibitions about the local environment and the history of
settlers
You’ll be astonished by the array of flowers and foliage at
the Arctic Botanical Gardens. Its serene atmosphere is an oasis of lush
green in the most unlikely of settings. While you’re
exploring the town, check out the striking architecture of Akureyri
Church, designed by the famous architect Guðjón
Samúelsson.
On an optional excursion outside town, explore natural treasures that
rank among Iceland’s must-see sights. At Goðafoss
Waterfall, nicknamed the ‘waterfall of the gods’,
marvel at the translucent turquoise water pounding against immense
black rocks.
The unique and beautiful geology of Lake Mývatn is located
within a highly active volcanic area and includes shimmering waters and
otherworldly colors. It’s also a great place to watch for
birds, especially Eider and Earlequinn Ducks. Game of Thrones fans may
also find a few sites familiar!
Day 8
Patreksfjörður
When &Öuml;rlygur Hrappsson saw this destination for
the first time in the 9th century, he gave it a straightforward name:
Patreksfjörður, meaning ‘the fjord of St.
Patrick’, after his spiritual guide. The town’s
appeal is just as simple—this settlement on the west coast of
Iceland is utterly gorgeous.
Discover the peace and silence of a tranquil fishing village. Serving
as a fishing port as far back as the 16th century, this town is steeped
in rich maritime history. Over the centuries, Patreksfjördur
has served as a base for fishermen, merchants, and naval mariners from
England, France, and Germany.
Explore the lively harbor and learn about the town’s local
fishing tradition and the different kinds of fish found in its waters.
Or take a dip in the outdoor pool, a new addition to the town, where
you can enjoy wonderful views over the fjord.
The sheer beauty of this region makes hiking here a very rewarding
activity, weather conditions permitting. Nearby is
Látrabjarg, Europe’s largest bird cliff and most
western point. It is home to millions of birds, including puffins,
Northern Gannets, guillemots and razorbills. Birdwatching here is
spectacular. Safe from Arctic foxes, the birds bravely cling to the
high cliffs, and offer excellent photo opportunities.
Nearby, you also have the dream beach of Rauðisandur. In
contrast to other beaches in Iceland coated with black volcanic sands,
Rauðisandur offers rose–colored sands with golden
hues.
The Dynjandi Waterfalls are also one of the big draws of this area, and
it’s easy to see why. Six different waterfalls combine to
make the largest waterfall in the Westfjords, with a cumulative height
of 328 feet. In a country famed for its waterfalls, this is one of the
most impressive.
Day 9 The End of the
Adventure
Say a fond farewell to MS Fridtjof Nansen back where we started, in the
fabulous city of Reykjavík. Take another opportunity to
explore Reykjavík and its surrounding areas. There are so
many amazing ways to prolong your adventure here. Reykjavik’s
galleries, restaurants, and spas are internationally recognized.
If you want to recharge your batteries, consider Iceland’s
most famous heitur pottur (‘hot pool’: a natural
hot spring), the Blue Lagoon. Situated in a vast 800-year-old lava
field, the blend of silica, algae, and minerals in the waters have
earned this magical location a place on National Geographic’s
25 wonders of the world. Nothing sends off your Icelandic adventure
like soaking yourself in volcanic water with your beverage of choice in
hand, surrounded by gorgeous nature.
We recommend booking one of our Post-Programs to further explore the
city and beyond. Whatever’s next for you, we wish you a safe
onward journey and look forward to seeing you on your next adventure!
(Click image to view Ship details)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Expedition Cruise
- Expedition cruise in a cabin of your choice
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner including beverages (house
beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water) in restaurant Aune
- Fine-dining À la carte restaurant
Lindstrøm is included for suite guests
- Complimentary tea and coffee
- Complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Be aware that we sail in
remote areas with limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
- Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard
water refill stations
- English-speaking Expedition Team who organize and guide
activities, both on board and ashore
- Range of included excursions
Onboard activities
- Experts from the Expedition Team present detailed lectures
on a variety of topics
- Use of the ship’s Science Center which has an
extensive library and advanced biological and geological microscopes
- The Citizen Science program allows guests to contribute to
current scientific research
- The onboard professional photographer will give tips and
tricks for taking the best landscape and wildlife photos
- The ship has hot tubs, a sauna, and an indoor gym
- Participate in informal gatherings with the crew, such as
daily recaps and the next day’s preparations
Landing activities
- Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment needed for
the activities
- Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
- Expedition photographers will help configure your camera
settings before landings
Not Included In Your
Expedition
- International flights
- Travel protection
- Baggage handling
- Optional shore excursions with our local partners
- Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team