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Iceland to Greenland: Total Solar Eclipse | Ultramarine

13 Days
From NZD 33,795

STYLE: Luxury Small Ship Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACQEITG

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Reykjavík, Iceland

Finish: Reykjavík, Iceland

SHIP: Ultramarine

DestinationDestination

Greenland & Iceland

MealsMeals

All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage. select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock

TransportTransport

Group transfers to/from the ship in Reykjavik

TransportAccommodation

Cabin on board ship & Hotel

DEPARTURE DATES



Enquire Now
map

Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

Daily Arctic Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings By The Experienced Expedition Team

 

NOTE: Itinerary Is Subject To Change Depending On Weather & Ice Conditions

OVERVIEW

In 2003, our team became the first to successfully lead a total solar eclipse cruise in remote Antarctica, which served as the inspiration for our 13-day itinerary. We have now made the decision to accomplish a similar goal in the Arctic. But since innovation is ingrained in our culture, we set out to differentiate it from other eclipse viewing experiences.

In order to prepare for one of the most uncommon experiences on Earth—observing a total solar eclipse in the High Arctic—we have put together a taskforce of eclipse experts, a meteorologist, and members of our Expedition Team to conduct research on the geography, terrain, sun angles in the sky, and Arctic weather patterns.

Discover the natural treasures of the Vestfjords, West Iceland's hidden gem, in addition to witnessing breathtaking eclipses in the High Arctic. Along the way, we will cruise the 110-kilometer King Oscar Fjord in the vast Northeast Greenland National Park. Additionally, you will get the opportunity to let your inner explorer loose on exhilarating heli-flightseeing excursions over isolated Greenland on cutting-edge helicopters.

 

Special Guests 

David Baron

Having seen nine total solar eclipses worldwide, the seasoned scientific writer, presenter, and umbraphile is also the author of the critically acclaimed book "American Eclipse: A Nation's Epic Race to Catch the Shadow of the Moon and Win the Glory of the World." For business and pleasure, Baron has visited all 50 countries and every continent.

Michael Zeiler

A member of the International Astronomical Union Working Group on Solar Eclipses, the esteemed author, geographer, and eclipse cartographer has an asteroid named after him. Zeiler was one of the first to create eclipse maps on the internet and has been observing solar eclipses since 1991.

ITINERARY

Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland

Once you're in Reykjavik, make your own way to the accommodation that's included for the night. Depending on when you arrive, you might want to visit the interesting Icelandic capital.

Embark and explore the Westfjords

You will be taken to your ship, the state-of-the-art Ultramarine, following breakfast. We set sail today for the Westfjords, which are frequently referred to as "Iceland's best-kept secret." Westfjords is an anglicised name for this rocky peninsula on Iceland's far northwest edge, which is a breathtaking area of fjords and mountains. There are many options for breathtaking landscape photography because of the dramatic way that the mountains slope down to the sea. Using a zodiac and ship, as well as supervised beach landings, we will spend the day exploring the fjords and coasts of one of Iceland's oldest locations, which is home to volcanic rocks that date back 16 million years.

A variety of landscapes can be seen, including towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, vibrant beaches, undulating green hills, high moorlands with rocky outcrops, and little lakes. The hillsides are likely to be grazed by shaggy sheep and Icelandic horses. Small fishing villages tucked away on the fjord's borders and along the Denmark Strait's coastlines are a couple of examples of outposts of civilisation. These small communities have maintained a seafaring tradition that stretches back to the Viking era. Vigur Island in Safjarðardjúp fjord and the small village of Ísafjörður, which is famous for its wooden cottages, fishing boats, and hospital-turned-community centre, are potential destinations for community visits.

At Sea: Crossing the Denmark Strait

Your Expedition Team will get you ready for the thrilling on-and off-ship experiences that lie ahead as we sail north over the Denmark Strait between Iceland and Greenland. Our group of arctic specialists will give presentations on a variety of subjects, such as animals, geology, climatology, and Arctic history. The crew will also look for seabirds flying over the ship, and they will definitely notify you if they spot a whale.

Northeast Greenland: Explore Kangerluk Kong Oscar

On the northern edge of the Scoresby Land peninsula, we will sail into Kangerluk Kong Oscar, also called King Oscar Fjord, within the borders of Northeast Greenland National Park, which is the largest national park on Earth at 972,000 square kilometres. Known for its renownedly brilliant sandstone, this main fjord system is 110 km long and 10 to 25 kilometres wide. Hiking in the Skipperdal Valley, where mineral deposits have tinted the hills red and magenta will be possible for visitors when conditions permit.

On Day 7, we will also get the chance to explore Blomsterbugten (also called Flower Bay) on Ymer Island as we get ready to position the ship to get the best views of the solar eclipse. During the Lauge Koch trip in 1929, renowned archaeologists Gunnar Seidenfaden and Arne Noe-Nygaard adopted the floral name after finding a large number of specimens for their botanical collection. There is also a little hut called "Varghytten" (the wolf hut) in Blomsterbugten. The Sirius Patrol, a specialised military unit of the Danish Armed Forces, continues to operate out of the tiny house, which was constructed in 1929. We might also walk to Noa Lake, which isn't often visited. As the enthusiasm for our eagerly anticipated eclipse viewing grows, it will be evident in the air. In order to place the Ultramarine in the best possible position to maximise your views of the solar eclipse, your Expedition Leader, guest eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler, and the ship captain will collaborate closely behind the scenes. They will keep an eye on atmospheric forecasts, sea and ice conditions, and other factors. Few people ever get to experience the wonders of a polar adventure, but even fewer get to witness a solar eclipse while experiencing the wonders of an Arctic expedition.

In anticipation of the August 12 Solar Eclipse, expect lectures from our two special guests, eclipse specialists Michael Zeiler and David Baron. To make sure you enjoy an eclipse viewing unlike any other, these seasoned eclipse aficionados will use their extensive experience.

Guest speaker David Baron will discuss the effects of eclipses on society in his keynote address, "Scientific America: The Eclipse That Enlightened A Nation," which he will give on the evening of Day 6. Baron will talk about how societies—and particular people—have been inspired to attain scientific excellence by epic occurrences like solar eclipses.

Solar Eclipse Viewing: in the path of totality

In order to determine the best viewing location along the line of totality, the Ultramarine will continue sailing into King Oscar Fjord. This area of the Arctic offers the longest period of totality along the eclipse route, with the sun's total eclipse lasting 2 minutes and 17.2 seconds. The eclipse is scheduled to start at 2:34 pm, reach totality at 3:34 pm, and finish at 3:36 pm. The two-hour, one-minute, and three-second eclipse viewing experience will end at 4:35 p.m.

Saros series 126, a cycle of solar eclipses that occurs roughly every 18 years, includes the eclipse in 2026. Because of the lesser geographical area and the fact that the sun only illuminates each pole for a portion of the year, total solar eclipses are comparatively uncommon in the polar regions. To refresh your memory, 2008 marked the last time a total solar eclipse was visible north of the Arctic Circle.

As we get ready for the event, the crew and our guest eclipse specialists have been studying the geography of this area and will keep doing so. To find the ideal viewing experience, our staff will research the rugged terrain, the sun's angles in the sky, and weather patterns all the way up to the actual eclipse day. In the days and hours preceding the complete eclipse, your expedition leader will lay out the schedule for the day.

Exploring Scoresbysund and surrounding region

We will explore Scoresby Sound (Scoresby Sund), a sizable fjord system on the eastern coast of Greenland, as we start our journey home, perhaps still in shock from the eclipse experience the day before. The majority of Scoresby Sund is uninhabited, with the exception of a tiny Inuit community at Ittoqqortoormiit, close to the fjord's mouth. Unusual for the Arctic, warm water polynyas—areas of open water encircled by sea ice—near the fjord's mouth support a variety of plant and animal communities. The fjords are bordered by several mountains, valleys, and glaciers, which result in an amazing array of icebergs. Additionally, we intend to travel through Bjornar (Nannut Qeqertaat), a collection of islands northeast of Milne Land that were named by the Den Østgrønlandske (East Greenland) expedition in 1891–1892. These islands are also referred to as Bear Islands. With its intricate network of canals, sheer rock faces, and intriguing geology, the group of 11 major islands captivates tourists.

You can enjoy shore visits to several spots and zodiac cruises while exploring this region. Since Northeast Greenland National Park is home to 40% of the world's population, we will also keep an eye out for grazing muskoxen. As you sail through the breathtaking Scoresby Sund, where several icebergs are born, you'll understand why past tourists have called it the world's most magnificent fjord system. We'll go to places like Sydkap, where you can explore the vibrant tundra and the ruins of old Thule towns, and Vikingbukta, which is famous for its beach of basalt columns.

At Sea: Crossing the Arctic Circle once more

We sail back across Denmark Strait, this time heading south, marking the end of our Arctic trip. We encourage you to make the most of your remaining time on board by sharing your photos, scheduling a massage at Ultramarine's Tundra Spa, sipping a refreshing cocktail in the bar, attending an informative presentation by one of our experts, or asking any questions you may have of our eager Expedition Team, who will also notify guests of any wildlife sightings.

Disembark in Reykjavik

At the conclusion of your trip, you will disembark in the vibrant capital of Iceland, Reykjavik.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • From a polar ship in the High Arctic, observe a total solar eclipse.

  • Learn about the scientific and cultural impact of solar eclipses from visiting expert, David Baron & Michael Zeiler

  • Cross the Arctic Circle twice— southbound and northbound

  • Heli–flightsee over remote Greenland

  • Discover the hidden treasure of west Iceland, the rarely visited Westfjords.

  • Take in Northeast Greenland National Park's wildlife.

Ultramarine

Ultramarine

Step onboard the Ultramarine! This premium expedition vessel takes guests to the most isolated and breathtaking wildernesses on the planet. The ship has been purpose-built to meet the specific demands of the polar regions and is well appointed to let guests explore The Arctic and Antarctica safely and comfortably.  It offers a robust portfolio of adventure activities. The mix of sustainability features create innovative operations to offer ultra-immersive polar experiences to guests on board .The vessel is one of the few to offer a suite of flight-seeing activities, travelling in one of the two twin-engine helicopters. This really opens up the possibilities to go further and see more. 

The Expedition Ship  can accommodate a maximum of 199 passengers and offers the most spacious suites in its category . The cabins are all elegantly designed and feature oversized windows with sleeping views and spa-inspired bathrooms.

Ultramarine offers breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also features a best-in-class 70-day operational range, four embarkation points to load and embark zodiacs and get you to shore faster. The ship has a water level Zodiac hangar, which allows for more spontaneous off-ship adventures where the opportunity presents itself. This allows you to get off the ship in less than half the time of some other vessels. 

Ice Class: Length: 128m (420ft)
Breadth: 21.5m (70.5ft)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:
199

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Accommodation

We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.

Standard

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Superior

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Deluxe

Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.

Kayaking

Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.

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Day Paddling

If you are looking for another way to nurture your inner adventurer, our day paddle excursion might be the perfect fit! Absorb the majestic scenery from a more intimate vantage point as you paddle through the pristine waters of Antarctica on a sit-on-top kayak.Our expertly guided, one-time, Paddle Program gives you the rare chance to see Antarctica from the same perspective as most of the wildlife – at the surface of the sea.

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Pricing per person

Solo Panorama

Features:-

  • single bed
  • floor-to-ceiling window
  • desk
  • refrigerator
  • TV
  • private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle.

NZD 47,295

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

Explorer Triple

Features:-

  • three single beds (two of which can be combined into a double bed)
  • sitting area
  • picture window
  • desk
  • refrigerator
  • TV
  • private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle.

NZD 25,295

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Triple (3 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Explorer Suite

Features:-

  • one double or two single beds
  • sitting area with sofa bed
  • picture window
  • desk
  • refrigerator
  • TV
  • private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle.

NZD 33,795

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Balcony Suite

Features:-

  • one double or two single beds
  • sitting area with sofa bed
  • private balcony
  • desk
  • refrigerator
  • TV
  • private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle.

NZD 37,095

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Deluxe Balcony Suite

Features:-

  • one double or two single beds
  • sitting area with sofa bed
  • private balcony
  • desk
  • refrigerator
  • TV
  • private bathroom with shower
  • bathtub and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle.

NZD 43,795

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Terrace Suite

Features:-

  • one double or two single beds
  • sitting area with sofa bed
  • private extra-wide balcony
  • desk
  • refrigerator
  • TV
  • private bathroom with shower
  • bathtub and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle. Premium Amenities: upgraded bedding
  • in suite coffee. Services: onboard WiFi credit*
  • included laundry**
  • in suite dining during scheduled meals. *terms & conditions apply
  • WiFi may be limited in duration or data **terms & conditions apply
  • limited number of laundry loads per voyage

NZD 45,595

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Penthouse Suite

Features:-

  • one double or two single beds
  • sitting area with sofa bed
  • private balcony
  • desk
  • refrigerator
  • TV
  • private bathroom with shower
  • bathtub and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle. Premium Amenities: upgraded bedding
  • in suite coffee. Services: onboard WiFi credit*
  • included laundry**
  • in suite dining during scheduled meals. *terms & conditions apply
  • WiFi may be limited in duration or data **terms & conditions apply
  • limited number of laundry loads per voyage

NZD 47,295

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Owner's Suite

Features:-

  • one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet
  • sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet
  • private balcony
  • desk
  • refrigerator
  • TV
  • private bathroom with shower
  • bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle. Premium Amenities: upgraded bedding
  • in suite coffee
  • binoculars on loan. Services: onboard WiFi credit*
  • included laundry**
  • in suite dining during scheduled meals
  • included spa package
  • upgraded hotel accommodation pre-/post-expedition where applicable
  • included arrival transfers where applicable. *terms & conditions apply
  • WiFi may be limited in duration or data **terms & conditions apply
  • limited number of laundry loads per voyage

NZD 60,795

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Ultra Suite

Features:-

  • one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet
  • sitting area with sofa bed and additional walk-in hallway closet
  • private balcony
  • desk
  • refrigerator
  • TV
  • private bathroom with shower
  • bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room. Standard Amenities: hair dryer
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • shampoo
  • conditioner
  • shower gel
  • complimentary water bottle. Premium Amenities: upgraded bedding
  • in suite coffee
  • binoculars on loan. Services: onboard WiFi credit*
  • included laundry**
  • in suite dining during scheduled meals
  • included spa package
  • upgraded hotel accommodation pre-/post-expedition where applicable
  • included arrival transfers where applicable. *terms & conditions apply
  • WiFi may be limited in duration or data **terms & conditions apply
  • limited number of laundry loads per voyage

NZD 67,395

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Important Information

  • ** Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 02 December 2024, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates. Some current in market offers may be combinable and Shackleton Club Past Passenger and multi trip discounts may be applied subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Prices are subject to change based on currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and other external factors. No discount applies to any transfer packages, additional activities or pre/post services. The advertised prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment discount, which requires the full balance to be paid at the time of booking to apply. Further conditions may apply, contact us for more information.

    NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit. 

  • Prices are based on per person, and vary from single, quad, triple, and twin cabins.
    Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.
    All entrance fees are subject to change without prior notice.


    Please note this itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions*

  • INCLUSIONS 

    Cabin accommodation on board ship.
    All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage. 
    Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock.
    All scheduled landings and excursions.
    Guiding and leadership by expert exploration team and crew.
    A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions.
    An Expedition parka (yours to keep).
    Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person.

     

    EXCLUSIONS

    Any other pre or post land arrangements not mentioned above.
    Passport and visa expenses.
    Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above.
    Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended.
    Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned.
    Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew.
    Meals ashore unless otherwise specified.
    Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights.
    Laundry, bar and other personal charges unless specified.
    Optional Adventure Activities.

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • Available upon request. A supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Please contact us for more information.

  • Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.