Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland | Ultramarine
14 Days
Save Up To 19%
WAS From NZD 22,695 Now From NZD 18,326
STYLE: Luxury Small Ship Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACQEUIEG
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Reykjavík, Iceland
Finish: Reykjavík, Iceland
SHIP: Ultramarine
Destination
Greenland & Iceland
Meals
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
Transport
Group transfers to/from the ship in Reykjavik
Accommodation
Cabin on board ship & Hotel
DEPARTURE DATES
Enquire Now
Included 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
The Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland program allows you to visit two of the planet's last pristine wilderness regions. Discover a variety of remarkably untamed landscapes teeming with recognizable polar fauna as you cruise over Iceland's mountainous Vestfjords and Greenland's isolated northeast coast, which is home to the world's largest fjord system. Experience Inuit culture firsthand at Ittoqqortoormiit, explore historic Thule sites, and be in awe of the majesty of towering bird cliffs and gigantic icebergs as you immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Arctic. If you're fortunate, you might also be able to see the breathtaking northern lights as they dance across the sky.
*Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 31 October 2024, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates.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.
ITINERARY
Arrive in the Icelandic capital in the morning and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the day to explore the city on your own.
This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead!
Each region of Iceland has its own appeal for nature, bird and history lovers, and the little-visited Vestfjords (Westfjords), where the land meets the sea in the most dramatic fashion, is no exception. Often referred to as ‘Iceland’s best kept secret,’ this rugged peninsula at the country’s remote northwestern tip is rife with fjords and mountains sloping down to the sea in impossibly beautiful ways.
We spend the day exploring the fjords and shores of Iceland’s oldest region, enjoying its kaleidoscope of diverse land and seascapes. Here, tumbling cliffs and gushing waterfalls alternate with colorful beaches, and rolling green hills lead up to high moorlands dotted with rocky outcrops, small lakes and the occasional shaggy Icelandic sheep or horse grazing in the distance. A few little outposts of civilization, small fishing communities are nestled on fjord edges and the shores of the Denmark Strait, facing out into the mighty Atlantic and toward East Greenland—keeping alive a maritime heritage going back to the Viking days.
As we cruise north across the Denmark Strait, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures that await. Learn about the storied history and politics of the Arctic, its fascinating wildlife, geology, ecology and climate, and the incredible sights you will soon explore. The team will also search for the seabirds soaring around your ship, as well as the whales that frequent the waters here.
During your tour of Greenland’s remote northeast coast, you’ll enjoy Zodiac cruises and shore visits to several locations. We’ll also keep an eye out for grazing muskoxen, as 40 percent of the world’s population lives in Northeast Greenland National Park. Sailing through spectacular Scoresby Sund, the birthplace of many icebergs, you’ll immediately see why some say it’s the most beautiful f jord system on the planet. Sites such as Frederiksdal and Sydkap offer opportunities to explore the colorful tundra and the remains of ancient Thule settlements. At the entrance of the sound is East Greenland’s most northerly community, Ittoqqortoormiit, where you may spend time interacting with the Inuit people and learning about their way of life. You may also have a chance to see the northern lights here if the skies are clear. Deeper in the sound, Røde Ø offers a picturesque locale for admiring the beauty of sky-blue bergs set against striking red sandstone cliffs. Magnificent vistas also await at Kong Oscar Fjord, with possible landings at Ella Ø, renowned for its rugged cliffs and ice-choked waters, and flower-rich Botanikerbugt, on Ymer Ø.
As your arctic adventure winds down, take in a presentation by our onboard experts, share your photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar or watch a movie— there are many activities during your time at sea. Your Expedition Team will also be on hand to answer any questions and point out wildlife.
You’ll disembark in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, at the end of your journey. If you have booked post-expedition accommodation, we provide a transfer to a central downtown location.
WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?
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See arctic animals including seals, muskoxen, and polar bears that are iconic to the region
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Explore an amazing fjord system in East Greenland, go on a hike in the tundra, and stop by an Inuit settlement.
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Admire Iceland's oldest region's rainbow of breathtaking seascapes and landscapes.
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Have the opportunity to likely see the captivating northern lights, often known as the aurora borealis.
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
View Ship Details
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.
Learn More
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.
Learn MorePricing per person
 | Solo PanoramaFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 42,295 NZD 34,153Available Enquire Now
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 | Explorer TripleFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 22,695 NZD 18,326Available Enquire Now
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 | Explorer SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 30,195 NZD 24,383Available Enquire Now
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 | Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 33,295 NZD 26,886Available Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Balcony SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 39,295 NZD 31,731Available Enquire Now
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 | Terrace SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 40,895 NZD 33,023Available Enquire Now
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 | Penthouse SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 42,295 NZD 34,153Available Enquire Now
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 | Owner's SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 54,395 NZD 43,924Available Enquire Now
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 | Ultra SuiteFeatures:-
| 19 % off NZD 60,295 NZD 48,688Available Enquire Now
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Important Information
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.