Expedition Iceland and Svalbard – Natural Spectacles in Two Untamed Northern Worlds

Departure 19.00 hrs

(Patreksfjordur , cruising off Hornvik, Djupavik , Akureyri, Grimsey )An island of breathtaking natural phenomena, simultaneously hot and cold. Here, an expedition awaits you into foreign worlds - surreal, thrilling, and steeped in legends and myths. Beyond the stunning volcanic landscapes and colossal waterfalls, the wildlife will also captivate you. At this time of year, you might spot whales as these gentle giants return north from their winter havens. In the tranquil Westfjords, Patreksfjördur offers peace and serenity, where our experts will guide you through the small town and its surroundings. The Westfjord panorama and the Dynjandi waterfalls vividly illustrate the transformations wrought by the ice age. While most coasts are covered in black lava, Raudasandur Beach presents a striking palette of red, orange, and gold sands. No, you are not in Ireland, though the green-clad cliffs of Hornvik might suggest otherwise. The history of Djupavik is intertwined with the herring shoals that once thrived here, reflected in the old herring factory, now a museum. Akureyri, a gem of the north, welcomes you as your gateway to majestic nature. This is the homeland of writer Jon Sveinsson and a place where Iceland's rugged north reveals the signs of contemporary volcanic activity with bizarre lava formations and craters. At Lake Myvatn, observe numerous seabirds before the Godafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods," offers a spectacle of roaring impressions. Alternatively, a scenic flight over the volcanic landscape unveils the immense scale of Iceland's largest lava field and the mighty Vatnajökull glacier. For a more personal interaction with Icelandic nature, ride friendly island inhabitants, the Icelandic horses, renowned for their smooth Tölt gait. Expand your knowledge with fresh insights on Grimsey, where you will delve into the Viking history, birdlife, and geology of this volcanic island lying directly on the Arctic Circle.

Next, the largely glaciated island of Jan Mayen, crowned by the towering 2,277-meter Beerenberg, serves as a formidable prelude to another thrilling chapter of your explorer's journey.

(Prins Karls Forland, Ny-Alesund, 14th July Glacier, Liefdefjord, Smeerenburgfjord)Your journey continues northward as the HANSEATIC nature takes you to the spectacular natural wonders of Spitsbergen. Here, whales, polar foxes, walruses, and polar bears play the leading roles. You will be escorted by glacier fronts and distinctive peaks that appear in ever-new forms. The extensive polar experience of the captain and crew ensures extraordinary moments as you cruise before unique glacial landscapes, land with the Zodiacs, and embark on numerous hikes with your experts. With some luck, the small island of Prins Karls Forland offers impressive wildlife sightings: herds of imposing walruses often gather here. In Ny Alesund, you will reach one of the northernmost settlements on Earth. Once a coal mining site, today, international scientists focus on meteorology, climate change studies, and aurora research. Another highlight of your exploration route is the 14th of July Glacier. Its blue-white appearance contrasts with the dark mountains rising on either side. The blue shimmering Monaco Glacier in Liefdefjord similarly showcases the wonders nature is capable of. The finale is marked by the deep blue sea and the snow-covered peaks of the Smeerenburgfjord — a truly unforgettable sight! Following in the tradition of legends like Willem Barents, Roald Amundsen, and Umberto Nobile, you now join the ranks of those who have discovered the polar worlds.

Arrival 7.00 hrs Charter flight from Longyearbyen to Germany.

Itineraries are subject to change.