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Trip Inspiration

15 Days: Exploring the Arctic

Journey Through Arctic Frontiers

Embark on an extraordinary Arctic adventure, where remote landscapes and captivating wildlife await. From the glaciers of Svalbard to the volcanic beauty of Jan Mayen, explore rugged fjords, polar bear territories, and colorful settlements. With expert guides leading Zodiac cruises and scenic hikes, this journey offers unparalleled exploration of one of the world’s most pristine regions. Every moment is filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife, creating experiences that will stay with you long after the journey concludes.

Map of the Arctic

Trip Highlights

Locations

  • Norway: Awe-inspiring archipelago exploration
  • Greenland: Colorful arctic outposts and intricate fjord systems
  • Iceland: Captivating insights into marine life

Activities

  • Experience thrilling Zodiac excursions through vast fjord systems
  • Search for polar bears, walruses, and Arctic seabirds in their natural habitat
  • Hike scenic Arctic landscapes for breathtaking views and unforgettable wildlife sightings
  • Unwind with spa treatments, an outdoor heated pool, and expert-led lectures at sea
Our travel consultants create a custom itinerary for each client,

offering recommendations for places and experiences that best fit your style. We are sharing this itinerary to inspire and provide an example of what a trip to the Arctic might look like. When you are ready to design a trip just for you, please let us know.

Day 1

Arrive Oslo, Norway

Welcome to Norway!

Upon arrival in Norway, you will be escorted to a centrally located hotel where accommodations will be reserved for one night. Later, you will gather for a briefing and welcome dinner to get to know your fellow adventurers.

Centrally Located Hotel Meals: Dinner

Day 2

Oslo to Svalbard

Embark Le Lyrial

This morning, you will board your charter flight to Longyearbyen, the largest of the Svalbard archipelago’s cities where glaciers cover nearly two-thirds of the landscape. Upon arrival in Longyearbyen, you will step aboard your luxury cruiser, meet your Abercrombie & Kent expedition team, and set sail!

Le Lyrial Ship in the Arctic

ABOUT LE LYRIAL

Le Lyrial, an Ice Class 1C luxury expedition cruiser, is thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind. Accommodating just 199 guests, the ship features an English-speaking staff and a seasoned expedition team dedicated to providing an exceptional experience for every traveler. Each suite boasts a private balcony and complimentary butler service, ensuring a touch of indulgence throughout your journey. Onboard amenities include multiple observation areas, cozy lounges, a variety of dining options, a library, theater, heated outdoor pool, fitness center, spa, and a 24-hour medical facility staffed by a certified doctor. For your shore adventures, Le Lyrial is equipped with a fleet of Zodiac boats. You’ll also enjoy complimentary wireless Internet, Abercrombie & Kent’s Traveler’s Valet laundry service, and the reassurance that this Clean-Ship certified vessel meets the highest environmental standards.

Aboard Le Lyrial Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

View Gallery

Day 3-7

Svalbard Archipelago

Over five unforgettable days, you’ll fully embrace the spirit of expedition travel, venturing into the breathtaking Svalbard Islands. Towering glaciers, rugged fjords, and thriving Arctic wildlife create an ever-changing backdrop for exploration. If conditions allow, step into a Zodiac for a thrilling cruise along cliffs home to auk diving birds. When the sea is favorable, your Captain and Expedition Team may also lead scenic hikes ashore, offering yet another perspective on this remote and awe-inspiring wilderness.

Birds in the Svalbard Islands

The Svalbard Islands showcase a vibrant display of Arctic landscapes, where every turn reveals new and fascinating encounters. Search for harbor and bearded seals, walruses, and flocks of Brünnich’s guillemots and kittiwakes soaring overhead.

Polar bear in the Arctic.

Stay alert, you may even catch a glimpse of a polar bear roaming the tundra!

Aboard Le Lyrial Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 8

The Greenland Sea

Today, you’ll cruise south through the Greenland Sea as your Abercrombie & Kent Expedition Team shares insights on the wildlife, history, and geology of the Svalbard Islands. Tranquil sea days perfectly complement the excitement of exploring onshore, so be sure to unwind and take full advantage of the ship’s offerings, including the spa and outdoor heated pool.

Aboard Le Lyrial Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 9

Jan Mayen

Your journey to Jan Mayen offers a rare chance to explore one of the most remote islands on Earth. Dominated by the towering 7,500-foot Beerenberg Volcano, the northernmost active volcano in the world, this rugged outpost is a true Arctic gem.

Jan Mayen Volcano

With special permission and favorable conditions, you may step ashore to visit its meteorological station and witness thriving colonies of northern fulmar, little auk, thick-billed guillemot, and black guillemot. It’s an adventure few have experienced, where untouched wilderness and raw natural beauty take center stage!

Aboard Le Lyrial Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 10

Ittoqqortoormiit

Today, if ice conditions allow, you will disembark and step ashore in Ittoqqortoormiit, one of Greenland’s most remote settlements. Explore its colorful village and experience life in this isolated Arctic outpost.

Ittoqqortoormiit village in Greenland

Aboard Le Lyrial Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 11

Scoresby Sound

Your adventure continues as you cross the Greenland Sea, following the Arctic ice edge toward Greenland’s remote eastern coast and the expansive Scoresby Sound, the world’s largest fjord system. Weather permitting, you will set out on Zodiac excursions to explore its intricate network of islands and towering icebergs, keeping watch for Arctic foxes and musk oxen in this breathtaking polar wilderness.

Aboard Le Lyrial Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Fox sighting in the Arctic.

Day 12

The Denmark Strait

Today, you will spend the day at sea cruising the Denmark Strait. Enjoy the opportunity to recharge and enjoy onboard activities. Relax on deck, keeping an eye out for seabirds and whales, between insightful lectures from your Expedition Team.

Aboard Le Lyrial Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 13

Husavik

On this day, consider a visit to the charming town of Husavik, home to a renowned whale museum supported by Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy. Recognized as one of the world’s leading whale research centers, the museum offers a captivating insight into marine life.

Whale watching in Husavik

Alternatively, set out on a scenic whale-watching excursion, or explore the striking landscapes of Godafoss Falls and the geothermal wonders of Lake Myvatn. This evening, conclude your journey with a memorable farewell reception and dinner.

Aboard Le Lyrial Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 14

Falls in the Westfjords of Iceland.

Westfjords

Today, you will journey into the remote Westfjords of Iceland, a region where dramatic mountains and secluded coves shelter small, picturesque settlements. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery with a leisurely walk along the rugged landscape or opt for a more invigorating trek to fully experience the area’s natural beauty.

Aboard Le Lyrial Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 15

West Fjords to Reykjavik

Today marks the conclusion of your Arctic journey. You will disembark from your expedition cruiser in Reykjavik and continue to your onward flights home.

N/A Meals: Breakfast

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