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Expedition Cruises with Hurtigruten

Expeditions
Alaska, Antarctica, British Isles, West Africa & Cape Verde Caribbean and Central America, Europe, Galápagos Islands, Greenland, Iceland, North America, Northwest Passage Cruises, Norway, South America, Svalbard and Transoceanic
What is an expedition cruise with us?

It’s so many things rolled together into one epic adventure. Here are just a few aspects that help make these cruises so special.

 

Expect the Unexpected

Embarking on an expedition, you’ll be travelling to some of the most remote and pristine places on the planet. These are areas where nature reigns supreme and where wildlife live free.

Itineraries on our expedition cruises are not completely set in stone. This gives us the flexibility of responding to challenging elements and to grasp new opportunities for exploration as they arise. The option to divert from our course is an essential and exciting aspect of expedition cruises.

 

The Destinations

Go beyond the usual highlights and iconic cities, going further to remote communities and hidden vistas few get to see. Encounter rare and exotic wildlife all around you, from elks to eagles, penguins to polar bears, and walruses to whales.

An expedition cruise with us ventures to places many have only ever dreamed about: Antarctica, Alaska, Norway, Lake Titicaca, the Northwest Passage, Machu Picchu, the Caribbean, the Gálapagos Islands, Svalbard, the British Isles… the list goes on.

 

Experts in Exploration

A handpicked Expedition Team of experts will be with you every step of the way, keeping you safe on landings and revealing details, facts, and stories that enhance your sense of wonder. Each team member brings decades of experience to your expedition.

Members come from all over the world and from all walks of life. You’ll find each of them to be a walking treasure trove of fascinating facts and charming stories. Together, they’ll enhance your experience and take your expedition to a whole new level.

 

The Ships

Our expedition fleet ranges from small and agile ships to medium-sized, hybrid-powered vessels. At home on your haven at sea, you’ll experience an informal, welcoming atmosphere, comfortable cabins, luxurious suites, and stylish interiors made from natural materials. 

All are modern ice-class ships suitable for polar sailing, combining advance technology with efficient engines and light fuels. Onboard Science Centers act as the heart and hub of the ship, featuring advanced microscopes with an impressive array of biological and geological slides.

 

Taking sustainability seriously

Exploring our blue planet for more than a century has taught us the importance of being green.

Over decades, our Captains and crew, Expedition Teams and returning guests have witnessed the impact of climate change on vulnerable polar areas with their own eyes. We want the Arctic, Antarctica, and everywhere in between to remain places of pristine nature, pure water and clean air.
 

Sustainability is at the heart of who we are and what we do. From the beautiful natural world to remote communities, we want to ensure our expedition cruises protect them both. 

 

Are you ready to start your adventure? 

An expedition cruise with Hurtigruten is all these things and more. It is the culmination of more than 125 years of our exploration history, harnessed into incredible expeditions and momentous experiences that stay with you forever.

Immerse in all that the British Isles and Scandinavia have to offer on expedition cruises departing from Dover.

• Explore above the Arctic Circle in search of the Northern Lights, visiting beautiful coastal destinations including Bergen, Narvik and Troms along the way.
• Take in the rugged beauty of the Hebrides and Scottish Highlands, along with picturesque Cornwall and Devon coasts.
• See Norway’s fjords, Germany, Denmark and Sweden on one extraordinary coastal adventure.
• Celebrate Christmas and the New Year against the backdrop of Norway’s beautiful coast, traditional markets and picturesque villages.
• And more!

*Terms & Conditions:
• 10% OFF selected British Isles and Norway Expedition 2022 & 2023 sailings with MS Maud
• To book by 31 March 2022
• Booking terms & conditions apply

DESTINATIONS
You don't need to climb Everest to be considered an explorer. With Hurtigruten's explorer fleet, you can realise your dreams large or small, from setting foot on untouched wilderness to simply trying something new. Join us! Let us help you connect with your inner explorer on an unforgettable journey.

ANTARCTICA

Explore this wild and wonderful frozen continent and see penguins, whales and seals in their natural habitat

Cruising to Antarctica

Go ashore and on small boat cruises to discover charming wildlife and spectacular frozen landscapes – from snowy mountains to icebergs and glaciers.

We’ve sailed these polar waters for over 20 years. Our expedition ships combine hybrid technology with a premium onboard experience, designed for your safety and comfort.

Learn about Antarctica’s fascinating history and science through lectures and hands-on projects. Fully enjoy your discovery of the white continent knowing that we have the lowest possible CO2-footprint of all expedition cruises to Antarctica.

Read more about Antarctica

No matter where you have been and what you have seen on previous travels: the frozen continent of  Antarctica is different from anything on the planet. A huge cold-water current encloses this isolated continent. Here, in the midst of the great white open, you will find nature at its most sublime and haunting.

 

What is Antarctica?

Roughly twice the size of Australia, the southernmost continent is the fifth largest with its 14 million square kilometres of land mass. Most of this – 98% to be precise – is covered in ice. As a result, there are neither permanent residents nor native inhabitants in Antarctica. However, about 4000 people stay on scientific bases in the short summer period and around 1000 in total during the winter months. Additionally, around 30 000 tourists visit during the Antarctic summer from December to March.

Surprisingly for some, the area is teeming with life. Antarctica is home to millions of penguins, is the feeding area for thousands of whales in the Austral summer, and is a continent dedicated to science and peace. The continent is protected by the Antarctic Treaty of 1959 – however, pre-treaty, eight nations made claims to portions of Antarctica – Norway has the second largest claim, second only to Australia.

Antarctica is in all aspects isolated from the outside world and travelers will understand what this means when they experience “the windiest, the coldest, the driest, and the highest continent”.

Someone once said: “The person who is able to express the feeling of being in Antarctica in words has probably not been there.”

Reasons to travel to Antarctica

1. Adventure
What can be more adventurous than exploring one of the most untouched places on the planet? A trip to Antarctica is a non-stop journey of unforgettable experiences.

2. Part of history
Because Antarctica is so isolated and has such extreme weather, very few people have ever visited the continent at all. As opposed to visiting an established destination, you are now part of the story, witnessing the grandeur first hand.

3. Another world
Gabrielle Walker, an environmental scientist in Antarctica, describes the continent as being almost alien: “The first time I went there it was like walking on another planet. It’s just ice and rock – no trees, no plants, no anything else.“

 

Nature, climate and weather in Antarctica

Being the coldest place on Earth, Antarctica supports no terrestrial mammals – there are no trees or shrubs, and only two species of flowering plants: Antarctic hair grass (Deschampsia Antarctica) and Antarctic pearlwort (Colobanthus quitensis). The sea is what supports most creatures, such as penguins and seals.

On the Antarctic Peninsula, two days of sailing from the tip of South America, the temperatures average 0-5 degrees Celsius during summer. But you can expect periods of high winds when in Antarctica – cold air travels down the glaciers and ice-shelves. These are called katabatic winds and can occur when you least expect it.

However, being one of the driest places on earth, Antarctica does not see a lot of rain. In fact, more rain falls every year on average on the Sahara Desert than on the icy, wild-blown desert of Antarctica. What little snow happens to fall doesn’t thaw in the freezing temperatures and is often blown away by strong winds – it simply creates further ice sheets and ice shelves.

Wildlife in Antarctica

In Antarctica you will see thousands of penguins eagerly nesting and feeding during the short summer months. There is a rich variety of mammals. As they have not been hunted for decades, most species are more curious than afraid of humans. There is also an abundance of birds, with the mighty Albatross as the king of the sky. During the austral summer, its shores are a feeding ground for thousands of whales. You can also see the torpedo-like leopard seal patrolling the shorelines, and the singing humpback whale as it acrobatically breaches the water.

WEST AFRICA & CAPE VERDE

Explore the unique history and vibrant culture of isolated Cape Verde, alongside the remarkable biodiversity of the tropical Bissagos Islands

Why travel to Cape Verde and The Bissagos Islands with us?

An expedition cruise to Cape Verde and the Bissagos Islands combines unique cultures and rare wildlife in one constantly fascinating journey.

These two remote and unspoilt archipelagos are far from the beaten the track. From rocky volcanic promontories teeming with endemic bird life in Cape Verde, to saltwater lagoons and mangrove swamps in Bissagos’ Orango National Park, our small expedition ship and fleet of expedition boats make these islands accessible.

 

A blend of influences and beliefs

Cape Verde is home to some of the world’s most sensual and evocative musical forms. The archipelago sits at a maritime crossroads in the Atlantic and has absorbed influences from a variety of traditions. From this, a musical culture has arisen that’s a heady mix of West African and Portuguese styles, and migration to and from Brazil and the Caribbean has added to this. With its songs of longing and separation morna – perhaps the most famous musical tradition – reflects the pain of migration, while dance-based coladeira is far more rhythmic and joyful.

Fundamental to life in the Bissagos is the islanders’ animistic belief system, which sees spirit in everything and holds the natural world to be sacred. This approach has helped preserve much of the islands’ remarkable biodiversity. The islands are also a matriarchal society, with women managing the religious, political and economic lives of their communities.

 

Culture and wildlife in two remote archipelagos

Cape Verde, with its 15 different islands, nine of them inhabited, and the Bissagos, with over 88 islands and islets, are both fascinating archipelagos best visited by sea. Our small expedition ship allows you to really get close to their inaccessible coastlines and hard-to-reach isles. We’re able to drop anchor off isolated, unspoilt beaches in the pristine Bissagos, or pull up alongside atmospheric Cape Verdean ports on ancient Atlantic trading routes.

Nature lovers can look forward to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Bissagos, plus the globally significant levels of biodiversity in the waters around Cape Verde. On a cultural note, there’s the unique musical heritage of Cape Verde and the fascinating social structures of the Bissagos Islanders.

 

Nature and wildlife

The Cape Verde islands were formed by volcanic activity, and coral covered outcrops rise up from the seabed to surround many of them. These provide rare oceanic habitats for the hundreds of different species of fish that have been catalogued in these waters, along with at least 17 species of cetacean in the deeper water.

The archipelago is also a bird-watchers’ paradise, with many fascinating species arriving as temporary visitors on their way to distant climes, such the Sandpiper and Spoonbill, or those, such as the Madeiran Storm Petrel, known locally as the jaba-jaba, which use the islands as their sole breeding site.

As you cruise through the Bissagos Islands aboard our expedition ship MS Spitsbergen, you’ll see why they were declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1996. A relative lack of human impact, combined with diverse ecosystems including mangrove swamp and coastal savanna, has created a rich habitat.

A plethora of birdlife, as well as many species of sea turtle, crocodiles, sharks including grey reefs and hammerheads, plus dolphins and the West African manatee make the islands their home. The most iconic inhabitants are the rare saltwater hippos, who bathe in the Islands’ lagoons.

Discover the Cape Verde and Bissagos archipelagos with us

Both archipelagos offer superb opportunities for discovery and adventure. You’ll learn all about the wildlife and ecology of the islands as well as the local cultures and beliefs. Our small ship MS Spitsbergen will take you to some off-the-beaten track destinations, allowing us to get up close to volcanic islands where we’ll go on nature walks, while in the Bissagos Islands you can try sea kayaking, go on expedition boat safaris among the mangroves and visit local Bijagos communities.

Out of Africa

Where the tropics meet the temperate waters of the mid-Atlantic, Cape Verde’s distinctive climate has allowed an array of endemic bird species to evolve, and provides a crucial layover for many migratory species. Further south, the tropical archipelago of the Bissagos is home to a rare herd of saltwater hippos.

 

Sea turtles

While we’re at sea, you’ll have the chance to spot several species of sea turtle in Cape Verde from the deck, especially the loggerhead turtle. The islands are the only major nesting area for this vulnerable species along the eastern Atlantic coast. After 20 years spent drifting in the Atlantic, the females return to the same beach where they were born to lay their own eggs. Only around one in a thousand hatchlings survive into adulthood.

 

Birds

The geographical isolation of Cape Verde has created a habitat for several endemic species of birds, and it’s a valuable stopping point for about 130 migratory species. Breeding endemics include the Cape Verde Swamp Warbler which inhabits Santiago’s coffee and sugar plantations, and the Cape Verde Shearwater which nests in rocky crevices on a number of islands.

 

Saltwater hippos

The Bissagos Islands are home to a herd of rare saltwater hippos, most often spotted in November and early December. These shy giants, that grow to around 15 ft. long, frequent the shallow saltwater lagoons of the tropical archipelago, bathing in the salty water to cleanse and disinfect their tough hides. They are usually found on Orango Island, though you can sometimes see them wading between islands at low tide.

Galápagos Islands

The wild beauty and unique ecology of the Galápagos Islands make for the perfect expedition cruise destination. With rugged volcanic scenery and tame wildlife, little has changed since Charles Darwin set foot here in 1835

Explore the Galápagos Islands with us

Sailing with us aboard our comfortable expedition vessel, Santa Cruz II, is a team of hand-picked experts with many years’ experience in the ecology and wildlife of Galápagos. With only around 11 guests per expedition guide, you’ll enjoy a more tailored cruise.

The 90-guest capacity ship, which has been newly refurbished in a modern Scandinavian style, features excellent onboard facilities and its small size allows us to easily venture to off-the-beaten track locations. As well as numerous activities, including snorkelling and kayaking, we’ll go on guided nature walks and enjoy outstanding food prepared by the crew.

 

Galápagos – the inspiration behind a classic

Sometimes called a ‘living laboratory’, the remote Galápagos Islands are a unique example of pristine nature, giving us an insight into the very processes of life on Earth. It was here that naturalist Charles Darwin set foot in 1835, and the experience led him to write his ground-breaking book about evolution, On the Origin of Species.

Our journey to these astonishing volcanic islands follows in Darwin’s footsteps, bringing you closer to the animals and sights that inspired him. In particular, we’ll be looking out for the most of the so-called ‘Big 15’ –the 15 most iconic animal and bird species of the Galapagos, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, Galápagos Albatross, Blue-footed Boobies, and others.

 

Unique wildlife and ecology

From the famous giant tortoises, which lumber around the greener parts of the islands, to the scaly marine iguanas that have evolved to graze on underwater vegetation, you’ll see why Galápagos is such a special destination for nature lovers. Due to the uniqueness of each island, a huge range of terrestrial and aquatic wildlife flourishes in this haven of biodiversity.

What’s more, having evolved with no major predators, much of the wildlife is impervious to the presence of people and remains remarkably tame. Of course, we’ll maintain a respectable distance, but you’ll be able to get close to the animals, whether they be Galápagos sea lions, Blue-footed Boobies, land iguanas, Frigate Birds or other members of the ‘Big 15’ iconic species.

 

A crucible of evolution

Hidden away in the vastness of the Pacific, the Galápagos archipelago formed millions of years ago when subsea eruptions pushed up a group of volcanic islands. Due to their remoteness, they were at first arid and barren, but were soon colonised by rainforest animals from Central and South America floating across on rafts of vegetation.

Only the birds and reptiles could survive such a long voyage, and so the Galápagos became seeded by new arrivals, free from mammalian predators. Each species was compelled to adapt to the often very different island environments, making natural selection apparent to Darwin when he arrived. You’ll learn all about this and more as your knowledgeable onboard Expedition Team inform and educate you by way of onboard lectures and guided nature walks.

Your Hurtigruten expedition cruise: educational, informal, and enjoyable

At Hurtigruten Expeditions we want to show you some of the most remote and beautiful places in the world and do it in a way that gives back. You’ll learn all about the unique and fragile ecology of the Galápagos Islands and why its protection is important. What’s more, with a focus on science and conservation, you’ll learn heaps of interesting things from the knowledgeable Expedition Team, who’ve been exploring the islands for years.

Along the way you’ll visit a variety of islands and ecosystems, from the white sandy beaches and black volcanic rocks of Santa Fe to the lush highlands of Santa Cruz where wild giant tortoises thrive. At the same time, you’ll enjoy outstanding cuisine and hospitality aboard our modern, comfortable and small expedition ship.

Wildlife in the Galápagos

Arguably, no other place on Earth can compete with the Galápagos Islands in terms of unique wildlife experiences. Not only are there many endemic species, but they have evolved without mammalian predators and are unafraid of humans. Each island harbours a variety of animals, and the surrounding seas heave with life.

 

Iguanas – terrestrial and marine

These spiky-looking reptiles can be seen on several islands in the Galápagos. Predominantly vegetarian, the terrestrial iguanas which first arrived here have evolved into several different subspecies, including marine iguanas which can dive underwater and graze on the seabed. Land iguanas mostly eat cacti and other succulents and play in important role in dispersing seeds, but are somewhat omnivorous and will eat carrion.

 

Galápagos giant tortoises

Probably the most iconic Galápagos animal, endangered giant tortoises can weight 470 lb. and are thought to live over 100 years. Although they were heavily hunted by pirates and whalers, recent conservation efforts have succeeded in boosting their numbers. Each subspecies of Galápagos giant tortoise has a uniquely shaped shell, allowing these slow-moving herbivores to most efficiently push through the different types of vegetation found on each island.

 

Galápagos Albatross

With a wingspan of over 8 ft., the Galápagos Albatross breeds almost exclusively on Española. Close to 35,000 breeding pairs exist here but they are considered critically endangered due to having only one main breeding site. The birds need steady winds to give them lift, but these die down in January so chicks must be mature enough to fly by then or else remain stranded during the hottest season.

GREENLAND

Sail to Greenland with us and experience awe-inspiring scenery, pristine glaciers and some of the most photogenic wildlife on earth

Expedition Cruises to Greenland

Pristine, beautiful, peaceful – these are some of the words often used to describe Greenland, and we’ll show you why. See pale blue glacial ice sparkle in the sun, walk through lush green valleys and Arctic tundra, and look out for wildlife from Arctic foxes to polar bears, depending on where we go.

Our expedition ships allow you to experience places few others ever visit, whether that’s the silent vastness of Northeast Greenland National Park, on an island beach in remote Disko Bay, or deep within a mist-shrouded fjord.

With expertise built up over many years, your onboard Expedition Team help you unlock the secrets of this immaculate island wilderness. They’ll help to bring you closer to its majestic scenery, its captivating wildlife, and its unique culture.

Read more about Greenland

Reasons to Cruise to Greenland

With 27,000 miles of coastline, and fewer than 60,000 residents, Greenland is truly one of the most remote and pristine places on the planet. From immense glaciers and deep fjords to glittering icebergs and iconic wildlife, our expedition ships bring you on an adventure to the world’s largest island.

Greenland’s rugged west coast features colourful towns and is riven by deep fjords and glaciers all the way up to Disko Bay where uninhabited islands stud the blue Arctic waters. The east coast is practically uninhabited and boasts the largest national park in the world, as well as its most extensive system of fjords.

Adventures Around Greenland

If there’s anywhere that’s suited to off-the-beaten-track adventures, it’s the world’s largest island, Greenland. The mirrored waters of misty fjords are perfect for kayaking, while deserted stony shores, peaceful green valleys and windswept tundra demand to be explored on walks or hikes.

A Warm Culture Greets You

The island of Greenland is a self-ruling state and part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Resourceful Inuit peoples have lived here for thousands of years, managing to exist in often harsh conditions. Their culture and customs can still be clearly observed, and the tradition of the kaffemik – a homely social gathering to celebrate an event – remains popular today.

Greenlanders love their beautiful country and are proud to show it to visitors. You might see rock carvings and cultural memorabilia in artsy Qoqortoq, while clothing in Sisimiut is still made in the time-honoured way from musk ox fur, called quiviut. In Nuuk, stylish contemporary architecture sits alongside traditional painted wooden houses against a backdrop of mountain peaks – surely one of the most photogenic capitals you’ll ever see.

 

Land of Magic and Ice

Rivers of slow-moving ice pour forth from the immense ice cap that smothers the land, breaking off into floating chunks that shimmer and sparkle as they move slowly down the fjords and out to sea. These natural works of art are some of nature’s most beautiful and ephemeral creations, subtly changing colour as the sun moves across the sky.

The dreamy atmosphere of the Eternal Fjord, the deafening silence of the Northeast Greenland National Park and the awe-inspiring spectacle of the UNESCO Ilulissat Ice Fjord will make you feel like you’re witnessing an epic natural saga. As one of the few people who get to experience such sights, you’ll feel alive to the thrill of raw nature in these untouched places.

 

Wildlife of the Land and Sea

The coastal area and seas surrounding Greenland are where the greatest concentrations of wildlife can be seen. Musk oxen and Arctic foxes are found in areas devoid of humans, while birds such as Little Auks, Snowy Owls and Greenland Gyrfalcons are some of the species to seek out. The mighty – yet elusive – polar bear can occasionally be seen roaming the Northeast National Park region.

The seas and shores will also fascinate you, with humpback whales often spotted at the mouths of fjords or in the open ocean, while seals can be seen lounging on ice floes or swimming in the water.

22 Fun Facts about Greenland

On a Greenland cruise with Hurtigruten, voyagers will get an authentic experience with the ancient culture and stunning wildlife. In a land dominated by ice sheets, there are limitless natural attractions. Check out these fascinating facts about the world’s largest island: 1. The name Greenland means “Land of People.” 2. Almost 80 percent of the land mass is covered by an ice cap and glaciers. Though a minority of land, the ice-free area is nearly as large as Sweden. 3. The Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the most productive glacier in the Northern Hemisphere. 4. Greenland has a population of roughly 56,000, about 17,000 of whom live in the capital Nuuk. 5. Fishing and grants from Denmark are the primary sources of income for inhabitants in Greenland. In recent years, the country’s tourism industry has been expanding as well. 6. Scientists have estimated that the Greenland ice sheet is between 400,000 and 800,000 years old. 7. Greenland was a Danish colony until 1953, when it became a country. It attained home rule in 1979 and began full self-government in 2009. The government is a constitutional monarchy, with a 31-member unicameral parliament called Landsting and a premier. The country sends two representatives to the Danish Folketing. The nominal head of state is the Danish Queen. 8. There are a number of hot springs that attract visitors throughout the year to their balmy temperatures averaging between 98 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. 9. The largest town in southern Greenland is Qaqortoq, which has been occupied for about 4,300 years. Stop by the Qaqortoq museum for a glimpse back in time with an art collection from the Dorset, Thule and Norse cultures. 10. The Hvalsey Church, which was the first Christian church on the continent, is one of best preserved Norse ruins. 11. In mid-March, golf lovers can join or watch the Ice Golf World Championships in Uummannaq. The two-day event takes place on a a course cut on the ice, between icebergs and out in the snow fields. 12. Recent research indicate that the inhabitants of Greenland originated from eastern Siberia via Canada. 13. Greenland had a closed and self-sufficient economy until World War II. 14. The country’s flag has a polar bear in a blue shield – the polar bear is meant to symbolize the fauna of Greenland and the blue represents the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. 15. The country is geographically part of North America, but politically is part of Europe. 16. The sun does not set from May 25th to July 25th. On the Arctic Circle the midnight sun only lasts for about half an hour, but the further north you get, the longer it lasts. June 21, the longest day of the year, is a national holiday. July is the only month when Greenland’s temperature reaches above freezing. 17. Danish krone is the currency of Greenland. 18. “Kayak” and “igloo” are Greenlandic words that have been adopted directly by other languages. 19. The northeast Greenland ice sheet has lost more than 10 billion tons of ice a year since 2003, according to a Nature Climate Change study. 20. Much of Greenland tourism revolves around flora and fauna. The most sought-after wildlife includes polar bears, humpback whales, musk oxen, walruses, reindeer and sea eagles. 21. The Vikings discovered Greenland in the 10th century. 22. The official languages of the country are Greenlandic and Danish, though English is widely understood.

ICELAND

Soaring volcanoes, spouting geysers, peaceful fjords and spectacular waterfalls — join us on an epic expedition to the land of ice and fire

Cruising to Iceland

For almost 130 years, we’ve sailed to some of the world’s most remote lands. Through hikes, small boat cruises and shore excursions, you’ll delve deeper into Iceland’s seismic landscape. Sailing along Iceland’s coastline, you’ll learn more about this fascinating country, discovering tight-knit communities, industries, and historical landmarks.

You’ll explore Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital, and picturesque fishing villages on Iceland’s west coast. There are puffins to marvel at, whales to scan for and geothermal baths to soak in. Explore Iceland, expedition-style.

Read more about Iceland

Reasons to Cruise to Iceland

There’s a reason why film crews searching for dramatic scenery head to Iceland. As far as striking landscapes go, it doesn’t get much better than this. With 80% of the country uninhabited, Iceland is a vast wilderness of lofty glaciers, volcanic peaks, sprawling mountain ranges and gorgeous fjords.

 

Fire and Ice

Iceland’s location, straddling the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, has led to constant seismic activity. Here is a country still growing as a landmass. Pit the freezing glacial forces above against the earth’s molten heat below, and you end up with the staggering landscape you’ll explore on your expedition.

 

Cosmopolitan Capitals and Hidden Gems

Most Icelanders don’t have to choose between living in nature or in urban environments. Two-thirds of the population live in Reykjavik – a capital city encircled by natural wonders. Creative, cosmopolitan and quirky, it’s the perfect size for a walking tour, packed full of art, culture and history. On the north coast, Akureyri is a modern, youthful university town. It’s located in a region featuring some of Iceland’s most prized natural features, such as Lake Mývatn and the Goðafoss waterfall.

 

Iceland’s Wild Side

Iceland is home to some of the world’s largest bird populations, including Northern Gannets, Guillemots, Razorbills and Atlantic Puffins. In Grimsey, the birds outnumber humans by some 17,000 to 1. Naturally, Puffins steal the show. Onshore excursions to bird cliffs, you’ll have the chance to observe these adorable creatures up close.

 

Viking Heritage and Mythology

As your expedition unfolds, you’ll learn more about Iceland’s first settlers. Viking history comes alive in the Saga Museum in Reykjavik, complete with life-like replicas of historical figures. In Snæfellsnes, you can try your hand at lifting ‘strength-testing’ rocks placed there by Vikings. Iceland is ripe with myths, legends and sagas ready to be told – and heard.

 

Activities in Iceland

Iceland is a world of adventure. Our expedition cruises here will immerse you in its jaw-dropping scenery through a variety of stimulating activities. You’ll unleash your inner explorer as you go ashore to explore Iceland’s unique terrain, towns and cities.

Iceland has been welcoming explorers of all kinds since Vikings set foot on it in the 9th century. Its stunning landscape is a magnet for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers and those looking for experiences off the beaten track. Explore Iceland through a host of included and optional activities on your expedition cruise with us. Here are some of the activities you can choose from.

Wildlife in Iceland

Birds

Roughly 413 bird species have been spotted in Iceland, with approximately 110 nesting regularly – not bad for a remote island with a subpolar climate. But it’s the sheer number of birds that make Iceland such a bird lover’s paradise. Species that are rare elsewhere can be abundant here. Iceland is home to species such as Northern Gannets, guillemots, Black-legged Kittiwakes, Common Eider and millions of Atlantic Puffins and Razorbills in the summer months.

 

Whales

From May to August, the waters around Iceland harbour whales that migrate here to feed and breed during the warmer months. Around twenty-three whale species have been spotted here, including humpback, white-beaked dolphin, minke, harbour porpoise and even the elusive blue whale. The prospect of seeing the water-surface acrobatics of humpbacks such as lob-tailing and flipper-slapping makes whale watching in Iceland such a rewarding activity.

 

Seals

Seals frequently feature in Icelandic folklore and music. It’s easy to see why – one look at those big, brown, beautiful eyes and you’re transfixed. Although four species visit occasionally, harbour seals and grey seals are the only ones that produce their young in Icelandic waters. If you’re fortunate, you might spot them lazing on a beach or frolicking in the sea.

SVALBARD

Explore the Svalbard archipelago, located halfway between Norway and the North Pole

Expedition Cruises to Svalbard

Set in the High Arctic a few hundred miles from the North Pole, the archipelago of Svalbard is a silent wilderness of jaw-dropping beauty. This is a realm of pristine fjords and jagged mountain peaks where polar bears are known to roam. Sailing on an expedition cruise here in summer increases your chances of possibly spotting polar bears along the shores or across the ice. Free from winter’s snow, the tundra should also be painted with patches of colourful arctic flora.

Our long experience of sailing here since 1896 means we know these waters well, from the must-see highlights to the lesser-known gems. You’ll be accompanied by our expert Expedition Team, there to guide you through the in-depth history and behind-the-scenes science of what makes Svalbard such a fascinating place.

Read more about Svalbard

Svalbard population and settlement

The population of Svalbard is approximately 2500. Longyearbyen is the largest settlement in the islands and is also the seat of the governor. It’s a colourful modern town with first-class facilities, like excellent hotels and restaurants, regular flight connections to mainland Norway, as well as an impressive range of activities to suit every traveller.

How to get to Svalbard?

Svalbard is situated between Norway and the North pole, but the archipelago is quite easy to travel to. With Hurtigruten you can choose among a variety of expedition cruise to Svalbard. Typically, you would make your way to Longyearbyen before embarking on a 6-10 day voyage. If you only want to experience Svalbard mainland, you can choose between multiple land based adventures on Hurtigruten Svalbard. On our cruises, the expedition-style landings will take you close to the Arctic wildlife, the ghost towns of the early whaling stations and remote mining towns, research communities, spectacular fjords and icebergs.

 

Things to do in Svalbard

Located on the southern fringe of the frozen Arctic Ocean, we offers expedition landings, hikes, kayaking and other excursions on Svalbard – there are lots of things to do in Svalbard. Part of the Svalbard experience is visiting the different and fascinating settlements like Longyearbyen, Barentsburg, or Ny-Ålesund – all with a different scent and atmosphere. However, they share a certain pioneer feeling, a “Klondike-like” atmosphere – displaying self-confidence in their isolation from the mainland. This Archipelago holds fascinating histories of the polar heroes of the north, and cultural heritage from the coal mining era as well as the history of exploration, hunting and whaling.

Weather climate and best time to visit Svalbard

Located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, one might expect it to be unbearably cold. However, thanks to the Gulf Stream, Spitsbergen and the other islands in the Svalbard archipelago boast a surprisingly mild climate with distinctive seasons. The arctic summer, blessed with long days and buzz of wildlife and human activity, is favoured by travellers seeking the classic arctic experience. But delve deeper and you’ll find each season has its own distinct character, from winter’s crisp northern lights to spring’s welcoming of new beginnings.

Wildlife in Svalbard

The Svalbard wildlife is unique and fascinating. In the Artic wilderness you’ll find the majestic polar bear, witch outnumber humans on Svalbard. Did you know that polar bears are good swimmers and can swim for several miles and days in row? Read more and get to know the polar bear better. You can also find artic foxes, reindeers, seals and whales. During summertime large numbers of sea birds flock to the archipelago. Svalbard has long been a tourist destination, ever since the coal industry began. You will find old mining villages, abandoned whaling stations and hunting lodges dating back several centuries. A cruise to Svalbard will give you best of both worlds, exotic wildlife and majestic nature, but also history and culture.

EXPEDITION CRUISES
Prices in Australian Dollars

Hurtigruten – 10D The Svalbard Express Northbound from Bergen

From$5,601
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13D West African Archipelago Expedition: Cape Verde & Bissagos Island Cruise

From$7,035
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17D West African Islands to the Canaries – Volcanoes & Wildlife Expedition Cruise

From$7,485
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Christmas Cruise

13D Christmas Expedition to Cape Verde & Bissagos Island Cruise

From$7,935
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