Capital of Iceland

Docked - Full Day - Embarkation

Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital city. Norse settlers named the place Reykjavik (meaning “Smoky Bay”) after the columns of steam rising from hot springs in the area. The region offers fantastic natural beauty with geysers, mountains, glaciers and geothermal baths, well worth exploring before embarking on MS Fridtjof Nansen.

Crossing the Denmark Strait

At Sea

We leave Iceland behind and sail across the Irminger Sea. This crossing was used by the Vikings to migrate from Iceland to Greenland some 1,000 years ago. Enjoy introductory lectures on local history and biology, and get to know our innovative expedition ship.

“Kalaallit Nunaat” – Land of the People

Docked - Full Day

Many consider Qaqortoq one of the most beautiful towns in Greenland for its colorful houses and lovely setting. The biggest town in southern Greenland, with 3,000 inhabitants, Qaqortoq is easy to explore on foot, or you can join one of our excursions to get even more insight into local culture.

Exploration Day

We discover the beautiful region of Kvanefjord near Paamiut by sailing deep into the fjord. Our experienced captain will take advantage of the conditions to identify landing sites for onshore walks, places to launch our kayaks, ideal communities to visit, and the best spots to spot wildlife.

The Venice of Greenland

Anchored - Half Day

Founded in 1755, Maniitsoq means “The uneven place,” referring to the rocky hills and mountains shaping the town’s layout. It is also known as the “Venice of Greenland” because it lies in an archipelago, intersected by natural canals.

The local museum introduces you to the town´s rich history and culture.

“Where There are Fox Dens”

Docked - Full Day

While we are at sea, a series of lectures will be held on board on topics related to history and wildlife in the area. Another focal point for our lecture program is the environmental challenges of the world’s oceans. There might also be a chance to look behind the scenes and partake in our Guest Expedition Staff program. Our onboard Expedition photographer will show you the basics of expedition photography. There will also be gathering with the Expedition Team to summarize the voyage so far, and present the plan for the following days.

Icefjord - UNESCO World Heritage Site

Anchored - Full Day

Ilulissat is set in the stunning scenery of Ilulissat Icefjord World Heritage site. At the fjord’s mouth, you can see enormous icebergs that have run aground. These masses of ice originate from Jakobshavn Glacier, one of the fastest moving glaciers in the world. Join one of our many excursions here.

Named After Expedition Team Member Friederike Bronny

Anchored - Full Day

We visit a location near Saqqaq that was without an official name until 2013. The place is special to us, as it is named after a former expedition team member. We land on the beach to explore this northernmost destination of our cruise, amidst breathtaking scenery and Arctic flora.

Exploration Day

Today´s exploration will take us to meandering Evighed Fjord, surrounded by tall mountains (up to 6,600 ft high). The day’s weather and ice conditions will determine the final program and the range of activities we offer.

The Vibrant Capital of Greenland

Docked - Full Day

Nuuk lies at the mouth of one of the most spectacular fjord systems in the world. Greenland’s capital city is where old and new meet, from historic buildings in “Kolonihavnen” to the modern “Center for Greenland Self Rule.” There’s also the National Museum - home to the famous Qilakitsoq mummies.

Musk Oxen and a Norse Settlement

Anchored - Half Day

The abandoned town of Ivittuut is a stronghold for musk oxen. More than 1,000 years ago, Vikings settled the area, but left no written records behind. Archaeologists believe this was the last Norse settlement in Greenland to be established, and the first to be abandoned.

Heading Back to Iceland

Prince Christian Sound separates mainland Greenland from Sammisoq and the Cape Farewell Archipelago. If conditions allow, we will sail through this narrow channel and admire the spectacular scenery here. If the channel is blocked with ice, we will sail around Nunap Isua (Cape Farewell).

Heading Back to Iceland

After exploring exhilarating Greenland, we set ou course back to Iceland. Spend the days at sea recapping your experiences, having fun in the Science Center or just relaxing on deck, watching sea birds follow our ship or maybe even spotting whales.

The Stylish Capital of Iceland

Docked - Disembarkation

You arrive in the Icelandic capital early in the morning. If you want to explore more of the city and country, add one of our exciting pre- or post-cruise Land Adventures to your trip.