Itinerary

Day 1 : Reykjavík, Iceland

Take in the arts and culture, exciting gastronomy and stunning local nature and geology of Reykjavík (meaning 'Smoky Bay'), the world's northernmost capital. Take a stroll along Laugavegur with its boutiques and outdoor shops or visit the National and Saga museums which trace Iceland's Viking history.

The striking concrete Hallgrimskirkja church and rotating Perlan glass dome offer sweeping views of the sea and nearby hills. With almost 24 hours of daylight during the summer, Reykjaík truly becomes the city that never sleeps, where you can enjoy a number of popular summertime activities including whale-watching, sea-fishing, horse-back-riding and trips to the many natural wonders nearby.

The surroundings offer fantastic natural beauty with geysers, mountains, glaciers and geothermal baths that are well worth exploring before embarking on MS Fridtjof Nansen.

Days 2 - 3 : Crossing the Denmark Strait

You sail to Greenland across the Denmark Strait, the route taken by Vikings some 1,000 years ago. Enjoy introductory lectures on local history and biology and get to know about your innovative expedition ship.

The onboard Expedition Team will guide you through the protocols of respectfully visiting wildlife habitats and indigenous Arctic communities. Check out the Science Centre, where you can learn more about Greenland's geology, or join one of Hurtigruten's Citizen Science projects.

Explore the ship's facilities, hit the gym, swim in the infinity pool, book a treatment in the Wellness Centre or enjoy a delicious meal in one of our three onboard restaurants.

Day 4 : Qaqortoq, Greenland

Spend a full day in one of the most beautiful towns in Greenland. Qaqortoq is easy to explore on foot, or join one of the fascinating optional excursions in the area. Set within a system of fjords, the town centre is home to 18th-century colonial buildings and a landmark fountain. Qaqortoq Museum features displays about Greenlandic culture and from Lake Tasersuaq, trails lead through rugged mountains to the old Norse settlement of Igaliku.

Your included activity today is a visit to the home of a local family for their traditional kaffemik social gathering. Listen to stories about life in this community, accompanied by snacks and pots of coffee.

Day 5 : Kvanefjord, Greenland

Today you'll get your first sight of Greenland's beautiful west coast fjords as you reach Kvanefjorden in Sermersooq. There will be plenty of opportunities for photos of glistening icebergs and semi-submerged glacial ice as the MS Fridtjof Nansen sails deep into the fjord. These pure white sculpted ice blocks with undertones of crystalline blue are some of Arctic nature's finest creations.

Not many people venture into this remote fjord, making it even more special to spend the day exploring here. The Expedition Team will select places to head ashore to enjoy the beautiful scenery on nature walks, launch kayaks or head out in boats to scout for wildlife.

Days 6 : Maniitsoq, Greenland

Situated in an archipelago, intersected by small natural canals, Maniitsoq has been dubbed the "Venice of Greenland" by the locals for its natural canals. Once a regional hub for trading reindeer hides, people have lived here for 4,000 years.

The surrounding mountains deliver awe-inspiring views and you might even spot pods of humpback whales from shore. Spend half a day here, maybe visiting the local museum where you will discover figurines carved from walrus ivory, traditional Greenlandic costumes and many works of art.

Nearby, explore fascinating buildings which once comprised a blubber station and whale oil boiling house, and chat to the town's welcoming locals.

Day 7 : Sisimiut, Greenland

The second largest town in Greenland is located just 25 miles north of the Arctic Circle and has a reputation as the adventure travel hub in Greenland. Here you'll experience the Midnight Sun at the height of summer. Spend a full day here enjoying one of the exciting excursions to discover the highlights or visiting the Sisimiut Museum which has a special exhibition on trade, shipping and industry.

You can learn more about the ancient Saqqaq artefacts in the local museum and at the Taseralik Cultural Centre. If you're looking for a special souvenir, pick up a qiviut scarf, hat or mittens – a local fabric said to be 10 times warmer than sheep wool. One of the best things you'll experience on your expedition cruise to Greenland, is meeting the local communities in the places you explore. These authentic interactions that make for fantastic memories.

Day 8 : Ilulissat, Greenland

Today, your expedition cruise reaches Disko Bay - a haven for walruses, whales and seals. Every town has a claim to fame, and in Ilulissat it is the icebergs. Marvel at giant icebergs floating past in the deep blue waters, as they take on different hues of white, grey and blue.

The spectacular Ilulissat Icefjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and well worth exploring with one of the many excursions on offer. The ice masses originate from the Jakobshavn Glacier, one of the fastest glaciers in the world. Enjoy breathtaking scenery on your included walk to the ice fjord, and the old Inuit settlement of Sermermiut. Nature lovers will be drawn to hiking in the hills by the call of the wilderness or spend the day in town where the city museums and local cuisine will whet even the most discerning palates.

Back in pretty Ilulissat, enjoy a hot drink among the colourful houses by the water.

Day 9 : Vaigat Sound, Greenland

Vaigat Sound is the most northerly point on your voyage, and you might feel like the first person to walk here. This is very much the land of Mother Nature and the Expedition Team will identify the best landing sites to explore. You may visit Camp Frieda, named after Hurtigruten's Expedition Team Member Friederike Bronny, the location is near Saqqaq and was without an official name until 2013. Depending on the weather, you will land at the beach and have time to explore this most northerly destination of your voyage, in breathtaking landscape and Arctic flora. If possible, there will be optional kayaking trips between icebergs. Have your binoculars and camera at the ready as wildlife sightings in Disko Bay include orcas and bowhead whales, as well as harp, hooded, bearded and ringed seals.

Day 10 : Evighedsfjorden, Greenland

surrounded by towering mountains up to 2,000 meters (6,600 ft) in height. Weather conditions on the day will determine the program and the range of activities that will be on offer.

As your voyage heads back south you'll enjoy an exploration day in the meandering Evighed Fjord (Eternal Fjord) near Kanferlussuaq. Surrounded by mist-cloaked towering mountains up to 2,000 meters (6,600 ft) in height, the fjord is fed by an ice cap that calves huge icebergs into its 2,300 ft deep waters. Nature reigns. The only settlements in this region are tiny fishing hamlets clinging to the shores. Your Expedition Team will determine on the day what exciting adventures lie in store for you. As ever, you should be on the constant lookout for Arctic flora and wildlife, including whales and seabirds.

Day 11 : Nuuk, Greenland

Nuuk, Greenland's capital, is a small, colourful city on the country's southwest coast. It is situated at the mouth of one of the most spectacular fjord systems in the world, known for its waterfalls, humpback whales and icebergs. With a population of 18,000, it has a striking mix of old and new buildings. The waterfront is dotted with brightly coloured houses against the backdrop of Sermitsiaq mountain. Enjoy a full day here exploring the city's historic buildings and National Museum, home to the famed mummies of Qilakitsoq.

Visit Katuaq Cultural Centre, where you'll experience a Greenlandic mask dance, enjoy some local delicacies, and listen to the local choir on an included activity. Join the Expedition Team for an optional nature walk around Mount Lille Malene and explore the pristine nature around Nuuk.

Day 12 : Ivittuut, Greenland

The abandoned town of Ivittuut is a stronghold for distinctive musk oxen. More than a thousand 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.

This former mining outpost, once played a pivotal role in the course of history. During WWII, the US secretly stationed troops here to prevent rare cryolite - used to make aluminium alloys - falling into German hands. Supplies were instead shipped to the UK to manufacture aircraft, used in the Battle of Britain.

Enjoy an included guided walk of the area's deserted buildings.

Day 13 : Prins Christian Sund, Greenland

Prins Christian Sound is a 60-mile-long waterway in Southern Greenland separating the mainland from Sammisoq and the Cape Farewell Archipelago. If conditions allow, the MS Fridtjof Nansen will sail through this narrow channel surrounded by sharp-peaked granite mountains providing a stunning contrast to the bright white glaciers. Nature is very abundant here. You should see ringed and bearded seals resting on the ice, as well as Glaucous Gulls and Black Guillemots in the skies above. You may even spot minke and humpback whales. If sea ice prevents the ship entering the sound, we'll head to craggy Cape Farewell, the southernmost point of Greenland.

Days 14 - 15 : At Sea

After exploring exhilarating Greenland, the ship sets course back to Iceland though the Denmark Strait. Enjoy activities in the Science Centre, relax in the Wellness and lounge areas, and scan for wildlife from deck.

The onboard photographer can share tips to capture the wildlife in action. Take time to enjoy the panoramic sauna, on-deck hot tubs or heated pool. Or book a treatment in the Wellness Centre. You can also enjoy the company of fellow explorers over drinks in the Explorer Bar & Lounge.

Day 16 : Reykjavík, Iceland

We arrive early in the morning into the stylish capital of Iceland for disembarkation, giving you the chance to spend more time exploring fascinating Iceland with one of the range of Post-programmes.

DEPARTURES: 2023

June 14, 29.
July 14, 29.

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DISKO BAY - THE HEART OF GREENLAND - PRICES : 2023

PLEASE NOTE:

• All prices are shown in £s per person.
• All planned landings are subject to weather and ice conditions. All itineraries are subject to change.

The price you pay for your cabin will depend on when you book. Early bookers will get the 'from' price. As the cabins get booked up, the price will rise towards the 'to' price, which is the highest fare that you will pay. It is strongly advised to book early to get the best fare.

Include a Flight Package.

Your Flight Package price includes :

• • Flights in economy class between London and Reykjavik.
• • Transfer between airport and ship in Reykjavik.