
This wonderful itinerary expedition combines a circumnavigation of Iceland with the icy coast of southwest Greenland and we are delighted to offer it in conjunction with our German associates at Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and their five-star vessel, the Hanseatic Inspiration. There is nowhere better to experience nature in its purest form than Iceland, the ‘Land of Ice and Fire’. During this extraordinary voyage, we will encounter huge icecaps and glaciers, active volcanoes, gurgling mud pools, steaming hot springs and dramatic lava fields. If this were not enough, our journey continues to the southwest coast of Greenland where grand, unspoilt landscapes await from towering cliffs, walls of glacial ice, winding fjords, vast ice sheets and flowing glaciers.
Our voyage begins in Iceland, Europe’s least populated country that offers the visitor an unparalleled experience of elemental forces at work. Early summer is the ideal time for this expedition, the skies and rocks will be filled with the sights and sounds of puffins, guillemots and gannets, the wildflowers will be in full bloom, and the surrounding seas will, we hope, be rich with whales and marine life. In addition to the wildlife, the immense scale of the landscape is dominated by towering snow-capped mountains, thundering waterfalls and spontaneous erupting geysers. Continuing to Greenland's remote coastline, you will experience one of the last great wildernesses on Earth, where human impact is minimal and tourists are still a rarity. It is a marvel to behold; for most visitors their first encounter with Greenland is a humbling experience as they witness nature in the raw and look out across a magnificent Arctic world.
This expedition promises to be a unique experience with coastlines steeped in history set against breathtaking natural landscapes of natural wonders. The onboard team will make full use of the fleet of Zodiacs to navigate small bays and land in otherwise inaccessible places. There should also be opportunities to spot a number of whales as the region is a haven for minke, humpback and sperm, while bird enthusiasts can observe puffins, northern fulmars, polar gulls and more. In addition to the included Zodiac excursions, a range of optional excursions will be on offer, as well as ample time to relax on board this wonderful vessel on which you can be assured of the most excellent service, food and luxurious surroundings.
Hanseatic Inspiration / Spirit / Nature
Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, these three Hanseatic expedition class vessels – Inspiration, Nature and Spirit - are five-star vessels that were launched between 2019 and 2021. With a maximum of just 230 passengers (199 passengers in Antarctica and circumnavigation of Spitsbergen), these unique vessels offer plenty of open deck space including a walkway that allows access to the bow of the ship for front row wildlife sightings and incredible views. There is a qualified expedition team of naturalists who will accompany you ashore and provide informative talks in the comfort of the well-designed HanseAtrium, and a crew of 175 offering the most exquisite and attentive service on board.
Itinerary
Please note that flexibility is key to a successful expedition in Iceland and Greenland. Although we have outlined an itinerary below, this is only a preliminary plan and the exact route will depend on ice, weather conditions and the wildlife encountered.
Day 1 London to Reykjavik, Iceland.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the Hanseatic Inspiration and embark. Sail this evening.
Day 2 Heimaey, Westman Islands.
Our exciting circumnavigation begins with the Westman Islands, where in 1973 the Eldfell volcano erupted on Heimaey, the largest island, covering it in lava streams. At this northern edge of Europe, nature makes its mark with contrasts of heat and ice and geological extremes - very few places give such a direct glimpse into primeval forces. The expedition team will offer hikes of various lengths and you may wish to climb Eldfell or marvel at the lava formations on the cliffs. Prepare to be enchanted by beautiful, mystical landscapes, deep fjords and fascinating wildlife. The harbour entrance offers good opportunities for sightings of common murres, kittiwakes and northern fulmars and meadow pipits and grey wagtails can usually be observed on the meadows outside the village. Those who make it to the southern cape will be rewarded with their first puffin sightings.
Day 3 At Sea.
Enjoy a leisurely day at sea. Attend one of the lectures or simply relax and enjoy the facilities on board.
Day 4 Iceland’s East Coast: Seydisfjordur.
Fjords, fishing villages and a sense of freedom characterise Iceland’s east coast, an area of impressive mountain ranges, large forests, fertile valleys and deep-blue inlets. The region is also known for its magma chambers with colourful minerals and its bizarre rhyolite formations. Marvel at the charming fishing town of Seydisfjordur, located at the end of a fjord surrounded by snow-capped peaks, where the historic wooden buildings recall the wealth of the herring boom. Small art galleries, cafes and shops invite you to explore as does the surrounding area with its waterfalls and walking trails. On an optional excursion to the Skalanes nature reserve, Arctic terns, redshanks, black-tailed godwits and redwits can be easily observed. Great black-backed gulls like to perch on the coast, and snipes are usually mating in the air at this time of year. Keep an eye out for the beautiful ruff duck in the larger streams flowing into the bay; Iceland is its only European breeding ground.
Days 5 to 7 Iceland’s North Coast: Husavik, Grimsey, Akureyri & Djupavik.
A true sense of expedition unfolds as we journey along Iceland’s north coast. Fjords and sea combine to create a natural canvas that is both remote and soul-stirring. In Husavik, Europe’s whale-watching capital, we hope to encounter these gentle giants in the icy blue bays before heading ashore. The waterfalls of the north are breathtaking, none more so than Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, plunging 45 metres. A hike through Asbyrgi Canyon will take you down into a plunge pool and while the myth says that an enormous horse made this impression in the earth, the canyon was probably hollowed out by icefall. Cross the northern Arctic Circle at Grimsey and marvel at its striking basalt columns while onboard experts share insights into the island’s geology and wildlife. Continue on to Akureyri, a jewel of the north, with its long fjord, lively cultural scene and famous botanical gardens. In Djupavík, explore the site of a once-thriving herring factory, now an evocative museum frozen in time. Alternatively, hike with the expedition team along the fjord and surrounding mountains. Birdlife is abundant here: eider ducks, Arctic terns, puffins, razorbills and murres are common. With luck, you might spot a short-eared owl, merlin or even a gyrfalcon. Red-necked phalaropes are often seen at close range, while golden plovers populate the meadows.
Day 8 At Sea. Enjoy a relaxing day at sea as we sail towards the southern coast of Greenland.
Days 9 to 11 Greenland’s South Coast: Skjoldungen Sound, Prince Christian Sound & Arsukfjord.
Natural wonders lie ahead along the south coast of Greenland. In Skjoldungen Sound, we venture deep into a spectacular fjord landscape where mountains rise hundreds of metres and glaciers and waterfalls line the route. Experience Greenland’s rugged beauty during a Zodiac landing in Dronning Marie Dal where on a hike with the onboard experts we will learn of the vegetation, animal kingdom and geology. Sailing through Prince Christian Sound – one of the most beautiful passages in Greenland, 64 kilometres long and, at its narrowest, barely 500 metres wide, is an unforgettable experience. Waterfalls and glaciers that reach into the turquoise-coloured water as well as colourful fishing huts will pass by you. A cry of “whale up ahead” could sound from the bridge at any time, and the many open deck areas provide the best opportunities for sightings. In Arsukfjord, enjoy a scenic hike where musk oxen may be seen roaming the tundra whilst a visit to the abandoned town of Ivigtut offers a glimpse into Greenland’s mining history. July is an excellent time for birdwatching here, with breeding Arctic species including kittiwakes, northern fulmars and common murres.
Days 12 to 15 Greenland’s West Coast: Nuuk, Evigedsfjord, Ilulissat, Disko Bay & Sisimiut.
Gleaming ice, deep fjords and majestic glaciers await along Greenland’s west coast. In Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, history is reflected in the colonial harbour and its modern centre with its many arts and crafts shops. The National Museum exhibits mummies that are about 500 years old and boats made of sealskin, and the Art Museum houses a collection of around 300 paintings as well as 400 soapstone figures. We dedicate a day to Evigedsfjord, an almost 100 kilometre long fjord with steep cliffs and striking blue-and-white glaciers. A Zodiac excursion and hike bring us close to the glacier’s edge and its breathtaking viewpoints. In Ilulissat, hike with the expedition team to the famous ice fjord where glittering ice formations gather, setting the scene for the extraordinary spectacle of Disko Bay, where ice sculptures drift silently through the water. You will be able to witness these wonders from on board the Hanseatic Inspiration and during a Zodiac excursion. Next, in Sisimiut, follow in the footsteps of the Saqqaq culture and visit the old town which resembles a museum village. Join a hike over rocks and through tundra to relics from the whaling era or to Tele Island to see ancient ruins and graves, crowned by magnificent views of Sisimiut and the coast. Perhaps you will see purple sandpipers, polar gulls, peregrine falcons and ravens – and in Disko Bay, with a bit of luck, the world’s largest falcon, the grey falcon.
Day 16 Kangerlussuaq to London. Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our chartered flight to Germany. Connect here with your onward scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
| 23 June to 8 July 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 1 Outside cabin Deck 4, 5 & 6 | £12295 | £11795 |
| 2 Panoramic cabin Deck 4 & 5 | £12795 | £12295 |
| 3 French balcony cabin Deck 6 | £13195 | £12695 |
| 4 Balcony cabin Deck 5 | £14195 | £13695 |
| 5 French balcony cabin Deck 7 | £13495 | £12995 |
| 6 Balcony cabin Deck 6 & 7 | £14595 | £14095 |
| 7 Balcony cabin Deck 6 | £15095 | £14595 |
| 8 Balcony cabin Deck 7 | £16395 | £15895 |
| 9 Junior suite with balcony 6 & 7 | £19295 | £18795 |
| 10 Grand suite with veranda Deck 6 & 7 | £24995 | £24495 |
| 4 (Sole) Balcony cabin for Sole Use Deck 5 | £19895 | £19395 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHI230627
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Chartered flight from Kangerlussuaq to Germany • 15 nights aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration on a full board basis • Mini-bar with soft drinks in your cabin restocked each day • Zodiac excursions • Expedition team including onboard lectures • Gratuities • Transfers • Landing fees • Port taxes • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, shore excursions (details will be available to pre-book three months before departure and payment will be made on board).
NB. Flight schedules are yet to be released at the time of going to print and the itinerary may change on their release. Details of the charter flight from Kangerlussuaq to Germany will be released approximately 6 months prior to departure. Itinerary subject to change based on weather and ice conditions.
Please note that all bookings (including those made by Commodore Club members) are subject to a 20% deposit and that the balance payment will be due 150 days before the date of departure. Please also note that between 149 and 70 days before the date of departure, cancellation charges shall be 40% of the total holiday price payable.
During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
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Deckplan
Hanseatic Inspiration / Spirit / Nature
Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, these three Hanseatic expedition class vessels – Inspiration, Nature and Spirit - are five-star vessels that were launched between 2019 and 2021. With a maximum of just 230 passengers (199 passengers in Antarctica and circumnavigation of Spitsbergen), these unique vessels offer plenty of open deck space including a walkway that allows access to the bow of the ship for front row wildlife sightings and incredible views. There is a qualified expedition team of naturalists who will accompany you ashore and provide informative talks in the comfort of the well-designed HanseAtrium, and a crew of 175 offering the most exquisite and attentive service on board.
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