Swan Hellenic invites explorers aboard the SH Vega for an enthralling 10-night expedition from Iceland to Greenland and back. Departing from Reykjavík, Iceland's bustling capital surrounded by vibrant, colourful rooftops and towering birches, the journey ventures into the heart of Arctic beauty and remote wonder. The itinerary threads through the majestic expanse of Scoresbysund in Greenland, the world’s most impressive fjord system. Here, the interplay of enormous icebergs driven by Arctic currents unveils a unique tableaux. Passengers have the chance to explore ancient Inuit settlements and spot wildlife including muskox, Arctic foxes, and vibrant tundra flora.
Returning towards Iceland, the journey wends among stunning Nordic landscapes including the King Oscar Fjord and the picturesque town of Isafjørdur, famed for its stark rock terraces against the deep fjord waters. On Vigur Island, travellers can view historic landmarks and thriving bird colonies amidst pastoral serenity. The expedition culminates with the awe-inspiring sight of Dynjandi Waterfalls, cascading like a grand bridal veil, before returning to the warmth of Reykjavík. Each stop on this expedition presents an opportunity for immersive exploration, offering a rare glimpse into both the geographical grandeur and the rich cultural tapestries of these remote northern frontiers.
Reykjavík, Iceland: Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve centre and government seat, is home to half the island's populace. It sits on a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja, its hues ever-changing. The city offers a vibrant colourful sight, with concrete houses in light colours accented by bright red, blue, and green roofs. Contrasting with the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík is lush with tall native birches, rowans, and willows, along with imported aspen, pines, and spruces. Its name, derived from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík, reflects its origin. In AD 874, Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson arrived at a bay that appeared as though steaming from nearby hot springs. Today, many of Reykjavík’s homes are naturally heated with near-boiling water from these springs, which brings a slight sulphur smell. Comparable in costs to other major European cities, a Reykjavík City Card is a wise purchase for visitors, allowing unlimited bus travel and access to pools, parks, and museums.
At Sea: These days are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the amenities on board your vessel as we chart a course through the North Atlantic's pristine and remote expanses. Keep an eye out for possible encounters with marine wildlife or simply take in the ever-changing seascape.
Ittoqqortoormiit (ex Scoresbysund), Greenland: Scoresbysund is the ultimate fjord system and arguably the longest, largest, and deepest globally. Nestled on Greenland's eastern coast, it offers extensive explorations through its castle-sized icebergs, drifting amidst Arctic waters. Hidden within its remote bays, one can discover the remnants of old Inuit settlements along with the burgeoning flora of Arctic willow and dwarf birch. The lower mountain slopes are home to a rich array of wildlife such as muskox, Arctic fox, Ptarmigan, and Snowy Owl. Tundra walks afford sweeping vistas of the unique landscape, flora, and fauna. Scoresbysund’s waters merit attention for spotting whales, seals, narwhals, beluga whales, and walrus.
King Oscar Fjord, Greenland: The spectacular King Oscar Fjord offers travellers a stunning sweep of icy landscapes where towering cliffs meet serene water channels. You'll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery, with possible sightings of native wildlife such as polar bears and seals lounging on drifting ice floes. The fjord is an adventurer's dream, perfect for both quiet reflection and vigorous exploration.
At Sea: Unwind and enjoy the journey back towards Iceland. Take advantage of the ship’s numerous leisure activities or engage in educational workshops and lectures about our destinations' history, culture, and diverse ecosystems.
Isafjørdur, Iceland: Framed by colossal terraces of sheer rock, Isafjørdur rises boldly onto a jutting spit of land against expansive black fjord waters. Despite its isolated setting and compact size, it teems with modern vibrancy, offering an array of delightful cafes and distinctive restaurants to charm any visitor. Known as a superb base for wilderness excursions, activities like skiing, hiking, and water sports are popular among explorers here.
Vigur Island, Iceland: Just a short distance from Isafjørdur, the lush Vigur Island punctuates Ísafjarðardjúp fjord. Run by a single farming family, it boasts Iceland's only windmill, built in 1840, alongside a 200-year-old rowing boat still in use today. The island is known for its large populations of Atlantic Puffins, Arctic Terns, and Black Guillemots, especially abundant in summer. Historically, the island's inhabitants collected eider down, and today one can observe the nesting sites and down harvesting techniques.
Dynjandi Waterfalls, Iceland: Renowned as one of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland, the majestic Dynjandi, located in the Westfjords, spans about 100 feet at its peak and cascades approximately 330 feet down in multiple tiers resembling a bride's veil. Known as 'the thundering one', its sheer scale, resonant sound, and dynamic force are mesmerising. This spectacle of nature provides a truly awe-inspiring experience for all who visit.
Reykjavík, Iceland: Returning to the vibrant city, there's another opportunity to soak in the atmosphere of Reykjavík. Visit its numerous museums, cultural sites, and possibly indulge in its well-curated dining institutions before concluding your exploration of Iceland's unbeatable charm.
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