Iceland to Greenland roundtrip cruise

What Awaits You

Embark on a captivating luxury cruise from Iceland to the remote wilderness of East Greenland, beginning and concluding in Reykjavík. This extraordinary voyage takes you deep into the world’s largest fjord system, Scoresby Sund, and into the untouched landscapes of Northeast Greenland National Park—the largest national park on Earth. Here, towering icebergs, vast glaciers, and dramatic basalt mountains create one of the Arctic’s most breathtaking and rarely visited regions. Along the return voyage, explore Iceland's stunning Westfjords region. Discover an array of fascinating locations, starting in the vibrant city of Reykjavík with its Hallgrímskirkja church and Harpa Concert Hall. In Greenland, explore the intricate Scoresby Sund fjords in search of wildlife. Visit Ittoqqortoormiit, the most remote settlement in Greenland, where Inuit traditions endure in an isolated yet resilient community. As you approach Iceland, marvel at the picturesque landscapes of Ísafjörður and the serene Vigur Island, a haven for seabirds. Sail through the stunning King Oscar Fjord, surrounded by imposing peaks, before returning to Iceland’s Westfjords, where the landscapes of Ísafjörður and the serene seabird haven of Vigur Island await. Engage in a variety of activities to enrich your cruise experience. Attend insightful onboard lectures or perfect your photography skills with guidance from professionals. Optional kayaking adventures offer a unique perspective on the polar landscapes. Make the most of time at sea by enjoying the ship's observation decks and mingling with fellow travelers, creating memories to last a lifetime.

Expedition highlights

Follow the Viking routes across high-latitude coasts where glaciers, fjords, and shifting light set the pace, and wildlife watching is part of the day from deck and shore.

Eternety Fjord, Greenland

Ice Fjords

Listen to the symphony of nature as towering icebergs and colossal glaciers crack and calve.

Wildlife Watching

Look for seabirds, marine life, and coastal species from deck and shore, with the expedition team helping spot and identify what you are seeing.

Expert-led Talks

Learn more about this isolated polar region from our on board team of experts.

Citizen Science Workshops

During your trip, join Swan Hellenics Citizen Science programs and contribute to real-world environmental research.

Viking Heritage

Sail through the North Atlantic world where Norse seafarers left a lasting mark. Walk ports and coastal sites tied to Viking routes, with stories of settlement, trade, and exploration that still shape local identity.

DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

Discover an array of fascinating locations, starting in the vibrant city of Reykjavík with its Hallgrímskirkja church and Harpa Concert Hall. In Greenland, explore the intricate Scoresby Sund fjords in search of wildlife. Visit Ittoqqortoormiit, the most remote settlement in Greenland, where Inuit traditions endure in an isolated yet resilient community. As you approach Iceland, marvel at the picturesque landscapes of Ísafjörður and the serene Vigur Island, a haven for seabirds. Sail through the stunning King Oscar Fjord, surrounded by imposing peaks, before returning to Iceland’s Westfjords, where the landscapes of Ísafjörður and the serene seabird haven of Vigur Island await. Engage in a variety of activities to enrich your cruise experience. Attend insightful onboard lectures or perfect your photography skills with guidance from professionals. Optional kayaking adventures offer a unique perspective on the polar landscapes. Make the most of time at sea by enjoying the ship's observation decks and mingling with fellow travelers, creating memories to last a lifetime

NOTE: This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

Overview

Day 1. Reykjavik

Make sure there is sufficient time to explore this diminutive but dramatic capital city. Despite its small size, you won’t be short of things to see and do. To get your bearings, take the elevator to the top of Hallgrímskirkja. This church, designed by famed Icelandic architect Gudjón Samuelsson is one of the most distinctive buildings in town. When you return to earth, visit the city’s other renowned building Harpa Concert Hall, located at the heart of Reykjavík's regenerated harbour – also the home of the Maritime Museum. Speaking of cultural spaces, tour the National Museum to learn the story of Iceland from past to present. The Reykjavík Art Museum houses an impressive contemporary collection including eye-catching pieces by Erró. And, of course, just 50 kilometres outside the city lies Thingvellir National Park, the site of Iceland’s original Viking parliament

Day 2. Day at sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Days 3-5. Scoresbysund

The world’s largest fjord system, Scoresbysund spans over 350 km into Greenland’s heart. This vast network of fjords, glaciers and icebergs is framed by towering basalt mountains, which shield Greenland’s wildlife from Arctic winds. Muskoxen, Arctic foxes and mountain hares roam the land, while little auks, puffins, fulmars, snowy owls, gyrfalcons and great black-backed gulls soar overhead. Seals and whales are common sightings in the waters

Activities:

Included

Zodiac Cruising and/or Nature Walks With Swan Hellenic Expedition Team

1 hour

Embark on an adventure that will take you deep into the heart of Greenland's breathtaking landscapes, showcasing a mesmerizing display of majestic mountains, pristine ice formations and a wide array of wildlife. Hopefully you’ll spot some muskoxen, Arctic foxes and mountain hares along the frozen shore with the help of your experienced expedition team.

Day 5. Ittoqqortoormiit

One of the world's most remote towns and the most isolated community in Greenland, Ittoqqortoormiit is largely inaccessible by ship for nine months of the year. Founded in 1925 by Danish explorer Ejnar Mikkelsen and Inuit settlers, it is home to 450 residents who mostly rely on hunting and fishing. The community preserves Greenlandic traditions, from harvesting qiviut–the prized muskox underfur–to maintaining sled dogs and wearing national dress

Activities:

Included

Ittoqqortoormiit community visit

3 hours

A visit to Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland, offers a rare glimpse into one of the world's most remote and unique communities. The town's open layout, surrounded by breathtaking Arctic scenery, invites exploration and discovery. At the heart of the experience is a visit to the local museum, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of East Greenland. The museum provides a window into the traditions and resilience of the people who call this challenging environment home. As you wander through the town, you'll be struck by the harmony between the community and its stunning natural surroundings. The peaceful atmosphere and friendly locals make it a memorable stop on any Arctic adventure. Whether you're admiring the architecture, soaking in the tranquil beauty, or learning about the region's heritage, Ittoqqortoormiit leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

Days 6-7. Kong Oscar Fjord

Kong Oscar Fjord marks the northern edge of Scoresbysund and leads to Northeast Greenland National Park, the world’s largest national park. Its vast valleys open to the sea, framed by towering mountains, deep waters and shimmering ice. This dramatic, hostile yet beautiful landscape features Berzelius Bjerg, a striking mountain with colourful strata, formed millions of years ago when these peaks lay beneath the ocean

Day 8. Day at sea

Day 9. Isafjordur

Surrounded by fjords in the Westfjords region, Ísafjörður is a bustling fishing town and cultural center in northwest Iceland with cafés, restaurants and museums. The Heritage Museum, also known as the Maritime Museum, houses some of the country's oldest buildings and explores the region's fishing heritage through compelling exhibits. Nearby, Osvor is a replica of a 19th-century Icelandic fishing station

Activities:

Included

Flowers & Fjords

3 hours

The Flowers & Fjords tour takes you on an adventurous journey through a mountain tunnel and across the Westfjords mountains to the fjords of Dýrafjörður and Önundarfjörður. Enjoy breathtaking views of spectacular landscape carved out by glaciers ages ago. Flateyri village and its surrounding area boasts of many singular experiences. Join us on a tour to this quiet place where the country’s first botanical garden was created. The view during the drive to our destination features narrow, steep passes and deep, sheltered fjords where farms and villages huddle on a narrow strip of land, bearing witness to the pioneering spirit of man. The first stop on our journey is Skrúður, Iceland’s first botanical garden founded in 1905. It was the realisation of a dream that the minister and principal at the school at Núpur had. The garden was to be used to teach the students botany, introduce them to a more vegetable-rich diet and examine which plants were able to grow in the sub-Arctic climate of the Westfjords. From Núpur we’ll continue to the village of Flateyri. The village is located on a gravel spit that was formed around shark fishing the middle of the 19th century. Here we will visit the local church to enjoy a musical performance. From the church the guide will take us on a leisurely stroll down the small main street of the village with a visit to a coffee-shop where we enjoy refreshments made locally. Next door to the café you can visit the old bookstore or enjoy the view by the harbour.

Optional

Whale Watching from Isafjordur

2.5 hours

Enjoy the breath-taking view from sea side over the unique landscapes of Iceland’s West fjords while looking out for local wildlife in its beautiful natural environment. We offer a whale watching tour from Ísafjörður town in a comfortable boat where all passengers will find a seat inside with the option of going outside to take in the view. We will take you into one of Icelands largest fjords, Ísafjarðardjúp, a stunning fjord region with its beautiful inner fjords and picturesque mountain ranges. We sail along the beautiful Snæfjallaströnd (Snow-Mountain-Coast) while looking out for whales in the water. Besides whales we might encounter seals as well as dolphins. Ísafjarðardjúp, especially the beautiful island Vigur, is known for its rich bird life. Keep your eyes out on the water as chances are high that you might spot puffins on the water. Please note: We might add 30 minutes if needed to spot whales. Minimum participation is required to run this tour and price might change if this minimum is not reached, or the tour might be cancelled.

Optional

ATV Tour (2 persons/ATV)

2 hours

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes of Ísafjörður on an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle), choosing either a solo or tandem ride. This thrilling experience takes you along historic gravel trails, weaving through the charming town and up into the surrounding mountains, where breathtaking views of the dramatic Westfjords await. As you ascend, take in the rugged beauty of Iceland’s untamed wilderness—towering peaks, deep fjords, and sweeping coastal vistas that showcase the region’s unique charm. Riding in a small group ensures a personal and immersive experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural wonders around you. This tour is the perfect blend of excitement and exploration, offering an exhilarating way to connect with Ísafjörður’s diverse landscape while feeling the rush of adventure. Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker or simply looking for a new way to experience Iceland’s raw beauty, this ATV journey promises an unforgettable ride Guests need to bring their driving license in order to drive and passengers need to be at least 16 years old. Indicated rate is per person, based on 2 guests on the ATV. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met. Limited capacity and confirmation will be on a first come, first served basis

Optional

Holt Inn Farmers & Flavours

3.5 hours

Bær farm in Stadardalur Valley is run by young farmers who pride themselves in the sustainable farming of sheep as they roam around freely during summertime. Listen to their struggle but also why they have chosen to live in such an isolated place. Get to know the history of the valley as well, which at one point was inhabited by multiple farms and one of the first places in Iceland to be settled by the Vikings. After the walk you will have a chance to interact with the farm animals and enjoy Icelandic delicacies. We'll stop at a fishing hut with a view of the oldest mountain in Iceland. Listen to a story about the Mountain Giant lady that watches over the road. Before the tour is over you get to try some of the best tastes that Isafjordur has to offer while taking in spectacular views of the town. The tour ends by the harbour next door to your cruise ship, at Dokkan Brewery, where you will receive a voucher for a free beer. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Day 9. Vigur Island

A jewel of the Westfjords, Vigur is the fjord's second-largest island and a thriving seabird sanctuary. Flocks of arctic terns, puffins, guillemots and eider ducks nest atop rocky cliffs. As one of only two inhabited islands, Vigur supports a family farm continuing the centuries-old eiderdown harvest across 3,500 nests. This remote pillar also houses Iceland's sole windmill, its tiniest post office and a 200-year-old, still-seaworthy rowing boat

Activities:

Included

Vigur Island visit by ship zodiacs

1.5 hour

A jewel of the Westfjords, Vigur is the fjord's second-largest island and a thriving seabird sanctuary. Witness arctic terns, puffins and eider ducks nesting on rocky cliffs. Vigur supports a family farm continuing the centuries-old eiderdown harvest across 3,500 nests and includes relics of old farming methods including Iceland's sole windmill and a 200-year-old rowboat. Before leaving, enjoy coffee and cake in an old mid-19th century cow shed.

Day 10. Dynjandi Waterfall

Considered one of Iceland’s most impressive falls, the thunderous Dynjandi waterfall in the Westfjords region gives the impression of a bridal veil as it spreads down ever-growing cascades. The walk takes 15 minutes passing five smaller waterfalls

Activities:

Included

Walk to Dynjandi Waterfall With Swan Hellenic Expedition Team

1.5 hour

Go ashore by Zodiac with your Swan Hellenic Expedition Team and set out on a scenic walk to Dynjandi, one of Iceland’s most impressive and iconic waterfalls. Located in the remote Westfjords, Dynjandi is famed for its dramatic, bridal-veil shape as cascading sheets of water fan out and tumble down a series of ever-widening terraces. As you follow the well-marked path, your Expedition Team will guide you toward the falls, allowing time to appreciate the scale, power, and beauty of this natural wonder from several viewpoints along the way. The sound of rushing water and the pristine surroundings make this a truly immersive experience. A favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike, Dynjandi is a highlight of the Westfjords and an unforgettable encounter with Iceland’s raw and untamed landscape.

Day 11. Reykjavik

Guest Reviews

Each Swan Hellenic journey is designed to inspire curiosity, broaden horizons, and create lasting memories. Our guests' experiences bring to life the spirit of cultural discovery and exploration that defines our voyages.

What elevates Swan Hellenic above competitors is the expedition team and the dedication to immersive travel. The expert lecturers, naturalists, and guides are world-class, offering fascinating lectures and ensuring safe, intimate excursions.

Rachel TaylorAustralia

Everything was absolutely perfect! There was not a single thing to complain about. It was incredibly fun, and that fantastic atmosphere was maintained by the entire crew from the very first to the very last minute of our stay!

Alexander KorneevFinland

A terrific expedition trip! Small number of guests, very attentive staff, very interesting ports of call. Excursions were varied & fun!

Katie BrownCanada

I highly recommend Swan Hellenic! Every single aspect of my cruise was outstanding. The food was fantastic and the ship is awesome. The crew supported my every need in an excellent manner.

Robbie AsherUnited States

From the captain to the expedition guides, from the service staff to housekeeping. 100 out of 100 points!

Annette ClavinDenmark

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