Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise
On this cruise to Iceland and Greenland, retrace Erik the Red's historic voyage and explore his family's settlements. From 138-guest Nat Geo Resolution, hike waterfalls; kayak beside icebergs and tidewater glaciers; and take in local culture through village visits, folk performances and tasting tours.
Trace the rugged coast of the world’s largest island. Follow the route of the legendary Viking Erik the Red, from Iceland’s magnificent Westfjords peninsula across the Denmark Strait to the ice-sculpted shores of Greenland. Search for walrus, whales and caribou, and use the ship’s exploration tools to discover the undersea. Visit archaeological sites of Viking and Thule settlements and learn about everyday life near the Arctic Circle in charming coastal villages from Flatey Island to Nuuk.
Highlights are many on this Iceland & Greenland cruise. Hike the dramatic Dynjandi Waterfall in Iceland’s remote Westfjords peninsula, and visit a farm that produces eiderdown. Explore Hvalsey and Brattahlíð, 10th-century Viking settlements founded by Erik the Red and his family in Greenland, and see the incredible Qilakitsoq mummies, preserved by freezing temperatures for some 500 years. Cruise among the dazzling icebergs calved by the Ilulissat Icefjord and encounter impressive tidewater glaciers in West Greenland. And experience local culture through visits to fishing villages and longhouses, folk performances, and tasting tours of traditional Greenlandic and Icelandic foods.
The 138-guest National Geographic Resolution is a technologically advanced, fully stabilized ship equipped with a well-rounded set of exploration tools including an ROV and enough kayaks and Zodiacs to send all guests out exploring at the same time.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises, Arctic trips, Greenland cruises and Iceland cruises.
Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Itinerary
This 18-day round-trip Reykjavik itinerary cruises along Iceland’s less-visited Westfjords before crossing to explore south and west Greenland. Complete the trip with a charter flight from Nuuk, Greenland back to Reykjavik for one final night.
Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport to the city and spend the day exploring at your own pace. Check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.
Explore Iceland’s western frontier, visiting Flatey Island, a trading post for many centuries turned sleepy summer islet. Walk around the charming little hamlet and hike across hiking trails that trace the path past seasonal puffin population on the cliffs.
Explore the beautiful and peaceful Westfjords region of Iceland. Enjoy a hike to a remote waterfall, a Zodiac cruise alongside stunning scenery, or bike along the coast of the Westfjords. Enter Ísafjarðardjúp and land at Vigur Island to visit the eider farm and learn about the down cleaning process. Get to know the capital of the Westfjords, Isafjordur, through a walking tour complete with local sights, sounds and tastes.
Sail away from the Westfjords of Iceland and across the Denmark Strait, which connects the Arctic and Atlantic Ocean. The Strait is home to the world’s largest waterfall, caused by powerful currents and glaciers. Listen to talks by onboard experts, relax with a book in the lounge or the observation deck, and keep an eye out for wildlife as you sail across the continental shelf.
The coast of the world’s largest island is etched with thousands of fjords, some of which reach back to the Greenlandic ice sheet. Spend the day exploring these stunning inlets of the eastern coast, using the ship’s underwater cameras and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to discover marine life and fascinating underwater geology. Ice permitting, sail deep into Skjoldungen fjord and soak in your arrival to Greenland on a Zodiac cruise or in a kayak among the icebergs.
Sail into Prins Christian Sund, which cuts into the southern tip of Greenland, passing between soaring pinnacles and glaciers, allowing your ship to sail through the sheltered waters of this dramatic landscape. As you round the southern coast of Greenland, enter Tasermiut Fjord, known as Arctic Patagonia for its sheer granite rock faces and dramatic valley filled with glaciers or their moraines. Spend time exploring by foot, kayak, or Zodiac along its shores.
Qaqortoq and Tunulliarflik Fjord provide 2 days of insight, culture and local interactions. Walk through the ruins of Bratthlid, Erik the Red’s farm, visiting replicas of the church and the family’s longhouse. Explore the same shores from which their son, Leif Eriksson, launched the first voyages to North America—500 years before Columbus. Visit the unofficial captial of southern Greenland at Qaqortoq, with just over 3,200 residents. The colonial influence is visible throughout the town, with houses painted in primary colors and architecture dating back to the 1700s. Stroll through the town square and visit the museum, where Greenlandic kayaks, hunting equipment, and local art and handicrafts are on display. Finally, walk through the walls of Hvalsey church, located in the fjords behind Qaqortoq, the best-preserved Norse ruins in all of Greenland and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Perched on the seaside in the shadow of ice-capped Sermitsiaq Mountain, Nuuk is the world’s smallest capital city by population, with some 18,000 inhabitants. Watch for harp seals as we enter the harbor and take a walking tour with local residents to learn how the community has changed over the generations. At the National Museum, examine the extraordinary 15th-century Qilakitsoq mummies found near Uummannaq—a discovery that was featured in a National Geographic magazine cover story in 1985. The Arctic ice preserved these mummies so well that researchers have been able to study their tattoos, their medical conditions and even what they ate.
In the early morning, the ship enters Eternity Fjord, which winds picturesquely past steep mountains and stunning tidewater glaciers. Take a Zodiac cruise along the face of one of the many glaciers or hike over glacial moraines to a waterfall. In the afternoon, continue exploring this varied landscape and fjord system either by foot, kayak, or Zodiac and hear from experts about the physical changes to the landscape year over year.
Upon arrival to Sisimiut, a former whaling port, enjoy your choice of guided walks through the sights and sounds of the village, including a meeting with the caretakers of the Greenlandic Dog Project, or hiking part of the Arctic Circle trail. In your free time, enjoy a local food tasting, visit the open-air museum, or explore the local artisan workshops.
Sail into Qeqertarsuup Tunua, also known as Disko Bay, and be welcomed by floating icebergs calved off the world’s most active glacier, Sermeq Kujalleq. Enjoy an extraordinary cruise aboard local boats among towering icebergs of the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Ilulissat Icefjord. Visit the town of Ilulissat and hike into the Sermermiut Valley, once an Inuit settlement and now home to a peaceful boardwalk overlooking the Icefjord. As you make your way north through Disko Bay, if ice conditions permit, follow the inside passage of Disko Island and trace the shores of the Nuussuaq Peninsula as you keep watch for a glimpse of the Greenlandic Ice Sheet.
The village of Uummannaq sits on a tiny, yet dramatic island in the Uummannaq Fjord, dominated by a massive peak rising at its center. Visit the town’s excellent community museum to see traditional clothing and tools along with scenes of everyday life on these islands and enjoy a stroll through the streets of this northern outpost.
In the afternoon, with special village permissions, cross the fjord to the site of Qilakitsoq, an important archaeological site for Greenlanders, where eight mummies, dating back to 1475, were discovered in 1972. These eight individuals, all extraordinarily well-preserved women and children, were Thule people, the ancestors of the modern Inuit and were featured on the cover of the February 1985 issue of National Geographic magazine. For the adventurous hikers, make your own respectful journey up to the final resting place of these ancestors.
Sail along Greenland’s fjords and look for Arctic foxes, whales, and—with luck—caribou. Paddle a kayak along the steep sides of the fjord or ride a Zodiac to see the glacially carved landscape up close.
Disembark in Nuuk and join the recommended group flight to Keflavik; transfers to the nearby hotel and luggage assistance will be provided. Upon arrival, enjoy an included dinner and overnight.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for flights home.
Included
Expedition parka to keep; all accommodations; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.
Exclusions
One-way charter flight from Nuuk, Greenland, to Reykjavik, Iceland (your Adventure Specialist can confirm pricing); passport; visa; immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion;; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). Plan flights to arrive to Reykjavik by 10:00am on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation in Nuuk, Greenland, is after breakfast on Day 17 of the outlined itinerary, followed by a charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Plan flights to depart Reykjavik anytime on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
A group charter flight between Nuuk, Greenland, and Reykjavik, Iceland, is required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions. There is a strict luggage limit of two checked bags weighing up to 57 lbs (25 kg) combined, and one carry-on bag weighing up to 17 lbs (8 kg) plus a personal item that can be stowed under the seat.
Activities
Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking and kayaking. Other activities may include yoga and stretching, land treks, photography, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.
Families & Children
Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options. See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.
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The National Geographic Resolution, sister ship to the National Geographic Endurance, is a 138-guest innovative polar expedition ship. Launched in late 2021 the Resolution and Endurance are the culmination of decades of experience built into the next generation of expedition ships. Famous captains, veteran expedition leaders and professional crew were consulted on every detail to create a ship as capable as she is comfortable.
National Geographic Resolution Ship - At a Glance
Nat Geo Resolution sets the standard for the next generation of expedition ships. She is an extraordinary platform for expedition adventure thanks to her many state-of-the-art features and tools including:
- A fully-stabilized PC5 Category A ice class passenger vessel
- Omni-directional WESMAR HD860 sonar for scanning the sea floor in order to navigate poorly-charted waters
- Patented X-Bow design for smoothest, most comfortable ride
- Advanced sustainability engineering: larger fuel tanks, a more fuel-efficient engine with cleanest exhaust gases, plus large water tanks make National Geographic Resolution more ecofriendly and able to range far beyond ordinary limits
- Optimal viewing and photography opportunities from unprecedented forward and down-the-sides sightlines, plus multiple observation decks and new observation wings
- Heated outdoor dining, observation and rejuvenation areas offer innovative opportunities to stay comfortably connected to the stellar outdoors and wildlife sighting opportunities
- A suite of expeditions tools: Fleets of Zodiacs, kayaks, cross-country skis for early season voyages, an ROV, hydrophones, video microscope, underwater video technology and more
- Hyper efficient Zodiac loading for “getting out there” more swiftly and safely
National Geographic Resolution - In Detail:
Why Cruise Aboard
X-BOW® Design
Speed & Propulsion
Common Areas
Dining & Cuisine
Off-Vessel Activities
Namesake
Cabins & Suites & Deck Plan
Why Sail Aboard National Geographic Resolution
A fully stabilized small expedition ship with a high PC5 Category A ice class rating, the Resolution enables adventurous guests to go where few have or can. The National Geographic Resolution’s most striking exterior feature is her distinctive profile, the patented X-Bow®. This game-changing design guarantees the smoothest, most comfortable ride in all kinds of conditions. Since it eliminates bow impact, guests experience a quieter ride as well.
This educational polar vessel has a specifically designed hull to break through the tough pack ice, increasing the ability to explore these hard-to-reach destinations and making new expeditions possible. Her polar ice class 5 rating allows her to operate during any time of the year in polar environments, vastly expanding the range of exploration in Antarctica and the Arctic. Her ability to venture deeper, paired with state-of-the-art educational equipment and highly qualified guides, creates an in-depth intellectual and truly exploratory experience.
An equally impressive feature may well be her capacity: she carries just 138 guests, a commitment to expedition excellence over scale. Scandinavian-inflected, luxuriously appointed, her inviting interiors would be a destination in themselves. Because she is a National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions ship, however, her attention is focused on the world outside—with acres of window glass to keep you connected to the stunning views beyond the pane, and a fleet of expedition tools to get you out exploring.
Choose the National Geographic Resolution for a refined, scholarly and pleasant experience aboard a modern, innovative polar vessel with highly intellectual programming and unique polar itineraries that voyage into the depths of the Arctic, Antarctica and beyond. The National Geographic Resolution is equipped to be a floating home base in the most faraway places, with many educational tools and topnotch onboard guides trained to the standards of National Geographic. For these and many other reasons, the Nat Geo Resolution is among our top choices for passengers seeking luxury Antarctica cruises.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard National Geographic Resolution firsthand. Read our dedicated National Geographic Resolution ship review, written by our founder and president who sailed aboard the ship in the Arctic. Or consult this page further for a detailed description of National Geographic Resolution, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images, photo gallery and current links to all the trips she sails. We can help compare the National Geographic Resolution with other Antarctica ships, small cruise ships and polar expedition ships offering Antarctica cruises, Alaska small ship cruises, Arctic cruises, small ship Asia cruises, Canada cruises, Greenland cruises, Chile cruises, Japan small ship cruises, Patagonia cruises, Pacific Island cruises and small ship cruises in Northern Europe.
Groundbreaking X-BOW® Design
Designed and built by the Norwegian ship builders Ulstein Group, this ship is leading a new age of polar travel focused on sustainability, efficiency, safety and stability. The Ulstein’s innovative, signature bow—the X-BOW®—creates a vessel with increased agility, security, performance and convenience and incorporates conservation-minded solutions to reduce the ship’s environmental impact.
This hull design also allows for excellent forward and downward viewing from numerous observation decks, including observation wings that extend out from the ship’s sides. Her larger volume displacement in the front of the ship, upturned bow and slender hull design offer higher fuel efficiency, improved performance in waves, increased stability in rough waters, softer entry into waves, reduced acceleration levels, less spray, less slamming and bow impact, and lower vibration. Her zero-steam stabilizers increase stability while anchored/not moving, and her expanded fuel and water tanks allow for longer expeditions to explore farther.
Speed & Propulsion
With a top speed of 16.5 knots, the Resolution is fast. Most expedition ships boast a top speed of 12-15 knots. Furthermore, traditionally bowed ships must slow down in rough seas to avoid slamming the bow against waves. All of this translates into faster crossings and more time exploring.
The Resolution boasts Azipod propulsion, where the motor is housed in a pod outside the hull and can rotate 360 degrees. This revolutionary design increases efficiency and maneuverability, particularly in ice-infested waters.
The propulsion system also allows the Resolution to hover in place for Zodiac operations, kayaking or watching wildlife. This dynamic position system, or anchorless anchoring, means the ship can remain close to shore resulting in more efficient shore landings.
Common Areas & Amenities
Across her six guest decks, the Nat Geo Resolution boasts more than 10,000 square feet of glass for prime enclosed viewing. The interior is fitted with Scandinavian design that’s both enjoyable and contemporary. Fire and ice are the motif throughout the ship, reflecting the external surroundings that National Geographic Resolution cruises through. Photographers may enjoy the purpose-designed space for editing and collaboration, as well as access to a photo gear locker filled with photography equipment for guests’ use. This Nat Geo expedition ship takes relaxation and fitness seriously with spa treatments, saunas featuring amazing views, gym equipment, a yoga studio and two infinity-pool Jacuzzis.
The high tech Bridge is adapted to accommodate every guest on board, enabling travelers to share the thrill of being underway. Learn from the Captain and officers and scan the horizon for wildlife with naturalists from one of be the best viewpoints aboard the ship. The Bridge is always open for guests to enjoy.
Tour the Bridge Deck
Restaurant 270 Degrees on the Main Deck features wraparound views and provides a window on the vital expedition team members: the galley staff as they prepare meals. The dining area features sustainable choices that are sourced locally where possible and unassigned, flexible, inclusive seating.
The Observation Deck keeps guests connected to the outside world with floor-to-ceiling windows and easy outdoor access points. Follow the course of the ship in the interactive electronic charter table. In the library, catch up on reading during days at sea, or enjoy a nightcap with fellow guests at the bar.
The Lounge Deck’s Ice Lounge, with its signature “Circle of Truth” at the center, is where the daily ritual of recap—convening, sharing knowledge and anticipating tomorrow—takes place over cocktails and canapes with engaging presentations or undersea videos lighting the screens. It's also home to the Photo Studio, where all guests can borrow complimentary B&H photo gear.
The Expedition Deck is home to the equipment and amenities needed for exploration off the ship. The spacious Basecamp (also known as a mudroom) offers warm, welcome home storage for your expedition gear. Zodiacs and kayaks are stored in the garage. Newly designed loading bays allow the fleet of Zodiacs to be deployed quickly, maximizing your time ashore.
Originally intended as solarizing units for the adjacent infinity hot tubs, the igloos quickly became such an acclaimed feature that guests can now book an overnight stay (on a first-come, first-serve basis). It is a one-of-a-kind experience to lie on a superb mattress under a froth of cozy duvet, warmed by twin hot-water bottles in the traditional Scandinavian way. Gaze out at impossible polar beauty or up at never-before-seen polar stars.
The Sanctuary features amenities and services to jump start the day or relax after exploring ashore. Every morning, wellness specialists offer a stretch class in the Yoga Studio. Twin saunas, Nordic and Tropic, boast glass walls for soaking in million-dollar views. Enjoy massages, facials and other wellness treatments in the two massage rooms during days at sea. The Fitness Studio features state-of-the-art equipment, including free weights, weighted balls, kettle balls, treadmills and ellipticals.
The Science Hub facilitates research projects and provides a lab for researchers needing to stretch grant dollars to get to key sites and do vital work. Guests gain a front row seat on ongoing science and connect with interesting researchers.
Tupaia’s restaurant, named after the great Polynesian navigator, offers an early riser breakfast as well as lighter, made-to-order lunch fare. Custom grilled selection are prepared on the outdoor barbecue when the weather allows. Enjoy both indoor and outdoor seating thanks to the outdoor wind-protected seating and infrared heaters. Plus, on every departure all guests are hosted at the Chef’s Table, an innovative approach to private dining.
Cozy up around one of the two fire pits outside of the Ice Lounge. With real, heated flames from the fire pits, protection from the wind, and additional overhead infrared heaters, enjoy great views of the surrounding landscape.
A full-time doctor and impressive medical center with isolation rooms are prepared for most emergencies.
Internet is available on board (one device at a time) via three tiers: time-limited complimentary "basic" internet, for app messaging, email and simple social media; time-limited "enhanced" internet, adding general web browsing and video conferencing capabilities; and "premium" internet, for unlimited access to all features under the "enhanced" plan. WiFi is satellite based and may not always be accessible in poor weather or extremely remote areas.
Dining & Cuisine
Resolution features multiple dining options to ensure her guests are nourished well between adventures. From various dining options, polar travelers can enjoy excellent views, early breakfast, private dining, al fresco BBQs in the protected winter garden (weather permitting), and daily high tea and hors d’oeuvres. Large menus offer an array of options including fresh and lighter fare; custom grilled items; and regionally inspired, sustainable and creative food.
Off-Vessel Activities
The Nat Geo Resolution features fast, painless and secure loading and unloading from its modern-designed Zodiac loading system. Onboard expedition tools include cross-country skis, kayaks, hydrophones, underwater video cameras, a remotely operated vehicle, a video microscope and more. Every voyage is an adventure with activities designed to enhance your understanding of the surrounding environment.
Resolution Ship Namesake
The ship’s name honors Captain James Cook, the legendary explorer who was the first to circumnavigate Antarctica and cross the Antarctic Circle, and the first European to reach Hawaii. While he served as the master of several ships, his favorite was the Resolution. To seal the name, a rare, vintage, commemorative silver coin depicting Cook on one side and a Hawaiian chieftain on the other, is welded into the ship. It is a Hawaii Sesquicentennial half dollar, struck in 1928 by the United States Bureau of the Mint in honor of the 150th anniversary of Cook’s landing in Hawaii.
National Geographic Resolution Cabins & Suites
All cabins are outward-facing and feature large windows. All are equipped with climate control, an expedition command center—including tablets, multiple electrical and USB outlets, a TV, barometer, a National Geographic Atlas and more—a mini refrigerator, small safe and robes. Bathrooms are outfitted with a rain shower and directional showerhead, botanically inspired products and a hair dryer. Enjoy luxury linens and pillows, as well as complimentary insulated water bottles.
Cabins feature warmth-inspired decor, offering a comforting respite after a day spent exploring in polar environments. Large windows feature the outdoors while also being equipped with blackout shades to combat the midnight sun when it’s time to sleep. An impressive 75% of the cabins offer balconies and 12 are designed for solo travelers. All 69 cabins have a command center with atlas, barometer, clock, tablet, electrical ports and mirror, and a sofa or reading chair.
National Geographic Resolution Deck Plan
Use the Nat Geo Resolution deck plan below to determine the best cabin category and location. Contact our experts for a personal consultation.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
The National Geographic Resolution is one of the newest additions to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability, efficiency, scholarship and long-range exploration in the polar regions.
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