Arctic traveler in yellow polar jacket stands out on deck of ship watching northern lights of purple, blue & green in Greenland.
Tandem kayakers in lime green boat paddle glassy water beside a large blue iceberg during an Under The Northern Lights cruise.
A hiker looks our over a bay full of icebergs on a bright day while exploring Iceland & Greenland on a trip Under the Northern Lights.
View from behind front paddler in inflatable yellow tandem kayak on a sunny day on an Under The Northern Lights Arctic cruise.
Arctic traveler in yellow polar parka stands on deck of ship looking at sea with floating ice chunks on a northern lights cruise.
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$7017USD
Starting At
11-14
Days
Sep
Oct
Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Adventures in Northeast Greenland: Glaciers, Fjords & the Northern Lights

Scoresbysund, the world’s longest fjord system, beckons you to explore Greenland. Enticing you with some of the world’s best displays of the aurora borealis, or the northern lights, the Inuit settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit also offers a rare connection to the past, as they still live off the land as their ancestors did hundreds of years ago. Discover this home to the largest fjord system in the world, offering diverse and dramatically rugged landscapes rich in iconic arctic wildlife. Begin this 11-day Arctic adventure from Iceland’s Reykjavik, sailing to Greenland’s remote northeast coast.

An alternative, 14-day Under the Northern Lights itinerary follows the same route, but spends one less day at sea. This itinerary also adds time exploring northeast Greenland, and uniquely visits Iceland’s Westfjords, known as “Iceland’s best kept secret.” Enjoy the opportunity to explore this rugged peninsula’s stunning fjords and captivating mountains that reach down to the sea.

With the 138-guest Ocean Explorer or 199-guest Ultramarine as your home base, explore two of the last unspoiled wilderness areas on the planet; featuring iceberg-choked fjords, tundra hikes and the Arctic wildlife of Greenland National Park, enjoying picture-perfect scenes every day. One of the most active expeditions, you can climb atop mountains and watch herds of grazing muskoxen on the horizon. This is pure wilderness, the untouched Arctic as it was thousands of years ago—and the best way to experience it is aboard a small ship.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises, Arctic trips, Greenland cruises and northern lights cruises.



Itinerary

Adventures in Northeast Greenland: Glaciers, Fjords & the Northern Lights Itinerary

This 11-day Iceland and Greenland cruise travels along the world’s longest fjord system looking for the northern lights and begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Route map of Under the Northern Lights Arctic small ship expedition, operating round-trip from Reykjavik, Iceland, with stops along southeast Greenland's Ittoqqortoormilt, Milne Land & Ella Island.
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Day 1
Arrive Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrive in the Icelandic capital in the morning and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the day to explore the city on your own.

Accommodations

Reykjavik hotel TBA

Meals

n/a

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Day 2
Embark Reykjavik

This afternoon, board the vessel and begin the expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead!

Accommodations

Ocean Explorer, Ultramarine

Meals

dinner

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Day 3
At Sea

As the ship cruises north across the Denmark Strait, the expedition team will prepare you for the adventures that await. Learn about the storied history and politics of the Arctic, its fascinating wildlife, geology, ecology and climate, and the incredible sights you will soon explore. The team will also search for the seabirds soaring around the ship, as well as the whales that frequent the waters here.

Accommodations

Ocean Explorer, Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 4 - 8
Exploring Northeast Greenland

Experience the wonders of nature in Segelsellskäbets Fjord, where a spectacular display of geological art awaits your landing: alternating layers of limestone and dolomite stretching before you in a stunningly beautiful canvas created over tens of thousands of years. In the afternoon, cruise the natural beauty of Alpefjord and pass by the impressive Selströms Glacier.

During your tour of Greenland’s remote northeast coast, you’ll enjoy Zodiac cruises and shore visits to several locations. You’ll also keep an eye out for grazing muskoxen, as 40% of the world’s population lives in Northeast Greenland National Park. At the entrance of the sound is East Greenland’s most northerly community, Ittoqqortoormiit, where you may spend time interacting with the Inuit people and learning about their way of life. You may also have a chance to see the Northern Lights here if the skies are clear. Magnificent vistas also await at Kong Oscar Fjord, with possible landings at Ella Ø, renowned for its rugged cliffs and ice-choked waters, and flower-rich Botanikerbugt, on Ymer Ø.

Accommodations

Ocean Explorer, Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 9 - 10
At Sea

As this Arctic adventure winds down, take in a presentation by the onboard experts, share photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar or watch a movie—there are many activities during this time at sea. The expedition team will also be on hand to answer any questions and point out wildlife.

Accommodations

Ocean Explorer, Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 11
Disembark Reykjavik, Iceland

Disembark in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, at the end of the journey. Take a provided transfer to a central downtown location for booked post-expedition accommodation, or continue travel onward to home or another adventure.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; beer, wine, standard spirits and cocktails during dinner and bar service hours; complimentary WiFi; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by experienced Expedition Leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by Expedition Team and special guests as scheduled; photographic journal documenting the voyage; a pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; complimentary reusable water bottle; hair dryer and bathrobe in every cabin; comprehensive onboard materials, including a map and an informative Arctic Reader; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard ship; Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax; one night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Reykjavik; group transfers from the Reykjavik hotel to the ship on Day 2; group transfer from the ship to downtown Reykjavik on disembarkation day.

Exclusions

International airfare; arrival and departure transfers; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption, evacuation and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended); excess baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified; phone and internet charges; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; additional overnight accommodation; any optional activities.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 150 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 75% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

(For expeditions booked prior to October 15,2024: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.)

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 Adventures in Northeast Greenland cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Reykjavik any time on Day 1 of the itinerary. On Day 11 of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier between 7:00am and 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with an included transfer downtown. Plan flights to depart Reykjavik according to guidelines provided in your final documents. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Hiking, Zodiac cruising, daily presentations, photography guides and the polar plunge are optional and included. Various optional activities may be available on your Adventures in Northeast Greenland cruise, for guests aged 16 and older. Sea kayaking is available for $1,795(2025 & 2026) per person. Taken in small groups of 10 people, multiple times per voyage, kayaking adventures are only conducted during calm weather conditions. You must have some prior kayaking experience, including the capability to do a wet exit. One-time paddling excursions are available for $295 (2025 & 2026) per person, per outing, for those who want something less in-depth than the full sea kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. The Tundra to Table: Inuit Culinary Experience is $125 per person (2026). Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ocean Explorer: Grand & Royal Veranda Stateroom; Studio Veranda Single; Explorer, Junior & Owner’s Suite
Ultramarine: Deluxe Balcony Suite, Terrace Suite, Penthouse Suite, Owner’s Suite & Ultra Suite

Families & Children

At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times, and may not participate in adventure options.

Travel Insurance

It is a condition of your participation in this expedition that you shall have comprehensive medical insurance in place which is sufficient to cover all medical risks and exposure, including emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. 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.

Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland Itinerary

This 14-day Iceland and Greenland cruise travels along the world’s longest fjord system looking for the northern lights and begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland. Unique to this itinerary is a special visit to Iceland’s Westfjords.

Route map of Under the Northern Lights Arctic small ship expedition, operating round-trip from Reykjavik, Iceland, with stops along the Vestfjords and southeast Greenland's Ittoqqortoormilt, Milne Land & Ella Island.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrive in the Icelandic capital in the morning and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the day to explore the city on your own.

Accommodations

Hotel TBA

Meals

n/a

Read More
Day 2
Embark Reykjavik

This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead!

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Exploring the Westfjords

Each region of Iceland has its own appeal for nature, bird and history lovers; the little-visited Vestfjords (Westfjords), where the land meets the sea in the most dramatic fashion, is no exception. Often referred to as “Iceland’s best kept secret,” this rugged peninsula at the country’s remote northwestern tip is rife with fjords and mountains sloping down to the sea in impossibly beautiful ways. Spend the day exploring the fjords and shores of Iceland’s oldest region, enjoying its kaleidoscope of diverse land and seascapes. Here, tumbling cliffs and gushing waterfalls alternate with colorful beaches, and rolling green hills lead up to high moorlands dotted with rocky outcrops, small lakes and the occasional shaggy Icelandic sheep or horse grazing in the distance. A few little outposts of civilization, small fishing communities are nestled on fjord edges and the shores of the Denmark Strait, facing out into the mighty Atlantic and toward East Greenland—keeping alive a maritime heritage going back to the Viking days.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
At Sea (Denmark Strait)

While you cruise across the Denmark Strait, your expedition team will prepare you for the adventures that await. Learn about the storied history and politics of the Arctic, its fascinating wildlife, geology, ecology and climate, and the incredible sights you will soon explore. The team will also search for the seabirds soaring around your ship, as well as the whales that frequent the waters here.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 5 - 12
Exploring Northeast Greenland

During your tour of Greenland’s remote northeast coast, enjoy Zodiac cruises and shore visits to several locations. Also keep an eye out for grazing muskoxen, as 40% of the world’s population lives in Northeast Greenland National Park. Sailing through spectacular Scoresby Sund, the birthplace of many icebergs, you’ll immediately see why some say it’s the most beautiful fjord system on the planet. Sites such as Frederiksdal and Sydkap offer opportunities to explore the colorful tundra and the remains of ancient Thule settlements. At the entrance of the sound is East Greenland’s most northerly community, Ittoqqortoormiit, where you may spend time interacting with the Inuit people and learning about their way of life. You may also have a chance to see the northern lights here if the skies are clear. Deeper in the sound, Røde Ø offers a picturesque locale for admiring the beauty of sky-blue bergs set against striking red sandstone cliffs. Magnificent vistas also await at Kong Oscar Fjord, with possible landings at Ella Ø, renowned for its rugged cliffs and ice-choked waters, and flower-rich Botanikerbugt, on Ymer Ø.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 13
At Sea (Denmark Strait)

As your arctic adventure winds down, take in a presentation by the onboard experts, share your photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar or watch a movie— there are many activities during your time at sea. Your expedition team will also be on hand to answer any questions and point out wildlife.

Accommodations

Ultramarine

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 14
Disembark Reykjavik, Iceland

Disembark in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, at the end of your journey. If you have booked post-expedition accommodation, then a transfer to a central downtown location is provided.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; beer, wine, standard spirits and cocktails during dinner and bar service hours; complimentary WiFi; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by experienced Expedition Leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by Expedition Team and special guests as scheduled; photographic journal documenting the voyage; a pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; complimentary reusable water bottle; hair dryer and bathrobe in every cabin; comprehensive onboard materials, including a map and an informative Arctic Reader; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard ship; Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax; one night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Reykjavik; group transfers from the Reykjavik hotel to the ship on Day 2; group transfer from the ship to downtown Reykjavik on disembarkation day.

Exclusions

International airfare; arrival and departure transfers; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption, evacuation and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended); excess baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified; phone and internet charges; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; additional overnight accommodation; any optional activities.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 150 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 75% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

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 Under the Northern Lights cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Reykjavik any time on Day 1 of the itinerary. On Day 14 of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier between 7:00am and 8:00am local time. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with an included transfer downtown. Plan flights to depart Reykjavik according to guidelines provided in your final documents. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Hiking, Zodiac cruising, daily presentations, photography guides and the polar plunge are optional and included. There are no added-cost activities available on the Under the Northern Lights cruise.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ultramarine: Deluxe Balcony Suite, Terrace Suite, Penthouse Suite, Owner’s Suite & Ultra Suite

Families & Children

At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 8 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times, and may not participate in adventure options.

Travel Insurance

It is a condition of your participation in this expedition that you shall have comprehensive medical insurance in place which is sufficient to cover all medical risks and exposure, including emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. 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.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change. Display price may reflect an additional discount for paying-in-full at time of booking, contact us for details.

Sep 04 - Sep 14, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 11 days
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From $7017USD
Per Person
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Sep 13 - Sep 23, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 11 days
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From $10646USD
Per Person
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Sep 22 - Oct 02, 2025
Ocean Explorer • 11 days
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From $8517USD
Per Person
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Sep 10 - Sep 20, 2026
Ultramarine • 11 days
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From $7742USD
Per Person
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Sep 19 - Oct 02, 2026
Ultramarine • 14 days
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From $9719USD
Per Person
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A brown kayak paddle icon depicting a one-time paddle activity option One-Time Paddling
Accommodations

Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
Ultramarine

The new Ultramarine 199-passenger polar ship is purpose-built for safety and far-off exploration in Antarctica and the Arctic. Dual helicopter pads and an incredible 70-day cruising range allow access to the hardest-to-reach places.

Expedition Ship
Ocean Explorer

The 138-guest Ocean Explorer offers refined spaces, a relaxed atmosphere, state-of-the-art technology, a design optimized for smooth and efficient cruising, an elevator servicing all decks, and a private balcony in most cabins. Come aboard this polar ship for amenities like Jacuzzis and a sauna, plus tenured guides.

Expert Review

Ship Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Andrew Browning • December 1st, 2023
Expert Aboard: Ultramarine Ship Review

Read a detailed ship review from our expert who was aboard Ultramarine, plus see traveler ratings on everything from the food & helicopters to his Greenland itinerary highlights.

Our experts will save you hours.

A single conversation with us is worth hours of internet scrolling. Find your next best trip with ease, then book with the confidence of our 20+ year experience.

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Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

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11 - 13 Day Land Tour
Iceland Adventure: Circling the Land of Fire & Ice

On this 11- to 13-day Iceland Adventure, experience traditional, remote locales that unveil Iceland's rich natural history in further detail, along with a few major highlights. Enjoy an off-the-beaten-path adventure by land, with time spent on the water too.

From $15695USD
Jul Aug Sep
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10 - 10 Day Cruise
West Greenland Ice Odyssey: Glaciers & Icebergs

Board 199-guest Ultramarine for a Greenland glacier cruise featuring the best sites and ice-laden realms of West Greenland in just 10 days. Plus local culture and exciting activity options including exploration by helicopter.

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13 - 14 Day Cruise
South Greenland Adventure: The Majestic Alpine Arctic

This south Greenland adventure cruise offers activities for all abilities and opportunities to view the Northern Lights. Hike, visit local Inuit communities, Zodiac cruise, fly in a helicopter and even camp—all from 199-guest Ultramarine as your modern floating base camp.

From $9147USD
Jul Aug Sep Oct
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Adventures in Northeast Greenland: Glaciers, Fjords & the Northern Lights

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