Discover the towering glaciers, Inuit heritage, and Arctic wildlife on this 13-night expedition linking Iceland, Greenland and Svalbard in Norway, aboard Quark's purpose-built sister ships Ultramarine or Ocean Explorer

The Arctic, Norway

From A$27,795 pp

13 Night Expedition Cruise

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5 Luxury Accommodation

6 Season & Dates

7 Itinerary

1Overview

Overview

Named one of National Geographic Traveller’s “50 Tours of a Lifetime,” this unforgettable Arctic cruise begins above the Arctic Circle in Spitsbergen within the Svalbard Archipelago, considered the wildlife capital of the Arctic. Week one highlights include the glacier-carved fjords and polar tundra of Spitsbergen, where walrus and polar bears are sighted. As the journey continues south to Greenland, expect encounters with iceberg-filled bays, musk oxen roaming the colourful tundra, and glimpses of Thule archaeological sites. The final leg leads you across the Denmark Strait to Iceland, where the volcanic coastline offers a stark contrast to the white landscape encountered on this immersive expedition. Travelling aboard sister ships Ultramarine or Ocean Explorer, next-generation polar vessels equipped with helicopters and Zodiacs®, you’ll enjoy guided landings, lectures and wildlife viewing opportunities each day. Optional kayaking and heli-landings (conditions permitting) offer more ways to experience this remote landscape.

Paddle Excursion 4 M9 A7707 michellesole

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2Trip Highlights

Highlights

Experience Reykjavik, the vibrant and artistic capital of Iceland

Marvel at the glaciers and wildlife of Spitsbergen, including walrus and reindeer

Hike across Arctic tundra and explore the fjords of Greenland’s remote east coast

Cruise by Zodiac® to reach glaciers, icebergs and historic landing sites

3Inclusions

What's Included

Expert expedition team, including specialist guides and naturalists
Daily off-ship excursions by Zodiac® and guided hikes in the Arctic wilderness
Comfortable shipboard accommodation with panoramic views
All meals onboard, with premium dining and options for dietary preferences
Complimentary Wi-Fi and a selection of alcoholic beverages
Official Quark Expeditions parka to keep
Transfers and accommodation as per the itinerary

4Getting here

Location & Access

This journey begins in Longyearbyen on Spitsbergen (in Svalbard) and concludes in Reykjavík, Iceland. Direct flights to Longyearbyen are available from Oslo. Reykjavík is serviced by direct international flights from North America and Europe. Walk into Luxury can assist with pre- and post-cruise arrangements in Norway and Iceland.

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5Luxury Accommodation

Where You'll Sleep

The Arctic, Norway

Quark Polar Expedition Ships – Ultramarine and Ocean Explorer

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6Season & Dates

Season & Departure Dates

Select departure dates in July and August

7Itinerary

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Longyearbyen, the administrative centre of Svalbard and the starting point of your Arctic journey. You’ll be greeted at the airport - or your hotel^ - and transferred to the ship for embarkation. As the ship departs in the evening, settle into your cabin and enjoy your first dinner onboard while taking in the glacial scenery of Isfjorden.

Included: Dinner

^Your Journey Designer will assist with flight and Longyearbyen hotel options to ensure a smooth start to your journey.

OEX Deluxe Veranda Fwd Cabin 401 ESP05815

Day 2 to Day 5

Spend several days exploring Spitsbergen’s rugged coastline, vast tundra and glacier-filled fjords. Expect wildlife sightings including reindeer, walrus, and possibly polar bears. Daily Zodiac® cruises and shore landings bring you closer to this pristine polar environment. Enjoy expert-led presentations and educational briefings onboard each day.

Included: All meals and beverages

Quark Expeditions polar bears danskoya svalbard acaciajohnson 2 Credit Acacia Johnson

Day 6 to Day 7

As you cruise across the Greenland Sea, enjoy lectures from your expedition team on Greenland’s history, culture and wildlife. Take time to enjoy the ship’s facilities and watch for seabirds and marine life from the observation deck.

Included: All meals and beverages

Quark Expeditions Whale Diving Iceland Coast Adobe Stock 335720029

Day 8 to Day 11

Enter one of the Arctic’s most remote and spectacular regions. Navigate iceberg-choked fjords like Scoresbysund, explore ancient Thule sites, and visit the Inuit community of Ittoqqortoormiit (conditions permitting). Look out for musk oxen, Arctic hare and stunning geological formations. Each day features guided landings, hikes, and Zodiac® cruises with the expedition team.

Included: All meals and beverages

Ittoqqortoormiit town sunrise East Greenland 2

Day 12 to Day 13

Crossing the Denmark Strait, enjoy relaxed days onboard filled with workshops, photography sessions, and wildlife spotting from the deck. The expedition team shares insights into Arctic exploration and prepares you for your arrival in Iceland.

Included: All meals and beverages