A Three-Island Adventure to the Arctic
Explore glittering fjords, calving glaciers, turquoise icebergs and vast Arctic tundra on this 18-day expedition cruise. As you journey through the cool waters of this northern polar region, you will visit the wildlife-rich island of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago, before cruising along Greenland’s striking east coast and southward to the so-called Land of Fire and Ice: Iceland. With three distinctive islands and a pair of dynamic cities, this Arctic expedition is the trip of a lifetime.
Trip highlights
- See the striking scenery of three Arctic islands
- Get closer to the Arctic action on private Zodiac excursions
- See rare muskoxen in their natural habitat
- Explore the Arctic tundra of east Greenland on foot
- Learn about polar ecology and history from experts
- Explore the cities of Reykjavik and Helsinki
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Days 1–3
Two days to explore the Finnish capital
Helsinki is a fascinating city and an enthralling destination to begin your luxury Arctic cruise. You’ll spend two nights here enjoying some of our experts’ favourite city-centre hotels, taking in the rich mix of neo-classical and Soviet architecture or exploring the art institutions that make Helsinki such a creatively engaging place. Immerse yourself in Finland‘s culture at a local sauna, or simply soak up the energy of the Design District on a stroll between its galleries and artisanal workshops.
Days 3–7
Explore spectacular Svalbard
Wave goodbye to Helsinki as you fly up to remote and spectacular Svalbard, where your expert naturalist guides await to welcome you on board your luxury vessel in Longyearbyen.
This town is home to just 2,400 people, but as an internationally recognised gateway to the wild landscapes of the Arctic, it has a pleasingly cosmopolitan vibe – though don’t be surprised if you meet a reindeer wandering through town. The next few days are spent exploring the striking landscapes of Spitsbergen, the largest of the Svalbard archipelago.
This isle is teeming with wildlife on its tundra, perching on its cliff edges and within the waters that surround its dramatic coastline. Keep your eyes peeled for Arctic skua and terns, guillemots and ivory gulls, while on land you might see walrus lolloping across ice or polar bears roaming in their natural habitat.
Make it mine
Kayaking
Polar plunge
Kayak excursion
Get closer to the Arctic seas and landscapes with a guided kayaking excursion. No prior experience is necessary to get out on the water and paddle between the majestic mountains and floating icebergs.
Feeling brave?
Take a dip in the Arctic waters under the guidance of your onboard adventure experts. Throw yourself in and you’ll feel the bracing chill of the Arctic Ocean – a truly invigorating experience.
Days 8–16
Cruise to Greenland and Iceland
You’ll spend two days cruising across the vast Greenland Sea to reach rugged east Greenland. As you sail, your onboard naturalists and experts will regale you with tales of Arctic history and exploration, as well as fascinating insights into the unique ecology of this polar region.
Once in east Greenland, your private Zodiac excursions will give you access to the shore for hiking on Arctic tundra and offer a chance to cruise into small but spectacular fjords that larger vessels cannot reach. Learn about the Thule people, an indigenous population that predates the Inuit and Yupik people, and look out for whales in the ocean as you cruise.
After days exploring the region, you will sail south, passing through the Denmark Strait to reach Iceland.
Highlights of Greenland
Ittoqqortoormiit
Scoresbysund
Remote living
If conditions allow, you’ll be able to visit the tiny community at Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the most remote populated places in the world. Polar bears thrive in the quiet part of Greenland, so keep an eye out for these majestic giants.
Iceberg central
Few places on earth can rival the magnificent scenery within the vast Scoresbysund fjord system. Dark, rocky mountains and cliffs provide a foreboding backdrop to the hundreds of bright-white and blueish icebergs that drift through its waters.
Days 16–18
Two nights in the Icelandic capital
Welcome to the world’s most northerly capital. Reykjavik is a city that acts as the energetic gateway to adventures in volcanic landscapes beyond. Spend two days taking in the city’s sights, from the mirror-like Tjornin Lake to the myriad museums where you can learn about Icelandic culture, both past and present. Here you’ll stay in one of our favoured hotels in the city, with plenty of opportunity to enjoy the stylish restaurants that abound throughout town.
Jacada from the beginning was responsive and really listened to details of the adventure we were hoping for, and did experience! My husband and I embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime kind of trip to Iceland and Norway, curated by Meg and Sabina. We felt supported the whole trip, with real time updates and adjustments if needed. We received 5 star service…
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
