The Best of the Arctic by Sea
Taking in three nations of this northern polar region – Iceland, Greenland and Norway – this luxury expedition cruise explores some of the most rugged and mesmerising Arctic scenery. Sail through narrow fjords where mountains rise up, capped by glistening snow, and cruise by glaciers where ice calves dramatically into the sea. In east Greenland, myriad mammals like Arctic foxes or reindeer inhabit the remote landscapes, while in the silence of wild Svalbard you will discover a land where polar bears roam across ethereal landscapes.
Trip highlights
- Take in the Icelandic capital before exploring waterfalls and volcanic landscapes
- Visit remote Inuit communities in the wilderness of east Greenland
- Spot whales, walruses, orcas and seabirds as you cruise through icy waters
- See reindeer and Arctic fox in their natural habitat with our expert naturalist guides
- Hike through the Arctic tundra, a polar desert that comes alive with wildflowers in summer
- Kayak among icebergs on a guided excursion through Arctic waters
Why book 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 nights in Reykjavik
The Icelandic capital isn’t just a gateway to the Land of Fire and Ice. An engaging city break in its own right, you can delve into Viking history at its Saga Museum or take in a show at the strikingly modern Harpa Concert Hall. You will have time to venture outside of the city, too, as your guide shows you some of Iceland’s most impressive geological sights, including the Gullfoss waterfall and the cavernous tectonic divide within Thingvellir National Park. After two nights in one of our favourite hotels, it’s time to board your luxury expedition vessel and set sail for the enigmatic Arctic.
Days 4–12
Exploring East Greenland
Even in the warmest summer months, the seas of east Greenland are filled with glittering icebergs, which fall from the towering shelves of its vast glaciers. During your time onboard your Arctic cruise, you will glide among them in zodiacs to see their immensity up close within the narrow, twisting fjords that cut into the coastline. On land, your naturalist guides will lead the way on the Arctic tundra, where muskoxen, Arctic hares and reindeer roam, and show you ancient historical sites belonging to the ancestors of today’s Inuit population. In this remote and wild polar region, we travel at the will of the weather and sea conditions, and so every voyage is unique as your guides and expert navigators find the best routes and experiences.
Highlights of East Greenland
Ittoqqortoormiit
Fjords
A visit to remote Ittoqqortoormiit
One of the northernmost permanent settlements in the world, a visit to Ittoqqortoormiit is a fascinating experience. It takes just 30-minutes to walk from one end to the other, and its local Inuit population live alongside polar bears, muskoxen and their own highly trained sled dogs.
Cruise through breathtaking fjords
Conditions permitting, you will cruise down the Kong Oskar and Kaiser Franz Josef fjords, two of the most important waterways in Greenland. Towering, jagged black mountains rise up on either side of the channels here, creating safe harbour for all manner of wildlife, including Arctic foxes and even reindeer.
On the waves
Denmark Strait
Greenland Sea
Adventures in the Denmark Strait
Keep your eyes trained on the skies for exciting seabird sightings from the deck of your expedition vessel as you cruise through the Denmark Strait. Out here, you may see whales spouting, too, as humpback and minke whales glide through these waters alongside orcas. On board, expert naturalist guides offer lectures and talks on this polar region’s wildlife, geology and ecology ahead of your arrival in east Greenland.
Wildlife watching in the Greenland Sea
With strong currents isolating east Greenland from the Polar Basin, there’s a healthy population of fish, whales, seals and seabirds in this region. Prime your binoculars and look out for the signature blowout of a humpback whale, or the small, bobbing head of a curious seal. Seabirds abound here, too, with Brünnich’s guillemots and northern fulmars enjoying the ocean’s bounty.
Days 13–15
Seek out wildlife in Svalbard
Sitting between 74 and 80° north, the Svalbard Islands have some of the most mesmerising scenery and wildlife in the Arctic. Hulking mountain ranges flank dramatic fjords, while a polar desert offers opportunities for hiking among wildflowers. The wildlife in this part of the world is rich and varied, with walruses lounging about on beaches and noisy seabirds, from little auks to puffins, nesting on enormous, imposing sea cliffs.
Make it mine
A Bracing Dip
Sea Kayaking
A polar plunge
Seize the day and take a leap into the icy yet invigorating waters of the Arctic with a polar plunge. Expert adventure guides are on hand to help you safely in and out of the water and capture memories of a swim you will never forget.
Out on the water
Take charge of your own vessel in the Arctic waters and seek out wildlife from a sea kayak. Led by your expert guide who’ll strive to help you spot as much wildlife as possible, you will paddle to hidden bays and rugged coastline that’s inaccessible by zodiac or larger boat. Glide between ice floes and past calving glaciers to look for whales, seals and walruses in the water.
Days 16–18
Two nights in Oslo
Take a flight from Svalbard’s biggest settlement, Longyearbyen, to reach Norway’s chic capital, Oslo. Spend two nights here in one of our favourite hotels, walking its streets, soaking up history in its museums on Norwegian maritime culture and Viking ships or exploring the forests that lay on its fringes offering access to nature. Set on a fjord, there are opportunities for boat trips and island hopping for a slice of adventure before you head home.
We enjoy traveling and we have used Jacada Travel for some wonderful trips over several years. We have never been disappointed. In 2024 we took a Safari in Botswana Africa and walked with the gorillas in Rwanda planned by Jacada and the itinerary was amazing. In 2025 we had planned a trip to Antartica ( with another company ) but…
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.
