Accompanying each expedition is a diverse team of experts – from naturalists to regional specialists – who will share their knowledge and insights the wildlife, landscape and local culture. Select a member of the expedition team below to see their bio and dates.
Venture to the wonders of the north on an epic expedition aboard the National Geographic Explorerthat combines the polar bears of Svalbard, the geological phenomena of Iceland, and the ice-hewn coasts of Greenland. Kayak among incandescent icebergs, visit some of the most remote settlements on Earth, and watch for polar bears, walruses, and whales on a quest to discover the Arctic’s grand wilderness.
This trip is offered in partnership with Lindblad Expeditions.
Fly overnight to Oslo and check in to the SAS Radisson Blu Airport Hotel. Explore this charming city upon arrival. Stroll amid the famed Vigeland sculptures—hundreds of life-size human figures set in parkland. Then visit the Fram Museum, dedicated to the wooden ship sailed by Norwegian polar explorers Nansen and Amundsen.
Catch a charter flight to Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in Svalbard, and embark the National Geographic Explorer.
Situated far above the Arctic Circle, Svalbard is an archipelago of deep fjords, snowcapped mountains, massive ice sheets—and it’s one of the best places to see polar bears in their natural environment. Venture to the foot of vast tidewater glaciers, kayak among sparkling icebergs, hike the tundra, and explore fjords that split the coastline.
Then turn west toward he Greenland Sea. In keeping with the nature of a true Arctic expedition, our itinerary here is defined by the water. Using the latest satellite imagery—and our extensive experience exploring the region—we’ll chart where the ice is impenetrable and choose our route accordingly. Our strengthened hull and forward-searching sonar, as well as agile Zodiacs and kayaks, allow us to make forays amid the ice to search for wildlife.
Be on deck as our captain navigates among icebergs that drift from calving glaciers along Greenland’s eastern shore. If the ice yields, we’ll maneuver into the Scoresbysund fjord to visit a remote settlement as it awakens from winter’s icy grip. If the ice does not relent, we’ll continue south, exploring the ice edge, or set a course to Iceland to continue our explorations. Our voyage ends on Iceland’s west coast, where we’ll visit the picturesque town of Ísafjördur, spot razorbills on the immense Látrabjarg cliffs, and visit the former trading post of Flatey Island.
In Reykjavík, get a guided overview of the old town and soak in the famous Blue Lagoon prior to our flight home.
In keeping with the nature of an expedition, we keep our schedule flexible to take advantage of the unexpected, adapting our course to the conditions and opportunities that arise. The expedition experience can be tailored to the activity level you choose, whether it’s light or moderate or a little of both. Travelers should be in good health, comfortable walking or standing for extended periods of time, and able to get in and out of expedition landing craft. Daily activities may include nature walks (often over snow and ice), Zodiac cruises, city tours, and visits to cultural or historic sites, with options for more vigorous hikes and kayaking excursions.
Expedition Team
A National Geographic photographer joins the expedition team on every departure aboard the National Geographic Explorer.
Traveling aboard the National Geographic-Lindblad fleet, you’ll enjoy the daily thrill of discovery without sacrificing comfort. Each of our ships provides an inviting home base with superior amenities, personalized service, and a vibrant yet casual onboard atmosphere. Step aboard and you’ll find comfortable cabins, a well-stocked library, and dining rooms serving regionally inspired cuisine with fresh, local ingredients. Expansive decks provide an exceptional vantage point for spotting and photographing wildlife.
The National Geographic Explorer is arguably the finest expedition vessel on the seas. A state-of-the-art, ice-class expedition ship, the Explorer accommodates 148 guests in 81 spacious cabins, each with outside views; private bathrooms; and sleek, modern furnishings. Single cabins in Category 2 are highlighted in bright blue and include cabins 309-312 and 310-332. Single cabins in Category 3 are highlighted in bright pink and include cabins 105, 106, 203 and 208.
The ship carries kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac motorized landing craft, as well as sophisticated video equipment that allows access to the underwater world. Public areas include a lounge and bar; a library; a spa; a fitness center; a sauna; and a selection of dining options that offer regionally inspired cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. Services include a full-time doctor, a wellness specialist, and an Internet cafe.
Book a voyage on the National Geographic Explorer, National Geographic Orion, Sea Cloud, or Lord of the Glens and we will cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew.
Offer is for new bookings only, may not be combined with other offers, and is subject to availability. Must book by October 31, 2018. Please call for details.
Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland’s East Coast: Free One-Way Charter Airfare
Book by October 31, 2018 and receive free one-way charter airfare from Oslo to Longyearbyen. We will also cover your bar tab on board and all tips for the crew. Offer is for new bookings only, may not be combined with other offers, and is subject to availability. Please call for details.
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