HIGHLIGHTS
- Delve into more than 4,000 years of human settlement at the
Prehistoric and Norse Settlement of Jarlshof and visit the Iron Age
broch and wheelhouses
- Be amazed by the towering 180-metre sea cliffs at the Isle
of Noss, teeming with gannets, guillemots and fulmars
- Discover remote beauty, Viking heritage, and dramatic
landscapes in the Faroe Islands
- Get a glimpse of traditional Icelandic life in the small
town Seyðisfjörður
- Explore the astonishing and exotic natural beauty of
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
DATES / RATES
Rates are listed per person in USD. Promotional offers are not reflected in the rates below.
|
| Start Date | End Date | Stateroom Triple | Stateroom Twin | Balcony Stateroom C | Balcony Stateroom B | Balcony Stateroom A | Balcony Stateroom Superior | Junior Suite | Captains Suite | 0 | 0 |
|---|
| May 17, 2026 | May 29, 2026 | 14,795 | 15,295 | 16,595 | 17,395 | 18,695 | 20,495 | 25,695 | 30,495 | N/A | N/A |
Rates are listed per person in USD. Promotional offers are not reflected in the rates below.
|
| Start Date | End Date | (Starting from)
Stateroom Triple | (Mid-range)
Balcony Stateroom Superior | (High-end)
0 |
|---|
| May 17, 2026 | May 29, 2026 | 14,795 | 20,495 | N/A |
ITINERARY
Day
1 : Arrive in Aberdeen
Having
made your way to Aberdeen airport, you will be met by a representative
of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to our group hotel. Upon arrival
at your included hotel, please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality
desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground
operations team, who may have information to share with you about
pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine,
withdraw cash or purchase last minute items from a local pharmacy or
supermarket.????
Should you already be in Aberdeen, make your way to our pre-voyage
hotel, Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel, St Andrew St, Aberdeen.
Check-in is from 3:00pm. Today there’s free time to enjoy
Aberdeen at your leisure (Dinner not included).?
Accommodation: Sandman
Signature Aberdeen Hotel??
Day
2 : Embarkation
After
breakfast, check-out and bring your luggage to the foyer. Please place
any items required today in your hand luggage as your main bag will be
placed in the bays of the coach. After breakfast, check-out and bring
your luggage to the foyer.
Today we explore ‘The Granite City’ visiting some
of Aberdeen’s most famous landmarks including the magnificent
Kings College Chapel which is a fantastic example of gothic
architecture and the St Machar Cathedral a 12th century church with its
beautiful stained-glass windows.
Depart for Glen Garioch Distillery, a 200-year-old distillery situated
in the sheltered heart of the Valley of the Garioch, blessed as it is
with the north east’s mild climate, plentiful sunshine and
not too much rain, the Valley has long been renowned as the finest
barley growing area in the country. Once home to no fewer than six
distilleries, today the Valley cradles just one - this established
distillery has changed hands several times and the current owners have
had the distillery in their family since 1886. You will be taken on a
tour of this award-winning distillery where you will see their
time-honoured skills at work and see what goes into making this unique
spirit. Complete your distillery journey with a taste of two whiskies
from their core range and for those who wish, there will be an
opportunity to visit their onsite shop.
Afterwards enjoy a scenic drive to the Huntly Falconry Centre. This
centre was established in 1991 and is one of the first falconry centres
in Scotland. Huntly Falconry Centre hold birds of prey falconry
demonstrations throughout the season, where owls, hawks, falcons, and
eagles can be seen flying every day. Marvel at the full range
of bird skills during the flying demonstration before our drive returns
us to Aberdeen to board the Greg Mortimer in the late
afternoon.
You will have time to settle into your cabin before our important
briefings. We will set sail for Fair Isle in the evening and meet your
expedition team and crew at the Welcome Dinner.?
Day
3 : Fair Isle
Midway
between Orkney and Shetland, Fair Isle houses a major European
ornithological research station, and is also famous for knitwear and
historic shipwrecks. About five kilometres by three kilometres / three
miles by two miles in area, it is surrounded by impressive cliffs. The
70 or so islanders mainly live in traditional crofts on the more
fertile low-lying southern part of the island.?
A bird watchers’ paradise, Fair Isle lies on the intersection
of major flight paths from Scandinavia, Iceland and Faroe. In summer,
the cliffs teem with breeding fulmars, kittiwakes, guillemots, gannets,
shags and puffins. The Isle is an excellent place to view seabirds,
especially puffins at close range. Fair Isle also has over 250 species
of flowering plants, including wetland flowers, rare orchids, alpine
species and common wildflowers. We’ll be welcomed by the
hospitable villagers and may take a hike or visit the museum. Grey and
common seals inhabit these waters around Fair Isle, while sharp eyes
may spot harbour porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, Atlantic white-sided
dolphins, killer whales (orcas) and minke whales.?
Day
4 :Jarlshof & Isle of Noss
Jarlshof
is one of Shetland's best preserved and most complex archaeological
sites. It was exposed by storms in the late 19th century. The Old House
of Sumburgh, built here in the 17th century, was named 'Jarlshof' by
Sir Walter Scott in his novel 'The Pirate'. The record of human
occupation dates from around 3,200 BCE. Jarlshof’s main
Bronze Age site is the house of a bronzesmith working around 800 BC.
Clay moulds into which molten bronze was poured revealed that he was
casting axe heads and short swords. It seems that Shetland suited early
Norse settlers, for they quickly settled here and left their mark on
Shetland's history for ages to come.?
With its mile-long seabird cliffs, the Island of Noss is a National
Nature Reserve. In breeding season, the sound of around 150,000 birds
and chicks fills the air. Millions of years of wind and ice have
honeycombed thousands of nesting ledges in sandstone cliffs almost
200-metres / 656-feet high. Resident seals and visiting otters feed in
dense kelp around the shores.??
Days
5 : Hermaness National Nature Reserve, Shetland Islands
Britain’s
most northerly islands lie almost 160 kilometres (100 miles) north of
the Scottish mainland, at a similar latitude to the southern tip of
Greenland, or Bergen in Norway. Kept relatively warm by the Gulf
Stream, Shetland’s 100 islands experience almost 24 hours of
daylight in summer. They abound with nature reserves and archaeological
sites and offer a taste of traditional island life.??
Hermaness National Nature Reserve, is close to Britain’s most
northerly point. The reserve is a place of bird cries and sea smells,
of myth and mist. The cliffs rise 170 metres (558 feet) above the
Atlantic. During summer they are alive with the cacophony, and raw
guano smell of over 100,000 breeding seabirds: kittiwakes, shags,
snipe, dunlin, golden plover and Arctic skua, making this one of
Europe’s most diverse colonies. The grasslands, moors and
cliff tops are a tapestry of colourful wildflowers –
gentians, heather, orchids and thrift are a few of the species here.?
Day
6-8 : The Faroe Islands
Nestled
in the heart of the North Atlantic, the Faroe Islands are a hidden gem
waiting to be discovered. This remote archipelago, composed of 18
volcanic islands, boasts a population of just 50,000, offering an
unparalleled escape from the ordinary. Steeped in Viking history and
characterised by dramatic landscapes of towering cliffs, verdant
mountains, and deep fjords, the Faroes are a paradise for nature lovers
and adventure seekers alike.
Over the next three days we hope to explore the islands of Sandoy,
Streymoy and Eysturoy, beginning in Tórshavn, a captivating
blend of old and new. Wander through the town’s quaint,
colourful houses, many adorned with traditional grass roofs, and
imagine life as a Viking settler. Encounter the iconic Faroese sheep,
their woolly coats a stark contrast against the rugged terrain, and
perhaps catch a glimpse of the elusive Faroese ponies. No visit to the
Faroe Islands is complete without a boat trip to the mesmerising
Vestmanna bird cliffs. Soar above the ocean as thousands of seabirds,
including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots, fill the air with their
enchanting calls. For those seeking adventure, the island of Suduroy
offers unparalleled hiking opportunities. Explore pristine coastal
paths, surrounded by dramatic mountain backdrops, and revel in the
solitude of this unspoiled natural wonderland. The Faroe Islands will
cast their spell on you as you discover a world of breathtaking beauty,
warm hospitality, and authentic experiences.
Day
9 : Sea Crossing to Iceland?
Enjoy
the sea crossing to Iceland accompanied by sea birds while searching
for whales. Enjoy informative talks from our team of experts, get to
know your fellow expeditioners, stay active in the gym or treat
yourself to a massage in the wellness centre.??
Days
10 : Seyðisfjörður
Explore
Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque fishing village
that is renowned for its charming collection of colourful wooden
buildings located around the lagoon. Take a stroll around town and
discover the timber houses that are remnants from when the Norwegians
settled here and established the herring fishing facilities from
1870-1900. From the valley above the town, the river
Fjarðará tumbles down in beautiful cascades to the
lagoon. There are a number of delightful hiking trails to explore, or
alternatively, you can discover a flourishing cultural scene with an
arts centre, the famous blue church that stages music concerts and the
only two cinemas in the east of Iceland. Back in town, browse the
stores where you will discover handicrafts by local artists and
artisans – perfect as a souvenir or gift.?
Days
11 : Djúpivogur?
In
Iceland’s east, we disembark in Djúpivogur, our
gateway to Vatnajökull National Park, home to
Europe’s largest glacier.??
Personalise
your expedition with our included ‘Your Choice’
experiences that best suits your interests and level of fitness.
Option 1 - Waterfalls, Glacial Lagoons & Hot Tubs?
Duration: 10 hours
including driving to/from Djúpivogur?
Level of difficulty: Easy??
Maximum numbers: 60 (2 x
30)?
Your
first stop is at Fossárfoss, a waterfall surrounded by
majestic mountains with spectacular views. The layered basalt flow
formations that surround the area offer a striking contrasting vista
making this a favourite location among photographers. From here we
depart for Vatnajökull National Park, one of the most famous
natural attractions in the world. Explore the astonishing and exotic
natural beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier
Lagoon by four-wheeled Amphibian boat. Here we observe giant icebergs
float slowly towards the ocean from the glacier.??
Following lunch, re-join the coach and head for Diamond beach, a black
sand beach where the icebergs are washed ashore, and
Fjallsárlón lagoon, renowned for the shimmering
icebergs that float in its waters. Concluding our day, we continue to
the geothermal hot tubs in Hoffell, perfect for a nice, relaxing soak
with an otherworldly view.?
Option 2 - Wonders of Vatnajökull National Park &
Canyon Hike?
Duration: 9
hours?including driving to/from Djúpivogur?
Level of difficulty: Moderate?
Maximum numbers: 40?
Your
first stop is at Fossárfoss, a waterfall surrounded by
majestic mountains with spectacular views. The layered basalt flow
formations that surround the area offer a striking contrasting vista
making this a favourite location among photographers. From here we
depart for the dramatic Múlagljúfur Canyon, a
true hidden gem ideal for hiking. Here we navigate through overgrown
bushes, small river streams, and different trails along the rim of the
canyon. Find yourself marvelling at the panoramic views of
Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon, picturesque
mountains, vibrant textures, and intriguing rock formations. Following
lunch, re-join the coach and head for Vatnajökull National
Park, one of the most famous natural attractions in the world. Explore
the astonishing and exotic natural beauty of
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon by foot. Here
we observe giant icebergs float slowly towards the ocean from the
glacier. Re-join the coach for Diamond beach, a black sand beach where
the icebergs are washed ashore.??
Note: Múlagljúfur Canyon Hike is 3.8km (2.35
miles) one way and approximately 3 hours duration. Terrain –
315 metre elevation with a narrow unpaved trail with two small river
crossings, very easy to cross.?
Option 3 - Falljökull Glacier Hike?
Duration: 9 hours?(4
hours on the glacier)?
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Difficult?
Maximum numbers: 45?
Your
first and only stop today is at Falljökull, one of the most
impressive outlet glaciers of the Vatnajökull ice cap and a
once in a lifetime experience. We will take an inspiring walk along a
winding path through the glacier's dramatically changing landscape.
Arriving at the tongue of the glacier, we will have your crampons ready
and waiting for you. With your knowledgeable guide leading the way, you
will soon be exploring impressive terrain, walking through a wonderland
of ice formations and brilliant blue colours. Following a hard-earned
late lunch, re-join the coach and depart for the ship in
Djúpivogur.?
Note: Falljökull Glacier Hike equipment provided - ice axe,
crampons, harness and helmet. The minimum shoe size to attach crampons
is EU 35 (boots can be hired at additional cost if necessary). Requires
a higher level of fitness and agility as you will be on your feet for a
long period of time (4 hours) and the terrain is challenging. Please
note the transfer to and from the ship and Falljökull Glacier
is 3 hours each way, so come prepared with a book or enjoy the
magnificent scenery and a nice nap enroute.??
Days
12 : Westman Islands
Enjoy
a morning and lunch onboard, searching for whales and seabirds. Our
team of experts entertains us with informative talks.
Located off Iceland’s south coast, the Westman Islands were
formed by volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. Westman Islands
are surrounded by 15 other uninhabited islands and around 30 rocks and
skerries offering refuge for rich array of seabirds. Westman Islands
are considered to have the largest Atlantic puffin colony in the world,
and when sailing around the islands it is not uncommon to see puffins
but also whales and seals.
?Personalise your expedition with our included ‘Your
Choice’ experiences that best suits your interests and level
of fitness.
Option 1 - Eldheimar Volcano Museum & Puffin Viewing
Duration: 3 hours
Level of difficulty: Easy
Located
off Iceland’s south coast, the Westman Islands were formed by
volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. Heimaey is the main island
in the archipelago, with a population of around 4,200. Various
catastrophes have befallen the island of Heimaey and its inhabitants
throughout history. Probably the most tragic incident was the volcanic
eruption in 1973. Visit a unique volcano museum that tells the story of
the Heimaey volcanic eruption, the emergence of Surtsey Island in 1963,
and the geology of the Westman Islands.
We'll continue our drive to Stórhöfði cape
for some puffin watching, offering ample photo opportunities to capture
shots of the charming little birds. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to
explore the island if time permits.
Option 2 - Eldheimar Volcano Climb & Museum
Duration: 3 hours
Level of difficulty: Difficult
Learn
more about the geology and volcanology of Iceland during a two-hour
hike up a volcano. Reaching the summit, you can still feel the warmth
emanating from its subterranean activity. At the end of the hike, you
visit a unique volcano museum that tells the story of the Heimaey
volcanic eruption, the emergence of Surtsey Island in 1963, and the
geology of the Westman Islands. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to
explore the island if time permits.
Sail past Surtsey Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site that emerged
from the sea in 1963 and is one the youngest land masses on earth.
Days
13 : Disembark in Reykjavik?
During
the early morning, we cruise into Reykjavik and disembark at
approximately 8.00 am. Farewell your Expedition Team and fellow
passengers as we all continue our onward journeys. Transfer to Keflavik
airport.
Note: At the
conclusion of the voyage, we recommend booking flights departing after
12.00 pm on the day of disembarkation in case there are delays.???
Greg Mortimer (Luxury Expedition, 120-guests)
Capable of negotiating the strongest winds and waves, the Greg Mortimer is built to world-class polar standards. It is designed in close consultation with expedition specialists, taking advantage of Auroras more than 25 years of experience.
(Click image to view Ship details)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Airport arrival and departure transfers to/from our group
hotel on the first day and the final day of your voyage package.
- One night’s hotel accommodation including
breakfast, in Toronto on Day 1.
- Charter flight from Toronto to Nuuk on Day 2.
- Charter flight from Nome to Anchorage on Day 28.
- One night’s hotel accommodation including
breakfast, in Anchorage on Day 28.
- Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin
service.
- All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage.
- Soft drinks and juices throughout all meals.
- Beer and house wine with dinner.
- Captain’s Farewell reception including
four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic
beverages.
- All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
- Educational lectures and guiding services provided by our
expedition team.
- Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and
medical clinic (initial consultation).
- One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
- Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
- Comprehensive pre-departure information.
- Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
- Wi-Fi. Please note we travel to remote regions and
therefore the connection can be unreliable.
Excluded
from this voyage :
- International or domestic flights – unless
specified in the itinerary.
- Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
- Airport arrival or departure taxes.
- Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and
charges.
- Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
- Hotel accommodation and meals – unless specified
in the itinerary.
- Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
- All items of a personal nature, including but not limited
to alcoholic beverages outside of dinner service, gratuities, laundry
services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone
charges.
Adventure
Options:
- Bird watching
- Lectures on wildlife, our environment, history and
destinations
- Near shore cruises
- Photography
- Polar plunge
- Trips ashore
- Walking
- Whale and mammal spotting
- Zodiac cruises
