Northern Lights Explorer Expedition

Arrive in Tromsø, the vibrant Arctic city known as the "Gateway to the Arctic." Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to the group hotel. Once checked in, visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to collect luggage tags and receive essential pre-embarkation information, including dining suggestions, cash withdrawal options, and local tips. Use the remainder of the day to explore Tromsø’s lively city center, home to attractions like the Arctic Cathedral and Polar Museum, or enjoy a leisurely evening soaking in the Arctic atmosphere.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and prepare for embarkation. Begin your day with a visit to the Tromsø Science Centre, where you’ll experience a full-dome presentation on the Northern Lights. Learn about their science and history, and hear fascinating Sami mythology about the Aurora Borealis. Explore interactive exhibits before returning to the hotel to prepare for your transfer to the port. In the afternoon, board the expedition vessel and settle into your cabin. After a safety briefing, enjoy a welcome dinner as the ship sails out of Tromsø, marking the start of your Arctic adventure.

Today, visit the picturesque village of Torsken on Senja Island, surrounded by dramatic fjords and jagged mountains. Stroll through the village’s narrow streets, learn about its fishing heritage, and visit the historic Torsken Church, dating back to the 18th century. Choose from several activities: embark on a scenic drive across Senja, with stops at viewpoints overlooking fjords and beaches; take a moderate trek to Ravnfløy summit for panoramic views; or challenge yourself with a strenuous hike to Midtertinden, offering sweeping vistas of Ånderdalen National Park. In the evening, return to the ship and keep an eye on the Arctic skies for the Northern Lights.

Sail through the Inner Passage toward the iconic Lofoten Islands, known for their dramatic peaks and serene fishing villages. Upon arrival in Svolvær, personalize your day with a range of activities: hike to Tjeldbergtind for panoramic views of the archipelago, enjoy a tasting tour featuring Arctic specialties like cod and cloudberries, or take a guided cultural walk to learn about the fishing heritage of this charming village. As the day ends, soak in the beauty of the Lofoten landscape under the soft Arctic twilight.

Discover the beauty of Lofoten’s scenic landscapes, starting with a hike from Uttakleiv to Haukland Beach, known for its white sands and turquoise waters. Visit the Viking Museum in Borg, where you’ll explore reconstructed Viking houses, traditional crafts, and authentic Viking cuisine cooked over an open fire. Continue your journey to Sund, where you’ll meet a blacksmith renowned for his intricate wrought-iron cormorants. End the day in the postcard-perfect village of Reine, where colorful fishing cabins are framed by towering peaks and reflective fjords.

Spend the next two days crossing the Norwegian Sea en route to Jan Mayen Island. Attend insightful lectures by the onboard expedition team, covering Arctic wildlife, geology, and history. Relax in observation lounges, keeping a lookout for seabirds and marine life, including whales. As night falls, step onto the deck to witness the shimmering Northern Lights if weather permits.

Arrive at Jan Mayen, a remote volcanic island dominated by the towering Beerenberg volcano, the northernmost active volcano in the world. Weather permitting, land at Kvalrossbukta, a sheltered bay on the island’s west coast, to explore its rugged volcanic terrain and learn about the island’s unique history as a weather station and research base. The surrounding waters are excellent for spotting whales and dolphins.

Discover the breathtaking East Greenland coastline, with its towering fjords, massive icebergs, and remote settlements. Explore Scoresbysund, the world’s largest fjord system, and visit Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland’s most isolated settlement. Participate in Zodiac excursions to observe glaciers, hike tundra landscapes to see musk oxen and reindeer, and kayak through calm Arctic waters. Highlights include Kong Oskar and Kaiser Franz Josef fjords, as well as ancient Thule archaeological sites and Inuit cultural encounters. Each day offers a mix of exploration and adventure in one of the most pristine environments on Earth.

Explore Ísafjörður, a charming town surrounded by sheer mountains, known for its preserved wooden architecture and cultural heritage. Continue to Vigur Island, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Walk along its coastline to observe puffins and Arctic terns or venture further into the island for serene landscapes and captivating views of the surrounding fjords.

Visit Thingeyri, nestled along the shores of Dýrafjörður. Choose between an immersive Viking experience, complete with interactive exhibits and traditional bread-making, or a hike up Sandafell Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and valleys. Later, take a Zodiac excursion to the breathtaking Dynjandi waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders.

Explore the diverse landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, crowned by the ice-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano. Choose between a scenic drive to Mount Kirkjufell and Djúpalónssandur beach, a hike along coastal trails, or a visit to Vatnshellir Cave, where you’ll explore stunning volcanic formations. Each option showcases the geological beauty of this unique region.

Arrive in Reykjavik early in the morning and disembark after breakfast. Bid farewell to your expedition team and fellow travelers before transferring to Keflavik airport or continuing your exploration of Iceland’s vibrant capital.