Arctic Wonders of Greenland, Iceland & Scandinavia Cruise & Land Journey

Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve center and government seat, is home to half the island's population. On a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh), with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colorful sight, its concrete houses painted in light colors and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In contrast to the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík has many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, as well as imported aspen, pines, and spruces.Reykjavík's name comes from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík. In AD 874, Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson saw Iceland rising out of the misty sea and came ashore at a bay eerily shrouded with plumes of steam from nearby hot springs. Today most of the houses in Reykjavík are heated by near-boiling water from the hot springs. Natural heating avoids air pollution; there's no smoke around. You may notice, however, that the hot water brings a slight sulfur smell to the bathroom.Prices are easily on a par with other major European cities. A practical option is to purchase a Reykjavík City Card at the Tourist Information Center or at the Reykjavík Youth Hostel. This card permits unlimited bus usage and admission to any of the city's seven pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and city museums. The cards are valid for one (ISK 3,300), two (ISK 4,400), or three days (ISK 4,900), and they pay for themselves after three or four uses a day. Even lacking the City Card, paying admission (ISK 500, or ISK 250 for seniors and people with disabilities) to one of the city art museums (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, or Ásmundarsafn) gets you free same-day admission to the other two.

Welcome to Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital city. Your journey begins here in Iceland’s unique and imaginative spirit.

This afternoon, you’ll meet the Captain and crew of Scenic Eclipse. Be welcomed on board with a glass of champagne and explore your spacious suite. Meet your fellow guests for a drink in the Scenic Lounge as you toast to the start of an unforgettable journey.

Please book your flight to arrive into Reykjavik prior to 02:00 PM.

Iceland is well-known for its spectacular waterfalls. The iconic Dynjandi waterfall, located in the Westfjords region, is regarded as one of Iceland’s most impressive and majestic waterfalls. At the top, the cascading water is roughly 100 feet wide and tumbles down about 330 feet into the fjord. Its name Dynjandi means, “the thundering one” and its vast size, enormous sound, and sheer force is overwhelming. It has also been nicknamed, ‘The Bridal Veil’ because of the way the water sprays and spreads over the rocks.

Weather permitting, today you'll visit the jewel of the Westfjords, Dynjandi Waterfall. Feel the freezing mist on your face as you admire the cascading bridal veil falls and discover why it was nicknamed ‘the thunder’. Tumbling down seven tiers over 100 metres, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Marvel at nature's grandeur and wildlife spectacle as you cruise through this remote corner of Iceland.

Two colossal terraces of sheer rock stand either side of this extraordinarily located town - which rides a jutting spit onto an immensity of black fjord water. Surprisingly, considering the remoteness of its location and its compact size, Isafjordur is a modern and lively place to visit, offering a great choice of cafes and delicious restaurants – which are well stocked to impress visitors. The town is a perfectly located base for adventures amongst Iceland's fantastic wilderness - with skiing, hiking and water-sports popular pursuits among visitors.

Characterised by deep, blue fjords, separated by flat-topped mountains, Ísafjörður is the largest settlement in the Westfjords of Iceland. Explore remote Iceland from one of the most stunning towns in the country, with old timber framed houses and architecture. Bursting with a wealth of wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for birds and Arctic foxes on the cliffs, seals on the coast and whales in the surrounding ocean.

Unlike the rest of Greenland, the Sermersooq municipality (where the Fridtjof Nansen peninsula is located) is smooth and unbroken terrain. Here, the magnificent Greenland Ice Sheet flows right to the shore. The peninsula gets its name from famed explorer Fridtjof Nansen, who launched his pioneering Greenland venture from Umivik Bay. This 1888 expedition confirmed that Greenland was completely covered in ice.

Over the next several days in Greenland, countless moments await, from exhilarating whale watching to thrilling kayak excursions and invigorating polar plunges, promising unforgettable experiences.

The transit through the Sound is one of this voyage’s highlights. Connecting the Labrador Sea with the Irminger Seat, Prince Christian Sound or “Prins Christian Sund” in Danish is named after Prince (later King) Christian VII (1749-1808). 100 km (60 miles ), long and at times just 500 m (1500 ft) wide, this majestic and spectacular fiord throws you back into a Viking era – flanked by soaring snow-topped mountains, rock-strewn cliffs and rolling hills, it is as if time has stood still and one easily forgets that this is the 21st century. As you marvel at the sheer size of the mountains that surround you, with the Arctic waters lapping deceptively at the hull, revel in the silence enveloping you. Icebergs float serenely by, carrying with them the ages of time. Be sure to wear warm clothing as this is one spectacle that you do not want to miss.

Carving a breathtaking, naturally formed path that separates the mainland from the islands of Cape Farewell, Prince Christian Sound is one of Greenland's most scenic waterways and a highlight of any cruise in the region. Over a hundred kilometers in length, and flanked by magnificent glaciers and granite cliffs, this narrow passage is only accessible during summer, when the largest ice blockades melt away.

With her elegant design and state-of-the-art technology, Scenic Eclipse brings you closer to the towering glaciers, icebergs and imposing peaks for unmissable photo opportunities.

Nuuk, meaning “the cape”, was Greenland’s first town (1728). Started as a fort and later mission and trading post some 240 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle, it is the current capital. Almost 30% of Greenland’s population lives in the town. Not only does Nuuk have great natural beauty in its vicinity, but there are Inuit ruins, Hans Egede’s home, the parliament, and the Church of our Saviour as well. The Greenlandic National Museum has an outstanding collection of Greenlandic traditional dresses, as well as the famous Qilakitsoq mummies. The Katuaq Cultural Center’s building was inspired by the undulating Northern Lights and can house 10% of Nuuk’s inhabitants.

Clinging to a jagged peninsula on the southwest coast of Greenland, Nuuk is the island’s capital and largest city. The area has been inhabited since 2200BC, though the present town was only established in 1728.

Nuuk’s colourful wooden buildings are a visual standout on your guided tour of the Old Harbour. The picturesque site reveals history and traditions that remain strong today, making Nuuk a hub of modern Nordic culture. Discover innovative architecture inspired by the Northern Lights and restaurants showcasing local recipes and ingredients.

Enjoy a slow day cruising through Evighed Fjord, or ‘Eternity Fjord’, considered one of the most beautiful in Greenland. Stretching for more than 75 kilometres, you’ll be awed by the endless fields of ice. Tall, jagged peaks threaded with glaciers rise straight up out of the calm blue waters. Many of the glaciers are very active, and you will likely hear chunks of ice calving away and collapsing loudly into the ocean. In Evighed Fjord, you’ll feel the beauty and power of nature all around you.

Today, you’ll arrive in the breathtaking Disko Bay, a true paradise for whales and Arctic wildlife. Here, shimmering icebergs of all shapes and sizes drift gracefully across the water, each one a stunning creation of the legendary Ilulissat Icefjord.

Stand in awe on the Observation Terrace or your private verandah, where you can marvel at the sheer grandeur of the surroundings.

Scenic Discovery:
Weather and conditions permitting, join the Discovery Team for exploration by Zodiac or kayak, venturing into pristine waters and along remote coastlines to experience wildlife, glaciers, and stunning landscapes up close.

Known as the birthplace of icebergs, the Ilulissat Icefjord produces nearly 20 million tons of ice each day. In fact, the word Ilulissat means “icebergs” in the Kalaallisut language. The town of Ilulissat is known for its long periods of calm and settled weather, but the climate tends to be cold due to its proximity to the fjord. Approximately 4,500 people live in Ilulissat, the third-largest town in Greenland after Nuuk and Sisimiut. Some people here estimate that there are nearly as many sled dogs as human beings living in the town that also boasts a local history museum located in the former home of Greenlandic folk hero and famed polar explorer Knud Rasmussen.

Ilulissat is the main town on the Disko Bay, named from the Inuit word for ‘iceberg’. It’s famous for the large number of icebergs breaking away from the nearby Ilulissat Icefjord, a World Heritage-listed site. The Icefjord is the mouth of the vast Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier, one of the world’s fastest moving and most active glaciers, calving a remarkable 46 cubic kilometers of ice annually. Listen for the rumbling sounds in the distance as huge chunks of ice calve from the glacier and tumble into the water below.

The name Kangerlussuaq means "Big Fjord" in the local Kalaallisut language. The settlement of about 500 people is located in western Greenland on flat land at the head of a fjord with the same name. Kangerlussuaq is the site of Greenland's largest commercial airport and most of the economy here is dependent on the air transportation hub and tourism. The rugged lands around the settlement support terrestrial Arctic fauna including muskoxen, caribou, and Gyrfalcons.

Your voyage aboard Scenic Eclipse concludes this morning in the small town of Kangerlussuaq. After one final sumptuous breakfast on board, you’ll disembark your ultra-luxury Scenic Discovery Yacht and bid farewell to crew and fellow guests.  From here, your Scandinavian Discovery land journey begins in Copenhagen, unveiling a new chapter of culture, history, and design.

By the 11th century, Copenhagen was already an important trading and fishing centre and today you will find an attractive city which, although the largest in Scandinavia, has managed to retain its low-level skyline. Discover some of the famous attractions including Gefion Fountain and Amalienborg Palace, perhaps cruise the city’s waterways, visit Rosenborg Castle or explore the medieval fishing village of Dragoer. Once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen features many reminders of its fairytale heritage and lives up to the reputation immortalised in the famous song ‘Wonderful Copenhagen’.

By the 11th century, Copenhagen was already an important trading and fishing centre and today you will find an attractive city which, although the largest in Scandinavia, has managed to retain its low-level skyline. Discover some of the famous attractions including Gefion Fountain and Amalienborg Palace, perhaps cruise the city’s waterways, visit Rosenborg Castle or explore the medieval fishing village of Dragoer. Once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen features many reminders of its fairytale heritage and lives up to the reputation immortalised in the famous song ‘Wonderful Copenhagen’.

This morning, tour Rosenborg Castle, an elegant Renaissance castle built as a country summerhouse in 1606. Rosenborg Castle houses some of Denmark’s greatest cultural treasures spanning 400 years, including royal art, the Crown Jewels and Royal Regalia.

You will also get to see the delightful courtyard of Amalienborg Palace, home to Queen Mary and the Danish Royal Family.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore more of the city with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Canal Cruise: Take a cruise along the city’s picturesque canals to see its many attractions including Christiansborg Palace, the impressive Black Diamond library and the Little Mermaid sculpture.

Tivoli Gardens: Visit the Tivoli Gardens for a self-guided exploration of this enchanting pleasure garden and amusement park that has been operating since 1843.

This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at one of Copenhagen’s finest restaurants.

By the 11th century, Copenhagen was already an important trading and fishing centre and today you will find an attractive city which, although the largest in Scandinavia, has managed to retain its low-level skyline. Discover some of the famous attractions including Gefion Fountain and Amalienborg Palace, perhaps cruise the city’s waterways, visit Rosenborg Castle or explore the medieval fishing village of Dragoer. Once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen features many reminders of its fairytale heritage and lives up to the reputation immortalised in the famous song ‘Wonderful Copenhagen’.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to the chic Swedish capital, Stockholm. The city is spread across 14 islands connected by 57 bridges and is part of the larger Stockholm Archipelago, which is comprised of 30,000 islands stretching for 80 kilometres to the Baltic Sea. Stockholm is considered one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world and is also a creative powerhouse, fostering innovations in music, design, fashion and technology. Check in for a two-night stay at your Scenic Special Stay hotel.

Stockholm is a city in the flush of its second youth. Since the mid-1990s, Sweden's capital has emerged from its cold, Nordic shadow to take the stage as a truly international city. What started with entry into the European Union in 1995 gained pace with the extraordinary IT boom of the late 1990s, strengthened with the Skype-led IT second wave of 2003, and solidified with the hedge-fund invasion that is still happening today as Stockholm gains even more global confidence. And despite more recent economic turmoil, Stockholm's 1 million or so inhabitants have, almost as one, realized that their city is one to rival Paris, London, New York, or any other great metropolis.With this realization comes change. Stockholm has become a city of design, fashion, innovation, technology, and world-class food, pairing homegrown talent with an international outlook. The streets are flowing with a young and confident population keen to drink in everything the city has to offer. The glittering feeling of optimism, success, and living in the here and now is rampant in Stockholm.Stockholm also has plenty of history. Positioned where the waters of Lake Mälaren rush into the Baltic, it’s been an important trading site and a wealthy international city for centuries. Built on 14 islands joined by bridges crossing open bays and narrow channels, Stockholm boasts the story of its history in its glorious medieval old town, grand palaces, ancient churches, sturdy edifices, public parks, and 19th-century museums—its history is soaked into the very fabric of its airy boulevards, built as a public display of trading glory.

Stockholm is a city in the flush of its second youth. Since the mid-1990s, Sweden's capital has emerged from its cold, Nordic shadow to take the stage as a truly international city. What started with entry into the European Union in 1995 gained pace with the extraordinary IT boom of the late 1990s, strengthened with the Skype-led IT second wave of 2003, and solidified with the hedge-fund invasion that is still happening today as Stockholm gains even more global confidence. And despite more recent economic turmoil, Stockholm's 1 million or so inhabitants have, almost as one, realized that their city is one to rival Paris, London, New York, or any other great metropolis.With this realization comes change. Stockholm has become a city of design, fashion, innovation, technology, and world-class food, pairing homegrown talent with an international outlook. The streets are flowing with a young and confident population keen to drink in everything the city has to offer. The glittering feeling of optimism, success, and living in the here and now is rampant in Stockholm.Stockholm also has plenty of history. Positioned where the waters of Lake Mälaren rush into the Baltic, it’s been an important trading site and a wealthy international city for centuries. Built on 14 islands joined by bridges crossing open bays and narrow channels, Stockholm boasts the story of its history in its glorious medieval old town, grand palaces, ancient churches, sturdy edifices, public parks, and 19th-century museums—its history is soaked into the very fabric of its airy boulevards, built as a public display of trading glory.

Take a city tour with a local guide to discover City Hall, one of Sweden’s most famous buildings whose spire features the golden Three Crowns. You’ll also see the Riddarholm Church and the Royal Palace. Then, visit the Vasa Ship Museum located on the island of Djurgården, where the 17th-century warship ‘Vasa’ is now housed after it tragically capsized and sank on its inaugural voyage in 1628.

This evening, enjoy a dinner featuring Swedish cuisine with European influences in a stunning setting.

Stockholm is a city in the flush of its second youth. Since the mid-1990s, Sweden's capital has emerged from its cold, Nordic shadow to take the stage as a truly international city. What started with entry into the European Union in 1995 gained pace with the extraordinary IT boom of the late 1990s, strengthened with the Skype-led IT second wave of 2003, and solidified with the hedge-fund invasion that is still happening today as Stockholm gains even more global confidence. And despite more recent economic turmoil, Stockholm's 1 million or so inhabitants have, almost as one, realized that their city is one to rival Paris, London, New York, or any other great metropolis.With this realization comes change. Stockholm has become a city of design, fashion, innovation, technology, and world-class food, pairing homegrown talent with an international outlook. The streets are flowing with a young and confident population keen to drink in everything the city has to offer. The glittering feeling of optimism, success, and living in the here and now is rampant in Stockholm.Stockholm also has plenty of history. Positioned where the waters of Lake Mälaren rush into the Baltic, it’s been an important trading site and a wealthy international city for centuries. Built on 14 islands joined by bridges crossing open bays and narrow channels, Stockholm boasts the story of its history in its glorious medieval old town, grand palaces, ancient churches, sturdy edifices, public parks, and 19th-century museums—its history is soaked into the very fabric of its airy boulevards, built as a public display of trading glory.

Take a short flight to Oslo, the capital of Norway. Though it is Scandinavia’s smallest capital, Oslo packs a punch when it comes to cultural and nature-based experiences. Awarded the title of European Green Capital in 2019, half of Oslo is covered in forest and parks and its cityscape is a melange of historical buildings and cutting-edge architecture.

Scenic Enrich
Munch Museum: Join an art specialist to explore the Munch Museum, one of the most comprehensive one-artist museums in the world. It is home to over half of Edvard Munch’s paintings, including the iconic 'The Scream’. Later, unwind at the museum’s rooftop bar and take in panoramic views of the city skyline, the Oslofjord, and even the Opera House from a unique perspective while enjoying a glass of wine.

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

From the eighth to the 11th century, the Vikings journeyed across Europe, looking for land and trade. Discover this fascinating history on the Bygdoy Peninsula, home to famous museums honouring the rich nautical heritage of the Norse people. Visit the Fram Museum, dedicated to the 1892 polar vessel that was the strongest wooden ship ever built. It still holds the records for sailing the farthest north and farthest south. Step on board the ship and see how the crew managed to survive in the coldest and most dangerous places on Earth – the Arctic and the Antarctic. Then, see the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and take an elevator ride to the ski jump tower’s summit more than 60 metres above the ground.

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

Drive through the majestic Hardangervidda National Park, the country’s largest national park and Europe’s highest mountain plateau. This vast Arctic wilderness is also home to Norway’s largest herd of wild reindeer. Arrive in Lofthus, known as the orchard of Hardanger for its many fruit trees. The town is a hub for cider production and hosts an annual cherry festival. It also has a scenic position overlooking the majestic Folgefonna glacier, the country’s third largest. Your overnight Special Stay is complete with awe-inspiring fjord views.

Leave Lofthus and journey to Bergen, a Hanseatic fishing port that dates to the 12th century. Bergen is now Norway’s second largest city, though it still possesses the charm and warmth of a small town. Surrounded by seven hills that are dotted with colourful houses, the city named ‘Heart of the Fjords’ is considered one of the prettiest in the country.

Surrounded by mountains and sparkling fjords, the waterside city of Bergen has a spectacular setting. There has been a settlement here since medieval times and the colourful waterfront buildings of the Hanseatic wharf, known as Bryggen, are testament to its fascinating history of trade. As Norway’s best known medieval settlement, the Bryggen is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Our comprehensive selection of excursions allows you to discover the many sides of Bergen, such as the fish market and narrow cobbled streets, as well as stunning views of the city from the summit of Mt Fløyen. Alternatively, those who have visited the city previously may like to experience one of the tours that travel further afield. Just 300 yards from the main piers, you will find the Fortress Museum (Fesningsmuseum), which has an interesting collection of objects related to World War II.

Surrounded by mountains and sparkling fjords, the waterside city of Bergen has a spectacular setting. There has been a settlement here since medieval times and the colourful waterfront buildings of the Hanseatic wharf, known as Bryggen, are testament to its fascinating history of trade. As Norway’s best known medieval settlement, the Bryggen is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Our comprehensive selection of excursions allows you to discover the many sides of Bergen, such as the fish market and narrow cobbled streets, as well as stunning views of the city from the summit of Mt Fløyen. Alternatively, those who have visited the city previously may like to experience one of the tours that travel further afield. Just 300 yards from the main piers, you will find the Fortress Museum (Fesningsmuseum), which has an interesting collection of objects related to World War II.

During the Middle Ages, Bergen was Norway’s major seaport as well as its capital, and this rich legacy can still be seen today. You will have the opportunity to wander through Bergen’s narrow and steep cobblestoned laneways, and visit its World Heritage-listed old wharf, Bryggen.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore your way with one of these experiences:Mount Fløyen: Take the famous funicular railway to the summit of Mount Fløyen, 320 metres above Bergen. It offers a spectacular view of the city and fjord.Fantoft Stave Church: Catch the tram to Fantoft Stave Church, first built in 1170 and moved to Fantoft in 1820. The old church burned down in 1992 but was painstakingly reconstructed to reflect a style unique to Norway.

This afternoon, drive to Troldhaugen, the former home of Edvard Grieg, Norway’s most celebrated composer and pianist.

Surrounded by mountains and sparkling fjords, the waterside city of Bergen has a spectacular setting. There has been a settlement here since medieval times and the colourful waterfront buildings of the Hanseatic wharf, known as Bryggen, are testament to its fascinating history of trade. As Norway’s best known medieval settlement, the Bryggen is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Our comprehensive selection of excursions allows you to discover the many sides of Bergen, such as the fish market and narrow cobbled streets, as well as stunning views of the city from the summit of Mt Fløyen. Alternatively, those who have visited the city previously may like to experience one of the tours that travel further afield. Just 300 yards from the main piers, you will find the Fortress Museum (Fesningsmuseum), which has an interesting collection of objects related to World War II.

After breakfast this morning, bid a fond farewell to Scandinavia and your fellow travellers, taking many wonderful memories of this immersive journey with you.

#Spa treatments and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates.
+All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.
^Experiences on board our two helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions.
~Kayak and stand-up paddleboard not available in all locations.

Helicopter not in operation in Greenland and submersible not in operation in Denmark.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such, Scenic cannot guarantee the journey will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. Hotels are indicative and subject to change.