Ultimate Iceland to Canada: Wildlife & Glaciers

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 Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital city and the beginning of your journey. It’s a delightful introduction to Iceland’s unique and creative culture. 

This afternoon, you’ll meet the Captain and crew of your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, 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 Sky Bar as you toast to the start of an epic journey. 

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

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.

Characterized 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 cruising 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 seven days in Greenland, countless adventures await, from exhilarating whale watching to thrilling kayak excursions and invigorating polar plunges, promising unforgettable experiences. 

Located on Greenland’s relatively rarely visited rugged east coast, Skoldungen Fjord has enchanting scenery with towering mountains tipped with snow, ice-scraped valley sides and sculptured icebergs in shades of white and blue. At the top of the fjord one can easily see the retreating state of the Thrym Glacier. The U-shaped fjord offers spectacular scenery and as an extra perk, it is not uncommon to see whales in the fjord.

Glaciers calving, rivers flowing, towering rock walls and colourful forests - the Skjoldungen Fjord is spectacular. Look up to admire huge crevasses and freestanding pillars of ice standing silhouetted against the blue Greenland sky. On the lower slopes, Arctic wildflowers will bloom amongst the dwarf birch and willow trees. Join the Discovery Team on the Observation Deck as nimble Scenic Eclipse weaves through numerous icebergs in this narrow channel and learn about the archaeological remains that have been found in this region, suggesting people lived here over 4,000 years ago. 

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 glittering under the sun. 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, we 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. 

Discovery:
Weather permitting, explore with the Discovery Team by Zodiac, kayak, submersible^ or helicopter^. 

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 break 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.

Kangerlussuaq is a stunning stop on your journey, offering a unique glimpse into Greenland's wild landscapes and frontier living. With its dramatic scenery and proximity to the Greenland Ice Cap, it’s a perfect destination to experience the raw beauty of the Arctic.

Located just north of the Arctic Circle, Sisimiut is the northernmost town in Greenland where the port remains free of ice in the winter. Yet it is also the southernmost town where there is enough snow and ice to drive a dogsled in winter and spring. In Sisimiut, travelling by sled has been the primary means of winter transportation for centuries. In fact, the area has been inhabited for approximately 4,500 years. Modern Sisimiut is the largest business center in the north of Greenland, and is one of the fastest growing Greenlandic cities. Commercial fishing is the lead economy in the town‘s thriving industrial base.

Greenland's second-largest town, Sisimiut is named after the fox dens that dot its landscape. Its charming streets, lined with colourful houses, lead to vast backcountry areas ripe for exploration. Beyond the town's tranquil facade lies a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails, kayaking routes, and wildlife encounters. Dive into the town's cultural heritage through museums and cultural centres, discovering rich Inuit traditions and early settlers' legacies. 

Discovery:
Weather permitting, explore by Zodiac, kayak, submersible^, helicopter^, or join the Discovery Team on nature hikes. 

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.

Wake up in Ilulissat, the “Iceberg Capital of the World.” Home to the World Heritage-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, this stunning region showcases some of the most dramatic glacial landscapes on Earth. Formerly known as Jakobshavn, this town is famed for the spectacle of icebergs breaking away from the glacier, a sight emphasised by the rumbling sounds of calving ice from the Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier. Witnessing this natural phenomenon is a mesmerising experience, offering a glimpse into the dynamic beauty of Greenland. 

Discovery:
Weather permitting, explore by Zodiac, kayak, or go onshore to explore. 

Today, we’ll cruise through the awe-inspiring Disko Bay, renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Pristine icebergs shimmer in the Arctic sunlight, while majestic glaciers carve their path through the dramatic landscape. 

Take in the breathtaking views from the Observation Terrace or your private verandah, where you can fully appreciate the grandeur of this incredible region. 

Glide through Evighed Fjord, aptly named “Eternity Fjord” for its endless panoramas of snow-draped peaks and dazzling glaciers, it’s considered one of the most beautiful in Greenland. Stretching for more than 75 kilometres, you’ll be awed by the endless fields of ice glittering under the sun. 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 will feel the beauty and power of nature all around you. 

Discovery:
Weather permitting, embark on Zodiac excursions with the expert Discovery Team and take in the breathtaking landscapes.

Iqaluit is the capital of Canada’s newest territory, Nunavut, which is Inuktitut for “our land”. The community is located at the head of Frobisher Bay, an inlet of the North Atlantic extending into southeastern Baffin Island. The Bay is so long that it was first taken to be the possible entrance of a Northwest Passage. In Iqaluit, the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum and the Nunavut Legislative Assembly Building both house incredible collections of Inuit artwork with interesting local prints for sale in the museum shop.

Welcome to Baffin Island, the fifth-largest island in the world and the Jewel of the Canadian High Arctic. This remarkable destination is home to stunning fjords, ice-capped mountains, and a thriving Inuit community. In Iqaluit, the cultural heart of Nunavut, explore traditional arts and crafts markets, visit the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum and meet the Inuit people, an integral part of Iqaluit, a remote community at the head of Frobisher Bay.

Tonight, dine around the world with your Discovery Yacht’s extraordinary dining experiences, such as Sushi @ Koko’s or fine French cuisine at Lumière (both available by on board reservation). 

Monumental Island in Davis Strait was named by Arctic explorer Charles Francis Hall as a tribute to the memory of Sir John Franklin who died in his quest to find the Northwest Passage. The island is offshore of Baffin Island in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago of the territory of Nunavut. Around the shoreline scores of Black Guillemots dive and fish for little Arctic cods and capelins. Successful birds fly off with a minnow grasped tightly in their beaks. On a far larger scale, it is possible to find groups of walruses with their impressive tusks along the shores of the island. However, the coup de grâce is to spot a polar bear’s white silhouette against the dark background of the bedrock on Monumental Island.

Today, witness Arctic wildlife at two of Canada’s most remote and pristine islands. We’ll visit Monumental Island, a renowned haven for walrus. Explore the shoreline by Zodiac, keeping an eye out for these fascinating creatures. There’s also a chance to spot polar bears from a respectful distance. 

Later, we’ll arrive at Lady Franklin Island, best known for its huge vertical cliffs of Archean rock, a breathtaking gem along the rugged, wildlife-rich southern coast of Baffin Island.  

With expert guidance from the Discovery Team, you'll uncover exclusive insights into the captivating wildlife and geological wonders that make this destination truly unforgettable. 

Discovery:
Based on the weather conditions, your Captain and Discovery Team will map out the optimal sites and activities to explore. 

Named in honour of Sir John Franklin’s widow, the lonely and uninhabited Lady Franklin Island lies off of Baffin Island’s Hall Peninsula at the entrance to Cumberland Sound. The island is named for the wife of Sir John Franklin, the Arctic explorer who died trying to discover the Northwest Passage. The geology of the island is striking with vertical cliffs of Archean rocks, likely to be some of the oldest stone in Canada. The waters around Lady Franklin Island offer an abundance seabirds, ducks, seals, and walrus. With a bit of luck it is possible to see Atlantic Puffins here and perhaps even a rare Sabine’s Gull.

At the southeast tip of Baffin Island, you’ll find the Lower Savage Islands. A labyrinth of rugged channels and towering cliffs, these islands are a sanctuary for Arctic wildlife.Their rocky terrain is home to polar bears, Arctic foxes, walruses, and seals, as well as thriving seabird colonies. A maze of channels winds through the islands, offering outstanding Zodiac cruising opportunities. 

Discovery:
Based on the weather conditions, your Captain and Discovery Team will map out the optimal sites and activities to explore. 

Cape Dorset is a small Inuit hamlet located on Dorset Island, off the southern shore of Baffin Island. The traditional name for Cape Dorset is Kinngait (meaning "high mountain"), describing the ‘Cape’, which is actually a 800 foot mountain. This is a nature-lovers paradise with breath-taking landscapes and an amazing abundance of arctic wildlife, such as migratory caribou, seabirds, whales, seals and walruses. Ancient native Thule (Dorset Culture) peoples lived in this area for three thousand years, and it is here where the first archaeological remains were found. Captain Luke Foxe, during his attempt to find the Northwest Passage in 1631, was the first European to land here. He named the Cape in honour of his sponsor Edward Sackville, the Earl of Dorset. In 1913, the Hudson's Bay Company started a trading post, exchanging furs and skins for supplies like tobacco, ammunition, flour, gas, tea and sugar. In 1949, the market for white fox collapsed but the art industry boomed. Since the 1950s, Cape Dorset, the "Capital of Inuit Art", has become an economic mainstay of the community, with more than 20% of it residents employed in the arts.

Located in the stunning Canadian Arctic Archipelago on southwestern Baffin Island, this remarkable destination has been home to the Inuit for thousands of years. Today, it thrives as a world-renowned centre of creativity, where skilled artisans and craftspeople bring the Arctic’s spirit to life through their exceptional artistry. 

Check your Daily Program for today’s scheduled activities in Cape Dorset. 

Located on the shores of Hudson Bay, Churchill is the "polar bear capital of the world."  With rugged streets and vast, sweeping landscapes, there’s a sense of being at the edge of the world. Surrounded by the untamed beauty of the northern wilderness, the stark solitude and endless expanses make this remarkable destination truly captivating. 

This charming town offers a variety of exciting activities—be sure to check the daily program for the scheduled activities. 

In the evening, share stories with your new friends over dinner in one of up to 10 all-inclusive dining experiences on board your Discovery Yacht.  

After a final gourmet breakfast, bid farewell to the Arctic as you board your flight to Toronto for an overnight stay. This marks the end of your incredible voyage through Greenland and the Canadian Arctic—but the memories of icebergs, unique wildlife and untouched wilderness will stay with you forever.  

After your expedition voyage, unwind with an overnight stay in Toronto. After breakfast, join the included transfer to the airport, marking the perfect conclusion to your unforgettable journey. 

#Senses 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. ^Helicopter and submersible excursions at additional cost and subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions.

Helicopter and Submersible are not operational in Canada and Greenland.

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