Greenland & Iceland Cruise

Iceland’s capital and largest city is located on the country’s southwest coast at the head of Faxafloi Bay. Settled in 877 AD, Reykjavik has grown into an important seaport and center of government and education with theatres, museums and observatories. Interestingly, this modern city still chooses to use water from nearby hot springs to heat all of its buildings.

Ísafjörður is a town in the Westfjords region of northwest Iceland. It’s known for its dramatic landscapes. The old town has wooden houses with corrugated tin roofs built by fishing merchants in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Westfjords Heritage Museum has exhibits on the town’s maritime history, including a collection of old fishing boats. The old hospital, now a cultural center, contains archives and photography.

Akureyi, Iceland’s second largest city—affectionately known as the Capital of North Iceland—is one of the country’s most important ports and fishing centers. Today, Akureyi is creating something of a buzz for its cool café scene, growing gourmet movement and bustling nightlife. But don’t let that fool you. The atmosphere here is always laidback. From a fabulous summer festival program (energized by the near 24-hour daylight), to some of the best winter skiing you could wish for, Akureyi is a great base for exploring Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, all year round.

Named for King Christian VIII of Denmark, this dramatic fjord separates the southernmost islands from the rest of South Greenland, a land of jagged mountains and green pastures where sheep farms border icy fjords and Norse history intersects with modern communities. Prince Christian Sound presents beautiful scenery for cruising, with mountains reaching 4,000 feet, glaciers inching toward the sea, and tidal currents that limit the formation of ice.

Qaqortoq, Greenland is a place teeming with thousands of years of Nordic history, soothing hot springs, and water activities like exploring the local fjords via kayak. On a transatlantic cruise that stops in Greenland, you’ll find yourself far from the ordinary. Traveling in an Arctic climate requires a certain level of curiosity and adventure, but you never have to sacrifice comfort while you explore the region on one of our luxury cruise ships.

Only about 3,000 people live in Qaqortoq, which means it’s a cozy, tight-knit community. Take a dip in the hot springs of Uunartoq for complete rejuvenation and restoration. Discover the ruins of an ancient Viking settlement at Hvalsey Church. Experience authentic cuisine from the area, or simply walk around the colorful streets. On your Greenland cruise, this quirky colonial town will welcome you with open arms.

Off the east coast of Canada, on the island of Newfoundland, you’ll find Corner Brook. It’s a city set against a backdrop of awe-inspiring natural surroundings including forests, a rocky coastline, marvelous fjords, and a plethora of offshore islands. Though the landscape is rugged, the people of Newfoundland are known for their warm, friendly hospitality. Nearby Gros Morne National Park intriguingly illustrates the process of “continental drift” as deep ocean crust and rocks from the earth’s mantle are exposed. Solidified magma from the earth’s crust can be seen in the cliffs of Gros Morne’s Western Brook Pond. The scenery here is absolutely astounding.

Sydney lies on the coast of Cape Breton Island, which throughout history has served as a melting pot of sorts for the many immigrants who have arrived on Canadian shores, including Acadians, Eastern Europeans, Scotsmen, and Africans. Just outside the city environs lies a wealth of sightseeing possibilities, including nature walks and seafaring museums.

Located on the shores of the world’s second-largest natural harbor, the “City of Trees” adds to the pastoral beauty of Canada’s maritime region. An extensive network of walking trails extends from the waterfront out to a series of beautiful parks and vibrant gardens, inviting exploration.

America’s past and future are on full display in Boston, a modern metropolis known for its top universities, cultural treasures, revolutionary history, and diverse neighborhoods. Spend a day in Cambridge, home to storied colleges including Harvard and MIT. Wander around Boston Common, the country’s oldest public park. Learn all about America’s revolutionary past by visiting the many historic landmarks scattered throughout the city.

On a cruise from Boston, you’ll explore picturesque destinations in New England and Canada. Discover the coastal charms of Maine. Practice your French in Quebec City. Sample mussels in Prince Edward Island. Admire the pastoral beauty of Nova Scotia. During the fall, these destinations come alive with breathtaking landscapes full of autumnal hues that you won’t soon forget.