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Ocean Endeavour
Reykjavík to Reykjavík
Overview
Iceland: a hotspot for culture Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland is considered one of the cleanest, and greenest cities in the world. It’s also famed for its nightlife! Browse the cultural attractions of Reykjavík, a global hotspot for culture Sail north of the Arctic Circle Iceland is one of the world’s eight Arctic nations—but just barely! The island of Grímsey is the reason: the Arctic Circle (66 degrees 33 minutes north) runs through it! At forty kilometres off the coast of the mainland, Grímsey is the only part of Iceland to earn the title “Arctic” on the basis of latitude. Visit now: the Arctic Circle is moving north, and by mid-century Grímsey will be south of it! The world’s newest island In 1963, a cook aboard a freighter saw what he thought was a ship in trouble: smoke pouring onto the horizon with ocean all around. But on approach, it became clear that this was not a shipwreck, but a volcanic eruption forming a new island: Surtsey. Today, Surtsey is a conservation area uninhabited by people—but has become home to many plants, leading to a much greater awareness of the way island life develops! Sail by this unique landform: one of the world’s newest islands. Landscapes beyond imagining Volcanoes, waterfalls, mountains, fjords, sea stacks, bird cliffs, lava fields, glaciers, and caves… even if you’re not a geologist, Iceland has something for you! Hike to dramatic cliffs to photograph seabirds Visit remarkable geological formations by Zodiac Learn about Iceland’s incredible volcanic history
Departures
Cruise Itinerary
Iceland’s cosmopolitan capital, Reykjavík, was established in the year 874 CE. Powered by geothermal energy, Reykjavík is widely considered one of the cleanest, greenest cities on Earth. Food, culture, and nightlife abound! The National Culture House preserves treasures like the Poetic Edda, and the Norse Sagas in their original manuscripts. We depart Reykjavík in the evening aboard the Ocean Endeavour.
Today we will explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a region known for its dramatic beauty and fascinating geological history. There will also be many opportunities to observe seabirds and marine life as we explore one of Iceland’s most amazing coastlines.
Only about ten percent of Iceland’s visitors ever see this region, known for its jagged bird cliffs and multihued beaches. Coastal fjords, immense mountains, and tiny villages can be found here, and a traditional lifestyle is embraced by the region’s inhabitants.
In its heyday, Siglufjörður bustled with activity as the centre of the herring fishing industry. Today Siglufjörður is resurgent. The Herring Era Museum, which includes re-enactments, is wonderful. Foodies will enjoy visiting the bakery, chocolate factory, and brewery. The folk music centre is a wonderful resource for Icelandic folk music. Grímsey Island lies on the Arctic Circle. Its small human population shares the island with nearly a million seabirds! These include puffins, guillemots, and gulls. A Zodiac cruise among the rock formations is a trip highlight.
Iceland’s second-largest urban area, Akureyri, enjoys a relatively mild climate and ice-free harbour. Shops, cafes, and restaurants make for good exploring of the urban kind, along with ten museums to discover and explore. Akuyeri’s botanical gardens are among the northernmost in the world, miraculously growing several thousand plant species. The view from the steps of the monumental Lutheran church is worth the walk!
Húsavík, on Skjálfandi Bay, is known as the whale capital of Iceland. Fifteen different whale species frequent the area; we also hope to see dolphins and dozens of varieties of birds, so be sure to bring your binoculars! Various museums await exploration, including the Whale Museum, Húsavík Museum, and the Exploration Museum, which houses artefacts from Apollo astronaut training in the area.
Seyðisfjörður is nestled at the tip of its namesake fjord. The picturesque town of 700 is known for its flourishing art scene, cobbled rainbow road, and excellent handicrafts. There are numerous opportunities for hiking, including a walk up to Tvísöngur sound sculpture on a nearby hill. Nearby Skalanes Nature Reserve is family owned and operated. The centre for research and interpretation of Iceland’s environment and cultural history is a model for sustainable tourism.
The south of Iceland is home to some of the country’s most beautiful natural attractions. Here we have opportunities to explore a unique mix of volcanoes, lagoons, and glaciers—as well as hot springs, geysers, and spectacular waterfalls—to explore ashore on foot or by Zodiac cruise.
Vestmannaeyjar lies off the south coast of Iceland and comprises fourteen islands, numerous rocks, and skerries. Only the largest island, Heimaey, is inhabited. Numerous species of seabirds, including the famous puffin, nest in the steep rock faces along the ocean cliffs. The volcanically active area has seen two major eruptions in recent times: the formation of the island of Surtsey in 1963, and the Eldfell eruption ten years later that destroyed much of Heimaey.
We’ll disembark the Ocean Endeavour in the morning.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Ocean Endeavour
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 137m Passenger Capacity: 199 Built: 1982 - refurbished 2001, 2004, 2010, 2015, 2016, 2018 Ocean Endeavour is a comfortable, well-appointed small expedition ship expertly engineered to explore the Polar Regions. The ship has an ice-strengthened hull, Zodiacs for exploration and remote landings, and advanced navigation equipment. The newly-refurbished vessel offers a superb guest experience with an expansive choice of cabin categories, large cabins and common areas, a sundeck and observation area, plenty of deck space for polar landscape viewing, and lounges for learning and reflection. The ship’s interiors have a contemporary aesthetic that provides a bright and spacious feel throughout. Endeavour is also the only polar adventure ship in Antarctica focused on health and wellness , and offers a contemporary approach to cuisine and newly-designed health and fitness features. Facilities include a spa serviced by organic spa provider VOYA, His & Hers saunas, a salt water pool, a gym, and a juice and smoothie bar. Complimentary activities include yoga and stretching classes, an exclusive Polar Photography program, the Scientists in Residence program, and more adventure activities than any other Quark vessel. The ship also has a polar library, and a Polar Boutique for gifts and any needed gear. Features of the Ocean Endeavour VOYA spa treatments and beauty products, Choice of 13 cabin categories, Bright, spacious cabins and common areas, Plenty of deck space for observation, Lounge with expansive views, Quiet zone for contemplation, Newly-refurbished restaurant, Contemporary dining with complimentary wine with dinner, Juice and smoothie bar, Lecture theater, Polar library, Polar boutique, Health and Wellness, Spa treatments and beauty products by spa provider VOYA - Organic Beauty From The Sea, Spa menu for face, body, hair and nails, including the exclusive Quark Explorer’s treatment, and signature VOYA hand and foot rituals, Yoga and stretching classes, His & Hers saunas, gym, and heated salt water pool Full range of adventure activities including: kayaking, camping, mountaineering, cross-country skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, Zodiac cruising, shore landings and hiking/ walking. Deck plan varies for the trips to Antarctica
Highlights
• Iceland: a hotspot for culture • Sail north of the Arctic Circle • The world’s newest island • Landscapes beyond imagining
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