A hot-and-cold island of stunning natural phenomena: in Iceland, look forward to an expedition into foreign worlds – surreal, exciting and bursting with sagas and myths. In addition to impressive volcanic landscapes and gigantic waterfalls, the Nordic wildlife will also draw you under its spell. Get things off to a spectacular start at the bird-inhabited cliffs of Latrabjarg, teeming with thousands of puffins, guillemots and auks. Whales could also appear at any time – at this time of year, the gentle giants of the seas return to the north after the winter. In the western fjords, Patreksfjordur is quiet and tranquil. Our experts will guide you through the small town and the surrounding area. The bright sandy beaches and turquoise water reveal a completely unexpected Caribbean feel in the middle of the North Atlantic. Akureyri, a northern gem at the end of the 90 km (56 mi.) long Eyjafjordur, is home to the writer Jon Sveinsson and your gateway to majestic nature. A hike on Mount Sulur* allows you to experience Iceland’s vastness and feeling of freedom with every step. Green meadows alternate with rocky terrain, filled with watercourses fed by the melting snow. At the peak, enjoy a legendary view of Iceland’s longest fjord. A flight over the volcanic landscape* will reveal the staggering dimensions of Iceland’s largest lava field and the mighty Vatnajokull glacier. Or opt to be carried through this idyllic landscape on small island inhabitants known for their friendly character: riding Icelandic horses* will introduce you to these lovely creatures and show you how comfortable they are to ride with their special tolt gait. Your knowledge will keep pace with these new impressions as you gain fascinating insights into the Viking history, wildlife and geology of the volcanic island of Grimsey. The island lies right on the Arctic Circle.

Passing it is a special moment for seafarers. Passing the island of Jan Mayen, which is three-quarters glaciated, the HANSEATIC spirit will head further north to your next spectacular destination.

Untouched wilderness and deep fjords: thrilling days lie ahead on the coast of Spitsbergen – home to whales, Arctic foxes, walruses and the king of the Arctic, Ursus maritimus. The Hornsund cuts deep into the land, as though the archipelago were welcoming you to its beauty with thrilling views. Vast stretches of coastline alternate with glaciers and striking peaks in the 25 km (15.5 mi.) long fjord. The many years of polar experience offered by our captain and crew mean that you can explore the many wonders of Spitsbergen in exceptional detail. They will always react flexibly and spontaneously to capture unforgettable moments depending on the weather and ice. For example, bringing the ship about if you are lucky enough to hear a cry of “Polar bear spotted!” Overwhelming wildlife encounters might also await you on the small island of Prins Karls Forland, where imposing walruses often gather in herds. There are only a few permanent residents in Ny-Alesund. This is where polar explorer Roald Amundsen set off from by Zeppelin in 1926 for the first flight over the North Pole. Today, the town is home to researchers investigating climate change. The explorer route of the HANSEATIC spirit also includes the 14th July Glacier – with shimmering icebergs drifting in front of its impressive edge. The scenes at the Magdalenefjord leave no doubt that the nature of the far north will take your breath away. In good weather, the silhouette of the mountains around the Liefdefjord against a blue sky merges with its mirror image in the water to form a surreal still life painting. Here, the Monacobreen provides a striking conclusion to your many expedition experiences on both sides of the Arctic Circle.