Arctic Circle Crossing: Scotland, Greenland & Icel Nieuw Statendam 2025-06-14

Day 1

14th Jun '25

Dover

Dover, in the county of Kent in southeast England, has understandably been one of the most important ports of entry to the country for centuries, given its location on the English Channel across from France. The famous White Cliffs of Dover greet you as you arrive, and the city has a number of historic sights, including a medieval castle. For many travelers, however, it is primarily a gateway to London. Few places can compete with England’s capital for sheer energy, atmosphere and variety. London’s vibrancy—in art, in music, in architecture—is formidable. It’s a city with not only multiple attractions, grand structures and great cultural institutions (though there are plenty of those) but also scenic parks, walkable villages and striking modern additions.Culinary pioneers are reviving traditional techniques and introducing menus that are at the forefront of the world’s premier restaurant experiences. Leg-powered sightseeing (by bike or on foot) around London maximizes opportunities for stumbling across secret alleys, courtyards housing quirky art galleries and tiny old pubs serving fresh British ales. Shoppers will want to check out the items at some of the retail emporiums known the world over as well as diminutive boutiques stocking unique souvenirs. More

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

19:00

Day 2

15th Jun '25

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Often called the gateway to Europe, the port city of Rotterdam is full of old-world charm. The harbor offers amazing views and a maze of wharves and canals, along with towering spires make for a beautiful sight. Take a stroll and duck into one of the pubs or eateries along the way. Only three pre World War II buildings in the city centre have survived and are worth a look – city hall, St. Laurence church and the White House. Explore the Museum Boymans van Beuningen, which houses a unique collection dating from the 14th century, or the Museum Voor Volkenkunde – home to ethnological exhibits. Exquisite architecture can be seen in many areas of Rotterdam, most notably in the Delfshaven quarter of the city – where 18th century houses are on display. For a laugh, check out Kijk-Kubus, an upside-down house. More

Less

Arrive

7:00

Depart

15:00

Day 3

16th Jun '25

At Sea

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 4

17th Jun '25

Nordfjordeid

Less

Arrive

7:00

Depart

16:00

Day 5

18th Jun '25

Trondheim

Although a popular cruise destination, Norway’s Viking capital is often overlooked by other travelers in favor of Oslo and the fjords. Yet Norway’s third-biggest city has plenty to offer those who make the time to explore. The compact city center, enclosed by the Nidelva River, is easy to get around on foot. Within a couple of hours you can explore the main downtown sights and still have time for a bite to eat. The medieval Gothic grandeur of the Nidaros Cathedral is a must-see, as is the historic riverside Bakklandet neighborhood just a few steps away. Despite so much history, the city has a youthful feel to it, thanks to the dominance of NTNU, Norway’s leading technology university. The presence of thousands of students means Trondheim scores well on café culture and shopping. Music lovers will feel right at home here. The Rockheim and Ringve museums chronicle the importance of music to the city’s past, while vinyl stores and basement bars showcase the present. More

Less

Arrive

8:00

Depart

16:00

Day 6

19th Jun '25

At Sea

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 7

20th Jun '25

Honningsvag

For many travelers, the sparsely populated settlement of Honningsvåg is nothing more than a pit stop en route to the North Cape, the northernmost point of continental Europe. (The North Cape is rightly an iconic bucket-list destination with postcard views across the open ocean.) But amidst its colorful buildings, Honningsvåg has a lively cultural life powered by local spirit and an economy driven by shipping through the Barents Sea, which is ice-free year round thanks to the warming influences of the Gulf Stream. The town’s several notable cultural institutions include a museum and a busy cultural center. Honningsvåg is also a terrific base for exploring the rest of rugged arctic Norway, whether on foot, all-terrain vehicle or on the water. Back in town, be sure to stop by the statue of Bamse, the Saint Bernard dog that became the mascot of the Free Norwegian Forces during World War II. The city was destroyed in bombing during the war and the harrowing experiences of that period are documented at the church, which gave temporary shelter to the residents. More

Less

Arrive

11:00

Depart

18:00

Day 7

20th Jun '25

Scenic cruising North Cape

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 8

21st Jun '25

Tromso

Gateway to the Arctic and overhung by lofty snowcapped peaks, it’s still a bright and lively place, thanks to the Midnight Sun. Visit the Tromso and Polar Museums for fascinating displays of wildlife and Arctic explorations. More

Less

Arrive

8:00

Depart

17:00

Day 9

22nd Jun '25

Leknes

The fishing life used to be harsh and brutal on Norway’s wind-whipped Lofoten archipelago. Boats would head out from the town of Leknes in search of cod and risk never returning, but today visitors follow a well-paved road that skirts small farms below craggy, snowcapped peaks and twists around bogs and lakes and over precipitous bridges that link one rocky islet after another. In summer, fish hang on wooden drying racks at every turn. With its airport and cruise terminal, Leknes, on Vestvågøya in the middle of the archipelago, is the gateway to a series of sheltered fishing hamlets with traditional houses perched on the rocky seafront. Just minutes down the road at the tip of the island, Skottinden is a 671-meter-high (2,200-foot) sort of mini-Matterhorn—an iconic landmark that sets the tone for countless peaks to come. With their art galleries and cafés, Henningsvær and larger Svolvær are two destinations from which Zodiacs launch to get visitors closer to orcas and sea eagles. Surprisingly for such a rugged realm, even beachcombers will find places to enjoy here: The coastal temperatures are remarkably mild despite the location north of the Arctic Circle. More

Less

Arrive

8:00

Depart

17:00

Day 10

23rd Jun '25

At Sea

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 11

24th Jun '25

Lerwick, Shetland Islands, United Kingdom

Although part of the United Kingdom, Shetland’s roots are as much Norse as Scottish. This is reflected in the archipelago’s many archaeological sites, cultural events and a unique dialect that borrows heavily from Old Norse. Although economically driven by energy, in particular the North Sea oil industry and a growing number of wind farms, Shetland’s heritage of fishing and textile production lives on. Tradition also drives the islands’ main festivals, including the world-famous Viking-themed Up Helly Aa festival of fire held every January, and smaller folk festivals held throughout the year. Located midway between Scotland, Norway and the Faroe Islands, the archipelago is home to diverse animal life including the iconic Shetland ponies, easily recognizable by their distinctive short legs and heavy fur coats. Get a closer look at the ponies and the unique black Shetland sheep on the scenic drive to the remarkable Bronze Age archaeological site at Jarlshof. If you choose to linger in Lerwick, head to Commercial Street for the best independent shops and places to eat. A surprising number of musicians, writers and filmmakers make Shetland their home. The new Mareel center for visual and performing arts is testament to the growing importance of the arts community to the Shetland way of life. More

Less

Arrive

8:00

Depart

18:00

Day 12

25th Jun '25

Invergordon

The skirl of Highland bagpipes calls you ashore. Go in search of your clan tartan, and “Nessie,” the spurious monster often sighted in Loch Ness. More

Less

Arrive

8:00

Depart

17:00

Day 13

26th Jun '25

South Queensferry (Edinburgh)

History was made in this port, just across the Firth of Forth from Rosyth, when the future Queen Margaret of Scotland arrived around 1071. Her devout religious attitude established ‘Queen’s Ferry’ as the place for pilgrims from abroad to alight on their way to St. Andrews—Scotland’s ecclesiastical capital in the Middle Ages. Margaret’s legacy continues less than a dozen miles away at Edinburgh Castle. A key attraction up on the castle’s rock is St. Margaret’s Chapel, believed to be the oldest section of the fortifications and the place where she worshipped. There’s more to Scotland’s capital than the Castle, though. Edinburgh proudly displays multiple exhibits on national and international scientific achievement at the National Museum of Scotland, as well as some fantastic works of visual art at the National Galleries of Scotland. South Queensferry’s moorings are also within easy striking distance of Scotland’s largest metropolis: the city of Glasgow. Transformed in many ways since the post–WWII days when it had a reputation for grime and crime, the city is among the most vibrant in the U.K.: It is Scotland’s de-facto capital of modern culture, with the hippest DJs and most accomplished conceptual artists. More

Less

Arrive

9:00

Depart

23:00

Day 14

27th Jun '25

At Sea

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 15

28th Jun '25

Dover

Dover, in the county of Kent in southeast England, has understandably been one of the most important ports of entry to the country for centuries, given its location on the English Channel across from France. The famous White Cliffs of Dover greet you as you arrive, and the city has a number of historic sights, including a medieval castle. For many travelers, however, it is primarily a gateway to London. Few places can compete with England’s capital for sheer energy, atmosphere and variety. London’s vibrancy—in art, in music, in architecture—is formidable. It’s a city with not only multiple attractions, grand structures and great cultural institutions (though there are plenty of those) but also scenic parks, walkable villages and striking modern additions.Culinary pioneers are reviving traditional techniques and introducing menus that are at the forefront of the world’s premier restaurant experiences. Leg-powered sightseeing (by bike or on foot) around London maximizes opportunities for stumbling across secret alleys, courtyards housing quirky art galleries and tiny old pubs serving fresh British ales. Shoppers will want to check out the items at some of the retail emporiums known the world over as well as diminutive boutiques stocking unique souvenirs. More

Less

Arrive

7:00

Depart

19:00

Day 16

29th Jun '25

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Often called the gateway to Europe, the port city of Rotterdam is full of old-world charm. The harbor offers amazing views and a maze of wharves and canals, along with towering spires make for a beautiful sight. Take a stroll and duck into one of the pubs or eateries along the way. Only three pre World War II buildings in the city centre have survived and are worth a look – city hall, St. Laurence church and the White House. Explore the Museum Boymans van Beuningen, which houses a unique collection dating from the 14th century, or the Museum Voor Volkenkunde – home to ethnological exhibits. Exquisite architecture can be seen in many areas of Rotterdam, most notably in the Delfshaven quarter of the city – where 18th century houses are on display. For a laugh, check out Kijk-Kubus, an upside-down house. More

Less

Arrive

7:00

Depart

15:00

Day 17

30th Jun '25

At Sea

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 18

1st Jul '25

Alesund

Ålesund, a quaint fishing town of approximately 45,000 in western Norway, has been called Norway’s most beautiful city. A fire in 1904 destroyed much of it, resulting in the town being rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style—also known as Jugendstil—that was popular around the turn of the 20th century. A year after the fire, Norway gained its independence from Sweden, which led to a campaign to build a “Norwegian town” to mark the creation of the new nation. The colorful buildings feature castlelike turrets and spires with intricate facades of ornamental flowers, gargoyles and Viking-inspired decorations. Bordering the Norwegian Sea, this area is also famous for its mountain ranges and fjords. For those looking for a more active visit, Ålesund offers great hiking, mountain biking and kayaking. One of the highlights is climbing the 418 steps that lead up Mount Aksla for a spectacular view of the city and the Sunnmøre Alps. Nearby is the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful waterfalls. This is also home to Atlanterhavsparken, or the Atlantic Sea Park, one of the largest aquariums in Europe. More

Less

Arrive

10:00

Depart

19:00

Day 19

2nd Jul '25

Trondheim

Although a popular cruise destination, Norway’s Viking capital is often overlooked by other travelers in favor of Oslo and the fjords. Yet Norway’s third-biggest city has plenty to offer those who make the time to explore. The compact city center, enclosed by the Nidelva River, is easy to get around on foot. Within a couple of hours you can explore the main downtown sights and still have time for a bite to eat. The medieval Gothic grandeur of the Nidaros Cathedral is a must-see, as is the historic riverside Bakklandet neighborhood just a few steps away. Despite so much history, the city has a youthful feel to it, thanks to the dominance of NTNU, Norway’s leading technology university. The presence of thousands of students means Trondheim scores well on café culture and shopping. Music lovers will feel right at home here. The Rockheim and Ringve museums chronicle the importance of music to the city’s past, while vinyl stores and basement bars showcase the present. More

Less

Arrive

8:00

Depart

16:00

Day 20

3rd Jul '25

Crossing the Arctic Circle

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 21

4th Jul '25

Honningsvag

For many travelers, the sparsely populated settlement of Honningsvåg is nothing more than a pit stop en route to the North Cape, the northernmost point of continental Europe. (The North Cape is rightly an iconic bucket-list destination with postcard views across the open ocean.) But amidst its colorful buildings, Honningsvåg has a lively cultural life powered by local spirit and an economy driven by shipping through the Barents Sea, which is ice-free year round thanks to the warming influences of the Gulf Stream. The town’s several notable cultural institutions include a museum and a busy cultural center. Honningsvåg is also a terrific base for exploring the rest of rugged arctic Norway, whether on foot, all-terrain vehicle or on the water. Back in town, be sure to stop by the statue of Bamse, the Saint Bernard dog that became the mascot of the Free Norwegian Forces during World War II. The city was destroyed in bombing during the war and the harrowing experiences of that period are documented at the church, which gave temporary shelter to the residents. More

Less

Arrive

10:00

Depart

18:00

Day 21

4th Jul '25

Scenic cruising North Cape

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 22

5th Jul '25

Tromso

Gateway to the Arctic and overhung by lofty snowcapped peaks, it’s still a bright and lively place, thanks to the Midnight Sun. Visit the Tromso and Polar Museums for fascinating displays of wildlife and Arctic explorations. More

Less

Arrive

8:00

Depart

17:00

Day 23

6th Jul '25

At Sea

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 24

7th Jul '25

Scenic cruising Jan Mayen Island

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 25

8th Jul '25

Scenic Cruising Scoresbysund

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 26

9th Jul '25

Ittoqqortoormiit (Scoresbysund), Greenland

Less

Arrive

8:00

Depart

14:00

Day 27

10th Jul '25

Crossing the Arctic Circle

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 27

10th Jul '25

Akureyri

Often described as the capital of north Iceland, the country’s second-largest city is both vibrant and pretty, and serves as an ideal hub for exploring the incredible landscape that surrounds it. Located at the head of a 60-kilometer fjord—the country’s longest—and surrounded by snow-streaked mountains, Akureyri was originally settled in the 9th century and was first officially mentioned as a city in the 16th century. Today it boasts a population of around 17,000, a scenic harbor and an array of interesting shops, buzzy cafés and upscale restaurants. Its main sights include the Akureyri Church, a wonderful botanical garden (founded in 1912) and the fascinating Akureyri Museum. From here it’s possible to explore some of the country’s most memorable landscapes, starting with Akureyri’s own fjord, Eyjafjörður, where you’ll find several museums (including the Icelandic Folk and Outsider Art Museum), fishing villages like Grenivík and plenty of dramatic mountain scenery. Farther afield are the island of Grímsey, the volcanic wonderland of Lake Mývatn and a whole host of waterfalls, gorges, churches and saga sites. More

Less

Arrive

10:00

Depart

18:00

Day 27

10th Jul '25

Scenic cruising Eyjafjordur

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 28

11th Jul '25

Isafjordur

Bordered on three sides by dramatic mountains that form a natural harbor, the idyllic town of Ísafjörður—population 2,600—serves as a charming exploration hub for the surrounding Westfjords peninsula. Settled since the 16th century, and traditionally dependent on fishing as its main source of income, its streets are today lined with old wooden houses interspersed with occasional shops, restaurants and cafés. Despite its low-key atmosphere, Ísafjörður offers plenty to do, from visiting local museums and enjoying a game of golf, to hiking, biking and kayaking around the town and harbor. The town also hosts several notable events, such as Iceland’s oldest cross-country ski race, the mud-football European Championships and a classical music festival, Við Djúpið. The rugged and remote Westfjords offer many more attractions. A daily summer ferry transports visitors to the scenic Hornstrandir Nature Reserve and to Vigur, an island that’s home to many protected bird populations. Follow the region’s striking coastline and you’ll find snow-streaked mountains, waterfalls and beaches. More

Less

Arrive

8:00

Depart

17:00

Day 28

11th Jul '25

Scenic Cruising Isafjardurdjur

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 29

12th Jul '25

At Sea

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 30

13th Jul '25

At Sea

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 31

14th Jul '25

Nuuk,(Godthab)

Nuuk, formerly known as Gothab, is Greenland’s modern capital, with a university, cafes, museums, buses and shops. When in this small metropolis of 14,000, you’ll find that you are never far from nature—eagles glide majestically over glaciated peaks, and late, late sunsets are illuminated by the mysterious Northern Lights. More

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 32

15th Jul '25

Crossing the Arctic Circle

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 32

15th Jul '25

Sisimiut (Holsteinsborg), Greenland

Less

Arrive

8:00

Depart

16:00

Day 33

16th Jul '25

Ilulissat (Jakobshavn), Greenland

Less

Arrive

7:00

Depart

15:00

Day 34

17th Jul '25

At Sea

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 34

17th Jul '25

Crossing the Arctic Circle

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 35

18th Jul '25

Nanortalik

Greenland’s southernmost town, Nanortalik is surrounded by the steep mountain peaks of Tasermiut Fjord – whose rugged landscape and lush vegetation attracts serious climbers all year long. Inside the fjord are the ruins of an Augustinian monastery and the towering trees of the Qingua Valley. In this region, the northern lights dance across the sky in the evenings and polar bears have been known to drift by on ice floes. Visit the old town around the colonial harbor where the museum includes exhibits of rare Norse clothing. This harbor is thought to be the last point of departure of the Norse voyagers when they sailed to or from Greenland. The importance of the site is evidenced in the ruins of boathouses. Take a chilly trip to the ice cap by boat, or warm up in the natural hot springs at Uunartoq. More

Less

Arrive

8:00

Depart

14:00

Day 36

19th Jul '25

At Sea

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 37

20th Jul '25

Reykjavik

See dramatic evidence of Iceland’s volcanic origins: geysers, hotsprings, vast fields of cooled lava. Swim in the naturally-warmed Blue Lagoon. More

Less

Arrive

11:00

Depart

23:59

Day 38

21st Jul '25

Reykjavik

See dramatic evidence of Iceland’s volcanic origins: geysers, hotsprings, vast fields of cooled lava. Swim in the naturally-warmed Blue Lagoon. More

Less

Arrive

0:01

Depart

16:00

Day 39

22nd Jul '25

At Sea

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 40

23rd Jul '25

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis

Inhabited for more than 6,000 years, the Isle of Lewis has a rich history and rugged beauty. Explore the islands varied scenery from fjord-like lochs and dramatic sea-cliffs to barren peat moors and romantic heather covered uplands; marvel at the mysterious Standing Stones at Callanish, the most remarkable piece of antiquity in the Western Isles; and shop for famous Harris Tweed, hand-woven and uniquely dyed using indigenous plants. More

Less

Arrive

10:00

Depart

18:00

Day 41

24th Jul '25

Invergordon

The skirl of Highland bagpipes calls you ashore. Go in search of your clan tartan, and “Nessie,” the spurious monster often sighted in Loch Ness. More

Less

Arrive

8:00

Depart

17:00

Day 42

25th Jul '25

At Sea

Less

Arrive

0:00

Depart

0:00

Day 43

26th Jul '25

Dover

Dover, in the county of Kent in southeast England, has understandably been one of the most important ports of entry to the country for centuries, given its location on the English Channel across from France. The famous White Cliffs of Dover greet you as you arrive, and the city has a number of historic sights, including a medieval castle. For many travelers, however, it is primarily a gateway to London. Few places can compete with England’s capital for sheer energy, atmosphere and variety. London’s vibrancy—in art, in music, in architecture—is formidable. It’s a city with not only multiple attractions, grand structures and great cultural institutions (though there are plenty of those) but also scenic parks, walkable villages and striking modern additions.Culinary pioneers are reviving traditional techniques and introducing menus that are at the forefront of the world’s premier restaurant experiences. Leg-powered sightseeing (by bike or on foot) around London maximizes opportunities for stumbling across secret alleys, courtyards housing quirky art galleries and tiny old pubs serving fresh British ales. Shoppers will want to check out the items at some of the retail emporiums known the world over as well as diminutive boutiques stocking unique souvenirs. More

Less

Arrive

7:00

Depart

0:00

Arctic Circle Crossing: Scotland, Greenland & Icel

Your itinerary

Day 1

Dover

Arrive

Depart

Day 2

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Arrive

Depart

Day 3

At Sea

Arrive

Depart

Day 4

Nordfjordeid

Arrive

Depart

Day 5

Trondheim

Arrive

Depart

Day 6

At Sea

Arrive

Depart

Day 7

Honningsvag

Arrive

Depart

Day 7

Scenic cruising North Cape

Arrive

Depart

Day 8

Tromso

Arrive

Depart

Day 9

Leknes

Arrive

Depart

Day 10

At Sea

Arrive

Depart

Day 11

Lerwick, Shetland Islands, United Kingdom

Arrive

Depart

Day 12

Invergordon

Arrive

Depart

Day 13

South Queensferry (Edinburgh)

Arrive

Depart

Day 14

At Sea

Arrive

Depart

Day 15

Dover

Arrive

Depart

Day 16

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Arrive

Depart

Day 17

At Sea

Arrive

Depart

Day 18

Alesund

Arrive

Depart

Day 19

Trondheim