days
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On Day One of the journey, travelers arrive in Aberdeen, United Kingdom, famously known as the “Granite City” for its sparkling Victorian architecture and vibrant cultural scene; after embarking from Aberdeen’s port on Day Two, they explore the remote Fair Isle on Day Three, nestled between the Shetland and Orkney Islands, renowned for its seabird colonies and traditional knitwear; Days Four and Five are spent discovering the rugged beauty and Viking heritage of the Faroe Islands, particularly the picturesque capital of Tórshavn; cruising days on Days Six and Seven offer whale-watching opportunities en route to Jan Mayen, a volcanic island north of Iceland where visitors on Days Eight and Nine may land at Olonkinbyen and explore the black sand beaches; another cruising day on Day Ten leads to Days Eleven to Thirteen exploring Spitsbergen in Svalbard, famed for its dramatic fjords, glaciers, Arctic wildlife, and historic mining sites; finally, on Day Fourteen, the expedition concludes with disembarkation in Longyearbyen and a charter flight to Helsinki.
Arrive any time on Day 1 and make your way to your included hotel. The gateway for your Arctic adventure, the Scottish city of Aberdeen has many monikers, but its most famous is Granite City, as it was once the granite capital of the world. Wandering the streets, you’ll soon see why, as the Victorian buildings sparkle in the sun. A bustling cultural hub, Aberdeen also offers a range of museums, galleries, theaters, shops, cafés and restaurants to explore.
Today you will have some free time before being transferred to the port to board your ship. As you set sail this afternoon, you’ll want to be out on deck, camera in hand—the area’s coastal waters offer excellent possibilities for spotting bottlenose and white-beaked dolphins, harbor porpoises and minke whales.
The U.K.’s most remote inhabited island, the extraordinary Fair Isle is located halfway between the Shetland and Orkney Islands. Boasting a rugged beauty, Fair Isle’s landscape is diverse, with fields and moors dominated by seaside cliffs and an astounding number of sea stacks, natural arches and caves.
Despite its small size, the island offers activities for history, nature and photography buffs alike. Visit the museum to immerse yourself in local artifacts, photos, knitwear and other historic memorabilia. Don’t forget to snap a shot of the circa 1935 classic red phone booth by the post office!
In terms of wildlife, orcas are native to the waters around Fair Isle, and they sometimes come close in pursuit of seals. But the island is best known for its coastal cliffs teeming with seabirds in spring and summer. The star attraction is the Atlantic puffin, a clown-like bird that burrows in nests in the grassy flat tops of the island’s cliffs. Photographers will surely want to capture pictures of their bemused expressions, and Fair Isle’s easily accessible grassy banks make it one of the best places in the Shetlands (if not the entire Scottish Isles!) to observe these colorful creatures. Northern fulmars, kittiwakes, storm petrels, razorbills and guillemots may be spotted soaring over the open waters.
Visitors to this community of crofters, artisans and artists may be able to pick up a traditional Fair Isle sweater to keep warm during the rest of your Arctic voyage.
Known for its beautiful, unspoiled landscape, with verdant pastures giving way to rugged, steep cliffs, the Faroe Islands have a storied past, though the details of the archipelago’s early history remain mysterious. The first settlers may have been seventh-century Irish monks seeking solitude on these islands far removed from any continent. Their isolation ended in 800 AD, with the arrival of Norse farmers, and Norwegian colonization continued throughout the Viking Age. Today, many of the inhabitants of the Faroe Islands, now a self-governing country within the Kingdom of Denmark, are descendants of Norwegian Vikings, and speak Faroese, a descendant language of Old Norse.
We will have two days to explore this seldom-visited archipelago made up of 18 rugged islands located about halfway between Scotland and Iceland. The mighty North Atlantic is omnipresent wherever we go with no place on the Faroe Islands farther than 3 miles (5 km) from its shores. The sea has always dominated life on the Faroes—throughout history as much as today: rich fisheries, magnificent ocean views and thriving sea bird colonies make up this rare Nordic jewel—often referred to as Europe’s best kept secret.
We will spend a day exploring the outer islands of the archipelago, separated by narrow sounds and fjords, and delight in their surreal landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and rock formations. You’ll see green valleys engulfed by steep mountains, protecting picturesque villages with colorful turf-topped homes. Wind, weather and sea conditions will influence and shape our activity options, but we will of course always keep our eyes out for marine and bird life, especially the iconic Atlantic puffin.
Our second day in the Faroes will be dedicated to the capital city of Tórshavn, where the Vikings established their government in 825 AD. One of the world’s smallest capitals, the picturesque Tórshavn has a relaxed vibe and a number of historical and cultural sites. Meander the maze of narrow laneways of the Old Town, admiring the quaint wooden houses with traditional sod roofs and white paned windows. If you’re looking for more action, a hike to historic Kirkjubøur not only unlocks some of the country’s best medieval history but also rewards with sweeping views over the southern islands of Koltur, Hestur & Sandur. Or perhaps you’ll prefer to wander the charming harbor, filled with cafés, pubs and old warehouses, and simply gaze out at the sea while sipping a latte.
Say goodbye to the Faroes as we cruise toward the world’s most northerly volcanic island, Jan Mayen. There are several activities to keep you engaged while at sea. Learn to identify seabirds gliding alongside your ship, attend dynamic presentations by your Expedition Team, relax in our polar library or simply spend some time on deck, admiring the ocean views. With your binoculars and camera at the ready, keep your eyes peeled for the blow of a humpback, blue or fin whale. Encounters with minke whales or orcas are also possible, since their curiosity can bring them near the ship. If you’re lucky, you may even see harp seals.
North of the Arctic Circle, about 280 miles (450 km) east of Greenland and 340 miles (550 km) north of Iceland, the mysterious Jan Mayen rises from the depths of the North Atlantic Ocean. Often shrouded in thick fog, the small mountainous island was declared a nature reserve in 2010 and is rarely visited, save for the 18 rotating personnel of the Norwegian military and Norwegian Meteorological Institute, who are the only year-long inhabitants, save for some additional personnel during the summer.
Landing here will be dictated by the weather and sea. If conditions allow, as we approach, keep watch on deck as the spoon-shaped island’s highest summit emerges. At 7,470 feet (2,277 meters) high, the breathtaking Beerenberg volcano features a symmetrical cone shape and impressive glaciers that spill into the sea. During the summer months, the island’s lower landscape is covered with grass, moss and a smattering of hardy flowers that add a burst of color to the otherwise barren black lava terrain.
One site we hope to visit is Olonkinbyen and the surrounding area. Named after Russian-Norwegian polar explorer Gennady Olonkin, it’s the island’s only settlement and the location of the meteorological station, where you may have the chance to learn about polar research while seeing how weather is monitored at the top of the world. Another option might be the black sand beach at Kvalrossbukta, where the remnants of a 17th-century Dutch whaling station and a large northern fulmar colony can be found. In 1632, two Basque ships landed at the small bay and plundered the station. A Dutch party was sent here the following year to protect the land stations during winter, but all seven men perished from scurvy. Whaling in the area came to an end about 20 years later.
If conditions permit, we may view the volcano and the stratified cliffs of the spectacular north coast as we Zodiac cruise around the island, searching for wildlife. Designated an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International for the large numbers of breeding seabirds, Jan Mayen supports colonies of northern fulmars, little auks, glaucous gulls, kittiwakes, and black and Brünnich’s guillemots (thick-billed murres). And if we are fortunate, you might see “sea parrots,” the Atlantic puffin again. The waters here are rich feeding grounds for marine life, so keep a lookout for minke, fin, blue or humpback whales.
As we sail farther north, spend some time with your shipmates in the lounge, swapping stories and photos, or take the opportunity to learn about the regions travelled with your experienced and knowledgeable Expedition Team.
Rugged, wild and situated entirely within the Arctic Circle, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago is unforgettable. From immense glaciers to lush tundra to polar deserts, the landscape here is as varied as the wildlife.
As we explore the fjords of the southwestern corner of this magical island, it won’t take long for you to see firsthand why Spitsbergen is the “wildlife capital of the Arctic.” Some areas we hope to visit include Hornsund and Bellsund fjords and Hornbreen Glacier.
The possible landing sites at Hornsund, the island’s most southerly fjord, have rich histories. You may visit Isbjornhamna, a bay at the entrance of the fjord, where we hope to explore colonies of delightful little auks. You may also spot Svalbard reindeer and hike to a viewpoint for views of calving glaciers.
A 12-mile (20 km) long sound, Bellsund lured miners a century ago to its natural resources. Today, visitors come to Bourbonhamna and Calypsobyen to see historic mining and trapper sites and marvel at the magnificent vistas. It may also be possible to hike along the colorful tundra, dotted with flowers bursting for a taste of sunshine, and discover old whale bones.
The time has come to say farewell to your newfound friends and Expedition Team. After disembarking, spend the day exploring the frontier-style settlement of Longyearbyen before catching the charter flight to Helsinki.
After breakfast, you can make your way to the airport for your onward flight home, or stay to explore Finland’s culturally-rich capital on your own if you’ve made prior arrangements.
To confirm reservations, a deposit of 25% (unless indicated otherwise at time of booking) of the net, discounted rate (minimum US$1000 per person) of the total invoice amount is required at time of booking. The deposit must be paid by major credit card, wire transfer, check or money order. For any bookings within 120 days of departure full payment is required. Deposit amounts may vary for special promotions and are subject to the promotion terms and conditions. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure.
All late payments are subject to a penalty of 1.5% interest per month, or 18% per annum. QEI reserves the right to cancel any booking that is not paid within 120 days of departure or deny boarding on any unpaid balances.
CABIN DETAILS
Approximately 208 sq. ft. (19.3 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus separate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. The floor-to-ceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Stateroom is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 are not furnished with club chairs and reading table.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
208 ft2 (19.3 m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
Approximately 182 sq. ft. (16.9 sq. m.), these Deck 4 cabins are furnished with one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles. Guests in these elegant suites enjoy front-of-ship privacy, as well as sweeping views from their very own veranda.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
182 ft2 (16.9m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
166 ft2 (15.4 m2)
Porthole view
Approximately 205 sq. ft.(19.2 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus a separate sitting area furnished with a sofa bed. The floor-toceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Suite is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as a private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
205 ft2 (19 m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive. These two-room suites feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles in the inner bedroom. The outer sitting room is set up with a sofa-bed, as well as an activity table for two. The bedroom is designed with floor-to-ceiling glass that opens onto a doublesized walkout balcony. The Junior Suite also includes two TVs, a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, and a private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
298 ft2 (27.7m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
This palatial 2–room suite (443 sq. ft/41.2 sq. m.) on Deck 7 offers stunning views from its large veranda on the highest cabin level. The suite encompasses a triple–sized balcony, master bedroom, living room, dining area and two large master bathrooms. The inner bedroom, with a double bed that can be made into two singles, features an en suite with bathtub, vanity and heated floor. The outer room contains a sofa bed, club chair and 4–seat dining table. Additional amenities include two TVs and a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
443 ft2 (41.2m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. ft (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom, and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony. There are also 2 TV’s, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. There’s an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
269 ft2 (25m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. ft. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
162 ft2 (15.1m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
Approximately 208 sq. ft. (19.3 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus separate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. The floor-to-ceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Stateroom is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 are not furnished with club chairs and reading table.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
208 ft2 (19.3 m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
Approximately 182 sq. ft. (16.9 sq. m.), these Deck 4 cabins are furnished with one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles. Guests in these elegant suites enjoy front-of-ship privacy, as well as sweeping views from their very own veranda.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
182 ft2 (16.9m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
166 ft2 (15.4 m2)
Porthole view
Approximately 205 sq. ft.(19.2 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus a separate sitting area furnished with a sofa bed. The floor-toceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Suite is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as a private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
205 ft2 (19 m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive. These two-room suites feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles in the inner bedroom. The outer sitting room is set up with a sofa-bed, as well as an activity table for two. The bedroom is designed with floor-to-ceiling glass that opens onto a doublesized walkout balcony. The Junior Suite also includes two TVs, a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, and a private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
298 ft2 (27.7m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
This palatial 2–room suite (443 sq. ft/41.2 sq. m.) on Deck 7 offers stunning views from its large veranda on the highest cabin level. The suite encompasses a triple–sized balcony, master bedroom, living room, dining area and two large master bathrooms. The inner bedroom, with a double bed that can be made into two singles, features an en suite with bathtub, vanity and heated floor. The outer room contains a sofa bed, club chair and 4–seat dining table. Additional amenities include two TVs and a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
443 ft2 (41.2m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. ft (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom, and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony. There are also 2 TV’s, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. There’s an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
269 ft2 (25m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. ft. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
162 ft2 (15.1m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
MORE INFORMATION
Zodiacs are used for transferring you ashore, transporting your luggage when necessary and for taking you ocean-level cruising among icebergs, whales and seabirds. During the expedition, you will visit remote and isolated sites that are accessible only by Zodiac.
These large, heavy-duty inflatable vessels are extremely safe and were specially designed for expedition work. Zodiacs are the workhorses of Polar expeditions. Separate air compartments retain a large reserve of buoyancy even if these sturdy boats are damaged. Their flat bottom design permits the craft to land directly onto the cobble and ice-strewn beaches that you will encounter on your Polar expedition.
Hiking in the polar regions differs from your typical trail experience. Here, in a tree-less terrain, you are the tallest figure on the landscape as you walk over spongy tundra, crusty snow or sandy beaches in remotes parts of the Arctic and Antarctica. Stepping ashore anywhere in the polar regions means you’re not a distant observer.
Our organized hikes range from short jaunts to the top of lookouts or visits to see wildlife or longer walks of several kilometers over ice and rock and snow. Hiking excursions may last from two to three hours with plenty of time for photographs of wildlife, learning moments from your experienced guides, or just time to stand back and admire the incredible polar surroundings.
No experience is necessary but participants should be able to get in and out of a Zodiac and walk on uneven terrain. Hiking options are tailored to all interests and abilities, from those who want to contemplate the landscape in silence to photographers who want that perfect image to energetic travelers who want to summit a peak in the hopes of seeing wildlife in their natural habitat.
Enjoy daily chats with and presentations by our world-class onboard polar experts—expedition guides, specialists, photography guides and other special guests who will introduce you to the fascinating history, biology, ornithology, glaciology and geology of the region, and much, much more.
The Polar Plunge is scheduled once during each voyage. Throughout the journey, the Expedition Leader and Captain constantly monitor conditions in order to choose the optimal time and location. The Polar Plunge sometimes takes place onshore or, in many cases, from the gangway or Zodiac. All participants wear a tethered harness and plunge into the polar waters from the side of Zodiac or safety of the gangplank cheered on, of course, by fellow passengers and Expedition Team.
Safety is paramount—the onboard physician always attends the Polar Plunge. Guides in survival gear circle the area in Zodiacs as guests take their turn jumping or cannon-balling into the polar waters.
Documenting your voyage so you can take the memories home is a rewarding experience. Our photography guides will help you hone your skills to capture the beauty of the polar regions.
$295 Per Person
Every sweep of the paddle as your craft glides through the pristine polar waters creates an incredible soundtrack: the jostle of glacial ice, the lapping of waves against the rocky shore, the perpetual drip from your paddle, the call of seabirds, and the occasional splash as wildlife break the surface of the water.
Our Paddle Excursion Program provides sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayaks that provide guests with an intimate, water-level experience in unforgettable locations in both the Arctic and Antarctica. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. On-ship, you’ll be provided with instruction and equipment including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by a safety driver in another kayak who will stay close by to provide additional support.
Excursions last a minimum of one hour and are offered to participants once per voyage. Each group includes 10 paddlers, 1 guide and 1 one safety Zodiac driver. The wind, weather and water conditions determine the timing and location of Paddling Excursions
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Ocean Explorer, the newest addition to our fleet, is modern, elegant and purpose-built for polar exploration. The 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology. One of the ship’s key features is the ULSTEIN X–BOW®, a marine engineering innovation that ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience thanks to the inverted bow. With its distinctive X-Bow design and remarkable twostory forward lounge, Ocean Explorer sets a striking stage for your expedition of a lifetime. Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design, and almost all have verandas. You can relax and find comfort in our signature Tundra Spa & Sauna (with large windows), well-equipped gym and two outdoor Jacuzzis. Ocean Explorer has been designed with ample outdoor viewing areas and multi-height outer decks, which are ideal for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. The vessel is equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs that enable guests to get off the ship quickly and safely for off-ship adventures. In addition to the well-appointed and spacious public areas, Ocean Explorer has an industryleading mix of sustainability systems, including fuelefficient Rolls Royce engines.
Light-filled interior library—at the bow of the ship— allows guests to sit and relax indoors while taking in the surrounding polar landscapes from their choice of two levels.
With the latest sustainability technology in polar expedition, the ship features fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and the ground-breaking MAGS gasification system that converts waste into energy, eliminating the environmental impact of waste transportation.
In addition to forming the double-story library, the innovative X-Bow design ensures calm, energy-efficient sailing in rough waters.
Observation areas on Decks 7 and 8 allow for higher, longer-view landscape photography while contending with less sea spray.
Spacious and luxurious cabins ensure your quiet ambience with no sound disturbance from adjoining cabins—and almost all cabins feature a balcony for outdoor viewing.
Each interior element was carefully hand-picked by designers for you to enjoy, from the dramatic two-story forward lounge, the floor-to-ceiling glass refuge in the library, to the grand fixtures and luxe furnishings throughout the ship.
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Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.
Yes!!! After leaving Aberdeen it will be the ultimate goal of the Captain, Expedition Leader, and the Expedition Team to make sure we get off the ship as much as possible. You’ll participate in landings, zodiac cruises, and any additional activities you’ve signed up for. Check the “Detailed trip itinerary” for more details on each outing.
The price shown is the “all-in” price after all taxes, fees, port fees, and permits required; which are handled by the tour operator. The only main additional costs will be mandatory travel insurance, optional gratuity, and additional activities.
Not necessarily, no! Our trips are usually made up of around 50% solo travelers! Prices are always per person, per bed. If you’re a solo traveler, we will match you with a same-gender roommate from our group to share your cabin with. There is also the option for solo cabin availability on certain trips. Please send us a message about solo cabins if that’s your preference.
MORE INFORMATION
Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.
With over 15 years of combined experience, our team of Polar Expedition Guides is dedicated to providing unforgettable polar journeys.
