Arctic Circle & Northern Europe Discovery: Norway & Iceland

Day 2 - Cruising North Cape

Gaze up at the northernmost point in Europe from your spacious Observation Deck or a sun lounger beside the Panorama Bar. Soaring 307m from the sea into the sky, Nordkapp, or North Cape, is an unforgettable sight and marks the start of our journey down one of the world’s longest coastlines to Bergen. 

Learn more about Norwegian history, culture and the magnificent fjords you will soon be sailing through in an engaging lecture in the state-of-the-art theatre with one of the Discovery Team experts. The sparsely populated town of Skarsvag, with just 60 residents who live here year round, is known primarily for its proximity to Nordkapp (North Cape), and for being the world's northernmost fishing village.

Day 3 - At Sea, Harstad

Wake up reinvigorated after a good night’s sleep on your signature Scenic Slumber Bed, having made the most of the pillow menu at your disposal the previous night. Begin your day stretching limbs in a Pilates class with the yacht’s Wellness Coach, then indulge in a barista coffee brought to your suite by your butler, followed by breakfast in the Yacht Club.

You may also wish to become acquainted with the extensive wellness offerings at the expansive Senses Spa today – the therapists here will become your best friends over the course of your Discovery Voyage.

This evening, stand on the Sky Deck with a drink in hand as we arrive into Harstad located on Norways largest island.

Day 4 - Harstad, At Sea

Surrounded by forests, mountains and fjords, Harstad is a destination that is largely undiscovered by tourists. Walk the cobbled square past the local shops and cafes, or explore the historic centre of Trondenes.

Back on board Scenic Eclipse, enjoy little luxuries in big places – it’s quite remarkable to have the privilege to explore such a wild and wonderful part of the world in Scenic Eclipse style. There’s nothing quite as thrilling as sipping a glass of champagne when a whale glides by or be on your private balcony with a mug of coffee delivered hot by your butler, and binoculars while spotting migrating sea birds.

 

Day 5 - At Sea

Indulge a little more in your Discovery Yacht’s facilities. Begin the day with a yoga class, followed by a soak in the heated vitality pool, the endless horizon your backdrop. Your active start to the day means you can reward yourself by calling on your butler to bring breakfast to your room. You could enjoy lunch here as well. Or make a date with your new friends this evening to try the finest French cuisine at Lumière, replete with a champagne bar.

During the afternoon, choose your favourite bar or lounge, making the most of the truly all-inclusive beverage menu*, including premium wines and spirits. Retire to the Scenic Bar & Lounge, order a cocktail or flute of French champagne, and let your cares drift away.

Throughout the day, have fun at the lively trivia sessions in the Lounge and enjoy enrichment lectures in the theatre, the latter of which delve deep into topics ranging from wildlife and upcoming ports to the region’s Indigenous communities.

Day 6 - Seydisfjordur

Seydisfjordur is at the mouth of a beautiful fjord and is the heart of culture, heritage and hospitality in East Iceland. The centre of town is known for 19th century timber houses perched on the side of the lagoon, a “pearl enclosed in a shell”. Surrounded by cascading waterfalls and snow-capped mountains, wandering reindeer and porpoises frequenting the shores, a flourishing art scene and small-town charm, you will soon discover why this unique location is a must see in Iceland.

Day 7 - Grimsey Island, Husavik

Grimsey Island is a small island north of Iceland mainland, home to only 100 people, and one million seabirds. Nesting on the high cliffs that surround the whole island, the chatter of seabirds here is constant, especially during the 24 hours of sunshine in summer. This green, grassy island straddles the Arctic Circle, giving you the opportunity to walk across, stepping from the south to the north.

Sail into Husavik this evening, having the opportunity to explore under the midnight sun.

Day 8 - Husavik

 

Nestled on the edge of Shaky Bay, Husavik has a long history and is home to the first house of Iceland, built in the year 860 by a Swedish Viking. Often referred to as the whale capital of Iceland, up to 23 species of whales have been spotted nearby, including the world’s largest mammal, the blue whale. With its colourful houses, unique museums and stunning peaks across the bay, it is one of the prettiest fishing villages in the northeast.

 

Day 9 - Dynjandi (Fjallfoss)

 

Weather depending, today we visit the jewel of the Westfjords. Stand back and admire the cascading bridal veil and discover why it was nicknamed ‘the thunder’. Made up of seven waterfalls, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland.

 

Day 10 - Reykjavik

 

Reykjavík is the world’s northernmost capital city, the pretty harbour town dotted with thought-provoking alfresco art, much of it nodding to the region’s seafaring history.

 

Day 11 - Heimaey, Westman Islands

 

The perfect example of nature’s ability to both create and destroy, Heimaey and the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) are filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty. When the volcano Eldfell, meaning “Hill of Fire”, erupted in 1973, parts of this small town were locked in time, and the harbour was nearly sealed off.  Guests can wander around this island and witness where the ashes enveloped the town. Keep your eyes open for our black and white friends, with more Atlantic Puffins nesting here than anywhere else in the world, and the best place in Iceland to spot orcas.

 

Day 12 - At Sea

For relaxation and wellbeing at sea, the indulgent Senses Spa awaits on Deck 6. This expansive 550m2 gold-leaf emblazoned spa is like nothing you’ll see on other cruise ships. Inside this luxurious retreat you can be pampered with a range of holistic ESPA treatments* including massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. A range of alternative therapies are also on offer, like Japanese shiatsu, Indian Ayurvedic massage and Tibetan bowl sound healing, which is said to produce a healing energy that can relieve stress and pain and promote wellbeing. There’s also a hair and beauty salon within the spa if you need a touch up.

After your treatment, soak in the Vitality plunge pool on the Senses Spa Pool Deck, where the temperature of the water will be perfectly matched to the weather. Warm up in the tranquil Vitality thermal lounge, where unique heated loungers gently purify the body. You’ll also find Nordic bathing experiences, infra-red saunas, chromo-therapy pressure showers, and separate steam rooms and relaxation lounges for men and women.

Day 13 - At Sea

A true culinary journey awaits every day on board Scenic Eclipse, with up to 10 extraordinary all-inclusive dining experiences. Start with breakfast al fresco at the Yacht Club (be sure to return later to visit the large gelato fridge). For lunch, Azure Bar & Café serves light meals, pizza and salads that are available for grazing throughout the day. Elements is the main restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, where the menu ranges from Italian to steak and seafood.

The selection of specialty restaurants on board allows you to dine around the world each night. Channel the spirit of Asia at Koko’s Asian Fusion; choose one of the sunken Japanese-style tables for an authentic ambience. Take a seat at the bar at Sushi @ Koko’s to watch the chefs at work or enjoy the spectacle of teppanyaki-style dining inspired by the markets of Asia at Night Market @ Koko’s, an exclusive experience for just eight guests at a time. Journey to France at Lumière, a contemporary fine dining French restaurant replete with a luxe Champagne bar.

Chef’s Table @ Elements is an invitation-only private dining event for just 10 guests. Set within the Elements restaurant, you’ll could dine on an 11-course degustation menu prepared by the Head Chef and his team, paired with premium wines. And indulgent in-suite dining is available 24 hours a day; your butler can arrange a sweet treat, midnight snack or breakfast in bed whenever you fancy.

Day 14 - Geiranger

The World Heritage-listed Geirangerfjord is one of the most mesmerising scenes in Norway, where you can sail over sparkling waters beneath 800m high cliffs. Explore the protected fjord with the Discovery team. Your Discovery Yacht’s GPS Dynamic Positioning will enable her to maintain location without dropping anchor, preserving the sensitive eco-system.

For a chance to quietly glide past waterfalls tumbling from snow covered mountain peaks, take to the skies in one of our on board helicopters.

Day 15 - Kristiansund

The colourful city of Kristiansund is spread across four charming islands and appears to be floating in the Atlantic Ocean. Claiming to have one of the world’s oldest public transit systems, the small passenger ferry service Sundbåten has operated since 1876 shuttling locals and visitors between the islands. While in Kristiansund, taste the city’s speciality: Bacalao, a traditional clipfish stew made with tomatoes.

In the evening, join new travel friends in raising a glass of French Champagne before a seven course French fine dining meal paired with world-class wines at Lumière or ask your butler to set a private dinner for two in your ultra-luxury suite and watch a movie on your HDTV with Bose® speakers.

Day 16 - Reine, Lofoten Islands

Cruise along the Lofoten Islands, with dramatic peaks, sheltered coves and pristine beaches. The archipelago is a visual feast to explore and discover. This rare wilderness offers breath-taking scenery surrounded by majestic mountains, deep fjords, seabird colonies and picturesque fishing villages. Have your morning coffee outside in the Panorama Bar and watch as your expert Captain manoeuvres the ship past massive walls of mountains rising from sea. Explore Reine, an authentic Norwegian fishing village with an estimated population of about 300. One of the most photographed landscapes in Norway, with granite peaks backdrop and quaint fisherman huts lining the shores of glassy waters.

Dy 17 - Leknes, Lofoten Islands

The postcard views continue cruising past the staggering peaks, sheltered coves and picturesque fishing villages of the Lofoten Islands. Enjoy specialty Kusmi teas and aromatic illy coffee in the Observation Lounge or Sky Deck where you can read books, play board games or enjoy a drink in one of the Discovery Yacht’s nine all-inclusive bars and watch the magnificent vistas roll by. 

Today could be the day you are able to soar above in one of two on board helicopters. The Airbus H130-T2 features wrap-around windscreens, wide windows and Bose® headphones and are some of the quietest helicopters in the sky.

Day 18 - Tromso

Known as the cultural hub of the Arctic, Tromsø sits 400 kilometres above the Arctic Circle. Surprisingly cosmopolitan for its remote location, during the summer Tromsø is full of locals basking in the sunlight, tucking into fresh seafood on the docks, enjoying a drink at the world’s most northern brewery or taking a dip in the refreshing waters of the local beach. Savour one last luxurious breakfast on your Discovery Yacht before saying farewell to the crew who have shared this once-in-a-lifetime journey with you. As you disembark, share the highlights of your journey in this spectacular part of the world with your new friends, knowing you have created stories for life.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the tour will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.