Iceland & Greenland Cruises
on Explora Journeys

For travelers seeking extraordinary landscapes and unforgettable adventures, few destinations compare to Iceland and Greenland. Towering glaciers, volcanic coastlines, iceberg-filled fjords, colorful fishing villages, geothermal wonders, and abundant wildlife create one of the world's most spectacular cruising experiences.

Explora Journeys combines these breathtaking destinations with sophisticated European luxury, allowing guests to explore the North Atlantic in exceptional comfort.

Why Choose Explora Journeys
for Iceland & Greenland?

Onboard atmosphere aboard Explora Journeys in the Arctic

These remarkable destinations deserve more than a standard sightseeing vacation. Explora Journeys emphasizesdestination-focusedArctic itineraries.

Guests Enjoy:
  • Spacious all-suite accommodations
  • Boutique luxury atmosphere
  • Longer port visits
  • Personalized service
  • Wellness experiences
  • Exceptional dining
  • Relaxed destination-focused itineraries

Extraordinary
Scenic Cruising

Some of the greatest highlights occur between ports. Explora's spacious outdoor decks and private suite terraces provide exceptional viewing throughout the voyage.

Floating Icebergs

Sail past drifting icebergs in scale and color that are difficult to comprehend from land.

Towering Glaciers

Watch massive glaciers descend toward the sea along the North Atlantic coastline.

Private Terrace Viewing

Enjoy snow-covered mountains and deep Arctic fjords from the privacy of your own suite.

Remote Coastlines

Experience waterfalls and coastlines that are difficult—or impossible—to reach by land.

Ever-Changing Landscapes

Every sea day offers spectacular, ever-changing Arctic scenery.

Explora Journeys sailing past glaciers and icebergs
Glaciers • Icebergs • Fjords

Wildlife Encounters

The North Atlantic is home to remarkable wildlife, and sightings become unforgettable moments during every voyage.

Wildlife viewing aboard Explora Journeys in the Arctic
Arctic Waters

Depending on the season, guests may see remarkable marine and coastal wildlife throughout the voyage.

Humpback and minke whales

Orcas

Puffins and seabirds

Arctic foxes

Seals

Polar wildlife in select regions

Discover Iceland & Greenland

Each port offers something different, making every Explora Arctic itinerary unique.

Reykjavik
Reykjavik

Iceland's capital combines Nordic culture with modern design, and serves as the gateway to many of Iceland's natural wonders.

Guests May Enjoy:
Hallgrímskirkja Church
Harpa Concert Hall
Boutique shopping
Icelandic cuisine
Art museums
Waterfront walks
Nordic Culture Meets Modern Design

Reykjavik offers a compact, walkable capital experience before venturing deeper into Iceland's volcanic landscapes.

Shore Experiences & Onboard Dining

Explora Journeys offers immersive shore experiences that highlight the natural and cultural heritage of Iceland and Greenland, while the onboard culinary program complements every destination.

Curated Shore Experiences

Guests can also explore independently in many ports.

  • Glacier walks
  • Whale watching
  • Zodiac cruises
  • Geothermal excursions
  • Waterfall tours
  • Inuit cultural experiences
  • Hiking adventures
  • Scenic photography tours

Choose organized excursions ashore or explore independently — the choice is entirely yours.

Dining Inspired by the Journey

Explora's culinary program complements the destinations you'll visit, making dining another highlight of every day at sea.

  • Fresh seafood
  • Nordic-inspired cuisine
  • Premium steaks
  • Artisan cheeses
  • International specialties
  • Fine wines
  • Gourmet desserts
  • Seasonal ingredients

Every meal reflects the flavors and spirit of the North Atlantic destinations you're sailing past.

Life Onboard During the Voyage

After exploring dramatic Arctic landscapes, guests return to the comfort of Explora Journeys, where rugged wilderness meets luxurious accommodations.

Life onboard Explora Journeys between Iceland and GreenlandEvenings at Sea

Comfort After the Wilderness

After exploring dramatic Arctic landscapes, guests return to apeaceful retreat at sea.

Guests Can Enjoy:

  • Ocean Wellness Spa
  • Gourmet restaurants
  • Elegant lounges
  • Live music
  • Infinity pools
  • Spacious suites
  • Personalized service
A journey through the Arctic with Explora JourneysA Journey Through the Arctic

A Journey Through the Arctic

Cruising allows guests to experience places that are difficult—or impossible—to reach by land.

You'll Witness:

  • Remote coastlines
  • Glacier-filled bays
  • Volcanic cliffs
  • Ice-covered mountains
  • Quiet Arctic waters
  • Ever-changing landscapes
Plan Your Sailing

Best Time to Cruise Iceland & Greenland

These destinations are generally visited during the Northern Hemisphere summer, and each month offers a slightly different perspective on the Arctic.

June

June

Long Daylight Hours

  • Long daylight hours
  • Wildlife activity
  • Snow-covered peaks
  • Comfortable temperatures

Long summer days make for extended scenic cruising and sightseeing.

July

July

Peak Arctic Season

  • Peak Arctic season
  • Iceberg viewing
  • Mild weather
  • Excellent sightseeing

The height of the season, with mild weather and excellent iceberg viewing.

August

August

Comfortable Cruising

  • Comfortable cruising
  • Wildlife encounters
  • Spectacular scenery
  • Longer exploration opportunities

A comfortable month for cruising with strong wildlife encounters throughout.

September

September

Northern Lights Season

  • Smaller crowds
  • Autumn colors
  • Beautiful photography
  • Possible Northern Lights sightings

Smaller crowds and beautiful autumn photography, with possible Northern Lights sightings later in the season.

Tips for Planning Your Arctic Cruise

A little planning goes a long way toward making your Iceland & Greenland voyage as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Book early — Arctic voyages have limited availability and are among the most sought-after luxury itineraries
Dress in layers — weather conditions can change quickly throughout the day
Bring quality camera equipment for extraordinary photography opportunities
Reserve excursions early — popular wildlife and glacier excursions often sell out before departure
Work with a luxury travel advisor to select the ideal itinerary, suite location, and shore experiences
Pack comfortable waterproof footwear for glacier landings, nature walks, and changing coastal conditions

An experienced advisor can help you select the ideal itinerary, suite location, and shore experiences for a seamless Arctic vacation.

Planning an Iceland & Greenland cruise with Explora Journeys
Plan a Seamless Voyage
Personalized Arctic Cruise Planning

Why Book Through a Luxury Travel Advisor?

Create Your Perfect Arctic Journey

Planning an Iceland & Greenland cruise involves much more than choosing departure dates. A luxury travel advisor helps you select the ideal itinerary, ship, accommodations, and experiences for your travel style, with every detail thoughtfully coordinated.

Professional planning ensures a seamless luxury vacation from embarkation to disembarkation.

A travel advisor can help you:

Compare Arctic itineraries
Choose the best suite for scenic viewing
Arrange international flights
Coordinate pre- and post-cruise hotels
Recommend exclusive excursions
Secure promotional offers
Personalize every aspect of your vacation

Their expertise helps ensure a seamless luxury journey.

Who Will Love an Iceland & Greenland Cruise?

These voyages are especially popular with couples, retirees, solo travelers, photographers, and experienced luxury cruisers.

These Voyages Are Perfect for Travelers Who Appreciate:

  • Nature
  • Photography
  • Wildlife
  • Adventure
  • Luxury accommodations
  • Cultural exploration
  • Scenic cruising
  • Wellness

You May Prefer Another Cruise Line If Your Priorities Include:

  • Water slides
  • Character entertainment
  • Large casinos
  • Theme park attractions
  • High-energy nightlife
  • Constant onboard activities

Guests who value quiet luxury and destination immersion will appreciate Explora's approach.

Luxury Travel Expertise

Angela Hughes Luxury Authority

Angela Hughes – Luxury Travel Expert
40+ Years Experience

Angela Hughes

CEO of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel

Traveled to more than 121 countries

Angela Hughes Authority Box

CEO of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel
Over 40 years in the travel industry
Traveled to more than 121 countries
Founder of Luxury Travel University
Global luxury travel speaker and trainer
Weekly industry columnist
Travel Leaders Network Advisory Board member
2024 Luxury Travel Influencer of the Year
Named one of the Most Influential Women in Travel in 2026 by TravelPulse
Featured in major travel publications globally
Expert in luxury cruises, safaris, expeditions, river cruising, and premium travel

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything travelers need to know about Iceland and Greenland cruises on Explora Journeys.

Where does Explora Journeys cruise in Iceland and Greenland?
Will I see glaciers and icebergs?
What wildlife might I see?
What is included on an Explora Iceland & Greenland cruise?
Are shore excursions included?
When is the best time to cruise Iceland and Greenland?
Is Explora suitable for couples?
What should I pack?
How long are Iceland & Greenland cruises?
Should I use a travel advisor?
Can I see the Northern Lights during these cruises?
How are remote Greenlandic settlements explored?

Bespoke Planning Insights: Iceland & Greenland on Explora Journeys

Sailing the dramatic waters of Iceland and Greenland with Explora Journeys combines the thrill of high-Arctic exploration with the refined luxury of an ocean retreat. Unlike rugged, science-first polar expedition ships, Explora Journeys offers an elegant, spacious environment onboard its flagship vessels, Explora I and Explora II. This makes these itineraries ideal for discerning travelers who want to witness the dramatic landscapes of the Arctic—including calving glaciers, remote fishing villages, and floating icefields—while returning each evening to an ultra-luxury suite and world-class dining.

An Explora Journeys Arctic itinerary typically features a blend of Iceland's geothermal wonders and Greenland's remote coastal wilderness. In Iceland, ports like Akureyri and Isafjordur serve as gateways to dramatic waterfalls, volcanic craters, and whale-watching hotspots. In Greenland, ships navigate the deep, iceberg-laden waters of Prince Christian Sound, leading to the capital city of Nuuk and the spectacular Ilulissat Icefjord. Daily shore excursions, referred to as "Destination Experiences," are carefully curated to highlight local heritage, outdoor adventure, and culinary traditions.

Onboard accommodations on Explora Journeys are all-suite ocean homes, featuring private terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows, walk-in closets, and spacious living areas designed to maximize the spectacular views. Dining is a highlight of the journey, with six distinct restaurants serving gourmet cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. At Trips & Ships Luxury Travel, our advisors handle all details of your Arctic voyage, including flight connections, pre-cruise hotel stays in Reykjavik, and cabin category selection. Connect with us today to start planning.

Explora Journeys sailing through Iceland and Greenland
Personalized Luxury Cruise Planning

Discover the Arctic
at Explora's Pace

Few destinations inspire the imagination quite like Iceland and Greenland. Their volcanic landscapes, towering glaciers, drifting icebergs, abundant wildlife, and remote Arctic beauty create a travel experience unlike any other.

Our luxury planning services include:

  • Recommend the ideal Iceland & Greenland itinerary for your travel style
  • Advise on which ports and excursions to prioritize
  • Coordinate pre- and post-cruise hotel stays
  • Select the right suite for scenic viewing
  • Compare promotional offers
  • Arrange flights, transfers, and private shore experiences

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