Coastal Wonders of Norway, the Faroe Islands, and Iceland | Endurance | iExpedition

Coastal Wonders of Norway, the Faroe Islands, and Iceland

  • Overview

    Trace the route of early Viking explorers and see their influence in wild, remote lands. Cruise the famed Norwegian fjords and the magical Lofoten islands, explore Stone Age sites in Scotland’s Shetland Islands, and come face to face with the legacy of the Vikings amid the turf-roofed cottages and ancient sites of the Faroe Islands. Then trace Iceland’s most remote shorelines, witnessing geological wonders from volcanoes to thundering waterfalls.

    Expedition Highlights

    • Sail into Norway’s spectacular fjords and explore secluded inlets and coves by kayak or Zodiac

    • Observe nesting seabirds amid the towering peaks of the Lofoten islands, situated off Norway’s northwestern coast

    • Encounter the Bronze Age ruins and Viking longhouses of Jarlshof, a prehistoric settlement in the Shetland Islands

    • Zodiac cruise or hike in the scenic Westfjords of Iceland

    • Sail past the dramatic sea cliffs of the Faroes to seek cliff-nesting puffins, gannets, and northern fulmars

    Duration: 15 days
    Passengers: 148 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Tromsø, Norway
    Disembarkation Point: Reykjavík
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Cruise only
    Single Supplement: Unavailable
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Tromsø, Norway

      Arrive in Tromsø, known as the “gateway to the Arctic” due to the large number of Arctic expeditions that originated here. Transfer to our meeting place in the city and Visit the Arctic Cathedral, where the unique architecture evokes icebergs; and peruse the Polar Museum, which showcases the ships, equipment, and seafaring traditions of early Arctic settlers. Embark our ship this afternoon.

    • Day 2 - Tysfjorden

      This morning, enter the long fjord of Tysfjorden, where only a few small villages cling to the rocky shores. Glide beneath the fjord’s steep walls on Zodiac and kayak excursions, and explore Hellemobotn Fjord, which reaches far inland, ending
      just a few miles from the border of Sweden.

    • Day 3 - Lofoten Islands

      The Lofoten archipelago boasts an enchanting landscape of picturesque villages ringed by jagged granite peaks. Enjoy village walks and island explorations as we venture through an area known for its dramatic landscapes and its cod fishing traditions throughout the centuries. A bit later, admire one of Norway’s most dramatic fjords from the deck as our ship navigates through Trollfjorden.

    • Day 4/5 - Exploring the Fjords of Norway

      Carved by glaciers over millions of years, Norway’s northern coast is laced with steep-walled fjords, mountainous islands, and chiseled peaks. Cruise in a Zodiac along vertical rock faces, kayak through serene fjords, or go ashore on a secluded sandy beach to hike amid verdant valleys and birch forests.

    • Day 6 - At Sea / Shetland Islands, Scotland

      Spend a relaxing morning at sea as we sail toward the Shetland Islands, an archipelago of about one hundred islands and islets located north of the Scottish mainland. Glide past the towering cliffs of Noss to look for murres, puffins, kittiwakes, and other seabirds. This evening, dock overnight in Lerwick.

    • Day 7 - Lerwick / Foula

      Lerwick is a town where Norse and Gaelic cultures intermingle. Explore the town, delve into local culture and history at the Shetland Museum and Archives, or embark on a bird-watching or geology walk. Alternatively, venture to the prehistoric
      settlement of Jarlshof to examine its Bronze Age ruins and Viking longhouses. In the afternoon, continue to Foula, a stark but spectacular island edged with towering cliffs and blanketed with peat bogs, where people are drastically outnumbered by puffins.

    • Day 8/9 - Exploring the Faroe Islands

      This morning, we arrive in the Faroe Islands, an autonomous archipelago within the Kingdom of Denmark. The legacy of the Vikings persists here, reflected in the language of the Faroese and their love of the sea. Visit Torshavn, the colorful capital of the Faroe Islands, where even the government buildings are crafted in the traditional design of wooden siding with a turf roof. Visit the 12th-century St. Olav’s Church alongside the ruins of Kirkjubøur Cathedral, which was never completed. Explore one of the outer islands in this tiny archipelago to see some of the dramatic sea cliffs and deep fjords that characterize the coastline. Take Zodiacs to look for cliff-nesting puffins, gannets, and northern fulmars.

    • Day 10/11 - At Sea / Seyðisfjörður, Iceland / Grímsey

      After a day at sea, we awake along Iceland’s rugged eastern coast, an unspoiled stretch of rocky outcrops, hidden coves, and hills that beckon hikers. We visit Seyðisfjörður, a charming fishing village located in the mouth of a majestic fjord
      and surrounded by dramatic mountains. Choose to explore the town or visit Skálanes Nature Reserve to see its colorful wildflowers and bird cliffs. Continue to Grímsey on the Arctic Circle.

    • Day 12/13 - Ísafjörđur / Flatey Island

      Located in the Westfjords region, the town of Ísafjörđur lies on a tiny spit jutting out into the water against a backdrop of steep hills. Spend time hiking and watching for nesting seabirds in this remote setting. The next day, visit Flatey island, a fishing and trading post for centuries.

    • Day 14 - Westman Islands

      Spend the day in the Westman Islands, one of the world’s younger archipelagos, formed by undersea volcanos some 11,000 years ago. In 1973, the isle of Heimaey was threatened by lava flows that nearly closed off the harbor. We visit the Eldfell volcanic crater, where the earth is still hot, and take in views over landscapes engulfed in lava rock. We also observe Surtsey, one of the world’s youngest islands, which was formed by volcanic eruptions between 1963 and 1967.

    • Day 15 - Reykjavík / Disembark Ship / Home

      Disembark in Reykjavík and take a morning excursion. After lunch, transfer to the airport for flights home.

    Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your captain and expedition leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

  • Adventure Activities
  • Inclusions
    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - All accommodations aboard ship or in hotels per itinerary
    - Excursions and airport transfers to and from recommended flights, as indicated in the itinerary
    - Assistance by the National Geographic Photography Expert and Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor
    - Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker
    - Presentations by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
    - Complimentary reusable water bottle
    - Services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic
    - Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment
    - 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library, and other shared spaces
    - Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
    - All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore
    - Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits aboard the ship (except certain super premium brands which are available for purchase)
    - Hors d’oeuvres, 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
    - Exploration tools curated to destination, such as Zodiacs, kayaks, guidance and company of our leading expedition staff

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Passport, visa, and immigration fees
    - Travel protection plans
    - Laundry, spa treatments, Wi-Fi, and phone services (except when indicated as included)
    - Additional hotel nights (except when indicated as included)
    - Pre- and post-expedition extensions
    - Airfare (except flights when indicated as included)
    - Private transfers
  • Map
    Screenshot 2023 08 16 at 13.18.41
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    A next-generation expedition ship, purpose-built for polar navigation.

    Endurance is a next-generation expedition ship, purpose-built for polar navigation. A fully stabilized, highly strengthened, ice-class Polar Code PC5 (Category A) vessel, it is designed to navigate polar passages year-round, and safely explore unchartered waters, while providing exceptional comfort. Its patented X-BOW® is key to its design; its powerful wave-slicing action provides an extremely smooth ride in even adverse conditions, and even reduces spray on deck, for superior observation. She carries a full suite of expedition tools and offers a variety of experience-enhancing amenities.

     

    TOOLS FOR EXPLORATION:

    Expedition Landing Craft
    Key to our operation is our fleet of expedition landing craft, which we use to land in places that would otherwise be inaccessible. With 8 of these boats and two loading stations used every time we disembark, we’re able to transfer guests off the ship quickly, so you can be out on adventures, not idly waiting. The expedition landing craft we use is 19 feet long, powered by four-stroke outboard engines, and are capable of comfortably carrying 10-12 people. They are widely recognized as the safest and most versatile small boats afloat.

    Remotely Operated Vehicle
    Capable of reaching 1,000 feet, far beyond the range of any Scuba diver, the ROV allows you to literally view parts of the undersea that are as unexplored as the moon. Chances are you, like many of our guests, will be struck by how surprisingly colourful undersea life is in these unlikely places. And this glimpse may fundamentally change how you view the ocean.

    Kayaks
    National Geographic Endurance will be equipped with a fleet of kayaks large enough to ensure everyone who wants to can paddle at every opportunity.

    Consequently, prior kayaking experience isn’t necessary—many of our guests have their first kayaking experience in extraordinary locations. Our custom-designed floating platform lets us deploy kayaks from the ship, or any location we want—including far from shore. Kayakers are usually free to explore where they want within boundaries set by the undersea specialist and officer of the watch.

    Underwater camera
    Our undersea specialist will dive often during your expedition, even in Alaska, with cold-water gear, to shoot high-definition, Cousteau-like footage of the deep. Colourful nudibranchs, swimming, plant-like crinoids, and mysterious fish with antifreeze blood that thrives in the frigid sea will give you an entirely new appreciation of the marine environment.

    Video microscope
    Naturalists will use the video microscope to help explain all elements of the environment, including tiny organisms that are the building block of the marine ecosystem. Spellbinding live views of krill at 80x magnification fills the high-definition screens in the lounge with vivid detail and fills every onlooker with a sense of wonder at the importance of otherwise unobservable creatures.

    Hydrophone
    This underwater microphone is deployed to listen to the vocalizations of marine mammals. Real-time transmissions of their eerie, haunting sounds can be broadcast through the ship or recorded for later playback. Few experiences in nature are as captivating as watching humpback whales feed close to the ship as their vocalizations play through the ship’s PA system.

    Electronic charts
    An electronic chart showing the ship’s location, course, and speed is almost always on display in the lounge.

    Open bridge
    You’ll find our captains are engaged, knowledgeable members of your expedition who are eager to share their passion with you. Venture’s open bridge features comfortable spaces to sit, enjoy the view, drink your morning coffee, or simply chat with the officers.

     

     

     

    Features & Facilities
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 5
    Guests #: 126
    Crew #:
    Ice Class: PC5
    Speed: 16
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built: 2020
    Length: 124m
    Width:
    Draft: 5
    Tonnage: 1250
    Registry:
    Elec Outlets: 2 Flat
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We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.

  • Confirm your booking today with just USD$ 1,000 per passenger.
  • Pay your 25% deposit 5 day later.
  • Final payment due 120 days prior to departure.
national geographic endurance cat 1 cabin

Category 1

25 Jun 2025 - 09 Jul 2025
Fore Deck, with two large windows, two singles that can convert to a queen, armchair, writing desk and chair, two bedside tables, window sofa, and a closet.
USD$ 16,284pp
USD$ 16,284pp
national geographic endurance cat 2 cabin

Category 2

25 Jun 2025 - 09 Jul 2025
Fore Deck, with two large windows, two single beds that can convert to a queen, window sofa, 2 seat sofa, coffee table, armchair, writing desk with an office chair, two bedside tables, and a closet.
USD$ 16,796pp
USD$ 16,796pp
national geographic endurance cat 3 cabin

Category 3

25 Jun 2025 - 09 Jul 2025
Suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen, convertible sleeper sofa, writing desk with a chair, two bedside tables, and a closet.
USD$ 20,443pp
USD$ 20,443pp
national geographic endurance cat SA cabin

Category SA (Single)

25 Jun 2025 - 09 Jul 2025
Suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs and a table; single bed, writing desk with an office chair, bedside table, and a closet.
USD$ 24,426pp
USD$ 24,426pp
national geographic endurance cat SB cabin

Category SB (Single)

25 Jun 2025 - 09 Jul 2025
Suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; single bed, bedside table, writing desk with chair, hammock, and a closet.
USD$ 25,193pp
USD$ 25,193pp
national geographic endurance cat 4 cabin

Category 4

25 Jun 2025 - 09 Jul 2025
Suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs and a table; two single beds that can convert to a queen, convertible sleeper sofa, coffee table, writing desk with chair, hammock, two bedside tables, and a closet.
USD$ 30,045pp
USD$ 30,045pp
national geographic endurance cat 5 cabin

Category 5

25 Jun 2025 - 09 Jul 2025
Suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen, convertible sleeper sofa coffee table, writing desk with chair, two bedside tables, and a closet.
USD$ 33,470pp
USD$ 33,470pp
national geographic endurance cat 6 cabin

Category 6

25 Jun 2025 - 09 Jul 2025
Junior suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen convertible sleeper sofa, writing desk with chair, two bedside tables, and a closet.
USD$ 38,515pp
USD$ 38,515pp
national geographic endurance cat 7 cabin

Category 7

25 Jun 2025 - 09 Jul 2025
Large Balcony Suite that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen. Large Suite sized bathroom with double vanity, bathtub, towel warmer, rain shower, separate bathroom with toilet. Sofa bed, coffee table, writing desk and chair, hammock, and a large walk-in closet with full length mirror. Suites include a Bose Bluetooth player.
USD$ 42,667pp
USD$ 42,667pp