Day 1

Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen. Embarkation
Arrival to Longyearbyen, Capital of Svalbard – possibly the northernmost ‘real’ town in the world. Our vessel is docked close to the town centre. After boarding and a welcome drink, the Expedition Leader will provide information about the voyage, the ship's daily routines and the various security and safety procedures. Before sailing, there will be a mandatory safety drill. The Captain then takes the ship out of Advent Fjord and our Arctic adventure commences.

Day 2

Regnardneset and Lilliehöök glacier
During the ‘night’ (what is night, when the sun never sets?), we have passed Prins Karls Forland and have arrived in the magnificent Krossfjord. Our visit to Svalbard is in the middle of the Arctic summer and at this time of year the migrating birds are very active. The months of June and July offers the best chances of spotting exotic and fantastic birds. We plan on making a landing during the morning at Möllerhamna or in another suitable location. The majestic landscape around Regnardneset in the innermost area of Krossfjorden give us our first taste of what has enticed the early explorers of these lands in the far north. In the afternoon, we continue further north into the fjord system, and depending on the ice situation, we may do a Zodiac cruise along the Lilliehöök Glacier front, or enjoy a lecture. With some Arctic luck we will be able to navigate past the magnificent scenery in the bay of Fjortende Juli, where the glacier Fjortende Juli-breen calves into the fjord. A fitting end to a day full of scenic views and Arctic wildlife.

Day 3

Former whaling station at Smeerenburg and Ytre Norskøya
We have now entered North West Svalbard, which was declared a national park in 1973. The day could begin with a cruise in Danskergattet, looking for seals in Virgohamna, before crossing from Danskøya to Amsterdamøya to make a landing at Smeerenburg, the legendary whaling town of 17th century. 200-plus men were living – and quite often dying – here in the heyday of blubber production. There are several interesting places to visit in this northwestern corner of Spitsbergen. If conditions allow, we’ll make a landing on Ytre Norskøya, where whalers would have their lookout posts.

Day 4

Amazing birdlife at Alkefjellet, polar desert landscape at Torrelnesset
In the morning we arrive and cruise slowly by the famous Alkefjellet. If the weather is on “our side” we will have a good view of the steep cliffs. The whole area is home to a dense congregation of Brünichs guillemots. There are so many birds, that hardly an inch is free. During the summer, the breeding pairs offer a wild view of frantic activity, both along the cliffs and in the sea in front. More wildlife awaits us as we land at the polar desert landscapes of Torrelnesset. The beach here is home to a host of walruses that lay amongst each other. They feed on the clams and any other molluscs that they can find in the shallows of Svalbard’s waters.

Day 5

Cruising towards the pack Ice and Sjuøyane, polar bear country at 80 degrees around eastern Svalbard
During the night the ship will steer far north towards the edge of the polar pack ice. How far north only time and weather will tell, but the main target for us is just the ‘edge’, possibly at 80 degrees north! This is the kingdom of the polar bear! As the pack ice retreats during summer, polar bears ride the floes north, as this is where their prey - the seals - resides. Bears who for unfortunate reasons do not ‘catch’ the ice moving north, are stranded on Svalbard all summer, and will have to sustain on berries, eggs and whatever whale cadavers they can find. A hard life indeed! During the day, lectures on polar mammals, environment and/or culture can be enjoyed on board in the Viking Theatre. Should we get into the pack ice where the sea usually is calm, our captain will cruise slowly between the floes and look for wildlife. A part goal of the day is to also reach the island Nordaustlandet and hopefully its 7 (or 9, depending on how you count) smaller islands Sjuøyane in the far north of Svalbard. The almost vegetation-free, rocky islands are located around 1000 km more northernly than mainland Norway’s famous Nordkapp. Weather permitting, we will land and walk these most northern landmasses. The high Arctic islands are quite barren, only with moss and lichens covering the stones. The birdlife is rich in this area and some of the rarer gulls frequent these islands. Definitely bring your binoculars. At the end of the day, we will start cruising towards the Liefdefjord and its landscapes which we will see tomorrow.

Day 6

Liefde Fjord with Monaco Glacier and Texas Bar
During the night we head to Wood Fjord and its branch, the Liefde Fjord. Our plan is to slow cruise along the broad glacier front of Monacobreen. This gives a unique insight of the glacial forces and the unlimited forms of icebergs. The ice front is named after Albert I of Monaco, who was a major sponsor of Svalbard research. Many trappers historically hunted and trapped in these areas. Some of them stayed over the winter and built cabins. The cabin known as Texas Bar is said to be named after the US state of Texas. This cabin was built in 1927. We plan to visit the area around the cabin and enjoy the scenery that surrounds us.

Day 7

Ny Ålesund and Ny London
Today we enter the beautiful Kongs Fjord known for the former mining settlement and simply being one of the most amazing fjord areas in all of Svalbard. Our first landing will be at Ny Ålesund. This settlement is in fact further north than Longyearbyen, making it THE northernmost town. But… is a group of scientific stations, a post office and a single shop open for a few hours a real town? You will have to judge for yourself. The setting is nice, the scientific projects are very interesting, and so is the town history. The Captain will try to get alongside, so we can enjoy an easy walk through the area. On the opposite side of the fjord we find the abandoned marble mining settlement of Ny London. Its history is short but hectic, as the marble deposits allowed for an almost Klondike like rush to mine the resources. Wars and failing financial viability ended the adventure only 9 years after it started. If possible, we will take a walk amongst the ruins of workshops, locomotives and cranes - a testament to the great but failed investments. After the visit, we are southbound towards the entrance to the Isfjord. On our way towards Longyearbyen, we hope to get our last glimpses of wildlife as well as the truly unique landscapes of Svalbard.

Day 8

Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen. Disembarkation
Early in the morning, the ship has returned to our starting point in Longyearbyen. After breakfast and farewell greetings to the Expedition Team and crew, disembarkation will take place. Transfer is arranged to the airport.

Day 1

Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi (UAE), Depart 18:00
Discover the majestic allure of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. Set on an island and connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, this opulent oasis presents a striking tableau of spectacular architecture and serene shorelines. An ideal destination for basking in the warm winter sun, its beautiful beaches give way to luxurious waterfront hospitality and a rich tapestry of cultural landmarks. Experience an irresistible blend of tradition and innovation, with a day of exploration like no other.

Day 2

Doha (Qatar), Arrive 08:00 | Depart 18:00
Immerse yourself in the vibrant blend of tradition and modernity as you begin your journey from the dazzling city of Doha. As the departure port for your 7 Night Persian Odyssey around the Arabian Gulf, Doha sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure, where Arabian hospitality and luxury await. With its gleaming skyscrapers, bustling souks, and stunning waterfront promenades, Doha is a destination that will captivate your senses. Discover the rich culture and heritage of Qatar as you explore its magnificent museums, stroll along the Corniche, and indulge in exquisite cuisine.

Day 3

Sir Bani Yas (UAE), Arrive 08:00 | Depart 18:00
Go wild for this island oasis, where nature and luxury intertwine on the shores of the Arabian Gulf. One of the eight desert islands of Al Dhafra, it offers a unique escape where you can get up close to thousands of free-roaming animals at the Arabian Wildlife Park, including gazelles, hyenas and cheetahs. Explore the island’s heritage sites or head to one of its pristine beaches: perfect for sunbathing, snorkelling, or, in the case of Al Yamm beach, watching flamingos in a nearby lagoon. This truly is a nature lover’s paradise.

Day 4

Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi (UAE), Arrive 07:00
Step off your cruise into Abu Dhabi and discover the majestic allure of the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Make the most of your final day to fully explore the spectacular architecture and serene shorelines of this opulent oasis. From basking in the warm winter sun on one of its beautiful beaches to indulging in world-class waterfront dining, immersing yourself in the charms of Abu Dhabi will be the perfect end to your Arabian adventure.

Day 1

Athens(Greece), Depart 11:00
Your three-night adventure starts as we head out to the idyllic island of Mykonos. Home to the famous white windmills, the Island of the Winds is a picturesque paradise with traditional villages, charming churches, whitewashed houses and a lively waterfront lined with bohemian cafes and welcoming bars.

Day 1


Mykonos(Greece), Depart 23:00
The magical sun-kissed island of Mykonos invites you to admire its stunning coastline, soft sandy beaches, and rugged rocky landscape. Affectionately known as the ‘Island of the Winds’, Mykonos is home to the 16th-Century windmills that have become iconic landmarks on postcards. The energetic Greek island is well known for its beauty, diverse range of bars, cafes and restaurants and a vibrant atmosphere.

Day 2

Kusadasi(Turkey), Depart 12:30
We arrive in the stunning coastal town of Kusadasi in the morning where you will disembark to join your expert guide for the complimentary excursion to the iconic Hellenistic ruins of Ephesus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Upon returning, you’ll have just enough time to browse the port side bazaar.

Day 2


Patmos(Greece), Depart 21:00
In the afternoon, we head to the volcanic island of Patmos with its enchanting lace-like coastline and dramatic sheer cliffs. Patmos is where John the Apostle is thought to have penned the Book of Revelation and you have the opportunity to visit the “Cave of the Apocalypse” and monastery or indulge in a traditional feast.

Day 3

Santorini (Greece), Depart 20:00
The romantic charm of Santorini is one of the most celebrated Greek islands in the Aegean. Here you will have the opportunity to explore the magical villages of Fira and Oia and photograph the whitewashed houses and blue-blue-domed churches perched on caldera cliffs. With extraordinary from an elevated position, this idyllic island is the perfect location to watch the sunset.

Day 4

Athens(Greece), Arrival 06:00
The overnight journey back to the mainland signals the end of your three-day adventure. We bid you farewell as we dock in Athens where you have the entire day to visit the abundance of classical tourist attractions, art galleries and world-class museums the Greek capital as to offer.

Day 1

Abu Dhabi (UAE)
Discover the majestic allure of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. Set on an island and connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, this opulent oasis presents a striking tableau of spectacular architecture and serene shorelines. An ideal destination for basking in the warm winter sun, its beautiful beaches give way to luxurious waterfront hospitality and a rich tapestry of cultural landmarks. Experience an irresistible blend of tradition and innovation, with a day of exploration like no other.

Day 2

Fujairah(UAE)
Fujairah’s pristine mountains and stunning beaches are calling, awaiting your arrival to this perfect venue for relaxation and adventures alike. Witness moving religious ceremonies at the 15th-century Al-Bidyah Mosque, the oldest in the UAE, and the massive Fujairah Fort. Dip into the Ain al-Madhab Hot Springs at the foothills of the Hajar Mountains​ or dive alongside native sea turtles. You’ll enjoy every moment of your time in the country’s only capital city on the eastern coast.

Day 3

Muscat(Oman)
As our cruise charts a course for Muscat, a gem in the Arabian Gulf, prepare to be enchanted by its blend of ancient culture and modern flair. Stroll along the Corniche, witness the grandeur of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and haggle in the vibrant Mutrah Souq. Muscat’s serene beaches and majestic forts are your playground for the day, offering a glimpse into Oman’s rich heritage against a backdrop of dramatic mountains.

Day 4

Khasab(Oman)
As the warm breezes of the Gulf of Arabia usher us to Khasab, the ‘Norway of Arabia’ awaits with its rugged fjords and crystal-clear waters. Embark on a day of discovery in this Omani jewel; where ancient forts guard the silent desert and dolphins dance along traditional dhow cruises. Delve into the local culture, savor the serenity, and witness the seamless blend of natural splendor and rich history that Khasab proudly offers.

Day 5

Abu Dhabi(UAE)
Step off your cruise into Abu Dhabi and discover the majestic allure of the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Make the most of your final day to fully explore the spectacular architecture and serene shorelines of this opulent oasis. From basking in the warm winter sun on one of its beautiful beaches to indulging in world-class waterfront dining, immersing yourself in the charms of Abu Dhabi will be the perfect end to your Arabian adventure.