Quark Expeditions
Arctic Saga: Exploring Spitsbergen via the Faroes and Jan Mayen
Arctic Saga: Exploring Spitsbergen via the Faroes and Jan Mayen
Ideal for first-time guests to the polar regions, Arctic Saga: Exploring Spitsbergen via the Faroes and Jan Mayen allows you to venture to some of the most remote islands on Earth, observe fascinating history and culture, and experience the dreamlike wonder of the midnight sun. Sailing across the North Atlantic, you will be immersed in the Arctic’s rugged beauty, highlighted by visits to the awe-inspiring and unspoiled destinations of Fair Isle, the Faroe Islands, Jan Mayen and Spitsbergen. Prepare to be amazed by an environment different from anything you’ve ever witnessed, featuring immense fjords, towering glaciers, soaring sea stacks and coastal cliffs teeming with seabirds by the thousands. Observe reindeer, seals and whales in their natural habitat under a sunlit sky in the middle of the night. Guided by the most knowledgeable and passionate team in the industry, go where few others have gone, and return forever changed by the rich history, distinct culture and unforgettable backdrop of the Arctic.
- Follow in the footsteps of the Norsemen on Fair Isle and the Vikings in the Faroe Islands
- Explore the volcanic and glacier- covered Jan Mayen island, in the heart of the North Atlantic Ocean
- Encounter iconic Arctic and north Atlantic wildlife, such as puffins and other seabirds, reindeer, and whales
- Cruise in a Zodiac to explore diverse landscapes and wildlife
| Day 1 |
ABERDEEN -- Scotland's third-largest city (pop. 187,000) is characterized by buildings of beautiful white granite. Set beside the North Sea, Aberdeen is both a university town and the capital of the Scottish oil boom. It is also one of Scotland's largest seaside resorts (though its appeal is confined to those who like their water well-chilled). The city's attractions encompass the 15th-century St. Machar's Cathedral, the Mercat Cross of 1686 (a impressive structure), the 14th-century Brig o' Balgownie (Scotland's oldest bridge) and the Winter Garden (Europe's largest indoor garden). Old
Aberdeen, the students' quarter of the city, merits a visit; Stroll the campuses of the two ancient universities, King's College (founded 1495) and Marischal College (founded 1500) -- both are now combined as the University of Aberdeen. Aberdeen is excellent as a base for touring the nearby castles (Dunnotar, Slains and Crathes) and whiskey distilleries (Glenfiddich, Glenlivet and Speyside Cooperage). Other sites include Balmoral Castle (the Royal Family's summer residence) and Braemar Castle, which hosts the largest Highland games every |
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| Day 3 |
A remote island between the Orkney's and Shetlands north of Scotland. |
| Day 4 |
The Faroe Islands, a hidden gem in the North Atlantic, offers visitors a breathtaking blend of dramatic cliffs, quaint villages, and untouched landscapes. This autonomous territory of Denmark, located between Iceland and Norway, is a dream for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The islands boast rugged coastlines, with towering cliffs like those at Vestmanna, where you can take boat tours to witness seabirds nesting on the rock faces. Tórshavn, the capital, combines modern Nordic culture with charming old-world charm, where the historic Tinganes district showcases red wooden buildings that date back centuries. The archipelago is a paradise for hikers and birdwatchers. Trails across the islands lead through green hills and along dramatic coastal views, with opportunities to spot puffins, fulmars, and other seabirds unique to this part of the world. One of the most popular hiking destinations is the Sørvágsvatn Lake, which appears to float above the ocean due to an optical illusion—a sight that has become iconic in Faroe Islands photography. Whether you explore on foot or by boat, the Faroe Islands offers unparalleled access to nature, with awe-inspiring waterfalls like Múlafossur in the village of Gásadalur cascading into the Atlantic. For those interested in local culture, the Faroe Islands' rich Viking heritage is palpable. Visit the village of Kirkjubøur, where you’ll find the ruins of the Magnus Cathedral, one of the oldest religious sites in the North Atlantic. Here, travelers can connect with the islands' long history, including the legacy of Viking settlers who arrived in the 9th century. Today, the Faroese culture is also defined by its unique language, which stems from Old Norse, and its vibrant art scene, influenced by the islands’ isolation and stunning landscapes. A fun fact about the Faroe Islands: despite being remote, the islands boast more sheep than people, which has led to their name—"Faroe" comes from the Old Norse word for "sheep islands." Visit between May and August for the best weather and to experience the islands' Midnight Sun, when daylight stretches late into the evening . |
| Day 5 |
"At Sea" typically refers to the vast and diverse marine environments that span our planet, rather than a specific city or destination. However, exploring the concept of being "at sea" can lead to a variety of fascinating experiences and attractions related to maritime adventures and oceanic wonders. One of the most enticing ways to experience "at sea" is through a luxury cruise. Cruises offer a unique opportunity to explore various destinations while enjoying the comforts and amenities of a floating resort. Modern cruise ships provide a blend of relaxation and adventure with activities ranging from fine dining and Broadway-style shows to excursions exploring tropical islands or historical coastal cities. For those interested in marine life, exploring the world's oceans through scuba diving or snorkeling can be an unforgettable experience. Locations such as the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the coral reefs of Belize offer stunning underwater vistas and an opportunity to observe diverse marine species in their natural habitats. National Geographic provides insights into the best diving spots and conservation efforts that protect these underwater treasures. |
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| Day 7 |
"At Sea" typically refers to the vast and diverse marine environments that span our planet, rather than a specific city or destination. However, exploring the concept of being "at sea" can lead to a variety of fascinating experiences and attractions related to maritime adventures and oceanic wonders. One of the most enticing ways to experience "at sea" is through a luxury cruise. Cruises offer a unique opportunity to explore various destinations while enjoying the comforts and amenities of a floating resort. Modern cruise ships provide a blend of relaxation and adventure with activities ranging from fine dining and Broadway-style shows to excursions exploring tropical islands or historical coastal cities. For those interested in marine life, exploring the world's oceans through scuba diving or snorkeling can be an unforgettable experience. Locations such as the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the coral reefs of Belize offer stunning underwater vistas and an opportunity to observe diverse marine species in their natural habitats. National Geographic provides insights into the best diving spots and conservation efforts that protect these underwater treasures. |
| Day 8 |
Spitsbergen is the largest island of Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, where the wonders of the Arctic come alive in breathtaking fashion. Known for its wild, untamed beauty, Spitsbergen offers travelers the chance to experience landscapes that are both surreal and majestic. From towering glaciers and jagged mountain peaks to expansive tundra and crystal-clear fjords, this frozen paradise is an explorer’s dream. The islands feature seven national parks and 23 nature reserves, which provide homes for many seabird species as well as polar bears, reindeer, the Arctic fox, and more. |
| Day 9 |
This sustainable capital city will charm you with its beautiful sea-facing landscape, diverse architecture and world-famous design. While the city is modern and lively, the archipelago and green forests are quickly reached via an efficient public transportation system for those looking for nature. Helsinki's neoclassical buildings were often used as a backdrop for films set in the Soviet Union including The Kremlin Letter (1970), Reds (1981), and Gorky Park (1983). |
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| Travel Dates | Price | ||
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05/02/26 - 05/16/26 |
Starting At $13,095 |
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All fares are quoted in US dollars (US$). Rates for expeditions, flights, as well as optional pre-expedition and post-expedition extensions are based on tariffs and exchange rates in effect at the time of printing and are subject to change prior to departure. Substantial changes in tariffs, exchange rates and the price of fuel, services and labor sometimes increase the cost of expedition arrangements significantly. Quark reserves the right to alter prices or introduce surcharges accordingly, even if payment has been received in full. All travelers are required to pay for their excursion and additional purchases in conjunction with their excursion in the same currency. The fare does not include tobacco, alcoholic or special beverages (bottled or tap), miscellaneous extras, personal needs or medical care. Such goods and services, if available for purchase aboard the vessel/camp, are at the travelers’ own expense. Payment for all such goods and services including any charges for extra baggage must be made in cash or by traveler’s checks in US dollars (or other currency acceptable to the carrier) upon demand by the carrier prior to the traveler’s disembarkation. Taxes, port charges, embarkation and loading expenses, stamps, health fees and any other charges whatsoever imposed by governmental authorities in any port or place shall be for the account of the traveler if not included in the fare paid to Quark.
