CMV Australia

During this scenic tour explore the beautiful West Mainland and location of one of the greatest concentrations of World Heritage prehistoric sites in Britain. Leave Kirkwall, the capital and administrative centre of the Orkney Islands, and after passing through an area of rich farmland, stark rolling hills and moorland fringed by magnificent rugged cliffs, you will drive past the remains of a great ceremonial circle - the Standing Stones of Stenness. A little further along the road you will stop for a visit to the more intact Ring of Brodgar, a perfect stone circle which retains 27 of its original 60 stones.
The next stop is Skara Brae, Orkney’s most exciting and oldest monument: a 5,000 year-old Neolithic village beautifully preserved and complemented by a visitor centre. Lying beside the pretty, sandy crescent of the Bay of Skaill, this ancient stone settlement was totally buried under sand for thousands of years before being revealed after a violent storm in 1850. Among the fascinating relics found here are tools, beads, pottery and whalebone artefacts, spanning many ages of occupation based on a farming economy. Looking across at the village, it is easy to imagine how it would have looked all those centuries ago, and closer inspection of the dwellings gives a unique insight into how our ancestors lived. The hardship of life in Skara Brae can be directly contrasted when you visit the nearby Skaill House, Orkney’s finest manor house built by a powerful bishop on the site of an ancient graveyard.
On the return drive you will pass the natural deep-water harbour of Scapa Flow, where H.M.S Royal Oak was torpedoed by a German U-boat in 1939 with very heavy casualties.

By coach/on foot. Min 35/Max varies.
Please note: Inside visits to Skaill House will only be possible when the tour operates between April and October. This tour involves a total of approximately 2 hours of walking/standing including uneven ground, gravel and grassy pathways, small inclines and steps. The sites visited are open to the elements and it can be very windy. Weatherproof, warm layered clothing and flat, non-slip shoes are recommended. Historic Scotland are currently renovating the Ring of Brodgar which may restrict access to certain parts of the site and it may not be possible to walk amongst the stones. Warning signs should be adhered to and care taken as the ground could be wet and slippery in places. Please note that the site of Skara Brae is exposed and is subject to closure at short notice, in case of high winds. The order of the tour may differ to that described.

This tour combines the scenic southern Orkney Islands with a visit to one of the northern-most whisky distilleries in Scotland. Located on the shores of the breath-taking Scapa Flow, visit Scapa Distillery’s visitor centre, providing you with an educational experience in a natural environment. During your visit there will be a tour of the Distillery, following the whisky making process whilst also learning the history behind Scapa Distillery. There will be the opportunity to view Scapa Flow, the natural harbour separating each of the Orkney Islands from the viewing window located in the Still House. You will also pay a visit to the warehouse and learn about the casks used whilst enjoying the aroma of whisky. You will be offered a traditional ‘peedie dram’ and afterwards there will be time to browse in the attractive gift shop.
From here you drive close to the Second World War Naval Base of Scapa Flow and hear dramatic wartime stories that make this one of the most famous stretches of water in the world. The causeways that link the islands together were originally built from cement blocks to restrict access to the Naval Base in World War II, but are now surfaced with roadways to provide a service to the islands which were previously only connected by ferry. Having driven across the first of the Churchill Barriers you arrive on the Island of Lamb Holm to visit the beautifully hand-painted Italian Chapel, built by Italian Prisoners during the last World War.
From here you travel across the second, third and fourth Barriers before returning via the same route to head to the centre of Kirkwall for some free time to enjoy this pretty town, dominated by the magnificent and beautiful 12th century red sandstone Cathedral of St. Magnus, known locally as the ‘Light of the North’ and the finest medieval building in northern Scotland. The most poignant memorial in the Cathedral is dedicated to the 833 sailors who lost their lives when a German U-boat sank the British battleship HMS Royal Oak just a few months after the declaration of war. Nearby there are many narrow, winding streets and lanes which have hardly altered over the centuries, and there will be free time to wander round and shop for souvenirs before returning to the ship.

By coach/on foot. Min 30/Max varies.
Please note: The tour does not include entrance to the Cathedral, but you may wish to visit independently during free time. Photography is not permitted inside the Distillery. There is approximately 400-500m (1,600ft) of walking on this tour including uneven pathways and steps. Flat, comfortable, non-slip walking shoes are recommended. At times it can be quite warm inside the Distillery so layered clothing is recommended. All walking during free time is at guests’ discretion. It may be possible that your visit will be during ‘silent season’ of the Distillery (mid June to mid August). If this is the case then there will be certain areas which are not accessible although you will still learn about all the processes involved. Please note that this tour is restricted to guests aged 18 years or over due to alcohol consumption and Photo ID may be required. If needing to use public restrooms during free time in Kirkwall, there may be a small charge to use them. The order of the tour may differ to that described.

Travel up towards the scenic, ridge-top road that runs along the southern part of Streymoy Island, pausing above Tórshavn at a viewpoint that overlooks this beautiful colourful capital city.
In the green sheep pastures above Tórshavn, be on the lookout for stone cairns which marked the footpaths between villages in historical times.
You will pause for a photo stop on the mountain ridge. The first is above Norðradalur (North Valley) where on clear days a dramatic view of the Island of Koltur stands gloriously before you. 
Further north at the second photo stop, views of Kaldbak and Kollafjørður fjords open below you, providing a perfect photo opportunity. Your coach then travels down into a valley leading to Leynar.
Arriving in Leynar you may choose to take a walk on Leynar Beach or admire the hand-hewn stone salmon ladders leading to Lake Leynar during a shortstop. Afterwards, a short drive will take you further west where you can discover the colourful village of Kvivik, situated in a beautiful broad valley running from the high mountains down to the sea. Explore the ruins of a well-preserved Viking farmstead dating from the 10th century. Traditional stone fences still mark the boundary between infield pastures and the wild reaches of the mountains above, and an attractive stream runs through the middle of the village.
Re-join your coach and continue to the village of Kollafjørður, which lies along a broad fjord and is home to many salmon farms. Step back in time with a visit to the old Lutheran Church built in 1837, constructed in typical Faroese style with black-tarred wooden sides and a turf roof and white bell tower.

By coach/on foot. Min 40/Max varies.
Please note: The above tour description is written based on its operation from Tórshavn - if you are calling at Kollafjørður instead, the tour content will remain the same, but the order of sights may vary. Flat, comfortable footwear is recommended. This tour involves approximately ½ mile (0.8km) of walking, over mainly flat and gravelled ground. There is a steep hill to negotiate if you wish to visit Leynar Beach. It is necessary to drive through tunnels on this tour, the longest of which is approximately 1½ miles (2½ km). The panoramic photo stops are weather dependent and if visibility is poor, coaches may not drive to the viewpoints. The order of this itinerary may vary to that described.

Travel by coach from the harbour and journey alongside the fjords, savouring the views, past colourful coastal villages, to Vestmanna to board a boat and sail out to the famous sea cliffs. Your senses will awaken with the salty scent of the sea and its cool spray on your face, the stunning, weather-beaten cliff formations and the squawking birds who call the sea cliffs home. You sail along the cliff wall, into a narrow gorge where sheer rock walls rise vertically on both sides towards the sky. The boat slowly enters one of the many grottos, and for a moment, daylight disappears. Darkness and the sound of dripping water surround you and then, suddenly, you emerge on the other side. The boat stops for a short time so you can admire the scenery and perhaps take some unforgettable photos. 
After the boat trip, return to Tórshavn via the mountain road and stop at the viewpoint looking over the capital.

By coach/boat/on foot. Min 40/Max 40.
Please note: The above tour description is written based on its operation from Tórshavn - if you are calling at Kollafjørður instead, the tour content will remain the same, but the order of sights may vary. This tour is weather dependent and may be cancelled with short notice. The boat ride is approximately 2 hours in duration. The route and speed of the vessel are subject to the weather and sea conditions. The Captain will only take the vessel into grottos if he deems it safe to do so. If this is possible, hard hats are provided for those on the open deck and must be worn. Passengers who suffer from seasickness are recommended to take precautions in case of sea swells. The bird cliffs at Vestmanna are a breeding area, and boats are not permitted to approach too closely; we suggest you take binoculars. We recommend you take a wrap or jacket as it is cooler at sea than on land. Owing to the limited capacity, early booking is recommended. Many species of birds migrate from the bird cliffs from mid-August. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed. This tour involves a walk of approximately 200m (650ft) to get to and from the boat, and there are approximately 3-4 steps to negotiate to embark/disembark. There is both covered and open-air seating available.

This is a unique opportunity to visit a Faroese family as they open the doors to their home and invite you in. This visit will give you an excellent opportunity to make acquaintance with locals and to see how a Faroese family lives. After, join them for a cup of tea or coffee and a slice of homemade cake.
Before returning to the port, you will make a short stop at a viewpoint overlooking the colourful city of Torshavn.

By coach/on foot. Min 10/Max 16.
Please note: The duration of the drive to/from the home varies depending on the ship’s berth. There will be approximately 4-6 stairs to negotiate. Owing to the low maximum on this tour, early booking is recommended. This tour involves a total of approximately 650ft (200m) of walking.

The best way to appreciate the beauty and tranquillity of the Faroes is to get close to nature and hike to Streymoy Sill for spectacular views over the countryside.
Departing by bus along the Kaldbakfjord, you will pass waterfalls and sheep lazily grazing as you head north through the valley. Stopping at the top of the columnar basalt of Streymoy Sill, your hike begins at 918ft (280m) above sea level where you will follow your informative guide across this impressive, remote landscape. Centuries of glacial sculpting and moulding have created this fascinating volcanic formation. Once at the top, stop to absorb the splendid views which stretch across to the Island of Vágar before returning downhill to meet your coach.
Following your hike, you will return to Tórshavn via the mountain road pausing for views over the capital city en route.

By coach/on foot. Min 30/Max 30.
Please note: The first 656ft (200m) of the hike is quite strenuous, but all other walking is not considered difficult. The hike is approximately 2 hours in duration, covering approximately 2.8 miles (4.5km). The ground is uneven and can be slippery in places depending on the weather – sturdy walking boots are recommended. We recommend bringing a light-weight rain jacket. Participants must be in good physical condition. This tour can be cancelled at short notice due to inclement weather. Waterfalls can be dry if there has been no recent rainfall. All views are weather dependent.

There is an ebb and flow in the history of communities, and this is especially true of the Eastern Fjords of Iceland. This tour aims to give a comprehensive picture of how these isolated villages were at one time or another, self-sufficient micro cosmoses, but each with its own international connection and significance.
The road takes you up a high mountain and through a tunnel beneath a mountain pass. Needless to say, the view is spectacular, and you will have the opportunity to take pictures. On the other side is the town Neskaupstaður, where you will visit a lovely old house which shelters three interesting museums. On the ground floor is a collection of paintings by the Icelandic painter Tryggvi Ólafsson, who has a distinct and interesting style; on the second an exhibition of tools and machinery used by Icelandic fishermen; and on the top floor a small but charming museum of natural history. This town has been hit hard by avalanches through the ages but now man has pitted his intelligence against the forces of nature and built an avalanche breaker which you will see from the comfort of your bus.
Your journey will take you back through Eskifjörður and out towards Reyðarfjörður for a visit to the Icelandic Wartime Museum, a memorable venue which recounts history from the moment when the ‘Andes’, a British cruise liner used as a naval troopship, sailed into this calm and peaceful fjord on the 1st July 1940. The population went from 300 to nearly 3,300 in an instant and this Museum displays in a lively way how the interaction between the locals and the soldiers developed during the occupation.
On your way back to the ship, a detour will be made to the Holmanes Peninsula, an area rich with birdlife, where you will have a short photo stop.

By coach/on foot. Min 40/Max varies
Please note: This tour involves approximately 1½-2 hours of walking/standing with a few steps to negotiate, much of which is at guests’ discretion at the museums. Although some museums may not have English descriptions on the exhibits, there are normally leaflets providing translations available at the entrance, however, this is not alwaysguaranteed. Views from the mountain are subject to favourable weather conditions. I have changed this to reflect the standard phraseWildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. The order of this itinerary may vary to that described. Coaches used in Eskifjörður do not have air-conditioning but use forced air.
 

The East Fjords are a mysterious place brimming with history. On this tour you will explore two very different museums and get to admire the quiet beauty of the fjords. Your journey commences with a short drive along the coastline of the fjord Eskifjörður to a viewpoint on the Hólmanes peninsula. With a majestic mountain looming above you, on clear days the view over the tip of the peninsula and the seemingly endless ocean are sure to impress. On days when the notorious East Fjord fog obscures the view, the place becomes a mystical land between the mountain and the sea. Your tour continues to the quiet seaside town of Fáskrúðsfjörður. This unassuming town was home to many French sailors that were based here in earlier centuries. Hardships and difficult conditions were large factors of their everyday life. The town still honours its foreign connection with a stunning Foreign Sailor Museum that you will have the opportunity to visit. The Museum is partly housed in the old hospital that catered to the sailors. You then continue to Stöðvarfjörður where you will visit a museum that has to be seen to be believed. For decades Petra collected rocks and minerals from the nearby mountains and brought them home. Her residence has become one of Iceland’s most unusual Museums and bears witness to her untiring passion. After your visit to Petra’s lovely home and peaceful garden you will return to Eskifjörður and the ship.

By coach/on foot. Min 40/Max varies.
Please note: This tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking/standing, much of which is at guests’ discretion at the Museums. Views are subject to favourable weather conditions. The order of this itinerary may vary to that described. Coaches used in Eskifjörður do not have air-conditioning but use forced air.
 

The capital of the north, Akureyri, is reputed to be the nation’s loveliest town, with its attractive houses and colourful well-kept gardens. It is blessed with a surprisingly favourable climate – warm in the summer and hospitable in the winter.
You leave the city, cross the fjord and head to Goðafoss, “Waterfall of the Gods,” a raging but majestic waterfall which hurls down a huge volume of water. The name celebrates the throwing of Thorgeir’s pagan gods into the Falls in the year 1000; Thorgeir was a chieftain and a leader at Althing who had decided in favour of Christianity.
You next pass by Lake Mývatn, one of the largest lakes in Iceland. The area is a remarkable display of nature at its most threatening and most endearing: lava fields, abundant craters, surreal rock formations, boiling springs, sulphur pits and mud pools. Stop to explore some of the moon-like pseudo-craters at Skútustaðir, before a buffet style lunch, including a soft drink or light beer and tea or coffee. Afterwards, you stop at Dimmuborgir, an amazing lava landscape with bizarre formations of columns and arches. You continue to the striking geothermal field at Námaskarð where you will see mud pools, steam vents, sulphur deposits, boiling springs and fumaroles.
On your way back to Akureyri, you pass through the charming village of Reykjahlíð and drive alongside the scenic shores of Lake Mývatn. When you reach Akureyri, enjoy a short but informative orientation tour of the city before returning to the pier.

By coach/on foot. Min 25/Max varies.
Please note: Lake Mývatn is a known breeding ground for midges, which can be a nuisance in the summer, so we recommend bringing midge repellent and/or a mosquito net. There is approximately 1½-2 hours of walking/standing (most of which is at guests’ discretion) over some rough ground with steps involved. Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are essential, and a wind/waterproof jacket is strongly recommended. At Goðafoss Falls there is an uneven, rocky lava surface with no handrails that is often slippery; please exercise caution. There are grassy paths with inclines at Skútustaðir, gravel paths with slight inclines at Dimmuborgir and wooden planks and very muddy paths at Námaskarð. At Námaskarð participants are required to stay on the given paths, follow the guide’s instructions and keep within roped areas. This tour may operate in a different order to that described.

The tour starts with a short drive through the old town of Akureyri before crossing the fjord and heading on to Goðafoss, "Waterfall of the Gods".
Continue your journey through the wide Fnjoskadalur Valley to the Laufás Folk Museum which originally served as a manor farm and vicarage. The turf farmhouse dates back to 1866 and contains the usual household and agricultural implements used by the gentry during that period and earlier. There has been a church and vicarage at Laufás ever since Icelanders adopted the Christian faith. The current church was built in 1865. Enjoy a pleasant drive along the fjord of Eyjafjörður back to Akureyri.
Back in Akureyri you will pay a visit to the Botanical Gardens which house examples of every species indigenous to Iceland and an extensive collection of high-latitude and high-altitude plants from around the world.

By coach/on foot. Min 25/Max varies.
Please note: This tour involves approximately 1½-2 hours of total walking/standing, some steep, gravelled pathways at the Botanical Gardens and a few smaller steps to negotiate at the Farmhouse. All walking at the photo stops and the Botanical Gardens is at guests’ discretion. The Garden’s flora and fauna is dependent on weather conditions experienced throughout the year and is not usually in full bloom until the end of June. This can affect the collections and viewing may be limited. At Goðafoss Waterfall there is an uneven, slippery lava surface and no handrails; please exercise caution here. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. This tour may operate in a different order to that described.

Iceland is one of the best locations in the world to enjoy whale watching. The abundance of marine life in the waters around Akureyri provide ideal feeding grounds, thus attracting over twenty species of whales, dolphins and porpoises. The whale watching boat is only a short walk from the pier in Akureyri. After being welcomed on board the boat by the friendly crew, the adventure commences. The boat sails in the pristine waters of Eyjafjordur Fjord and passengers can enjoy the beauty of the tall, snow-capped mountains that line the seemingly endless fjord. The guide will inform passengers of the various species which may be seen during the trip and engages all in the whole-hearted and exciting pursuit of the ocean's gentle giants. Many species have been sighted here, including blue-fin, humpback, minke and sei whales.

By boat/on foot. Min 5/Max varies.
Please note: The walk to/from the whale watching boat is approximately 400m (1300ft). If you are prone to seasickness please take the necessary precautions. As you will be searching for animals in their natural habitat, sightings cannot be guaranteed, although the success rate for seeing some species of whale is high. Refreshments are not included but can be purchased on board from a limited selection and most credit/debit cards are accepted. If using cash, Pounds, Euros and USD are accepted but change may be given in Icelandic Kroner. There are several steps to negotiate to get into the interior of the boat. The boat decks can be slippery when wet so flat, comfortable non-slip footwear is recommended. The boat is not exclusive to Cruise and Maritime Voyages/TransOcean and therefore commentary may be provided in a number of different languages. It is recommended that you wear warm layered clothing with a waterproof outer layer. Time spent on the boat is approximately 3 hours. Seating on board the boat cannot be guaranteed. There are toilet facilities on board the boat. All views are weather dependent.

Eirikr Þorvaldsson was called ‘Erik the Red’ because of his red beard and hair and perhaps also because of his fiery temper. It is said that he was a particularly hot-headed man who, after being exiled from first Norway and later Iceland, finally settled in Greenland. According to legend, Eric’s father was also exiled from Norway in 960 A.D. as a result of 'a number of killings', and Erik's entire family thus settled on Iceland. Here Erik the Red married Tjodhilde, but history repeated itself and his father's fate also befell Erik. In 982 he was sentenced to exile from Iceland for three years for murder.
It is for this reason that in the same year he sailed west and discovered a country with an inviting fjord landscape and fertile green valleys. He was extremely impressed with the new country's resources and he returned to Iceland to spread the word of "The Green Land". Erik the Red clearly had great powers of persuasion because in 985 he set sail once more from the volcanic island leading a fleet of 25 ships on course for Greenland. Onboard were around 500 men and women, domestic animals and all the other elements required to create a new existence in a new country. Of the 25 ships only 14 made it to their destination. Erik established the chieftain's seat of power at Brattahlið - now Qassiarsuk - in southern Greenland, whilst others continued further north to the fjord near Nuuk. The two societies were known as the east and west settlements.
Ship’s tenders will take you to the village of Qassiarsuk where you will meet a local costumed guide and walk through the settlement. The settlement was reconstructed and opened to visitors in 2000 and features the village, open-air museum and reconstructions of Erik the Red’s farm and his wife’s church. Learn of the sheep breeding which takes place here as you walk amongst the Viking ruins on a guided tour, then enjoy a little free time to explore independently before returning to the tender landing stage.

By boat/ on foot. Min 20/Max varies depending on vessels used.  
Please note: There will be a guided walk of the settlement for a maximum of 90-minutes, followed by free time for a maximum of 60-minutes. The total tour duration can vary between 2½-3 hours depending on the speed of the group. The distance from the tender landing stage to the ruins where there are toilet facilities is approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) each way. The guided walk begins at the tender pontoon. Hilly, uneven and gravelled ground will be encountered. Warm, layered clothing and flat, closed-toe walking shoes or boots are essential. Ship tenders are used to transport passengers between the ship and the tender jetty at Qassiarsuk. Please bring/wear mosquito repellent and/or a mosquito net.

Sisimuit is 40km (25 miles) north of the Arctic Circle and situated on the eastern shores of the Davis Strait, perched on a series of rocky outcrops at the western end of a large peninsula, bordered in the north by the Kangerluarsuk Tulleq Fjord and from the south by the wide Amerloq Fjord. Its name literally means ‘people living in fox burrows’. It is the largest business centre north of the capital Nuuk and one of the fastest growing towns in Greenland. The town is a mix of traditional family homes, communal housing and apartment blocks which were built in the 1960’s.
This basic bus tour with a local ‘guide’ will give you a panoramic glimpse of Sisimiut, its life, history and buildings. During the tour, stop at the local Church for photos, then journey outside the town where sled-dogs are located - if you are lucky you may see some of the puppies! The final stop will be at the top of Sisimiut from where there is a great view of the sea and mountains south of the town. Depending on your call timings, you can choose to remain in the town centre at the end of the tour.

By bus/ on foot. Min 20/Max 65 per departure.
Please note: Walking at the stops is at guests’ discretion but does include steps and uneven, loose gravelled ground at the various stops. Please note that the dogs are working animals and may be chained-up close by their kennels. It is forbidden to touch the adult dogs, but puppies can be stroked if they are present. Please bring/wear mosquito repellent and/or a mosquito net. The order of this itinerary may vary to that described. Additional photo stops might be made, time permitting.

Sisimuit is 40km (25 miles) north of the Arctic Circle and situated on the eastern shores of the Davis Strait, perched on a series of rocky outcrops at the western end of a large peninsula, bordered in the north by the Kangerluarsuk Tulleq Fjord and from the south by the wide Amerloq Fjord. Its name literally means ‘people living in fox burrows’. It is the largest business centre north of the capital Nuuk and one of the fastest growing towns in Greenland. The town is a mix of traditional family homes, communal housing and apartment blocks which were built in the 1960’s.
This basic bus tour with a local ‘guide’ will give you a panoramic glimpse of Sisimiut, its life, history and buildings. During the tour, stop at the local Church for photos, then journey outside the town where sled-dogs are located - if you are lucky you may see some of the puppies! The final stop will be at the top of Sisimiut from where there is a great view of the sea and mountains south of the town. Depending on your call timings, you can choose to remain in the town centre at the end of the tour.

By bus/ on foot. Min 20/Max 65 per departure.
Please note: Walking at the stops is at guests’ discretion but does include steps and uneven, loose gravelled ground at the various stops. Please note that the dogs are working animals and may be chained-up close by their kennels. It is forbidden to touch the adult dogs, but puppies can be stroked if they are present. Please bring/wear mosquito repellent and/or a mosquito net. The order of this itinerary may vary to that described. Additional photo stops might be made, time permitting.

Sisimuit is 40km (25 miles) north of the Arctic Circle and situated on the eastern shores of the Davis Strait, perched on a series of rocky outcrops at the western end of a large peninsula, bordered in the north by the Kangerluarsuk Tulleq Fjord and from the south by the wide Amerloq Fjord. Its name literally means ‘people living in fox burrows’. It is the largest business centre north of the capital Nuuk and one of the fastest growing towns in Greenland. The town is a mix of traditional family homes, communal housing and apartment blocks which were built in the 1960’s.
This basic bus tour with a local ‘guide’ will give you a panoramic glimpse of Sisimiut, its life, history and buildings. During the tour, stop at the local Church for photos, then journey outside the town where sled-dogs are located - if you are lucky you may see some of the puppies! The final stop will be at the top of Sisimiut from where there is a great view of the sea and mountains south of the town. Depending on your call timings, you can choose to remain in the town centre at the end of the tour.

By bus/ on foot. Min 20/Max 65 per departure.
Please note: Walking at the stops is at guests’ discretion but does include steps and uneven, loose gravelled ground at the various stops. Please note that the dogs are working animals and may be chained-up close by their kennels. It is forbidden to touch the adult dogs, but puppies can be stroked if they are present. Please bring/wear mosquito repellent and/or a mosquito net. The order of this itinerary may vary to that described. Additional photo stops might be made, time permitting.

Sisimuit is 40km (25 miles) north of the Arctic Circle and situated on the eastern shores of the Davis Strait, perched on a series of rocky outcrops at the western end of a large peninsula, bordered in the north by the Kangerluarsuk Tulleq Fjord and from the south by the wide Amerloq Fjord. Its name literally means ‘people living in fox burrows’. It is the largest business centre north of the capital Nuuk and one of the fastest growing towns in Greenland. The town is a mix of traditional family homes, communal housing and apartment blocks which were built in the 1960’s.
This basic bus tour with a local ‘guide’ will give you a panoramic glimpse of Sisimiut, its life, history and buildings. During the tour, stop at the local Church for photos, then journey outside the town where sled-dogs are located - if you are lucky you may see some of the puppies! The final stop will be at the top of Sisimiut from where there is a great view of the sea and mountains south of the town. Depending on your call timings, you can choose to remain in the town centre at the end of the tour.

By bus/ on foot. Min 20/Max 65 per departure.
Please note: Walking at the stops is at guests’ discretion but does include steps and uneven, loose gravelled ground at the various stops. Please note that the dogs are working animals and may be chained-up close by their kennels. It is forbidden to touch the adult dogs, but puppies can be stroked if they are present. Please bring/wear mosquito repellent and/or a mosquito net. The order of this itinerary may vary to that described. Additional photo stops might be made, time permitting.

Take a hike to the place where it all started 4,000 years ago, Tele Island. Inuit cultures used this Island as a hunting ground for many years. Learn about the way they lived as you walk past turf hut ruins and a burial ground. Your hike will take you past the harbour, art and craft shop and the local kayak club. Your ‘guide’ will tell you the history of the area and all about everyday life in Sisimiut. From Tele Island, there is a beautiful view of Sisimiut with the 785m (2,780ft) high Mountain Nasaasaq in the background, the landmark of Sisimiut. Depending on your call timings, you can choose to remain in the town centre at the end of the tour.

On foot. Min 15/Max 25 per departure.
Please note: This tour is conducted entirely on foot and covers approximately 3km (1.8 miles). The ‘guide’ will gauge the ability of the group to determine the final distance to be covered. It is essential that all participants have a good level of fitness. Hilly, uneven, steep, rocky and gravelled ground will be encountered. Warm, layered clothing and flat, closed-toe walking shoes or boots are essential. It is recommended that you bring a bottle of water with you. Mosquito repellent and a mosquito net are essential. We also recommend long trousers and a long-sleeved top/jacket.

Take a hike to the place where it all started 4,000 years ago, Tele Island. Inuit cultures used this Island as a hunting ground for many years. Learn about the way they lived as you walk past turf hut ruins and a burial ground. Your hike will take you past the harbour, art and craft shop and the local kayak club. Your ‘guide’ will tell you the history of the area and all about everyday life in Sisimiut. From Tele Island, there is a beautiful view of Sisimiut with the 785m (2,780ft) high Mountain Nasaasaq in the background, the landmark of Sisimiut. Depending on your call timings, you can choose to remain in the town centre at the end of the tour.

On foot. Min 15/Max 25 per departure.
Please note: This tour is conducted entirely on foot and covers approximately 3km (1.8 miles). The ‘guide’ will gauge the ability of the group to determine the final distance to be covered. It is essential that all participants have a good level of fitness. Hilly, uneven, steep, rocky and gravelled ground will be encountered. Warm, layered clothing and flat, closed-toe walking shoes or boots are essential. It is recommended that you bring a bottle of water with you. Mosquito repellent and a mosquito net are essential. We also recommend long trousers and a long-sleeved top/jacket.

Once ashore you will join a mini-van and travel a short fifteen-minute ride to the airport to join your aircraft. You will fly over Sisimiut, Greenland’s second largest city, along the coastline and towards the abandoned settlement of Assaqutaq. Continue your journey through a small valley path over the ridges revealing the beautiful mountainous landscape. Once you have reached the top of the mountains, your pilot will make a few turns above the snow-covered summits. En route back to the city, spot the hydro power plant which supplies water to Sisimiut.

By minivan/aircraft. Min 4/Max 5 per flight.
Please note: The transfer to the aircraft will be by minivan and will take approximately 15-minutes and the terrain can be bumpy. There will be a full safety briefing given on arrival. The route taken by the aircraft may vary due to weather conditions. The maximum combined weight of guests on the flight is 400kg. The operator requires participant’s weight information prior to departure in order to assign flights. Weights will be further checked prior to boarding the aircraft. There may be several departures of the tour and the Shore Excursion Manager will contact you on board to confirm your flight time. The plane used has 5 seats, 1 next to the pilot, 2 in the middle and 2 in the back. All seats are window seats. Allocation of seats is performed by the operator. Preferred seating and flight times cannot be guaranteed owing to loading requirements based on weight. Headsets are provided so that you can communicate with the pilot during the flight.

Kangerlussuaq is the only inland town in Greenland and rests on the 170km (106 mile) Fjord with the same name. The Arctic Circle crosses the Fjord at its halfway point. The town was founded in 1941 when it was opened as a US Airforce Base. The Americans remained here until 1992. The area surrounding Kangerlussuaq is home to some of Greenland’s most diverse terrestrial fauna including musk oxen and caribou. This tour will take you through stunning tundra landscape. Your ‘guide’ will explain about the various wildlife and if you are lucky you may get a chance to spot musk oxen and learn more about these incredible creatures. During the tour there will also be a stop in Kangerlussuaq town centre, near the airport and local community, for the opportunity to purchase refreshments (at your own expense) and look for souvenirs.

By bus/on foot. Min 10/Max varies 
Please note: The vehicles may not have air conditioning or microphones and are likely to be school buses. Some of the roads traversed are not tarmacked and the journey will be bumpy. There is very little walking on this tour which is at guest’s discretion during free time. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. On this tour, your driver will also be your guide.

Board a specially adapted off-road truck for an approximate 1¼-hour journey inland along Greenland’s longest road towards the Greenlandic Ice Sheet. This enormous Ice Sheet stretches around 1,500 miles (2,500km) from North to South and nearly 620 miles (1,000km) from East to West at the widest part of the country. The tallest point of the Ice Cap is 8,200ft (3,200m) above sea level. As you travel along the unpaved road, look out for musk oxen and other wildlife in the beautiful, Arctic desert landscape amongst low growing shrubs.
Your vehicle will finally stop at a viewpoint where you will have time to photograph the huge glacier, explore the unspoiled tundra vegetation and walk to the nearby waterfall if you wish. Following your stop, return to your vehicle for the return 1-hour journey.     

By 4WD trucks/on foot. Min 10/Max varies 
Please note: This tour involves some walking over soft and uneven ground, most of which is at guest’s discretion at the glacier. There will, however, be a few large steps to negotiate to board the trucks. Warm, layered clothing and flat, closed-toe walking shoes or boots are recommended. It is recommended that you bring a bottle of water with you. The vehicles used on this tour vary in size from 26-seaters to 49-seaters and will not have air conditioning. The roads traversed are not tarmacked and the journey will be bumpy and probably uncomfortable. During the journeys in the 4WD truck, your driver may also be your guide. Toilets will be available at the Glacier stop, but they will be very basic. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Time permitting, there may be photo stops during the journeys, but this is not guaranteed. The tour duration can vary between 3½-4 hours.

Board a specially adapted off-road truck for an approximate 1-hour journey inland along Greenland’s longest road towards the Greenlandic Ice Sheet. This enormous Ice Sheet stretches around 1,500 miles (2,500km) from North to South and nearly 620 miles (1,000km) from East to West at the widest part of the country. The tallest point of the Ice Cap is 8,200ft (3,200m) above sea level.
As you travel along the unpaved road, look out for musk oxen and other wildlife in the beautiful, Arctic desert landscape amongst low growing shrubs.
Your vehicle will stop a short distance from the glacier. Following your guide on an approximate 30-minute hike through the peaceful tundra landscape, you will eventually be rewarded with views of the massive glacial ice wall, part of Greenland’s Ice Sheet. There will be time here to take photos and soak up the natural beauty of the area.
Following your stop, hike back to your vehicle the return 1-hour journey.    

By 4WD trucks/on foot. Min 10/Max varies 
Please note: This tour involves a hike of approximately 30-minutes each way to get to/from the vehicle and glacier. There will also be a few large steps to negotiate to board the trucks. Warm, layered clothing and flat, closed-toe walking shoes or boots are recommended. It is recommended that you bring a bottle of water with you. The vehicles used on this tour vary in size from 26-seaters to 49-seaters and will not have air conditioning. The roads traversed are not tarmacked and the journey will be bumpy and probably uncomfortable. During the journeys in the 4WD truck, your driver may also be your guide. Toilets will be available at the Glacier stop, but they will be very basic. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Time permitting, there may be photo stops during the journeys, but this is not guaranteed. The tour duration can vary between 3½-4 hours.

Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, is where old and new meet in unique Greenlandic fashion. This bus tour will show you the colonial harbour with its beautiful old buildings and the newly renovated and roof-covered ‘brættet’, where the fishing catch of the day is sold. Other attractions in the town include the Katuaq culture centre, the University of Greenland (the world’s smallest), the Church of Hans Egede, Nuuk Cathedral and the National Museum. If call timings permit, it is possible to remain in the city centre near the National Museum at the end of the tour and make your own way back to the ship.

By bus/on foot. Min 20/Max 90 per departure. 
Please note: This is a bus sightseeing tour only with photo stops and all walking is at guest’s discretion. It does not include any entrance fees or visits. This tour uses regular city buses as transportation. Please bring/wear mosquito repellent and/or a mosquito net.The order of this itinerary may vary to that described.

Take an approximate 2-hour boat trip on the stunning fjord complex surrounding Nuuk. The focus of this trip is to see and experience the rugged nature that the area is famed for. After a short sailing time, Nuuk will disappear from view and steep mountainsides will emerge, towering with their reflections in the water. You may be lucky enough to experience birdlife and whale sightings, as well as waterfalls and floating ice bergs depending on the time of year.

By boat/on foot. Min 12/Max varies depending on vessels used.  
Please note: If the ship is berthed alongside, there will be a short walk of approximately 100m (330ft) each way to the boat embarkation point. If the ship is at anchorage, the tenders should be able to pull alongside the Fjord Safari boats. Depending on the tide, there may be a few steps to negotiate to embark/disembark the boats. These are small boats travelling in arctic waters and care should be taken whilst on board. Various boats are used which carry varying numbers of passengers - some may not be covered and may not have toilet facilities. Warm, layered clothing and flat, closed-toe shoes are essential. The final duration of this tour is dependent on the type of boats used and their speeds, however, the time spent in the actual Fjord will be the same for all boats. We cannot guarantee there will be a ‘guide’ on all boats used, however the Captain and crew will provide information. This tour can be cancelled at short notice if the weather or sea conditions are deemed too dangerous for the tour to operate.

Qaqortoq is nestled within a system of fjords and is characterised by its quaint colonial buildings and landmark fountain. This sub-arctic town is the largest in Southern Greenland and is best explored on foot.
Leaving the pier with your guide, you will pass the only fountain in Greenland and the fish and meat market and visit the old church. The tour will continue past the elementary school to the new church where there will also be a visit. During your walk, you will also see the iconic Stone & Man artwork, an open-air project whereby faces, whales and other traditional designs are carved into the boulders and rock faces around town. Your tour will end at Qaqortoq Museum, housed in one of the oldest buildings in Qaqortoq; a former blacksmiths. We suggest that you explore the small but interesting Museum independently before making your own way back to the pier.

On foot. Min 12/Max 20 per group.  
Please note: This tour is conducted entirely on foot and the duration can vary depending on the pace of the group and whether the churches are visited. The churches can close at short notice owing to unforeseen events, so an inside visit to either of them cannot be guaranteed. Terrain covered is mostly paved with a few inclines. Warm, layered clothing and flat, closed-toe walking shoes or boots are recommended. It is recommended that you bring a bottle of water with you. Entrance fee into Qaqortoq Museum is included and will not be refunded if this ticket is not used.

*** 305005A – Relaxing in the Blue Lagoon – This tour has limited capacity, therefore early pre-registration is essential ***
From Reykjavík you drive through the rugged lava fields of the Reykjanes peninsula towards the Blue Lagoon, one of the most popular attractions in Iceland. The Blue Lagoon owes its existence to the nearby geothermal power plant and offers a tax-free shop, café and excellent changing-room facilities. This pool of pure, mineral-rich geothermal seawater located in the middle of a lava field attracts more than 100,000 visitors a year in search of health, relaxation and recreation.
You will stop for a total duration of approximately 2½ hours in order to indulge in the warm waters of the Lagoon, which are approximately 37-39°C and reputed for their healing properties. The blue colour of the water, the steam and the 13ft-high (4m) lava wall surrounding the Lagoon succeed in creating a unique atmosphere. During your visit there will be a complimentary drink included and there will be time to browse for souvenirs in the gift shop before returning to the ship.

By coach/on foot. Min 40/Max varies.
Please note: To avoid disappointment, early pre-registration is recommended as this tour can sell out quickly and capacity may not be increased on certain dates. The journey time from Reykjavík to the Blue Lagoon is approximately 45-minutes each way. The Lagoon is not a pool for regular swimming, rather a unique, relaxing bathing experience. Please exercise caution when walking around the Blue Lagoon and shower/changing room facilities as the ground can become slippery when wet. It is expected that you take a shower and wash without swimwear before entering the Lagoon. There is one wheelchair-accessible changing room located on the ground floor, all other changing rooms are located on a lower level which is accessed by several steps. Changing rooms can become busy which can affect your time spent in the Blue Lagoon. Separate dressing rooms and showers are provided for men and women, with lockers large enough for a small sports bag. On arrival you will be issued with an electronic bracelet which acts as your locker key, if lost, you will be charged a fee of ISK 5,000 (approximately £33.00). Please remember to take your swimwear. Towels are included in the price and will be provided by the Blue Lagoon. This is a popular tourist attraction and whilst we have bookings for groups, queues can be expected. You enter the Lagoon at your own risk. The Blue Lagoon establishment does not assume responsibility for any personal valuables. We recommend removing all jewellery before entering the Blue Lagoon to avoid any staining caused by the geothermal seawater. You may not bring food or drinks for consumption on the premises or into the Lagoon. There will be a complimentary drink included, but this excludes hot drinks. It is recommended that you wear a bathing cap or use a hair conditioner, as the silica has a drying effect on hair. Avoid getting silica into your eyes. Removal of silica from the Lagoon is not permitted. The temperature of the Lagoon is between 37-39°C/100-110°F. Many pregnant women bathe in the Lagoon, but it is important that every woman evaluates her own physical condition before entering. It is important to drink plenty of fresh water and avoid being hungry during the visit. There are facilities to purchase refreshments on site and local currency may be required. Guests with special medical conditions such as high or low blood pressure, heart disease, circulatory problems, diabetes or any other illness should avoid staying too long in the Lagoon. A break from bathing should be taken if guests feel uncomfortable or drained at any point. The Blue Lagoon’s natural sand bottom may be uneven and slippery. There is a walk from the parking area to the main building at the Blue Lagoon of approximately 490ft (150m) each way. Coaches used in Iceland are usually larger than in other countries.
 
 

This memorable tour encompasses the ‘Big Three’ - Gullfoss, Geyser and Thingvellir. They are collectively known as the ‘Golden Circle’ and will introduce you to many of the natural wonders for which Iceland is justly renowned.
From the quayside you travel inland to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Iceland’s top tourist attractions. It is revered as the nation’s most sacred historic shrine as one of world’s oldest legislative assemblies, the Althing, originally convened here in A.D. 930. Of particular interest are the Law Speaker’s Rock and the remains of the turf shelters. These shelters were once used as dwellings during the two-week assemblies which were held on alternate years. Thingvellir abounds not only in history but in outstanding natural beauty, with its stunning lake, lava landscape and rugged chasm walls on the rift where Europe meets America at the Continental Divide.
Leaving Thingvellir, your tour continues to Gullfoss Waterfall, the most magnificent of the country’s many waterfalls, whose thundering waters throw a perpetual rainbow over a lunar landscape. Here the River Hvítá drops 96ft (29m) in two falls, creating an awesome spectacle. After a short drive you arrive at the Geyser area, where hot springs are in abundance, and the most active one, Strokkur, is likely to spout a high column of boiling water up to 60ft (18m) high every few minutes or so. On a fine day it is possible to see in the distance the Langjökull Glacier, the second largest in Iceland.
Your return journey crosses the mountain plateau of Hellisheidi, covered by post-glacial lava fields. Arriving back at Reykjavík, you make a stop at the Pearl vantage point, a dome of glass built on top of hot water storage tanks, for a superb panoramic view of Iceland’s capital and the surrounding area before the tour concludes at the quayside.
A buffet-style lunch including a soft drink, or a light beer will be provided during the tour.

By coach/on foot. Min 40/Max 400.
Please note: This tour involves a total of approximately 2 hours of walking/standing. The terrain at most of the sites is rough and uneven. There are approximately 10 steps at Thingvellir National Park and coaches usually drop guests at the top car park and you walk to re-join the coach at the bottom car park. Sturdy, closed toe shoes and a rainproof jacket are essential. Should you choose to walk close to the Gullfoss Waterfall, you are advised that there is a steep gravel and mud path and many steps, which can often be slippery when wet. When at the Geo-thermal area, you are requested to pay attention to the guide’s warnings and remain on the pathways, not crossing the roped-off areas. Lunch may be earlier or later in the day for some groups depending on the daily operations of the tour, and there are several venues that could be used for lunch. Please be advised that at some comfort stops there may be a charge of approximately 200 Icelandic Kroner for use of the facilities. Coaches used in Iceland are usually larger than in other countries. The Pearl has two very spacious lifts providing access to each floor of the Dome and to the viewing platform. Views are subject to favourable weather conditions. The order of this itinerary may vary to that described.

Iceland’s unique landscape has been shaped by great geothermal and volcanic activity over millions of years. This tour takes you to some of the country’s geological wonders, including a visit to a museum dedicated to the nation’s Viking history.
Enjoy a scenic drive through the lively port town of Hafnarfjörður, which is situated on a picturesque ancient lava flow. Leaving the main road continue along the enchanting Kleifarvatn Lake, one of the deepest lakes in Iceland which is surrounded by the rugged landscape.
Your journey continues towards Krýsuvík, where the striking landscape has been shaped by volcanic eruptions and violent movements of the earth. In the geothermal field, powerful jets of steam escape from deep below the earth’s crust and the multicoloured pools of boiling mud bubble and pop continuously.         
There will be time to view the impressive volcanic plateau of the Reykjanes Peninsula before driving through the bustling fishing village of Grindavík. As you make your way over the lava-covered peninsula, you will reach Njarðvík and The Viking World Museum.
The Viking Museum has five independent exhibitions about the Viking Age and their settlement in Iceland, including a Smithsonian exhibition about the Vikings of the North Atlantic. The Museum’s main attraction is the Viking ship Íslendingur (the Icelander), an exact seaworthy replica of a Viking vessel that was discovered in Norway in 1182 and excavated almost completely intact.    
After your visit to The Viking World Museum, re-join your coach back to Reykjavik and enjoy some free time in the area of the Old Harbour before returning to the ship.

By coach/on foot. Min 40/Max 50.
Please note: This tour involves a total of approximately 2 hours of walking/standing over some rough and uneven ground. When at the Geo-thermal area, you are requested to pay attention to the guide’s warnings and remain on the pathways, not crossing the roped-off areas. Views are subject to favourable weather conditions. The order of this itinerary may vary to that described. Coaches used in Iceland are usually larger than in other countries.