Cruise from Canada
to Iceland
An expedition from Canada to Iceland featuring Viking history, puffin colonies, Greenlandic fjords, and the vibrant Inuit culture of Newfoundland and South Greenland.
Saint-Pierre, French Overseas Territory
St John’s, Canada
St Anthony, Canada
Narsarsuaq, Greenland
Qassiarsuk, Greenland
Qaqortoq, Greenland
Reykjavik, Iceland
Halifax – Reykjavik
From
Dates
May 18 – May 29, 2026
Duration
11 nights
Ship
SH Vega
Feel the Arctic legacy as you sail from Atlantic Canada’s historic harbours to Iceland’s volcanic shores. This 11-night voyage crosses iceberg-filled waters, remote wildlife habitats, colourful coastal towns, and South Greenland’s fertile Viking valleys. Aboard SH Vega, experience Zodiac landings, Norse archaeological sites, puffin colonies, and glacier-carved fjords — a raw, wild, unforgettable North Atlantic expedition.
Halifax, Canada
Historic Atlantic port and the starting point of your North Atlantic expedition, known for maritime heritage, lighthouses, and coastal culture.
Halifax, Canada
Historic Atlantic port and the starting point of your North Atlantic expedition, known for maritime heritage, lighthouses, and coastal culture.
Expedition Highlights
A cultural and polar journey across Canada, Greenland, and Iceland — from iceberg-filled waters to Inuit homelands and medieval Viking sites, aboard the polar-class SH Vega.
Inuit Culture Encounters
Meet South Greenland communities and landscapes shaped by both Inuit and Norse histories, with time ashore for local culture, harbour walks, and everyday life along the fjords.
Viking Archaeology & Norse History
Explore the Viking settlement ruins of Hvalsey and Qassiarsuk, uncovering the daily life, architecture, and sagas of Greenland’s earliest Norse communities.
Fjords & Greenlandic Waterways
Sail through Southwest Greenland’s serene fjords and narrow channels, where green valleys, sheer cliffs, and calm Arctic waters create breathtaking polar landscapes.
Expedition Highlights
A cultural and polar journey across Canada, Greenland, and Iceland — from iceberg-filled waters to Inuit homelands and medieval Viking sites, aboard the polar-class SH Vega.
Inuit Culture Encounters
Meet South Greenland communities and landscapes shaped by both Inuit and Norse histories, with time ashore for local culture, harbour walks, and everyday life along the fjords.
Viking Archaeology & Norse History
Explore the Viking settlement ruins of Hvalsey and Qassiarsuk, uncovering the daily life, architecture, and sagas of Greenland’s earliest Norse communities.
Fjords & Greenlandic Waterways
Sail through Southwest Greenland’s serene fjords and narrow channels, where green valleys, sheer cliffs, and calm Arctic waters create breathtaking polar landscapes.
Expedition Itinerary
Sail from Canada to Iceland along storied North Atlantic routes, encountering French islands, Viking settlements, drifting springtime ice, and vibrant Inuit and Greenlandic communities across fjords, valleys, and remote Arctic coasts.
Day 1
Halifax, Canada
Begin your voyage in Halifax, the vibrant maritime capital of Nova Scotia. Explore the historic harbour, lighthouses, museums, and coastal culture before boarding SH Vega for your North Atlantic expedition.
- •Time for city exploration
- •Harbour walks and museums
- •Embarkation & welcome briefings
- •Evening sail-away
Day 2
At Sea
Sail northeast towards French North America. Enjoy open-ocean views, onboard lectures, and time to relax on deck as the ship enters colder waters.
- •Lectures & photography tips
- •Wildlife watching (seabirds, whales)
- •Relaxation on deck
Day 3
Saint-Pierre, French Overseas Territory
A tiny piece of France off the coast of Newfoundland. Cobblestone streets, bakeries, and maritime heritage create a unique European atmosphere in the North Atlantic.
- •Guided walks
- •Cultural immersion
- •Local tastings
Day 4
St John’s, Canada
Explore one of North America’s oldest cities, known for colourful houses and storied seafaring history. A highlight ashore is a boat journey to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, home to one of North America’s largest Atlantic puffin colonies.
- •Guided city walk through Jellybean Row and harbor viewpoints
- •Optional excursion to Witless Bay puffin colony
- •Coastal wildlife watching (seabirds, possible whales)
- •Photography sessions along the colorful waterfront
Day 5
St Anthony, Canada
Northern Newfoundland’s gateway to iceberg waters. Dramatic coastlines, fishing heritage, and possible sightings of drifting icebergs during the spring thaw.
- •Coastal walks
- •Wildlife & iceberg spotting
- •Photography opportunities
Day 6-7
At Sea
Cross the Labrador Sea toward Greenland, watching for migrating whales, seabirds, and drifting ice.
- •Lectures
- •Nature watching
- •Onboard wellbeing and relaxation programs
Day 8
Narsarsuaq, Greenland
Tucked into southern Greenland along the tranquil Tunulliarfik Fjord, Narsarsuaq - which means "the plain" - lives up to its name with lush, flat terrain set against towering, snow-dusted peaks. Known for hiking, whale and seal watching, and sheep farming, the town offers scenic trails.
- •The Ridge Hike (optional)
Day 8
Qassiarsuk, Greenland
Arrive in Qassiarsuk on the Tunulliarfik Fjord, a small farming community set in one of South Greenland’s greenest valleys. Here you can walk among visible Norse era remains and take in the setting that drew settlers here a thousand years ago. The area is part of the Kujataa UNESCO landscape, where Norse and later Inuit communities shaped a living farming culture at the edge of the ice.
- •Excursion to the ancient farm of Erik the Red (included)
- •Hike to the ancient viking site of Gardar (optional)
Day 9
Qaqortoq, Greenland
South Greenland’s most charming town, filled with colourful homes, cultural history, and coastal vistas shaped by Inuit and Norse traditions. A good way to spend the day is simply on foot. Follow the stone carvings of the Stone and Man outdoor art project as it runs through town, then leave time for the local museum and views out over the harbour before returning to the ship.
- •Guided walk through art installations and colonial square
- •Encounters with local craft traditions
- •Independent exploration of cafés and waterfront
- •Zodiac cruising in nearby fjords (conditions permitting)
Day 10-11
At Sea
Final stretch of ocean sailing toward Iceland. Enjoy calm days at sea, onboard talks, and panoramic ocean views.
- •Lectures
- •Nature watching
- •Onboard wellbeing and relaxation programs
Day 12
Reykjavik, Iceland
Your journey concludes in Reykjavik, a vibrant Nordic capital rich in geothermal landmarks, modern culture, and Viking history. Extend your stay to explore Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
- •Disembarkation with optional guided city visits
- •Opportunities to explore museums, geothermal sites, and historic districts
- •Optional post-cruise excursions such as the Golden Circle or South Coast
Itinerary changes and surprising experiences are part of expedition life as we take you to the furthest more remote regions of the world. The day by day plan and experiences are given as a guide with the actual itinerary depending on weather, ice conditions and guidance of the captain and expedition leader.
What’s included
Transport & Accommodation
- Your selected stateroom
- Onboard gratuities & port taxes
Dining & Beverages
- All meals onboard
- Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise
- 24-hour room service
Expedition Activities
- Lecture programs by the expedition team and guest speakers
- One selected shore excursion per port of call
- All expedition landings
Onboard Amenities
- Gym, sauna, pool
- 24/7 self-service laundry
- Entry-level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)
Expedition Equipment
- Waterproof backpack
- Refillable water bottle
Journey Keepsake
- Memory package of your voyage
What’s included
Transport & Accommodation
- Your selected stateroom
- Onboard gratuities & port taxes
Dining & Beverages
- All meals onboard
- Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise
- 24-hour room service
Expedition Activities
- Lecture programs by the expedition team and guest speakers
- One selected shore excursion per port of call
- All expedition landings
Onboard Amenities
- Gym, sauna, pool
- 24/7 self-service laundry
- Entry-level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)
Expedition Equipment
- Waterproof backpack
- Refillable water bottle
Journey Keepsake
- Memory package of your voyage
Wildlife
Encounter classic North Atlantic wildlife along your route — from drifting iceberg habitats home to seals and migrating whales, to rich seabird colonies that thrive along the coastlines of Newfoundland and South Greenland.
Humpback whale
Harbour seal
Atlantic puffin
Wildlife
Encounter classic North Atlantic wildlife along your route — from drifting iceberg habitats home to seals and migrating whales, to rich seabird colonies that thrive along the coastlines of Newfoundland and South Greenland.
Humpback whale
Harbour seal
Atlantic puffin
Discover Swan Hellenic
Boutique luxury expedition cruises designed for those who seek meaning beyond the horizon.
See What Others Don't
Swan Hellenic specialises in cultural expedition cruises, offering immersive journeys to remote and historic destinations. Their fleet of elegant, ice-class ships, featuring Scandinavian design, provides luxurious accommodations and expert-led experiences. With a focus on unique itineraries and high staff-to-guest ratios, Swan Hellenic delivers enriching adventures for discerning travelers.
Here, luxury is not excess, but the art of seeing deeper.
Best in Cruise
Cruise Critic 2024
Excursion & Collaboration Winner
Sailawaze 2025
Discover Swan Hellenic
Boutique luxury expedition cruises designed for those who seek meaning beyond the horizon.
See What Others Don't
Swan Hellenic specialises in cultural expedition cruises, offering immersive journeys to remote and historic destinations. Their fleet of elegant, ice-class ships, featuring Scandinavian design, provides luxurious accommodations and expert-led experiences. With a focus on unique itineraries and high staff-to-guest ratios, Swan Hellenic delivers enriching adventures for discerning travelers.
Here, luxury is not excess, but the art of seeing deeper.
Best in Cruise
Cruise Critic 2024
Excursion & Collaboration Winner
Sailawaze 2025
What our guests say
What our guests say
SH Vega
SH Vega
Built in the Helsinki Shipyard in Finland, SH Vega features elegant interiors, wide unobstructed views throughout the ship, and dedicated expedition facilities – so you can explore remote destinations in style and comfort. Whether you're taking in remarkable scenery from a panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or unwinding in your sumptuous stateroom, SH Vega has you covered.
Built in the Helsinki Shipyard in Finland, SH Vega features elegant interiors, wide unobstructed views throughout the ship, and dedicated expedition facilities – so you can explore remote destinations in style and comfort. Whether you're taking in remarkable scenery from a panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or unwinding in your sumptuous stateroom, SH Vega has you covered.
152 guests & 117 staff
Exclusive boutique experience
PC5 Polar class
Designed specifically for polar regions
Enrichment
Library, Laboratory, Stargazing Deck
Launched in 2022
Brand new expedition vessel
Wellbeing
Infinity pool, jacuzzi, spa, gym, sauna
Fine Dining
Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge, Pool Bar & Grill
152 guests & 117 staff
Exclusive boutique experience
PC5 Polar class
Designed specifically for polar regions
Enrichment
Library, Laboratory, Stargazing Deck
Launched in 2022
Brand new expedition vessel
Wellbeing
Infinity pool, jacuzzi, spa, gym, sauna
Fine Dining
Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge, Pool Bar & Grill
Staterooms
Bright and spacious staterooms — your cozy home away from home.
Oceanview
20 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- Two single beds or a double bed
- Bedroom with living room area
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious bathroom
Balcony
25 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- 5 m² private balcony
- Two single beds or a double bed
- Bedroom with living room area
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious bathroom
Junior Suite
32-36 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- 6 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room area
- Luxurious en-suite bathroom
Suite
41 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- 5-10 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and walk-in shower
Premium Suite
41 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- 8-12 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and shower
- Walk-in wardrobe
Expedition Team
Mariam Pousa
Expedition leader
Mariam, an Argentine Conservator of Cultural Heritage and expert in Nautical Archaeology, holds a Master's in Preservation of Artifacts. A history enthusiast, she teaches for the UNESCO Foundation, focusing on archaeological site preservation. Raised in the stunning landscapes of Ushuaia, Mariam is a skilled mountaineer with a passion for exploration. She has sailed in Patagonian fjords, summited the Alps and Central America Andes, and worked on adventure film crews in the UK and Spain. Fluent in Spanish, English, and French, she is also an enthusiastic skier and climber.
Dr. Simon J. George
Experimental research scientist
Dr. George is an experimental research scientist at the SETI Institute, exploring the role of metals such as iron, nickel, zinc, and molybdenum in the chemistry of life. His work focuses on developing innovative instruments to study these metals and understand their involvement in the origins of life. His career spans national laboratories, universities, and industry before joining SETI in 2023. As an astrobiologist, he researches extremophiles, early metabolic pathways, and metal-rich proteins believed to be key in Earth's earliest life forms.
Mariam Pousa
Expedition leader
Mariam, an Argentine Conservator of Cultural Heritage and expert in Nautical Archaeology, holds a Master's in Preservation of Artifacts. A history enthusiast, she teaches for the UNESCO Foundation, focusing on archaeological site preservation. Raised in the stunning landscapes of Ushuaia, Mariam is a skilled mountaineer with a passion for exploration. She has sailed in Patagonian fjords, summited the Alps and Central America Andes, and worked on adventure film crews in the UK and Spain. Fluent in Spanish, English, and French, she is also an enthusiastic skier and climber.
Dr. Simon J. George
Experimental research scientist
Dr. George is an experimental research scientist at the SETI Institute, exploring the role of metals such as iron, nickel, zinc, and molybdenum in the chemistry of life. His work focuses on developing innovative instruments to study these metals and understand their involvement in the origins of life. His career spans national laboratories, universities, and industry before joining SETI in 2023. As an astrobiologist, he researches extremophiles, early metabolic pathways, and metal-rich proteins believed to be key in Earth's earliest life forms.
Start Your Journey
For any inquiries and reservations, please contact your travel manager. We’ll help you organize an unforgettable journey.
Start Your Journey
For any inquiries and reservations, please contact your travel manager. We’ll help you organize an unforgettable journey.