Odyssey of Lights: From Iceland
to the Lofoten Islands
Sail from Reykjavik to Tromso on an immersive expedition across volcanic coasts, Arctic fjords, glacier-cut valleys, and the dramatic landscapes of northern Norway. This journey combines remote Icelandic wonders, intimate wildlife encounters, and the magic of the Arctic Circle crossing — all aboard the boutique expedition ship SH Vega.
Dynjandi Waterfall landing, Westfjords
Isafjordur fjord landscapes
Grímsey Arctic Circle crossing
Hrisey Island bird cliffs
Husavik northern coast & wildlife
Norwegian Sea crossing
Bodo, Arctic Norway gateway
Svartisen Glacier region
Reine alpine peaks & fjords
Svolvaer cultural north, Lofoten
Trollfjorden scenic passage
Tromso Arctic capital
Reykjavik – Tromso
From
Dates
May 29 – June 10, 2026
Duration
12 nights
Ship
SH Vega
Embark on a captivating expedition cruise, the Odyssey of lights: from Iceland to the Lofoten Islands. This enthralling journey begins in Reykjavik, Iceland, and culminates in Tromso, Norway. Through an exploration of volcanic landscapes and breathtaking fjords, travelers will experience the raw power of nature. The cruise offers a one-of-a-kind adventure across dramatic terrains sculpted by ice and fire.
Cruise with SETI
Sail through the North Atlantic in the company of scientists who explore our solar system and beyond. The SETI Institute (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) is a leading research organization dedicated to studying the origins of life in the Universe and investigating whether we are alone among the stars.
Guests will enjoy engaging lectures, informal Q&A sessions, and the chance to discuss the latest discoveries in planetary science and astrobiology as the voyage moves through Icelandic and Norwegian landscapes. This is a rare opportunity to combine an expedition cruise with front-row access to cutting-edge space exploration and the scientific search for life in the Universe.
Mark Showalter
SETI Speaker
Planetary astronomer
Planetary astronomer Mark Showalter’s research career is one that has steadily progressed outward through the solar system. He’s hitched a ride on some of NASA’s highest-profile missions to the outer planets, participating in Voyager’s “grand tour” of the giant planets, Cassini’s extended exploration of the Saturn system, and the New Horizons mission to Pluto and the Kuiper Belt.
STORIES ALONG THE VIKING ROUTE
The New Horizons Mission to Pluto and Beyond: The Inside Story
NASA launched the New Horizons spacecraft in 2006 on its journey to the most distant and coldest parts of the Solar System. It completed its historic flyby of Pluto in 2015 and then continued onward to an encounter with the small Kuiper Belt object "Arrokoth" in 2018. Mark Showalter was a member of the New Horizons science team, where he focused on planning the observations and navigating the spacecraft safely past these distant worlds. Scientific highlights of the flyby include the discoveries of volcanoes and glaciers on Pluto, following processes that are in some ways similar to, but in other ways very different from, the features we will see around Iceland and Norway. Dr. Showalter will provide an overview of the New Horizons mission and will recount some of his experiences “behind the scenes” of this historic mission
The Search for Life and Intelligence Beyond Earth
Dr. Frank Drake, a founder of the SETI Institute, was a pioneer of radio astronomy and one of the first to recognize that Earth-based radio telescopes might be capable of detecting signals from an extraterrestrial civilization. In 1961, he proposed what has become known as the Drake Equation, a formula to estimate the number of intelligent civilizations in the galaxy. At the time, we knew very little about some of the basic inputs to his equation, such as how common are Earth-like planets and what are the mechanisms by which life might arise and evolve on these worlds. In the following decades, we have begun to fill in many of the gaps in our knowledge. For example, we have discovered ocean worlds elsewhere in our own Solar System and have measured the atmospheres of planets orbiting distant stars. Dr. Mark Showalter, a Fellow of the SETI Institute, will provide an overview of the ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence and discuss our prospects for the future.
Cruise with SETI
Sail through the North Atlantic in the company of scientists who explore our solar system and beyond. The SETI Institute (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) is a leading research organization dedicated to studying the origins of life in the Universe and investigating whether we are alone among the stars.
Guests will enjoy engaging lectures, informal Q&A sessions, and the chance to discuss the latest discoveries in planetary science and astrobiology as the voyage moves through Icelandic and Norwegian landscapes. This is a rare opportunity to combine an expedition cruise with front-row access to cutting-edge space exploration and the scientific search for life in the Universe.
Mark Showalter
SETI Speaker
Planetary astronomer
Planetary astronomer Mark Showalter’s research career is one that has steadily progressed outward through the solar system. He’s hitched a ride on some of NASA’s highest-profile missions to the outer planets, participating in Voyager’s “grand tour” of the giant planets, Cassini’s extended exploration of the Saturn system, and the New Horizons mission to Pluto and the Kuiper Belt.
STORIES ALONG THE VIKING ROUTE
The New Horizons Mission to Pluto and Beyond: The Inside Story
NASA launched the New Horizons spacecraft in 2006 on its journey to the most distant and coldest parts of the Solar System. It completed its historic flyby of Pluto in 2015 and then continued onward to an encounter with the small Kuiper Belt object "Arrokoth" in 2018. Mark Showalter was a member of the New Horizons science team, where he focused on planning the observations and navigating the spacecraft safely past these distant worlds. Scientific highlights of the flyby include the discoveries of volcanoes and glaciers on Pluto, following processes that are in some ways similar to, but in other ways very different from, the features we will see around Iceland and Norway. Dr. Showalter will provide an overview of the New Horizons mission and will recount some of his experiences “behind the scenes” of this historic mission
The Search for Life and Intelligence Beyond Earth
Dr. Frank Drake, a founder of the SETI Institute, was a pioneer of radio astronomy and one of the first to recognize that Earth-based radio telescopes might be capable of detecting signals from an extraterrestrial civilization. In 1961, he proposed what has become known as the Drake Equation, a formula to estimate the number of intelligent civilizations in the galaxy. At the time, we knew very little about some of the basic inputs to his equation, such as how common are Earth-like planets and what are the mechanisms by which life might arise and evolve on these worlds. In the following decades, we have begun to fill in many of the gaps in our knowledge. For example, we have discovered ocean worlds elsewhere in our own Solar System and have measured the atmospheres of planets orbiting distant stars. Dr. Mark Showalter, a Fellow of the SETI Institute, will provide an overview of the ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence and discuss our prospects for the future.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland’s capital blends modern Nordic culture with geothermal energy, volcanic scenery, and an active harbourside. It serves as a major departure point for Arctic voyages, offering easy access to the North Atlantic and Iceland’s western coast.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland’s capital blends modern Nordic culture with geothermal energy, volcanic scenery, and an active harbourside. It serves as a major departure point for Arctic voyages, offering easy access to the North Atlantic and Iceland’s western coast.
Expedition Highlights
An Arctic expedition from Iceland to Northern Norway — featuring Zodiac landings, Arctic Circle islands, glacier landscapes, and the dramatic peaks of the Lofoten archipelago, aboard the boutique expedition ship SH Vega.
Isafjordur Fjord Landscapes
Experience one of Iceland’s most dramatic Westfjords towns, surrounded by steep-sided mountain walls and deep glacial fjords.
North Iceland’s Marine Wildlife Coast
Husavik and the surrounding northern shores reveal nutrient-rich waters shaped by volcanic activity, supporting abundant whale and dolphin populations.
Iceland's 'Jewel of the Westfjords'
Experience the breathtaking majesty of Dynjandi, with its cascading tiers of thundering water, untouched natural beauty, and awe-inspiring serenity.
Lofotr Viking Museum
Travel back in time and experience the Viking age by visiting the Lofotr Viking Museum and a meticulously reconstructed Viking farm.
Svartisen Glacier & Coastal Mountains
Approach Norway’s second-largest glacier, where blue ice, glacier lakes, and steep granite formations define the dramatic Arctic landscape.
Expedition Highlights
An Arctic expedition from Iceland to Northern Norway — featuring Zodiac landings, Arctic Circle islands, glacier landscapes, and the dramatic peaks of the Lofoten archipelago, aboard the boutique expedition ship SH Vega.
Isafjordur Fjord Landscapes
Experience one of Iceland’s most dramatic Westfjords towns, surrounded by steep-sided mountain walls and deep glacial fjords.
North Iceland’s Marine Wildlife Coast
Husavik and the surrounding northern shores reveal nutrient-rich waters shaped by volcanic activity, supporting abundant whale and dolphin populations.
Iceland's 'Jewel of the Westfjords'
Experience the breathtaking majesty of Dynjandi, with its cascading tiers of thundering water, untouched natural beauty, and awe-inspiring serenity.
Lofotr Viking Museum
Travel back in time and experience the Viking age by visiting the Lofotr Viking Museum and a meticulously reconstructed Viking farm.
Svartisen Glacier & Coastal Mountains
Approach Norway’s second-largest glacier, where blue ice, glacier lakes, and steep granite formations define the dramatic Arctic landscape.
Expedition Itinerary
Sail from Iceland to Arctic Norway along a true expedition route linking volcanic coasts, Arctic Circle wildlife islands, glacier landscapes, and the dramatic peaks of the Lofoten archipelago. Experience remote Westfjords landings, a Norwegian Sea crossing, blue-ice fjords, and classic Arctic villages, before arriving in Tromso — the cultural heart of the far north.
Day 1
Reykjavik
Your adventure begins in Reykjavik — a city of steam, basalt and bright harbor light. Before boarding SH Vega, wander the waterfront or warm up in a nearby café while the city buzzes around you. As evening falls, the ship slips away from the pier and points her bow toward Iceland’s wild northwest.
- •Time to roam Reykjavik’s harbor, old streets, or viewpoints
- •Soft start onboard — settle in, explore decks, watch the city disappear behind you
- •First evening at sea under long northern daylight
Day 2
Dynjandi Waterfall, Westfjords
A fjord of stillness opens at dawn — and at its end, the thunder of Dynjandi. SH Vega anchors right in front of the 100-meter cascade, a place big ships can only dream of reaching. You land by Zodiac at the shoreline and climb toward the waterfall’s mist, surrounded by untouched Westfjords wilderness.
- •Zodiac ride through a quiet fjord to the base of Dynjandi
- •Walk along the waterfall path with panoramic views of the Westfjords
- •Time for photography and exploration in complete wilderness
- •Evening storytelling on Westfjords history and landscapes
Day 3
Isafjordur, Iceland
Sail deeper into the Westfjords. Isafjordur sits beneath towering mountains, a quiet fishing town shaped by centuries of maritime culture. Its narrow sand spit, wooden houses, and steep ridges create one of Iceland’s most dramatic northern settings.
- •Walking tour through the old harbor district
- •Gentle hikes to local viewpoints
- •Cultural exploration and time to enjoy the fjord atmosphere
- •Adrenaline-fuelled ATV tour (optional)
Day 4
Grímsey Island & Hrisey Island
Today you cross the Arctic Circle. Grímsey, perched directly on the 66° latitude line, is home to huge puffin colonies and vertical bird cliffs. Nearby Hrisey offers a softer landscape with calm coastlines and rich birdlife. Together they form a perfect introduction to Arctic island life.
- •Zodiac landings (weather permitting)
- •Walks along bird cliffs and coastal trails
- •Wildlife viewing: puffins, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes
- •Symbolic Arctic Circle crossing on Grímsey
Day 5
Husavik, Iceland
Northern Iceland’s natural and cultural heart, Husavik overlooks Skjalfandi Bay, one of the North Atlantic’s richest marine ecosystems. Volcano-shaped hills, a quiet harbor, and a deep connection to the sea define this remote coastal town.
- •Walking exploration of the harbor and old town
- •Whale Museum & Whale-watching excursion (included)
- •Short hikes to surrounding viewpoints
Days 6-7
At Sea — Norwegian Sea Crossing
Two contemplative days at sea as you travel from Iceland toward Arctic Norway. Long northern daylight, shifting ocean colors, and seabirds following the ship create an atmosphere of calm polar transition.
- •Onboard lectures on Arctic geology, wildlife, and Lofoten culture
- •Photography workshops under long-daylight conditions
- •Birdwatching from the outer decks
- •Rest, reading, and observation time in lounges and library
Day 8
Bodo, Norway
Landfall in northern Norway. Bodo combines Arctic coastal scenery with a modern cultural pulse. With mountains lining the horizon and bright Nordic light touching the waterfront, the city offers a gentle entrance into the Norwegian north.
- •Walks through the waterfront and central districts
- •Optional cultural visits and scenic viewpoints
- •Evening briefing for glacier and Lofoten operations
Day 9
Svartisen Glacier Region
A highlight of northern Norway: the blue ice of Svartisen, the country’s second-largest glacier. Zodiac operations bring you close to shore, followed by a guided hike toward a glacier lake framed by steep mountains and shimmering ice.
- •Zodiac transfer to the landing site
- •Guided glacier-view hike
- •Live commentary by the onboard geologist
Day 10
Svolvaer, Lofoten Islands & Cruising Trollfjorden
Morning in Svolvaer, a hub of art, fishing heritage, and northern culture. In the afternoon, SH Vega enters Trollfjorden — a narrow, steep-walled fjord accessible only to small expedition ships. It is one of the most dramatic navigational moments of the voyage.
- •Walking exploration of Svolvaer
- •Viking Museum & Borg Church visit (optional)
- •Ship cruise through Trollfjorden with live commentary
- •Farewell evening onboard
Day 11
Reine, Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands rise sharply from the sea — a world of jagged peaks, fishing cabins, and deep fjords. Vaeroy provides raw coastal drama; Reine, often called one of the most beautiful villages in Norway, feels like a postcard brought to life.
- •Zodiac landings in remote island areas
- •Walking tours through fishing villages
- •Landscape photography in long Arctic daylight
Day 12-13
Tromso, Norway
Your expedition concludes in Tromso, the gateway to Arctic exploration. Mountains, museums, and seafaring history mark the end of the route and the beginning of new travel memories.
- •Morning disembarkation
- •Free time in Tromso depending on travel plans
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 iconic Arctic wildlife along your journey — from puffin-filled cliffs north of Iceland to the seabird colonies of Grímsey and Hrisey, and the marine life that inhabits Norway’s fjords and coastal waters.
Atlantic puffin
Humpback whale
White-tailed eagle
Wildlife
Encounter iconic Arctic wildlife along your journey — from puffin-filled cliffs north of Iceland to the seabird colonies of Grímsey and Hrisey, and the marine life that inhabits Norway’s fjords and coastal waters.
Atlantic puffin
Humpback whale
White-tailed eagle
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.
Our ice class vessels — SH Minerva, SH Vega, and SH Diana — are designed for every latitude, from the Arctic and Antarctica to warm water coasts of Africa and Latin America, and islands of Asia Pacific, delivering the same Nordic elegance, serenity, and comfort wherever the voyage leads.
Swan Hellenic
Best in Antarctica
Swan Hellenic
Best Value for Money
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.
Our ice class vessels — SH Minerva, SH Vega, and SH Diana — are designed for every latitude, from the Arctic and Antarctica to warm water coasts of Africa and Latin America, and islands of Asia Pacific, delivering the same Nordic elegance, serenity, and comfort wherever the voyage leads.
Swan Hellenic
Best in Antarctica
Swan Hellenic
Best Value for Money
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.
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.
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.