16 Sep 2015
DOWNERS GROVE – At the top of the world sits an expanse of ocean bounded by volcanic islands and fjords studded with glaciers; where remote shores still ruled by the polar bear give way to legendary passages conquered by an adventurous few. In 2016, Abercrombie & Kent will retrace the routes taken by the indomitable Vikings as they made their way across the Atlantic, toward North America on Iceland & Greenland: In the Wake of the Vikings. In addition to the new offering, A&K is bringing back a guest favorite that has sold out for the past two years, Arctic Cruise Adventure: Norway, Greenland & Iceland.
On the 12-day Iceland & Greenland: In the Wake of the Vikings, explore the volcanically active Westman Islands, also known as “Mount Fire,” and home to abundant colonies of the Atlantic puffin and Eldfell. Cross the Denmark Strait to Greenland, to follow the same course plotted in 982 by Norwegian exile Erik Thorvaldsson, better known as Erik the Red. Leading a fleet of settlers from Iceland to Greenland, he established two settlements on the icy land mass. “Erik called the place Greenland to make it sound attractive,” says Bob Burton, author, award-winning researcher and A&K lecturer on Arctic history.
Spend a day cruising the Skjoldungen Fjord, boasting glaciers fed directly from the Greenland ice cap, some spanning more than 2,500 feet wide and up to 140 feet high. Cruise along Greenland's southern tip, landing by Zodiac among icy fjords, and venturing into Prince Christian Sound, which connects the Southern Atlantic with the Labrador Sea. Following the Viking Trail, visit Eriksfjord on Greenland's Southwest coast, where Erik the Red had a farm, and nearby Brattahlíð, site of the first Christian church in the western hemisphere. Explore Hvalsey Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered southern Greenland's largest and best preserved Norse site and Narsaq, a colorful village pre-dated by its ancient Norse roots that date back to AD 1000.
“We've designed this Arctic cruise as a dedicated Photographic Expedition, not only because of the well-preserved archaeological sites, but also the striking contrasts between the geology of Iceland's volcanic Westman Islands and Greenland's iceberg-stacked Skjoldungen Fjord,” explains Bob Simpson, vice president of operations & small ships for Abercrombie & Kent.
Based on continued interest, Abercrombie & Kent will also offer Arctic Cruise Adventure: Norway, Greenland & Iceland. Stunning wildlife, geological features and history — take it all in on this comprehensive Arctic voyage from Spitsbergen to the region's most remote and magnificent islands. Discover polar bears in their natural habitat on the Svalbard archipelago; witness Kejser Franz Joseph Fjords and Scoresby Sound in Greenland; and explore one of Iceland's first villages (Grundarfjördur), followed by views of the extinct Snaefellsjokull volcano, setting of Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth.
Hands-On Exploration with the Finest Guides
Shore excursions in the high Arctic are designed to educate and inspire, with a carefully-selected team of naturalists, geologists, historians, marine biologists, ornithologists and photographers -- experts who give enriching lectures and provide hands-on guidance both on board and on shore, ranging from the practical (how to master your digital camera) to the personal. With a guide-to-passenger ratio of 1:12, A&K guests can expect personalized attention. Each A&K Zodiac driver is a certified field naturalist who provides knowledgeable commentary on the twice-daily excursions into the heart of this once-in-a-lifetime destination.
Butler Service Completes Perfect Blend of Luxury and Adventure
A voyage to the end of the earth does not mean forsaking creature comforts. A&K delivers its legendary blend of luxury, adventure and personalized service including, for the first time, a personal butler for cabin categories 6-8. From organizing private cocktails to making spa appointments, this attentive butler responds to every need, quickly and efficiently.
The elegant guest quarters aboard MV 'Le Boreal' are among the most spacious and comfortable on any Arctic adventure cruise, with a choice of bedding configurations, including two-room, two-bath suites to accommodate families. By exclusively chartering 'Le Boreal', A&K limits the number of guests to no more than 199, guaranteeing each stateroom and suite has a private balcony to appreciate the wildlife and the midnight sun at any hour. Common areas invite casual conversation with fellow passengers and the expedition staff, as well as space for private reflection in quiet corners.
A technologically-advanced stabilizing system minimizes the effect of rough seas. MV 'Le Boreal' has an ice rating which exceeds that required for these demanding conditions and is equipped with the latest navigation, communications and safety equipment, including a GMDSS emergency communication system and a satellite weather system that receives real-time images of weather and ice conditions.
MV 'Le Boreal' is environmentally-friendly, with cutting-edge technology that includes the most up-to-date waste water system, recycling facilities, and other measures designed to ensure that the ship operates with minimal impact on the environment. Zodiac boats are equipped with fuel efficient 4-stroke engines that meet the strictest environmental standards. The ship has been “Cleanship” certified by the Bureau Veritas. This label is given to ships whose design and equipment limit emissions and go beyond the MARPOL convention for waste treatment, antifouling and propulsion systems.
For additional details on Iceland & Greenland: In the Wake of the Vikings (Aug 16-27, 2016; 12 days from $10,495 when you book by Oct. 31, 2015) and Arctic Cruise Adventure: Norway, Greenland & Iceland (Aug 2-16, 2016; 15 days from $13,495 when you book by Oct. 31, 2015), contact your travel professional, go to www.abercrombiekent.com or call 800 554 7094 to speak to an A&K Travel Consultant.
# # #
Prices are per person, double occupancy
About Abercrombie & Kent
Abercrombie & Kent pioneered luxury adventure travel with our first African safaris in 1962, and today our award-winning travel services extend around the globe to more than one hundred countries on all seven continents. A&K's custom itineraries and small-group journeys offer one-of-a-kind inspiring experiences, while our 50 on-site offices ensure invitation-only access to the people and places that make every destination unique. Join the world of A&K by following us on Facebook and Twitter: @AKTravel_USA.
