An exploration like no other; this one-of-a-kind voyage of discovery heads into the vast landscapes of Eastern Greenland and Iceland’s Westfjords. The only guarantee is a genuine voyage of exploration and adventure. Wild Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord beckons exploration, where glaciers offload icebergs the size of small cities into deep fjords, and where kittiwakes, arctic terns and glaucous gulls plunge the water surface for zooplankton amidst collapsing ice. In ScoresbySund, the largest fjord system in the world, we watch bergs drift silently against autumnal vegetation, revealing arctic hares, musk oxen and elusive ptarmigan. True exploration awaits us.
Witness the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis - dance across Greenland’s night skies
Marvel at the ancient geology of East Greenland - where mountains are painted in stripes by nature’s brush
Feel the power and beauty of Dynjandi waterfall - where cascading waters thunder down a dramatic cliff face
Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.
Having made your way to Reykjavik (REK), you will be met and transferred to your group hotel. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation. The remainder of your day is at leisure.
After a leisurely breakfast, check-out and bring your luggage to our Embarkation Suite. Please place any items required today in your hand luggage as your main bag will be transferred to the ship. Access to our Embarkation Suite includes luggage storage, AE Expeditions staff for voyage and city information and cabin check-in, WIFI, tea, coffee and light refreshments. Alternatively, explore Reykjavik at your leisure before returning to our Embarkation Suite at the designated times for the group transfer to Douglas Mawson.
After boarding, there’s time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings before we ‘throw the lines’ to begin our Iceland and Greenland adventure. This evening, meet your expedition team and crew at the Welcome Dinner.
Today we enter the Westfjords, one of Iceland’s most remote and sparsely populated regions. Ancient glaciers have carved a dramatic world of deep fjords, broad valleys and sheer-sided table mountains that fall towards the North Atlantic. Waterfalls thread down the mountainsides, small farms sit beneath immense cliffs and the winding coastline reveals new perspectives at every turn. As we navigate these sheltered waterways, the Expedition Team will interpret the geology, wildlife and human stories of a landscape that feels wonderfully removed from modern life. Conditions permitting, we travel ashore by Zodiac to visit Dynjandi, the jewel of the Westfjords. This magnificent waterfall tumbles approximately 100 metres (328 feet) down a broad, tiered mountainside, widening like a bridal veil as it descends. A walking trail follows a succession of smaller cascades towards the main falls, offering ever-changing views across Arnarfjörður and the surrounding peaks. Whether you choose to walk towards the base or admire the panorama from below, the scale, sound and setting of Dynjandi make it one of Iceland’s most memorable natural landmarks.
In the Denmark Strait, we cruise towards Greenland. We will be on the lookout for whale blows and the many seabirds that trail our ship, riding in the constant winds.
In our lecture theatre, enjoy informative and entertaining presentations from our experts on topics such as seabirds, wildlife and ice, or catch up on some rest after busy days of travel.
In East Greenland, our itinerary is intentionally open. The Expedition Team will study current ice and weather information, wildlife activity and local guidance before choosing each day’s plan. Landings, Zodiac cruises and community visits remain subject to conditions, permitting, quotas, site availability and local agreements. Our possible range is vast.
Conditions may favour the glacier-lined southern fjords around Tasiilaq, while a more open coast could allow exploration towards Scoresbysund and the great fjord systems farther north. Named places describe the scope of the expedition rather than a promised route, and Ittoqqortoormiit will only be considered when ice, scheduling and community arrangements align.
Wherever we explore, East Greenland’s scale is unforgettable. Icebergs calved from distant glaciers drift through deep waterways beneath mountains banded in pink, orange and purple. Zodiac cruises may take us through sheltered bays and fields of brash ice, while suitable shores offer walks across tundra coloured by the approaching autumn. We remain alert for whale blows, seals and seabirds along the coast.
On land, musk oxen and arctic hare may appear where their range and our route coincide. Wildlife encounters are never guaranteed, but the freedom to pause, change course or remain longer can turn an unexpected sighting into a defining moment. These landscapes hold deep human stories. Archaeological traces and historic remains speak to earlier settlement and exploration, while Greenlandic Inuit knowledge and traditions continue to shape life along the coast. Any community encounter will take place only where it is welcomed and operationally possible.
As darkness returns to the Arctic, we will also watch the night sky. Clear conditions may reveal the aurora borealis shimmering above mountains, fjords and drifting ice—a remarkable complement to the discoveries made during the day.
Polar travel requires a degree of flexibility, and our itinerary can change at short notice. While we'll always aim to visit our planned landing sites, weather and other factors might affect the running order of this trip. Our expert leaders and captain will have the final say.
Occasionally, during extreme weather, we might be unable to land the ship. There is a gym, sauna, and library onboard, so there's plenty to keep you busy.
It goes without saying it's going to get chilly! We recommend appropriate clothing, including waterproof outerwear and base layers - a recommended packing list will be provided beforehand.
It's worth noting that this trip isn't exclusive to Explore, and you'll be travelling with passengers from other companies.
Type B (North American) - Two flat prongs + ground pin
GMT+00:00
Type E/F (European Schuko) - Two round pins + ground contacts
Christianity (Lutheran)
GMT-01:00,GMT-03:00,GMT+00:00
Type K (Danish) - Two round pins + ground pin
There are a variety of optional activities available on board such as kayaking, snowshoeing, camping, amongst others, depending on the voyage. These will often need to be booked and paid for in advance, as places are limited. Please contact the Polar sales team for prices and options on board your voyage.
Parkas
A complimentary parka is provided for you on board the ship and is yours to keep after the voyage. It has a comfortable wind-resistant inner jacket, which is detachable from the waterproof outer shell, and is designed to be worn over your essential base layers.
Gloves
Keeping your hands warm and dry can be a challenge. Thin polypropylene gloves can be worn underneath warm outergloves. This allows you some protection from the cold when removing your gloves to operate your camera etc. We strongly recommend that you bring more than one pair of gloves, in case one gets wet (or lost).
Hat/Cap
Warm, woollen hat/cap to protect your ears, as well as a scarf, neck gaiter or other face protection, such as a balaclava.
Trousers
Water-resistant trousers of coated nylon or, even better, Gore-Tex® are essential for your comfort. They can be worn over your regular clothes to keep you warm and dry. We suggest that you purchase trousers a few sizes larger than you normally wear as you will be wearing them over other clothing. Gore-Tex® or similar fabrics are excellent for keeping out wind and water without trapping excess heat. Rain gear and Gore-Tex® products can be found in any outdoor sport clothing store. In addition to your waterproof trousers, warm ski pants are suggested if you have them. Warm trousers such as jeans, corduroys etc are also good.
Socks
Warm wool socks worn over a thin pair of silk, polypropylene socks should provide enough warmth and insulation for your feet. Bring several pairs of socks, since you will inevitably get your feet wet.
Outer Clothing Woollen, knit or cotton sweaters/tops, polar fleece tops (medium weight), several cotton turtlenecks and T-shirts for layering on and off the ship.
Underclothing
Thermal underwear is highly recommended as it will keep you warm without adding bulk. Most polar travellers prefer a lightweight version.
Complimentary waterproof boots will be supplied on-board. However, if you have extra small or large feet, you are advised to bring your own. Also ensure you take good walking boots and trainers for relaxing.
One main piece of baggage and daypack. Remember you are expected to carry your own luggage so don't overload yourself.
Sunglasses and sun cream
Insect repellant
Personal toiletries
A refilllable water bottle
Books/reading material
Camera and memory cards
Seasickness remedy
The suggested amount is USD $15 per person per day spent on board. Tipping is a personal choice and is purely discretionary.
Named after the legendary Australian geologist and explorer, the\i Douglas Mawson\i0 is designed for polar exploration. Featuring the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW® and purpose-built with enhanced sustainability features, it takes a maximum of 130 guests on board. Guests can enjoy some added comforts such as spacious stateroom cabins, dedicated single cabins, a large mud room with easy boarding access. The ship features a host of amenities to help you connect with your fellow travellers and elevate your time onboard your floating base camp for adventure. After a long day of exploration, head to the back deck for a swim in the heated outdoor pool, find a sun bed to read on, or soak in one of the two Jacuzzis. You can spend time working out in the gym before unwinding in the sauna or resolve to learn something new in the onboard Citizen Science Centre. With multiple observation areas throughout the ship, simply relax in comfort while you keep watch for the passing wildlife and the incredible scenery in front of you.
The lead-in prices on our website are based on triple outward facing, Stateroom cabins. All staterooms have private bathrooms, ample storage, with twin beds. Many of the stateroom categories, have floor to ceiling windows that offer prime observation opportunities around the clock. Additionally, there are private balconies in most of the staterooms, allowing you to watch the world float past and take in the salty air of the open ocean. A full layout of the deck plan can be found under the Polar Ships section on our website. Your confirmed cabin type will appear on your Booking Confirmation, which will be sent on receipt of your deposit payment.
Meals are served in the large, spacious dining room with an open seating arrangement, perfect for swapping stories with your extended expedition family. A range of courses is offered at each meal time and you can enjoy a variety of house wines, beers and soft drinks which are included with your evening meal. Complimentary coffee, tea and snacks are available throughout the day and any additional drinks can be purchased at the fully-stocked bar.
A premium selection of spirits, cocktails, beer, wine and liqueurs are included throughout your voyage.
Meals are served in the large, spacious dining room with an open seating arrangement, perfect for swapping stories with your extended expedition family. A range of courses is offered at each meal time and you can enjoy a variety of house wines, beers and soft drinks are served with your evening meal. Complimentary coffee, tea and snacks are available throughout the day and a premium selection of spirits, cocktails, beer, wine and liqueurs are included throughout your voyage.
All visa information is subject to change. You should confirm all visa related issues with the relevant Embassy prior to departure.
Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.
Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information. You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.
Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both. The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.
Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.
If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking. For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here
Explore can arrange your flights for you, to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.
You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.
We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.
On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.