42-night Exploring Greenland, Labrador Coast & Panama Canal Cruise

Sep 06, 2028 - Reykjavik

The fire, frost and water symbolized by the red, white and blue of Iceland’s flag are manifested in this land. Reykjavik, or Smoky Bay, was so named in 874 A.D. by Ingolf Arnarson when he sighted the numerous hot springs on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. Today this remarkably pollution-free city is wrapped around a sweeping bay and has managed to retain its charming Old-World atmosphere. A pastiche of red-blue-and green-roofed houses together with the tall gray tower of Hallgrim’s Church dominate the skyline. In Old Town, many of the wooden buildings have been lovingly restored and stand side by side with modern timber and concrete structures. There are fine museums and art galleries; historic pubs present activity in late afternoon. The beautiful countryside outside of Reykjavik includes such natural wonders as volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, mountains and spectacular waterfalls.

Sep 07, 2028 - Outer Islands of Heimaey

Sep 07, 2028 - Heimaey

Heimaey, off the coast of Iceland, is one of 15 volcanic Westman Islands - home to "Keiko" the star of the "Free Willy" movies. The island is buzzing with life and there are some truly spectacular sights. The perfectly formed natural harbor area has tall cliffs tenanted by multitudes of puffin, fulmar and guillemot. Sprangan is a cliff where young islanders are taught the rope swinging sport. Herjólfsdalur Valley has ruins of old farmhouses dating back to 650 AD. The western part of the island provides an opportunity to view outer islands. 'Stórhöfdi' has magnificent views over the island and majestic glaciers of mainland Iceland and is home to the island's largest puffin colony. Two volcanoes in Heimaey are 5,000-year-old "Helgafell" (Holy Mountain) and the Eldfell (Mt. Fire), whose history is more recent and which offers a viewpoint. A road through the lava field passes the center of the volcano's crater, the ruins of a house buried in lava, and the main streets. Skansinn wooden church was donated to the people of Islands by Norway to commemorate the millennium of Christianity in Iceland.

Sep 08, 2028 - At Sea

Sep 09, 2028 - Prince Christian Sound

This narrow 70-mile-long channel across the southernmost tip of Greenland is breathtakingly dramatic. Huge glaciers tumble down towards the rugged coast from the Greenland ice cap-exactly the kind of scene that inspired one Greenlandic poet to declare: 'I get dizzy of all this beauty'. A thousand years ago, just north of here at Narsarsuaq, Eric the Red established his farm amid 6,000-foot mountains and glaciers.

Sep 10, 2028 - Prince Christian Sound

This narrow 70-mile-long channel across the southernmost tip of Greenland is breathtakingly dramatic. Huge glaciers tumble down towards the rugged coast from the Greenland ice cap-exactly the kind of scene that inspired one Greenlandic poet to declare: 'I get dizzy of all this beauty'. A thousand years ago, just north of here at Narsarsuaq, Eric the Red established his farm amid 6,000-foot mountains and glaciers.

Sep 10, 2028 - Kangikitsok

Sep 11, 2028 - Qaqortoq

Qaqortoq means "The White Place", and the town is the educational and cultural center of Southern Greenland. The sheep farms give this part of Greenland special character. Qaqortoq has a sculpture park "Stone and Man" made by 18 Nordic sculptors. The result is 24 sculptures and reliefs spread all over town. Greenland's only public fountain is in the town square. The square is the historical part of town, with many buildings from colonial times and a museum concentrating on Greenlandic culture, the Norse period and the history of Qaqortoq. Close to the square is "Brædtet" market where local fishermen and hunters sell the days catch. There are 2 churches in town; "Frelserens" from 1832 and "Gertrud Raschs" from 1973. "Frelserens" hans the lifebuoy and memorial tablet with the names of those missing from M/S Hans Hedtoft, which went down in January 1959. "Gertrud Raschs" has one of Greenlands most beautiful altar pieces made by artist Maria Haagen-Müller.

Sep 11, 2028 - Hvalsey

Hvalsey is the site of Greenland's largest, best preserved Norse ruins. History enthusiasts will be interested in the archaeological history of the region and will want to visit Hvalsey Church, built by Viking settlers, before their disappearance from Greenland in the 15th Century. The church itself is located on a beautiful green hill surrounded by picturesque mountains.

Sep 12, 2028 - Brattahlid

Greenland, the planet’s biggest island, offers one of the world’s most tranquil and beautiful landscapes one can imagine. South Greenland is famous for its verdant hills contrasted by icebergs, friendly locals and fascinating Viking ruins. In Brattahlid visitors can visit the reconstructed home of the first viking to settle in Greenland, Erik the Red.

Sep 13, 2028 - At Sea

Sep 14, 2028 - Nain

Sep 15, 2028 - Nachvak Fjord

Sep 16, 2028 - Eclipse Channel

Sep 17, 2028 - Saglek

Sep 18, 2028 - Hopedale

Hopedale is was originally conceived as a mission station for the Monrovian Brethren in the 18th Century. Today is made up of a church, a few stores, and homes belonging to the local Inuit. At the local museum visitors can learn more about the local culture, and find artifacts left by the Moravians depicting everyday life in a mission as well as medical instruments of the 19th century and a small library.

Sep 19, 2028 - Indian Harbour

Sep 20, 2028 - L'Anse Au Meadow

L'Anse-aux-Meadows is the oldest European habitation site in North America. Led by Leif Eriksson, son of the Eric the Red, the Scandinavian Vikings crossed the North Atlantic in 1000 AD, becoming the first known Europeans to land in North America. Now protected as a national park, the historic site is set on the edge of the Strait of Belle Isle, across from Labrador, in a rough, rocky northern environment. It's a fascinating place, made special by the unobtrusive, low-key approach taken in its development. The Viking settlement includes replicas of sod buildings, complete with smoky scent, and there are also eight unearthed originals of wood and sod. There's an interpretive center to help make sense of things, and some Viking snacks might even be offered. Two-hour tours on a replica Viking ship are also offered.

Sep 21, 2028 - Red Bay

Sep 22, 2028 - Norris Point

Sep 23, 2028 - At Sea

Sep 24, 2028 - Halifax (Nova Scotia)

Halifax is Atlantic Canada’s center of business, research and education. Strong emphasis is placed on cultural diversity, historic restorations and the preservation of heritage and culture. The Halifax Citadel Fortress dominates downtown Halifax. Take a stroll along the waterfront past restored buildings and warehouses of Historic Properties, or a walk in delightful Public Gardens, the oldest Victorian gardens in North America. Halifax’s sister city of Dartmouth lies on the opposite shore and is reached via the oldest saltwater ferry in North America. The spectacular view of Halifax harbor makes the trip worthwhile. Housed in former Dominion Building, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia features Nova Scotia folk art and maritime artists. A two-hour walk will easily show you the major highlights of historic and scenic Halifax. Visit Historic Properties, St. Paul’s Church and Province House, the latter two being the oldest buildings in the city. Granite Springs is rated one of the finest 18-hole golf courses in Atlantic Canada.

Sep 25, 2028 - At Sea

Sep 26, 2028 - At Sea

Sep 27, 2028 - Hamilton

The port of Hamilton is a leading offshore business center and main attractions are the island’s temperate climate, pink sand beaches, pastel homes and bucolic landscapes in this idyllic spot in the Atlantic Ocean. Bermuda is famous for high quality British and European imports along with local artistry which includes cedar candlesticks, coral and seashell products, jewelry and local perfumes. Imported goods include Italian and Scottish woolens, European glass, china and perfumes. Front Street is lined with boutiques and duty-free shops. Although there are few bargains, a wide range of British goods may be found at genuine reductions. The Sessions House was built in 1817 when the government was moved from St. George’s to Hamilton. The Golden Jubilee clock tower was added in 1887. Other historic buildings include the Supreme Court, the Cabinet building, Senate Chamber and the Library. Many natural highlights are in Harrington Sound: the Devil’s Hole, the Crystal and Leamington Caves, the Blue Grotto and Spittal Pond.

Sep 28, 2028 - At Sea

Sep 29, 2028 - At Sea

Sep 30, 2028 - San Juan

San Juan, Puerto Rico, is an old city of cobblestone streets, colonial architecture and shaded courtyards. It reflects its Spanish past in such famous fortresses as El Morro and San Cristobal. San Juan is also a modern world capital -- a cosmopolitan metropolis of wide boulevards, lively cafes and highly regarded shops and galleries. San Juan is two unique destinations -- and you'll be fascinated by them both.

Oct 01, 2028 - At Sea

Oct 02, 2028 - Oranjestad, Aruba

Oranjestad, Aruba is a Dutch jewel with a tropical touch. In Oranjestad, Aruba's capital, explore the colorful floating market and Nassaustraat, brimming with quaint shops. Head for the beach where water sports abound: snorkeling, rides on glass bottom boats and submarines. Or venture into the countryside to see the haunts of the huge green parakeet, the unique rock gardens of Casi Bari, the curious divi divi tree, forever bending in the tradewind breezes.

Oct 03, 2028 - At Sea

Oct 04, 2028 - At Sea

Oct 05, 2028 - Panama Canal

Linking the Atlantic to the Pacific, the Panama Canal provides one of cruising's most unforgettable experiences. Over 10 years were needed to complete the canal's 51 miles in 1914 - so avoiding the lengthy and often dangerous voyage around Cape Horn. 'The Big Ditch' lifts vessels by a fascinating feat of mechanics aided by on-shore 'mule' locomotives through three great locks, traversing man-made lakes, channels blasted through rock, and the dense jungle. Two other special highlights of the canal are Gatun Lake and the Gaillard cut. Gatun Lake is one of the world's largest man-made lakes covering 163 square miles. Gaillard Cut is an 8 mile channel built through solid rock which was the most difficult excavation in the canal construction.

Oct 05, 2028 - Fuerte Amador (Panama City)

For many years this small island, accessible from the mainland by a causeway, was off-limits. A former headquarters of the U.S. Army and Naval Forces, this island is now developing into an upscale destination. Today visitors can enjoy the first class amenities ashore, go shopping in a luxurious new shopping plaza or tour colonial Old Panama.

Oct 06, 2028 - Fuerte Amador (Panama City)

For many years this small island, accessible from the mainland by a causeway, was off-limits. A former headquarters of the U.S. Army and Naval Forces, this island is now developing into an upscale destination. Today visitors can enjoy the first class amenities ashore, go shopping in a luxurious new shopping plaza or tour colonial Old Panama.

Oct 07, 2028 - At Sea

Oct 08, 2028 - At Sea

Oct 09, 2028 - Guayaquil

This tropical city of over two million people spreads out along the banks of chocolate-colored Guayas River, about 12 miles from Gulf of Guayaquil. The river, navigable for the largest of ocean vessels, makes this one of the Pacific's most important and best-protected ports. Visitors find the city itself is primarily valued as a gateway for the Galapagos Island and the rest of the country. Ecuador's scenic capital Quito can be reached via a 45-minute flight from Guayaquil. Lush green hillsides, snow-capped volcano cones and brilliant sunshine combine to make the city a charming surprise. Guayaquil offers a rich and interesting history. The meeting of Bolivar and San Martin is commemorated with the colonnaded La Rotunda facing the river. Other attractions include Colon Park where the city was founded, the Santo Domingo Church and the cemetery, often called the White City. With its elaborate tombs and monuments, this is one of South America's most striking burial grounds.

Oct 10, 2028 - At Sea

Oct 11, 2028 - At Sea

Oct 12, 2028 - Lima (Callao)

Callao is the port of Lima, located six miles from the city center. Among Callao’s attractions is the Real Felipe, a colonial-style fortress built in the 18th century to defend Lima from English and Dutch buccaneers. Today, a visit to Lima may serve as a unique Peruvian experience that offers a glimpse into the Andean world, Spanish tradition and the country’s modern aspects.

Oct 13, 2028 - Lima (Callao)

Callao is the port of Lima, located six miles from the city center. Among Callao’s attractions is the Real Felipe, a colonial-style fortress built in the 18th century to defend Lima from English and Dutch buccaneers. Today, a visit to Lima may serve as a unique Peruvian experience that offers a glimpse into the Andean world, Spanish tradition and the country’s modern aspects.

Oct 14, 2028 - General San Martin

The deep-water General San Martin (Puerto General San Martín) is the largest port between Callao and Matarani, 237 km. south of Lima. Fifteen kilometres down the coast from General San Martin is the bay of Paracas, sheltered by the Paracas peninsula. The peninsula, a large area of coast to the south and the Ballestas Islands are a National Reserve, being one of the best marine reserves, with the highest concentration of marine birds, in the world. From here you can visit the Nazca Lines and Regional Museum of Ica, the Huacachina Lagoon and Ballestas Island.

Oct 15, 2028 - At Sea

Oct 16, 2028 - At Sea

Oct 17, 2028 - At Sea

Oct 18, 2028 - Santiago (Valparaiso)

Santiago, with over four million people, is the fifth-largest city in South America. Standing in a wide plain 1,800 feet above sea level, Santiago boasts a beautiful setting. Snow-capped peaks of the Andes chain provide a dramatic backdrop. Tastefully laid-out public gardens contribute to the beauty of the city. However, Santiago also suffers from horrendous traffic and a high percentage of pollution. The heart of Santiago is the Plaza de Armas, flanked by the cathedral, the archbishop’s palace, the National History Museum and fine arcaded buildings lined with shops. The two-mile-long Avenida O’Higgins is the major thoroughfare, commonly known as the Alameda. There is a splendid view over the city from San Cristobal Hill, crowned by the statue of the Virgin Mary.