Welcome to Aurora Expeditions’ Iceland: Circumnavigating the Land of Fire and Ice Discovery Voyage. On this adventure, where we plan to circumnavigate Iceland, a country often described as ‘the land of fire and ice,’ where snow-capped peaks rise above glaciers and active volcanoes rumble. We explore the Westfjords, one of the remotest and most pristine regions in Iceland—ideal for nature hikes and sea kayaking. We amble along black sand volcanic beaches, cross over the Arctic Circle to Grímsey Island to stretch our legs on hikes and discover cliffs teeming with seabirds. Our team of experts will interpret this fascinating country— one of the world’s youngest. It’s a land of spectacular geology that is rich in wildlife, culture and human history.
Note: In order to experience some of the incredible scenery of Iceland, a number of the shore excursions on this itinerary require coach travel away from the coast.
- Witness the incredible diversity of Iceland’s landscapes forged by the powerful seismic activity that has shaped the island’s appearance and way of life of the people.
- Visit Grimsey Island, located above the Arctic Circle, and features impressive cliffs teeming with nesting seabirds including charismatic puffins.
- Discover Seydisfjordur, a hidden gem on Iceland’s east coast.
- At Eldeheimar Museum on Heimay Island, learn the stories of the 1973 eruption that affected over 5,000 locals.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Having made your way to Reykjavik, you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to our group hotel. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality area where you can leave your luggage and enjoy refreshments if arriving prior to 4pm. Whilst here you can collect your luggage cabin tags speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash or purchase last minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket.
The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.
Accommodation: The Grand Hotel Reykjavik (or similar)
This morning, please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Your luggage will be collected from your hotel and transferred directly to the port for clearance and delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.
Today we follow the path of one of Reykjavik’s most popular seismic attractions – the Golden Circle. Stops along our route include Thingvellir National Park, accredited as the site of Iceland’s first parliament. A shaky start to the new nation, it is also the point where the Eurasia and North American tectonic plates meet as an open fissure. Our next stop is Gullfoss waterfall. This impressive water feature tumbles 34 meters into the Hvítá River, offering a popular photographic opportunity. Next we explore the geothermal fields and geysir’s for which Iceland is famous. The variety of hot springs and bubbling pools are mesmerising as the sheer capacity of water and steam erupting from the ground makes you ponder just how much power is beneath your feet. Late afternoon we return to Reykjavik to board the Greg Mortimer.
After boarding, there’s time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings before we ‘throw the lines’ to begin our Greenland adventure. This evening, meet your expedition team and crew at the Welcome Dinner.
Arnarstapi is the starting point of our adventures on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, gateway to Snæfellsjökull National Park. Snaefellsnes Peninsula is an area of diverse landscapes that is characterised by lava fields and glistening fjords and home to a vast array of birdlife. The area is crowned by the magnificent, ice-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano, a 700,000-year-old dormant subglacial volcano, visible from Reykjavik on a clear day and immortalised in Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the Earth.
Personalise your expedition with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences that best suits your interests and level of fitness.
Option 1 - Highlights of Snaefellsness
Duration: 8 hours including lunch
Level of difficulty: Easy-Moderate (dependent on fitness)
Our first stop will be the dramatic black pebble beach of Djúpalónssandur, where you can marvel at the black sands and colossal rock formations, volcanic landscapes, and remains of a 1948 shipwreck. Next, you'll visit Búðir, a picturesque hamlet surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Stop to admire Búðakirkja, the 19th-century church, and explore the area before enjoying lunch at Hotel Búðir. The restaurant is renowned for its fresh and local food, sourcing fresh ingredients directly from local farmers and fishermen. At the conclusion of lunch, re-join the coach to travel to Snæfellsjökull National Park, encompassing a large area of Snæfellsnes Peninsula's western tip. For the more active, explore some incredible hiking trails, or simply enjoy your drive through the park and take in the beauty that surrounds you. Concluding your day, we continue to the iconic Mount Kirkjufell, a favourite among photographers and known to many as a filming location for the TV show "Game of Thrones." Not far from this majestic mountain is a waterfall that completes the picturesque scene.
Option 2 - Natural Wonders of Snaefellsnes
Duration: 8 hours including lunch
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Upon disembarkation, we will hike the coastal trail that connects the two villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar (2 hours). Now a National Reserve, this easy level hike encompasses geology, wildlife, amazing photo opportunities, folklore and most of all adventure. This old trail takes us along the wild shoreline with a view of the ocean and extraordinary columnar basalt and lava cliff formations on one side and stunning mountains and Snæfellsjökull Glacier on the other. The cliffs are alive with a wide range of bird species such as the Arctic Tern, the kittiwakes, gulls and fulmars. Next, you'll step into the 8,000-year-old Vatnshellir Cave, replete with stunning geology, fascinating rock formations, and colourful volcanic rock. We will meet at our base near the cave, where your friendly guide will provide you with all the equipment that you need, including a helmet and headlamp (we strongly recommend that you wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, as the volcanic rock can be quite difficult to traverse). Then your friendly guide will give you a brief safety talk before we descend the spiral staircase into this subterranean wonderland. The tour meanders through the path of the lava flow around 200 meters into a large cave that lies around 35 meters beneath the surface of the earth, where we will be greeted by some rainbow-coloured volcanic rocks and incredible petrified lava formations. The cave is a fairly easy walk, although it will involve a degree of climbing (you must be able to participate in prolonged stair climbing). Following lunch, re-join the coach and travel to the iconic Mount Kirkjufell, a favourite among photographers and known to many as a filming location for the TV show "Game of Thrones." Not far from this majestic mountain is a waterfall that completes the picturesque scene.
Option 3 - Snaefellsnes Adventure
Duration: 8 hours including lunch
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
The Land of Fire and Ice is well-known for its incredible landscapes and contrasting terrains that include several natural and geological wonders rarely found anywhere else on Earth. The unique geological history of Snæfellsnes will draw you in where you can explore sites revealing Iceland's unique geological history up close. Your first stop is at the Pufubjarg bird cliff, home of nesting puffins and fulmars. From here, hike along the rugged coastline to witness the exceptionally beautiful Londrangar basalt cliffs, a geologic wonder that looks like a huge rock castle. There are many local birds here, and they are a noisy bunch. Puffins, but especially fulmars, nest in the many cavities in the two pillars. From here you hike across a pretty lava field covered in moss to Malarrif, where you can see the lighthouse and explore the beach. Following an early lunch, re-join the coach and head for Eldborg crater, located on a short volcanic rift, just 200 metres in diameter, and 50 metres deep. It is the largest crater on this rift and was created in an eruption which occurred somewhere between 5000 and 6000 years ago. Unlike many of Iceland’s volcanoes, it has a very classic shape, with smooth sloping sides and a very definite crater. A marked hiking path leads through a shrub-covered lava field to the top of the crater offering incredible views of Snaefellsnes National Park. Concluding your day, we continue to the symmetrical, hexagonal-shaped basalt columns at Gerðuberg Cliffs. Stand in awe at these impressive cliffs, a natural marvel that spans 500 metres. To enjoy the best view, take a walk by the structures. Climbing up the cliff is possible but to really soak in the views of this geological structure, it's best to enjoy a walk alongside the cliffs.
Over the next three days, we explore the Westfjords region featuring outstanding landscapes with jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer table mountains that plunge into the sea and pristine North Atlantic vegetation.
At Patreksfjörður, a shore excursion by coach takes us to Látrabjarg cliffs. As Europe’s largest bird cliff, Látrabjarg is home to millions of seabirds, such as puffin, razorbill, fulmar and guillemot. Enjoy the impressive variety of natural wonders and unspoiled nature. Látrabjarg also happens to be the westernmost point in Europe, east coast of the North American continent on the other side of the Atlantic.
Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the afternoon as we cruise northward, taking in breathtaking landscapes and keeping a watchful eye for whales. Later, we'll embark on a Zodiac landing to witness the awe-inspiring power of Dynjandi waterfall.
Thingeyri, a quaint village nestled on a slender strip of land, graces the shores of one of Iceland's most picturesque fjords, Dýrafjörður. Much like many other coastal settlements in Iceland, the village's culture and industry have been intricately woven with the influence of the sea over centuries. The surrounding landscape is adorned with towering mountains, lending a distinctive charm to the scenic expanse that envelops Thingeyri. This idyllic region is often hailed as the "Alps of the Westfjords," especially the highland area nestled between the majestic fjords of Dýrafjörður and Arnarfjörður. The beauty of Thingeyri lies not only in its coastal simplicity but also in the dramatic backdrop of high mountains that paints a captivating portrait of this Icelandic village.
Personalise your expedition with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences that best suits your interests and level of fitness.
Option 1 - That Viking Thing Experience
Duration: 2 hours + free time
Level of difficulty: Easy
Today you will step back in time and learn about the Viking ways and how the hardy Norse people lived off the land. Walk through a recreated Viking area, learning about what is fact and what is fiction in the many stories you've heard about the famous Vikings. A short hike brings you to the old ruins of the Viking meeting place called a Thing - the closest translation in English is 'parliament.' Step inside the interactive Viking Museum for a chance to dress up in authentic hand-sewn Viking clothing, take photographs, drink Icelandic Viking beer, bake your own Viking bread, and explore the museum - all part of learning more about Viking ways.
Option 2 - Sandafell Mountain Hike
Duration: 3 hours
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Difficult (dependent on fitness level)
For avid explorers, Iceland is littered with hidden gems, and possibly the best-kept secret of all is the Westfjords. Lying in the most north-westerly area of the island, this sprawling area of natural beauty is truly a hiker’s paradise. Rocky peaks, deep crevices, and charming Icelandic towns all add to the appeal of the Westfjords, not to mention the various hiking trails snaking across the unusual countryside. Today we will hike Sandafell, offering gorgeous views over the town, surrounding mountains and the water below.
Picturesque Akureyri is Iceland’s second largest city outside the capital area and is blessed with a superb snow-capped mountain backdrop.
Personalise your expedition with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences that best suits your interests and level of fitness.
Option 1 - Góðafoss, Lake Mývatn & Baths
Duration: 8 hours including lunch
Level of difficulty: Easy
Our first stop will be the Goðafoss waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. There is a 400-metre trail, easy and mostly flat, approximately 10 minutes to get to the main viewpoint. Next, you'll visit Lake Mývatn and explore the area. At the conclusion of lunch, re-join the coach to travel to Mývatn Nature Baths. Drawing on a centuries-old tradition, the tastefully designed complex offers bathers a completely natural experience that begins with a relaxing dip amidst clouds of steam rising up from a fissure deep in the Earth´s surface and ends with a luxurious swim in a pool of geothermal water drawn from depths of up to 2,500 metres / 8,200 feet.
Option 2 - Góðafoss, Lake Mývatn & Dimmuborgir
Duration: 8 hours including lunch
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Our first stop will be the Goðafoss waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. There is a 400-metre trail, easy and mostly flat, approximately 10 minutes to get to the main viewpoint. Next, you'll visit Lake Mývatn’s Skútustaðagígar pseudo craters. Wander the marked walking paths through the area. You can easily walk around the bowl-like landmasses or take a hike to reach the top for a magnificent view of the scenic surroundings. At the conclusion of lunch, re-join the coach to travel to Dimmuborgir, an area strewn with enormous lava rocks and cliffs. The formation of these extraordinary lava cliffs and pillars are the result of molten lava flowing over a pond in the eruption of Lúdentsborgir and Þrengslaborgir some 2,300 years ago. The most famous of these formations is "The Church", aptly named, as this is a cave, open at both ends and with a dome-like ceiling.
Option 3 - Hverfjall Volcanic Crater Hike, Dimmuborgir & Dettifoss
Duration: 8 hours including lunch
Level of difficulty: Strenuous
Our first stop will be Dimmuborgir, an area strewn with enormous lava rocks and cliffs. The formation of these extraordinary lava cliffs and pillars are the result of molten lava flowing over a pond in the eruption of Lúdentsborgir and Þrengslaborgir some 2,300 years ago. The most famous of these formations is "The Church", aptly named, as this is a cave, open at both ends and with a dome-like ceiling. From here walk up the steep slopes of Hverfjall Crater and around the crater’s rim for otherworldly and awesome views of the surrounding landscape. This is a 9km loop trail and takes approximately 3 hours or 3.5 hours to include walking around the rim. At the conclusion of lunch, re-join the coach to travel to Dettifoss waterfall in northeast Iceland and is reputed to be the most powerful waterfall in Europe. The falls are 100 metres / 328 feet wide and have a drop of 44 metres / 144 feet down to the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon.
In the late afternoon, we reboard our vessel in Húsavík, the whale watching capital of Iceland.
Located approximately 40 km (25 miles) off the mainland, Grímsey is a verdant grassy island, probably best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts across the island. Many people travel to Grímsey just to say they have stepped across the imaginary line. With a tiny population of approximately 100 inhabitants, it’s a fantastic place for Zodiac cruising, kayaking, and photographing seabirds such as guillemots, gulls and puffins.
Leaving Grímsey to return closer to the mainland, we spend time scanning the waters of Skjálfandi Bay around Húsavik, a town known as the Iceland’s ‘whale watching capital’, home to up to 24 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 variety of birds. The largest animal on earth, the blue whale, has also been spotted in Skjálfandi Bay, and if you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of this magnificent creature as well as others, such as orcas, fin whales and pilot whales.
In the afternoon, we spend some time exploring Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque fishing village that is renowned for its charming collection of colourful wooden buildings located around the lagoon. Take a stroll around town and discover the timber houses that are remnants from when the Norwegians settled here and established the herring fishing facilities from 1870-1900. From the valley above the town, the river Fjardara tumbles down in beautiful cascades to the lagoon. There are a number of delightful hiking trails to explore, or alternatively, you can discover a flourishing cultural scene with an arts centre, the famous blue church that stages music concerts and the only two cinemas in the east of Iceland. Back in town, browse the stores where you will discover handicrafts by local artists and artisans – perfect as a souvenir or gift.
In Iceland’s east, we disembark in Djúpivogur, our gateway to Vatnajokull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier.
Personalise your expedition with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences that best suits your interests and level of fitness.
Option 1 - Waterfalls, Glacial Lagoons & Hot Tubs
Duration: 10 hours including driving to/from Djúpivogur
Level of difficulty: Easy
Maximum numbers: 60 (2 x 30)
Your first stop is at Fossárfoss, a waterfall surrounded by majestic mountains with spectacular views. The layered basalt flow formations that surround the area offer a striking contrasting vista making this a favourite location among photographers. From here we depart for Vatnajokull National Park, one of the most famous natural attractions in the world. Explore the astonishing and exotic natural beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon by four-wheeled Amphibian boat. Here we observe giant icebergs float slowly towards the ocean from the glacier.
Following lunch, re-join the coach and head for Diamond beach, a black sand beach where the icebergs are washed ashore, and Fjallsárlón lagoon, renowned for the shimmering icebergs that float in its waters. Concluding our day, we continue to the geothermal hot tubs in Hoffell, perfect for a nice, relaxing soak with an otherworldly view.
Option 2 - Wonders of Vatnajokull National Park & Canyon Hike
Duration: 9 hours including driving to/from Djúpivogur
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Maximum numbers: 40
Your first stop is at Fossárfoss, a waterfall surrounded by majestic mountains with spectacular views. The layered basalt flow formations that surround the area offer a striking contrasting vista making this a favourite location among photographers. From here we depart for the dramatic Múlagljúfur Canyon, a true hidden gem ideal for hiking. Here we navigate through overgrown bushes, small river streams, and different trails along the rim of the canyon. Find yourself marvelling at the panoramic views of Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon, picturesque mountains, vibrant textures, and intriguing rock formations. Following lunch, re-join the coach and head for Vatnajokull National Park, one of the most famous natural attractions in the world. Explore the astonishing and exotic natural beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon by foot. Here we observe giant icebergs float slowly towards the ocean from the glacier. Re-join the coach for Diamond beach, a black sand beach where the icebergs are washed ashore.
Note: Múlagljúfur Canyon Hike is 3.8km (2.35 miles) one way and approximately 3 hours duration. Terrain – 315 metre elevation with a narrow unpaved trail with two small river crossings, very easy to cross.
Option 3 - Falljökull Glacier Hike
Duration: 9 hours (4 hours on the glacier)
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
Maximum numbers: 45
Your first and only stop today is at Falljökull, one of the most impressive outlet glaciers of the Vatnajökull ice cap and a once in a lifetime experience. We will take an inspiring walk along a winding path through the glacier's dramatically changing landscape. Arriving at the tongue of the glacier, we will have your crampons ready and waiting for you. With your knowledgeable guide leading the way, you will soon be exploring impressive terrain, walking through a wonderland of ice formations and brilliant blue colours. Following a hard-earned late lunch, re-join the coach and depart for the ship in Djúpivogur.
Note: Falljökull Glacier Hike equipment provided - ice axe, crampons, harness and helmet. The minimum shoe size to attach crampons is EU 35 (boots can be hired at additional cost if necessary). Requires a higher level of fitness and agility as you will be on your feet for a long period of time (4 hours) and the terrain is challenging. Please note the transfer to and from the ship and Falljökull Glacier is 3 hours each way, so come prepared with a book or enjoy the magnificent scenery and a nice nap enroute.
Enjoy a morning and lunch onboard, searching for whales and seabirds. Our team of experts entertains us with informative talks.
Located off Iceland’s south coast, the Westman Islands were formed by volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. Westman Islands are surrounded by 15 other uninhabited islands and around 30 rocks and skerries offering refuge for rich array of seabirds. Westman Islands are considered to have the largest Atlantic puffin colony in the world, and when sailing around the islands it is not uncommon to see puffins but also whales and seals.
Personalise your expedition with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences that best suits your interests and level of fitness.
Option 1 - Eldheimar Volcano Museum & Puffin Viewing
Duration: 3 hours
Level of difficulty: Easy
Located off Iceland’s south coast, the Westman Islands were formed by volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. Heimaey is the main island in the archipelago, with a population of around 4,200. Various catastrophes have befallen the island of Heimaey and its inhabitants throughout history. Probably the most tragic incident was the volcanic eruption in 1973. Visit a unique volcano museum that tells the story of the Heimaey volcanic eruption, the emergence of Surtsey Island in 1963, and the geology of the Westman Islands.
We'll continue our drive to Stórhöfði cape for some puffin watching, offering ample photo opportunities to capture shots of the charming little birds. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore the island if time permits.
Option 2 - Eldheimar Volcano Climb & Museum
Duration: 3 hours
Level of difficulty: Difficult
Learn more about the geology and volcanology of Iceland during a two-hour hike up a volcano. Reaching the summit, you can still feel the warmth emanating from its subterranean activity. At the end of the hike, you visit a unique volcano museum that tells the story of the Heimaey volcanic eruption, the emergence of Surtsey Island in 1963, and the geology of the Westman Islands. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore the island if time permits.
Sail past Surtsey Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site that emerged from the sea in 1963 and is one the youngest land masses on earth.
During the early morning, we cruise into Reykjavik and disembark at approximately 8.00 am. Farewell your Expedition Team and fellow passengers as we all continue our onward journeys. Transfer to Keflavik airport.
Note: At the conclusion of the voyage, we recommend booking flights departing after 12.00 pm on the day of disembarkation in case there are delays.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Greg Mortimer
| Length | 104 metres |
|---|---|
| Launched | 2019 |
| Passengers | 132 |
Capable of negotiating the strongest winds and waves, the Greg Mortimer is built to world-class polar standards – designed in close consultation with our expedition specialists, taking advantage of our more than 25 years of experience.
The Greg Mortimer redefines expedition cruising for the future, with just 132 passengers on board in the polar regions. Not only is the ship bigger to contend with adverse weather conditions, its added creature comforts make for a more enjoyable journey out on the open ocean. The Greg Mortimer remains true to our ethos and focus on multiple landings, flexible itineraries and family atmosphere – just with an improved home base!
As a modern and custom-designed ship, the Greg Mortimer is at the cutting edge of nautical technology. Robust, powerful and built with our guests in mind, this ship marks a significant investment in our fleet's capabilities. From the European Arctic to the depths of Antarctica, and other far-flung destinations in-between, the Greg Mortimer will make your journey a breeze!
Greg Mortimer X-BOWX-BOW™
Our expeditions face some of the worst Mother Nature can throw at us. However, this won't be problem on the Greg Mortimer with the introduction of the patented X-BOW™, created by Norwegian ship designer ULSTEIN. As one of the leaders in marine engineering, ULSTEIN's X-BOW™ is an inverted bow concept that's been built on over 100 vessels in the shipping industry. Excitingly, we are the first expedition cruise operator to utilise this technology for the challenging open ocean waves!
Hydraulic viewing platforms
Although there is no doubt that you'll love the aesthetics of the Greg Mortimer, we are all here to admire the spectacular landscape and spot the elusive wildlife in their natural habitat. To ensure you get the best views possible, the new ship features unique viewing platforms, custom-built for the Greg Mortimer. Accessed from Deck 5, the two platforms fold out hydraulically for unobstructed views of passing marine life and seabirds – make sure your camera is locked and loaded!
Zodiac launching platform
Zodiacs are a vital part of getting up close and personal on your adventure – sneaking into areas that the Greg Mortimer can't reach. On this new ship, there are specially designed launching platforms that enables us to load Zodiacs easily and quickly, allowing you to spend more time exploring on the two to three daily landings. There are 15 Zodiacs that are boarded from either side of Deck 3 (sea level), perfect for when there is a group of fluffy cute penguin chicks that we need a photo of!
Activity Platform
Regardless of your destination, we offer a number of additional activities to allow you to see more of the environment. From kayaking and diving to climbing and ski touring, it's these optional activities that often leave the biggest impression on your trip as a whole. Onboard the Greg Mortimer, there is a spacious prep and loading platform for these activities and more – designed in consultation with our expert activity guides.
Environmentally friendly
Climate change and carbon emissions continue to be major issues that everyone needs to be aware of and actively managing. This includes reduced emissions into the air and sea, lower energy consumption, high fuel efficiency, reduced light pollution for minimal wildlife disruption and lower on-board plastic use. It's vital to also mention the state-of-the-art virtual anchoring technology of the X-BOW™, which means the ship can float anchorless while launching Zodiacs, kayaks etc, without disturbing delicate sea floor areas.
Safety features
This starts with the return-to-port equipment – not compulsory on a ship of this size – which duplicates the propulsion system. This enables the ship to maintain operating systems and comfort in the event of engine failure. Furthermore, the Greg Mortimer is Polar Code 6 compliant, holds BV class and is fully compliant with the latest SOLAS requirements. It's also built with a Rolls Royce stabiliser system. If there's an incident or accident during your adventure, the ship has an on-board, fully-stocked medical centre – where our trained medical team can provide necessary treatment in a timely fashion. Safety continues to be an issue that our team takes very serious and the Greg Mortimer allows us to create an environment where you can concentrate on the brilliant landscape and wildlife, without worrying about your wellbeing.
Ship Life
Greg Mortimer is designed to serve your every need. It's your bedroom, bathroom, lounge, dining room and even your observatory. Make yourself at home, the Greg Mortimer is yours to enjoy!
Observation Points
Let's face it – you don't want windowless rooms when travelling around some of the most beautiful locations around the world. This is why the Greg Mortimer is designed with plenty of dedicated observation spaces – ideal for keen bird spotters, wildlife watchers and those wanting to watch the scenery go past. From the indoor 180-degree lounge and outdoor 360-degree open deck, both on deck 8, to the 270-degree open sundeck on level 7, there are plenty of observation points to share around the ship! If these are full, then you can take up a spot on one of the two hydraulic viewing platforms on deck 5. Aurora Expeditions also has an open bridge policy, which means at any point you can come up to the bridge and check out what the captain and officers are up to. From watching navigational practices to observing mapping techniques, you can get a firsthand look at the inner workings of the Greg Mortimer.
Shore excursions
Although the ship is fun, the real enjoyment comes from the many shore excursions that are available. Depending on the weather and itinerary, it's possible to take two to three landings daily, taking a look at everything from rock formations and ancient ruins to cute groups of penguins. We know time is of the essence in these wild locations, so the Greg Mortimer has been designed with 15 Zodiacs, which means you can maximise your time on shore. From four dedicated sea level launching platforms, transfers are quicker, safer and enable you to get closer to the action for a longer period of time. Just remember to charge your camera before you step onto the Zodiac!
Activity options
From kayaking and skiing to diving and climbing, these are one-in-a-lifetime opportunities that you need to take advantage of. Aboard the Greg Mortimer there is a specially designed launching platform for all activities, a concept overseen by our activity experts. This area also includes individual lockers in the expansive mudroom and rapid drying areas for wetsuits so you can quickly get warm after exploring in the elements!
Dining
From the moment you step onto the Greg Mortimer, we aim to give you the best hospitality service possible. Starting with the official Captain's welcome, as our guests, you're welcome to 24 hours complimentary coffee, tea and snack facilities in addition to the range of different menu options and courses for each meal. Meals are served in large dining room/restaurant with family style dining, perfect to swap stories with your new expedition family. Enjoy the range of house wine, beers and soft drinks included with dinner after a long day in the wild, preparing yourself for another exciting day to follow. On the last day of your trip, the team on the Greg Mortimer put on a special farewell four-course dinner and cocktails – a perfect way to reflect on your time on the ship and consolidate lifelong friendships with the people you've met on-board.
On-board entertainment
When you’re relaxing during a sea day or you have a little downtime on the ship between excursions, what is there to do onboard the Greg Mortimer? Plenty! On all our expeditions, there are experts who lead presentations in the spacious lecture room so you can understand the region a little better. These often include topics as broad as history and culture to biology and climate change, these presentations aim to educate and entertain. If you're keen to just watch the surroundings and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, you have access to two bars/lounges where the stunning floor to ceiling windows offer a special perspective on the landscape. The Greg Mortimer is also decked out with other facilities for your enjoyment. There is a library on Deck 5 with books and maps and a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear! Keen photographers and artists will revel in the multimedia room on Deck 5.
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