Recently, I had the opportunity to experience something truly exceptional — a small-ship expedition cruise from Reykjavík, Iceland to Oslo, Norway, sailing through some of the most remote and breathtaking parts of the Arctic Circle.
It was more than just a trip. It was a reminder of what travel can feel like when it’s curated with intention, attention to detail, and space to breathe.
A Thoughtfully Designed Journey
From the moment I boarded the ship in Reykjavík, it was clear that this wasn’t a typical cruise. The ship felt intimate and elegant — more like a private floating retreat than a commercial vessel. Every corner was beautifully designed and calm. My stateroom had floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the open ocean, and I found myself quietly standing there, watching the sea, fully present.
The guest experience onboard was seamless.
From daily briefings and curated excursions to refined dining and wellness spaces, everything was handled with warmth and professionalism. The staff quickly made it feel like home. Every interaction felt personal, not scripted.
Immersive Days in Iceland and Norway
Each day brought something new:
- In Iceland, I explored the dramatic fjords of Ísafjörður and the northern beauty of Akureyri and Seyðisfjörður.
- In Norway, the journey became increasingly cinematic — sailing into Ålesund, kayaking through Nærøyfjord, hiking in Geiranger, and walking the vibrant streets of Bergen and Stavanger.
The excursions were active, immersive, and well-paced. I found myself hiking through UNESCO-listed landscapes one day, and on a high-speed sea safari the next.
There was whale watching, kayaking, 360-degree views from mountaintops, and quiet moments at sea where time seemed to pause completely.
Evenings onboard were peaceful. Dinners were relaxed and social. The ship moved slowly under the polar sun, which at times barely dipped below the horizon.
Special Thanks
This experience was only possible thanks to two people:
- Sebastian from The Polar Travel Company — for helping coordinate everything behind the scenes and making this journey a reality. Your support throughout made all the difference.
- Jason from Atlas Ocean Voyages — for welcoming me on board and delivering a cruise experience that far exceeded expectations. Every detail, from the ship design to the itinerary, felt intentional and elevated.
Final Reflections
This was more than just a scenic voyage — it was a deeply inspiring experience that reminded me why I do what I do. The combination of nature, comfort, and creative freedom was rare, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of it.
Looking forward to sharing the full visual story — and to what’s next.
