Norwegian Fjords & Icelandic Villages with NatGeo+Lindblad

Seeing our National Geographic-Lindblad Expedition ship for the first time in the port pf Tromsø, Norway was spectacular.

The ship arrived early but temporarily moved away from the dock to accommodate large vessels arriving in port. We ultimately boarded around 7:00pm that evening, making the anticipation of beginning our expedition even more memorable.

Before boarding our National Geographic-Lindblad Expedition ship, passengers who arrived for a pre-night stay in Tromsø were provided admission to Tromsø’s Polar Museum. The visit offered an opportunity to learn about early Arctic life, exploration, and the region’s history, providing valuable context for the expedition that was about to begin.

The Ship: The National Geographic Resolution

Open Bridge Policy

One of the unique features about traveling with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is the Open Bridge Policy. Passengers are welcome to visit the bridge throughout much of the voyage, day or night, when conditions permit. It provides an incredible opportunity to observe the officers at work, learn about navigation, ask questions, and experience the expedition from a completely different perspective.

Precision Navigation in the Arctic

The National Geographic Resolution is designed specifically for expedition travel in challenging polar environments. Its advanced navigation, propulsion, and dynamic positioning capabilities allow the ship to maneuver with remarkable precision through narrow fjords, around ice, and near rocky shorelines. Seeing firsthand how closely the ship could safely navigate alongside the steep walls and rocky landscape of the fjords was an impressive demonstration of the vessel’s capabilities as well as the expertise of the bridge team.

Small Ship, Meaningful Connections

With only 138 guests onboard the Resolution, it didn’t take long for familiar faces to become new friends. Whether exploring small villages, stopping at a local cafe, or sharing experiences along the way, the intimate size of the National Geographic Lindblad Expedition ship created a wonderful sense of friendship and camaraderie.

The Onboard Experience

The Ice Lounge & Learning Along the Journey

The Ice Lounge was the heart of many of our onboard experiences aboard the National Geographic Resolution. There we attended presentations and lectures led by members of the expedition team and specialists who helped us better understand the destinations we were exploring. Topics ranged from the Arctic environment and wildlife to the world beneath the water, and landscapes above it, and the history and culture of the places we visited. These sessions added another dimension to the journey, allowing us to better understand and appreciate what we were experiencing firsthand.

Observation Deck Igloos: A Night Under the Arctic Sky

The National Geographic Resolution features two unique glass igloos on the upper deck, offering guests an opportunity to spend a night outdoors while still enjoying the comforts of the ship; it was almost like Arctic glamping at sea. From inside the igloo, we experienced the surrounding landscape and expansive sky through the glass while remaining warm and comfortable. My voyage in June of 2026 coincided with the summer solstice, so my evening view captured just how little darkness we experienced. This was such an unforgettable part of the expedition experience that I can’t recommend highly enough.

Cook’s Nook Zero-Waste Dining Experience

While on the ship, we enjoyed a beautifully presented course from the Cook’s Nook Zero-Waste Dining Experience. This intimate, chef-led tasting showcased creative, sustainable cuisine, transforming ingredients into beautifully crafted dishes while minimizing food waste. The experience demonstrated how sustainability and fine dining can come together at sea.

Exploring Norway, the Faroe Islands, and Iceland

Kayaking through Fjords

Kayaking through one of Norway’s spectacular fjords during my National Geographic-Lindblad expedition was an unforgettable excursion. Surrounded by dramatic mountains, rocky cliffs, crystal-clear water, and incredible scenery, our group paddled together through the peaceful fjord. This photo captures the immersive nature of expedition travel; we experienced the destination not from just the deck of the ship, but from the water, becoming part of the landscape rather than simply seeing it from afar.

Exploring Træna, Norway

One of the things I appreciate most about expedition travel is the freedom to explore while still knowing we are well supported. While exploring on our own terms in Træna, Norway, we would often come across one of our National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions leaders positioned along the route, making sure we were headed in the right direction and being available to answer questions. Once oriented, we were free to wander, explore the community at our own pace, and discover what interested us along the way. It was a wonderful balance of guidance, safety, and independent exploration.

Norland, Norway – WWII Escape Route

One of our excursions took us hiking through the lush forests of Nordland, Norway. During World War II, people traveled through this area as part of their escape route, and markers can still be seen on the trees along the trail. Walking this route while learning its history made this an especially meaningful experience

Faroe Island Villages

A colorful handmade signpost in a small Faroe Island village points visitors toward the church, the statue of Grímur Kamban, a local handicraft shop, and simple treats like soup, coffee and pancakes. It’s a charming glimpse into the welcoming character and everyday life of the Faroese communities we visited during our expedition. The Grimur Kamban reference is particularly interesting because he is traditionally associated with the early Norse settlement of the Faroe Islands, so the photograph has a little history tucked into it as well.

Seyðisfjörður, Iceland

In Seyoisfjorour, Iceland, the colorful Rainbow Street is more than a beautiful pathway – it grew from a community project and has become a symbol of joy, unity, diversity and inclusion. Residents continue to come together to repaint it, keeping both the colors and the tradition alive. This has become one of my favorite photographs from the journey. For me, it captured what I loved about visiting these small communities: experiencing not only the spectacular landscapes, but also how people live, create, celebrate and come together.

It was a beautiful reminder that some of the most meaningful travel experiences are found in the communities and people we meet along the way.

– Debra Westbrooks

Curious about taking a National Geographic + Lindblad Expedition cruise? Contact Expedition Cruise expert Debra Westbrooks to learn more!