Wild Fjords of South Greenland: Land of the Vikings

13 days aboard the Ultramarine, with Quark Expeditions

  • Duration: 13 Days / 12 Nights

  • Itinerary: Wild Fjords of South Greenland: Land of the Vikings

  • Departing/Returning: Reykjavík/Reykjavík

  • Passengers: 199

  • Ship name: Ultramarine

  • Departures:
    July 19th - July 31st, 2025

Dates and Details.

Enjoy an ultra-immersive exploration of Greenland’s serene shores, sailing the icy waters of the rarely traveled southeast coast, traveling down to the lush southern tip, and stopping to visit local communities, Viking sites, and observe imposing glaciers on the south and southeast coasts, which are the featured regions of this voyage. While onboard, guests can take advantage of Ultramarine’s luxurious suites, spa and wellness amenities and incredible wilderness viewing spaces. Ultramarine enables us to offer guests more Adventure Options than any other operator in the Polar Regions.

Trip Description.

  • Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland

    Arrive in the Icelandic capital and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the rest of the day to explore the city on your own.


    Day 2: Embark

    This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead!


    Day 3 & 4: Transit from Iceland to Southeast Greenland

    As we sail across the Denmark Strait, your Expedition Team will teach you about the wildlife and enthralling history of Greenland, its fascinating geology, ecology and climate, and the incredible sights you will soon explore. Staff will also keep watch for the seabirds you’ll likely see soaring around your ship, as well as the whales that can be encountered here.


    Day 5 & 6: Exploring Southeast Greenland

    Your exploration of Greenland begins with South East Greenland, one of the least visited and most remote parts of the island. Your days sailing along the coast will be guided by weather and ice conditions, with each day and each excursion presenting new adventures. The region is a sight to behold, boasting a mesmerizing maze of vast glaciers, steep mountains and breathtaking fjords.

    If you’re feeling even more adventurous, perhaps you’ll treat yourself to an optional paddling excursion (extra cost), an unforgettable opportunity to glide past icebergs and glaciers and capture some photographs from a unique perspective.

    Another possible destination is Lindenow Fjord (Kangerlussuatsiaq), and if conditions are favorable, it’s a great spot for hiking through lush and varied flora, surrounded by epic mountain vistas. This rarely visited deep fjord is fed by a number of glaciers and offers ample opportunities for your camera to get a workout.

    Day 7 & 8: Exploring Southeast Greenland

    Sailing on, we’ll explore Greenland’s fertile southern coast. Nicknamed Arctic Patagonia, this region is as rich in spectacular scenery as it is in history and culture. Here, it’s easy to see why Erik the Red gave Greenland its name: everywhere you look rewards with vistas of icy waters set against a backdrop of soaring mountains and unbelievably lush, green valleys. Scattered around the shores of the fjord systems that dominate the area are several small settlements, both ancient and present day, making South Greenland an ideal place to explore.

    The magical Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), a complex maze of narrow fjords and channels, is a great place for cruising. You’ll explore this stunning sound, home to calving glaciers, jagged mountains and sheer cliffs that plunge dramatically into the water. Sailing through this fjord from the vantage point of your ship or a Zodiac is an exhilarating experience. If conditions allow, venturing ashore provides opportunities for all levels of hiking.

    Steeped in Norse history, the southern coast of Greenland provides plenty of places to learn about this ancient culture. One such landing we hope to make is at Hvalsey (Qaqortukulooq), the site of Greenland’s largest and best-preserved Norse ruins. Exploring the remains of the circa 14th-century church will feel like stepping back in time, as the building appears much as it did when it was abandoned in the 15th century and the surrounding fells and fjord remain similarly untouched.

    The little village of Igaliku, home to about 25 inhabitants, is Greenland’s oldest sheep-farming settlement. It’s a charming place to go ashore, as sheep peacefully graze on the grass, surrounded by bloom-covered rolling valleys and tall mountains. The area is also known for its storied past, as evidenced by the remarkable red sandstone ruins of the Gardar cathedral (the largest church in Greenland in the Middle Ages) and bishop’s residence, which date back to the early 12th century, when Greenland’s first bishop was appointed. Wandering the foundations, excavated in 1926, you’ll get to see a bit of history firsthand as you learn about this interesting relic of the Viking period. Together with four other historic farming communities, Igaliku is part of the newly established UNESCO World Heritage Site Kujataa.

    Day 9 to 11: Exploring West Greenland

    Boasting spectacular glaciers, mountainous landscapes, and vibrant communities, the west coast of Greenland will leave you awestruck. Heading north, each day we hope to take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites, discovering some of the quaint communities dotting the islands and fjords in the region and cruising in some of Greenland’s most picturesque places.

    The west coast is home to Nuuk, the charming Greenlandic capital. You’ll have time to wander the streets of the historic Old Nuuk neighborhood and see the Hans Egede Church and Hans Egede statue near the waterfront, both named after the missionary who founded the settlement. History buffs will want to visit the national museum to view the famous Greenlandic mummies, found under a rock outcrop in 1972 by two brothers who were ptarmigan hunting.

    Day 12: Disembark in Nuuk and fly to Reykjavik for post voyage hotel night

    Enjoy one more Zodiac ride to shore, where you’ll board your charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we will transfer you to your included hotel.

    Day 13: Depart Reykjavik

    Today, you can make your way home at your leisure or spend some time exploring this artistic city.

  • Hiking in the Arctic

    Polar Plunge

    Zodiac Cruising

  • Inclusions 

    •   Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities 

    •   All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program

     •   All shore landings as per the daily program 

    •   Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping 

    •   All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals.) 

    • NEW Free beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner 

    •   Complimentary coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock 

    •   Formal and informal presentations by our  Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled 

    •   A photographic journal documenting the expedition 

    •   A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions •   An official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep 

    •   Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin 

    • NEW Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data-intensive applications.) 

    •   All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program •   All luggage handling aboard the ship 

    •   Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person 

    •   Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax 

    •   Mandatory Transfer Package*


    Exclusions 

    •   International airfare 

    •   Arrival transfers in Reykjavik 

    •   Passport and visa expenses 

    •   Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above 

    •   Meals ashore unless otherwise specified 

    •   Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended 

    •   Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights 

    •   Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned 

    •   Laundry, bar and other personal charges unless specified 

    •   Phone charges may vary by location 

    •   Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew 

    •   Additional overnight accommodation 

    •   Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities



    *MANDATORY TRANSFER PACKAGE INCLUDES: 

    •   One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Reykjavik 

    •   Group transfer from the Reykjavik hotel to the ship on Day 2 

    •   Group transfer from the ship to the Nuuk airport on disembarkation day

    •   Charter flight from Nuuk to Reykjavik 

    •   Group transfer from Keflavik international

     •   One night’s post-expedition airport hotel accommodation in Keflavik 


  • A non-refundable deposit of 25% per person is required within 7 working days of booking.

    Final payment is due at least 90 days prior to the departure date of the expedition

Voyage Map.

Visits to picturesque communities and Viking sites will provide guests with an intimate look into Greenland’s distinct culture and history, while the rugged landscape, highlighted by dramatic fjords, imposing glaciers, towering mountains, verdant valleys and incredible wildflowers will leave you breathless.

On Wild Fjords of South Greenland: Land of the Vikings, spectacular, unspoiled wonders await at every turn.


  • Will we get off the ship?

    Yes!!! After leaving Nuuk, it will be the ultimate goal of the Captain, Expedition Leader, and the Expedition Team to make sure we get off the ship as much as possible.

    We will always do our best to provide you with your first preference of shore excursion; however, we may occasionally need to place you on an alternative excursion for operational reasons.

  • Are there additional taxes and fees?

    The price shown is the "all-in” price after all taxes, fees, port fees, and permits required; which are handled by the tour operator. The only main additional costs will be mandatory travel insurance, optional gratuity, canned beverages and alcohol, and additional activities. See the full list of inclusions/exclusions for more.

  • Do I pay extra if I'm a solo traveler?

    Not necessarily, no! Our trips are usually made up of around 50% solo travelers! Prices are always per person, per bed. If you’re a solo traveler, we will match you with a same-gender roommate from our group to share your cabin with. There is also the option for solo cabin availability on certain trips. Please send us a message about solo cabins if that’s your preference.

Available Add-on Activites

  • Sea Kayaking

    A small group of kayakers will plan to go out multiple times per voyage as an alternative to shore landings or Zodiac cruises. The number of opportunities to kayak is weather dependent, and will be conducted only during calm conditions.

    Prior kayaking experience is required, and you must be able to do a wet exit to participate. Beginners interested in kayaking should consider participating in the Paddling Excursion.
    $1,795 per person (Sold out)

  • Paddling

    If you’re interested in kayaking but would like to try something a bit less demanding than Sea Kayaking, you’re the perfect candidate to sign up for a one-time paddle on our stable sit-ontop kayaks—perfect for anyone with minimal or no kayaking experience. Small groups of passengers will be taken out on calm days, with our expert guides always present to provide instruction and help you connect with the polar sea. Two groups of 10 will be pre-booked, and once successfully completed, any subsequent outings will be offered via lottery on board.

    $295 per person

Pricing


All prices are per person and include all taxes, fees, port fees, accommodation and meals.
Please refer to the full list of inclusions and exclusions for more details.

Save up to 45% on selected cabins!

Explorer Triple

Located on Deck 3 and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 sq. m) in size, this suite has three single beds, two of which can be combined into a double bed, and a picture window. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe,TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors.

was $10,990
now $7,972


Explorer Suite

Located on Deck 3 and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a picture window. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Suites 319 and 322 offer modified layouts and bathrooms for wheelchair accessibility.

was $14,290
now $10,552


Balcony Suite

Located on Decks 4 & 6 and approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 sq. m) balcony*. The balconies in suites 421, 422, 423, and 424 are partially enclosed. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Some suites in this category offer interconnecting rooms.

was $15,690
now $11,572


Terrace Suite

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 350 sq. ft. (32.5 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.3 sq. m) balcony*. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors

was $18,990
now $14,212


Penthouse Suite

Located on Deck 7 and approximately 369 sq. ft. (34 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 67 sq. ft. (6.2 sq. m) balcony *. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.

was $19,690
now $14,812


Deluxe Balcony Suite

Located on Decks 4 & 6 and approximately 299 sq. ft. (28 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 70 sq. ft. (6.5 sq. m) balcony*. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.

was $18,390
now $13,732


Solo Panorama

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 132 sq. ft. (12 sq. m) in size, this cabin has a single bed, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors

was $19,690
now $14,812


Cabins may vary and may not be exactly as depicted. Please consult the deck plan and contact your booking agent for further information.

Ship Details.

Ultramarine was designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to discover new places, and immerse you in the best the region has to offer. Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, it offers the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, and features the category’s most spacious suites, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. It also features a best-in-class operational range and an innovative mix of sustainability features that exceed all industry standards. With all this and more, Ultramarine is perfectly poised to deliver the ultimate polar expedition experience.

  • SHOWERS AND TOILETS

    Each cabin has a private bathroom with shower and heated floors, toilet and wash basin. Shampoo, conditioner and shower gel are provided for your use.


    ELECTRIC CURRENT

    The electrical supply on board is 230 volts, 50 Hz. Passengers coming from the USA and Canada may need to bring a small 230v/110v converter. Before you buy a converter, check your electronics, as most modern cameras, computers and devices are already compatible to use 230/110 volts.

    The electrical outlets found in your cabin and around the ship accept standard European two round pin plugs, so you may need to bring a travel adapter. You’ll also find a USB outlet at each bedside, and some in the public presentation spaces.

    Please be aware that the electricity supply may not be sufficient to power your electronic devices at all times. It is recommended that you check the voltage of your device before plugging it in, as the device may be damaged if the incoming voltage is higher than that for which it is manufactured. Please see www.quarkexpeditions.com/en/terms-and-conditions for more information.


    HAIRDRYERS

    There is a hair dryer included in each cabin.


    BATHROBES

    The bathrobes in your cabins are on loan for you to enjoy for the duration of your expedition.


    VALUABLES

    Please store your valuables in the safe in your cabin. We recommend you travel with as few valuables as possible.


    LAUNDRY

    A complete list of laundry fees will be provided on board. Laundry is collected each morning; please allow 48 hours for your laundry to be returned. Ironing services are also available at a minimal charge. We encourage you to take advantage of the laundry services, as it will mean you can pack fewer articles of clothing. If you prefer to hand wash small items in your cabin, please remember to bring environmentally friendly detergent.



    WATER

    All passengers receive an eco-friendly, reusable water bottle in their cabin upon arrival. There are water filling stations throughout the ship.


    ONBOARD ACCOUNTS

    To make things as stress-free as possible, items you purchase from the Polar Boutique, lounge or bar (including drinks) are charged to your ship account. Cabin charges can also include spa, laundry, postage, communication charges and adventure options booked on board (space permitting). Payments of shipboard accounts are made towards the end of the expedition, at the reception area. The US dollar is the standard currency on board. You can use cash, Visa, MasterCard or American Express credit cards to pay your shipboard account. Personal checks are not accepted.

    Note: If you are sharing a cabin and would like separate accounts, you must advise reception.


    GRATUITIES

    We understand this is a very personal subject and whatever amount you give is at your own discretion. At the end of the voyage you will have the option to charge a gratuity amount to your onboard account, or to place cash in an envelope. Gratuities are shared among our hotel and expedition team members.


    BRIDGE VISITS

    During your voyage you may be given access to the Bridge, where you can observe how the Captain and officers sail and navigate the ship. However, the Captain and Bridge officers do restrict access during arrivals and departures from port and during times of complicated navigation. As the Bridge is On Board Procedures an important working area on the ship, we ask that you keep noise to a minimum to avoid distracting the officers from conducting their jobs efficiently. Understandably, Bridge etiquette includes a ‘no eating, drinking or smoking’ policy.


    DOCTOR

    Quark provides an English-speaking doctor on board who manages a medical clinic stocked with a supply of common prescription medicines and basic first aid equipment. If you are under regular treatment for any ailment, you must bring a sufficient supply of medicine for yourself. We cannot accept responsibility for not having a specific brand or type of drug on board. Should you fall ill, the doctor will refer to the medical forms that you completed and returned to us; therefore it is vital that the information you provide is complete and accurate.


    MAIL (Only available on Antarctic Expeditions)

    Sending polar mail is still a rare and memorable way for loved ones to receive a memento from your voyage. Mail may be posted from the ship and will be charged to your on board account. Please deposit your mail at reception with your cabin number and name noted clearly in the upper right-hand corner of each card or letter.

    If your voyage visits a research base, we may be permitted to leave mail. If we are unable to post the mail during your voyage, staff will attempt to do so on subsequent voyages. Please note, delivery can take many months and cannot be guaranteed.


    STAYING IN TOUCH WHILE ON BOARD

    When you are not busy exploring the natural beauty of the Polar Regions, you may have the ability to make phone calls, check emails and use the internet while on board.Please note that we travel to some of the most remote parts of the world. As we utilize satellite equipment for our connection, it is possible that occasional degradation or outages of services may occur. Personal communication services are not always guaranteed throughout your voyage. We encourage passengers to disconnect from digital life and reconnect with the natural world.

    To access email or internet on your personal computer, tablet or smart phone, connect to the network on your device, where you can access our complimentary plan, or purchase Priority Wifi.


    Polar Boutique

    If you would like to make phone calls from the ship, Voice credits are also available for a small fee, and allow calling from your cabin to shore telephones at various rates per minute, dependent on location and type of phone you are dialing (calling mobile phones tends to be more expensive).

    Current prices for these optional services will be posted on board the ship. Please note we cannot provide refund for unused voice or pay per minute calls.


    ONBOARD WEBSITE

    Our free onboard website is an excellent resource for daily programs, expedition team biographies, and other voyage information. Visit MyQuarkVoyage.com during your expedition to take advantage of the materials. Access to this site is available free of charge, even if you have not purchased data. Contact Guest Services if you experience any difficulty logging on.