Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik

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: Fly to Nuuk

In the morning after breakfast, guests and their luggage will be transferred to the airport for their charter flight to the Greenlandic capital of Nuuk. This picturesque city of 17,000 is situated on a fjord with the Sermitsiaq mountain in the background. Upon arrival, guests will be transferred to their ship.

Day 3 to 5: From Nuuk to the Westlands

Today, we’ll head south along the spectacular west coast of Greenland on our way to the The Westlands. Following in the footsteps of the Greenlandic Norse into the Western fjords, it’s easy to appreciate why Erik the Red chose this land as his home and gave Greenland its name: every direction you look rewards visitors with vistas of blue, ice– strewn waters set against a breathtaking backdrop of lush, verdant valleys and pastures bursting with blooms.

Unique to Greenland, and indeed the entire Arctic, warm microclimates deep in the fjords have created a surprisingly fertile Arctic Garden of Eden. South Greenlandic farming traditions dating back to Viking days are still kept alive. Many families work their remote sheep farms along the shores of the fjords, their lives very much attuned to the seasons as they produce a variety of organic home–grown produce (such as potatoes, turnips and kale).

Also in the West, we find the perfect access points to the Greenland Ice Sheet, which we’ll reach by helicopter. You’ll enjoy the most incredible views of the largest mass of ice in the northern hemisphere and second largest in the world, flowing from the heights of the polar plateau to sea level. Become one of the very few people to ever set foot on this incredible body of ice during our included Greenland Ice Sheet Experience. Over these two days you will have the opportunity to explore the Ice Sheet, hike the surrounding foothills, cruise or paddle through the azure ice–filled waters, and engage with our local friends and partners during the most meaningful and in–depth community experiences offered on any Quark Expeditions voyage.

Guests will learn more about the history and culture of this region at the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a living history lesson in Viking farming. We hope to offer you the opportunity to visit charming Qassiarsuk, a small sheep farming settlement across the fjord from Narsarsuaq, where you can experience true South Greenland hospitality and gain insight into the fascinating lives of sheep farmers living at the edge of the Ice Sheet. We suggest you take time to explore the remains and replicas of Brattahlíð, Erik the Red’s estate, once the epicenter of the Greenland Norse Eastern Settlement. 

Day 6 to 8: Arctic Patagonia

The stunning maze of fjords, sounds, islets, inlets and skerries (rocky islands) in and around Cape Farewell (Nunap Isua) at Greenland’s most southern tip possesses its own particular magic. Transiting the 100–km long Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq)—one of the world’s most scenic fjords—will be truly unforgettable. Guests can then look forward to dramatic mountain and seascapes with glaciers tumbling down to down to the sea, and stunning vistas around every corner. Inhabiting this domain are Southern Greenlanders living on the frontier, a people as unique as the landscape they call home. This is where the migrating hunting peoples from the east finally settled around the European trading posts.

The few villages in this southern region have gained a level of fame thanks to the inhabitants who remain steadfastly faithful to their hunting and fishing heritage. We hope to visit Aappilattoq, perched on the shores of Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), to introduce you to our friends and partners there. We hope to offer you the opportunity to listen to their stories, hear their music, taste their food, learn about their hunting traditions, and perhaps even join a friendly game of soccer as a player or spectator.

If you are looking for the most iconic peaks of South Greenland, you’ll be in your glory when we reach the Tasermiut Fjord in the heart of what’s known as “Arctic Patagonia,” where guests can sign up for overnight camping (with local hosts) along the 70–km fjord. Marvel at the impressive Sermeq glacier at its head with rivers of ice tumbling almost down to sea level, and the imposing peaks of Nalumasortoq and Ulamertorsuaq dominating the skyline, making for the most scenic backdrops to your hike or helicopter–enabled excursions.

Day 9 to 11: The Wild East & Journey Back to Nuuk (Northbound)

We set out for the wild fjords of the uninhabited east coast, one of which is Lindenow Fjord, also known by its Greenlandic name, Kangerlussuatsiaq. Thousands of years ago, groups of paleo– Inuit hunters and fishermen made their home in these isolated fjords, living off the land and surviving mostly on the resources the sea provided, before European explorers and the subsequent establishment of settlements prompted one of the biggest waves of migration in Greenland. Traces of these once proud peoples can still be found today against the backdrop of cascading glaciers and steep–walled mountains.

These fjords are frequented by marine mammals. Rare sightings of polar bears are possible, as they drift down from the north on sea ice floes propelled by the East–Greenland current. Humpback whales are often sighted when entering fjords as the shallowing seas bring an upwelling of nutrients to the surface. While we keep our eyes peeled for wildlife, the magnificent alpine terrain invites us to explore by sea, land and air to immerse ourselves completely in the remote icescapes of the region. The wild east is ideal for heli landings and hiking, paddle excursions, Zodiac cruises and shore landings.

Day 12: Disembarkation, Explore Nuuk, Flight to Reykjavik

After breakfast, guests will be transferred from the pier to the town. 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. You will also have an opportunity to visit the Greenland National Museum & Archives to view the collections and exhibitions and to better understand Greenland’s cultural heritage, such as the significance of the kayak, which is Greenland’s national symbol and can be traced back over 4,000 years. There will also be an opportunity to visit the famous 500-year-old Greenlandic mummies.

After a half-day of exploring Nuuk, guests will meet at a designated spot in town for the transfer to the airport for their charter flight to Reykjavik.

Day 13: Depart Reykjavik

After a restful night at your included hotel, make your way to Keflavik international for your onward flight, or continue your independent explorations of Reykjavik at your leisure.

ICE SHEET EXPERIENCE

Explore beyond cascading coastal glaciers to access the icy realms of the second–largest ice mass in the world, the Greenland Ice Sheet. An excursion on one of Ultramarine’s two twin–engine helicopters means you’ll enjoy views of the Ice Sheet very few other humans get to experience. You’ll learn about the dynamics of this environment from our team of glaciologists while you explore this vast, seldom–visited body of ice. This activity is offered over a two–day period to ensure every guest is able to experience this exclusive adventure option.

FLIGHTSEEING

While polar landscapes are spectacular from the sea, they’re even more stunning from the air, a view you can enjoy while seated in one of the two twin-engine helicopters stationed on Ultramarine. Typically in groups of 6-9, you will experience an unforgettable aerial tour of the Arctic during a 10- to 15-minute f lightseeing excursion that’s included in the cost of the voyage. Additional helicopter activities may also be available for purchase on board. Please note: all helicopter operations are weather- and logistics-dependent.

COMMUNITY VISITS

Our Greenland Adventure voyages include the widest range of community experiences in the Quark Expeditions portfolio. During this voyage we hope to offer visits to two iconic South Greenlandic communities (Aappilattoq and Qasiarsuk) and provide opportunities for guests to share their journey and engage with our local partners. Learning about the wonders of Greenland from Greenlanders will be a highlight of this voyage. 1

Enjoy daily chats with and presentations by our world-class onboard polar experts—expedition guides, specialists, photography guides and other special guests who will introduce you to the fascinating history, biology, ornithology, glaciology and geology of the region, and much, much more.

POLAR PLUNGE

This rite of passage, scheduled only once per expedition, gives you the chance to jump safely into the bracing Arctic waters under the watchful eye of our staff—and just about every single camera on board!

PADDLE EXCURSION

Join us for a one-time paddle on our stable sit-on-top 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. Included with limited availability.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Documenting your voyage so you can take the memories home is a rewarding experience. Our photography guides will help you hone your skills to capture the beauty of the Polar Regions. Contact your Polar Travel Adviser or your Travel Professional for more information about your Included Activities and Adventure Options, including required experience, physical requirements and cost.

ZODIAC CRUISING

Zodiacs are the workhorses of polar expeditions, taking you to places the ships can’t access, allowing you to reach remote shorelines, explore shallow inlets and search for unique wildlife. Expedition staff make stepping in and out of them safe and comfortable, and your Zodiac drivers will provide active interpretation, making the landscape come even more alive.

HIKING

Led by experienced staff, exploring on foot is one of the best ways to appreciate the polar landscapes. Our guides are able to accommodate a range of skill levels to suit every guest.

Inclusions 

RATES INCLUDE: 

•   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 ship’s galley cannot prepare kosher meals. 

• 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 

• 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 

RATES SPECIFICALLY  DO NOT INCLUDE:

•   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 domestic and international 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  

•  Charter flights between Reykjavik and Nuuk 

•   Group transfers between the Nuuk airport and the ship 

•   Group transfer from Reykjavik airport to hotel on disembarkation day 

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

•  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