- Ship
- 5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners
Explore Greenland’s southern coast, inland waterways and remote villages for the next few days, following the trail of Erik the Red, who founded the first European settlement on Greenland. You also trace Greenland’s history of exploration, which ultimately led to the discovery of North America. Based on conditions, your Captain and Expedition Team determine the day’s best excursions, which may bring you to:
Prince Christian Sound: Connecting the North Atlantic with the Labrador Sea, this stunning 60-mile-long fjord features sheer cliffs that reach as high as 3,200 feet. Conditions permitting, visit Unnartoq hot springs, one of the world’s most beautiful, and enjoy a relaxing dip in the warm waters.
Qaqortoq: Part of a region that has been inhabited for more than 4,300 years, Qaqortoq village still maintains its traditional subsistence economy. Active guests can join Alex on a rappelling excursion, while families and history buffs can opt for a guided village walk through the 17th-century town, visiting the museum, which was formerly the village blacksmith shop; the beautiful village fountain; and the Stone & Man project, an open-air art gallery.
Ivigtut: Home to the world’s only cryolite mine, Ivigtut is a geologist’s dream. Cryolite was used as early as the 19th century in the production of aluminum and opaline glass. Although the mine has ceased production, it’s a spectacular source of rare minerals. All guests can explore the mine with our geologist, while active guests can hike from the cryolite mine up to an abandoned Danish military base with cultural guide Lykke.
Hvalsey Ruins: This UNESCO World Heritage Site in the eastern settlement region (Eystribyggd) was settled by Erik the Red’s uncle. Also known as Qaqortukulooq, it is considered southern Greenland’s best-preserved Norse site. Explore the site on a leisurely walking tour that includes visits to one of the earliest Christian churches on the North American continent, established in the 12th century.
Narsaq: Dating back to the year 1000, this colorful village is still supported primarily by its fishing industry and sheep farming. Enjoy the rich waters on a beginners’ or experts’ kayak ride, exploring the exciting ocean and coastline. All guests can soak up the rich history of the fishing village with a relaxing tour, stopping to pick up handmade souvenirs from the Eskimo Pels fur factory and the Meqqilerifftk wool workshop.
Eriksfjord: Erik the Red chose to settle his home on this beautiful fjord. Visit his Brattahlid homestead on a walking tour and explore the first Christian church in the Western Hemisphere. Brattahlid also served as an ever-important launching point for the first voyages to North America.
Each cruise day begins with breakfast followed by morning and afternoon Zodiac excursions, which are always piloted by expert naturalist driver-guides and accompanied by no more than 10 guests. You may also enjoy a guided kayaking excursion along iceberg-studded shores. After full days of exploring, unwind aboard luxury ‘Le Boreal,’ perhaps enjoying tea and well-crafted cocktails along with time on deck to take in your destination. Enjoy dinner at your choice of restaurants, and the chance to recap the day’s most inspiring moments with your Expedition team and fellow guests, and look forward to the next day’s adventures.