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Zodiac Cruise Tasermiut Kangerlnat Fjord, Greenland

Southern Greenland: On the Trail of the Vikings

Reykjavik - Toronto - Example 14 Day Cruise aboard Sylvia Earle
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Embark on a 14-day expedition cruise from Reykjavik to Toronto aboard the Sylvia Earle. Explore Greenland, the world's largest island, characterized by towering peaks and extensive glaciers. Trek across the tundra to spot arctic foxes and reindeer, tasting wild berries en route. Glide through fjords via Zodiac, spotting ringed seals and possibly encountering whales. Sail Prince Christian Sound past imposing mountains and witness human settlements and Viking ruins. Navigate through west Greenland, home to Nuuk, the world's northernmost capital and the country's most developed region.
Gullfoss on the Golden CircleStunning landscapes in Prince Christian SoundQaqortoq, GreenlandHiking Tasermiut Kangerlnat Fjord, GreenlandHouses of GreenlandBeautiful Toronto SkylineZodiac Cruise Tasermiut Kangerlnat Fjord, Greenland
Highlights
  • Explore Reykjavik’s vibrant culture and geothermal marvels
  • Marvel at Gullfoss waterfall’s dramatic 34-meter cascade
  • Sail through Greenland Sea’s icy waters, spotting wildlife
  • Experience Prince Christian Sound’s soaring cliffs and icebergs
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik

Upon arriving in Reykjavik, an Aurora Expeditions representative will greet you and arrange your transfer to the designated group hotel. Upon check-in, visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and consult with the ground operations team. They will provide pre-embarkation details and offer recommendations on dining, cash withdrawals, or any last-minute purchases from local pharmacies or supermarkets.  

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.

Accommodation: The Grand Hotel Reykjavik

Day 2: Reykjavik | Embark

This morning, ensure your cabin luggage is securely tagged with your name and cabin number. Your luggage will be collected from the hotel, transferred directly to the port for clearance, and delivered to your cabin before your boarding arrival. Keep all valuables and personal items with you throughout the day.  

Today, you embark on a journey along Reykjavik’s renowned Golden Circle, a route showcasing Iceland’s seismic wonders. Your first stop is Þingvellir National Park, the historic site of Iceland’s first parliament and the dramatic meeting point of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. Next, you visit Gullfoss, a breathtaking waterfall that plunges 34 meters into the Hvítá River, offering an exceptional photographic opportunity. You then explore Iceland’s famous geothermal fields, where bubbling hot springs and erupting geysers display the immense geothermal power beneath the earth’s surface.  

By late afternoon, return to Reykjavik to board the Sylvia Earle. After settling into your cabin, attend essential safety briefings before you ‘throw the lines’ and set sail for your Greenland adventure. This evening, meet your expedition team and crew at the Welcome Dinner.

Day 3: At Sea

Crossing the Greenland Sea, sail through the Polar Basin’s nutrient-rich waters, searching for encroaching pack ice, fin whales, and seabirds. The experts entertain you with informative talks about sea ice, glaciers, European arctic plants and animals, and epic tales of early explorers such as Nansen, Andreé, and Scoresby.

Day 4: Kangertitivatsiaq Fjord

Popular among skilled rock climbers, Kangertitivatsiaq Fjord is home to spectacular mountain peaks and essential big walls that attract daring climbers. A discovery for Aurora Expeditions in 2022, the 26-kilometer (16-mile) fjord is filled with glaciers, including the Glacier of France. It’s an ideal place for ship cruising, zodiac excursions, and discovery hikes.

Day 5: Skjoldungen Island

Continue south along Greenland’s King Frederik VI Coast, always looking for whales, especially the rare sperm whale occasionally seen here. Weaving through the narrow channels of Skjoldungen Fjord, land at the end of the fjord for a walk along a glacial river across a tundra valley covered in northern willow and blooming pink wildflowers. Kayakers can paddle across the front of a tidewater glacier and search for harp seals, ivory gulls, and whales.

Back on board, enjoy the stunning surroundings with a drink in hand, basking in the soft light of the setting sun.

Day 6: Prince Christian Sound

Prince Christian Sound connects the Labrador Sea with the Irminger Sea. Approximately 100 km (60 mi) long and, in parts, as narrow as 500 m (600 ft) wide, the fjord is flanked by jagged mountain peaks, some reaching over 2,200 m (7,200 ft) high, with countless glaciers coming all the way down to the sea. Slowly cruise through the sound to enjoy the spectacular scenery. Icebergs sculpted into fantastic shapes often block the entrance to the sound, a great spectacle for photography.

Day 7: Aappilattoq | Tasermiut Fjord | Klosterdal

Aappilattoq is a small settlement in the southern section of a sound. Aappilattoq means red in Greenlandic, and the town is named after the red mountains rising above it. Aappilattoq is well-known in Greenland for the jagged mountain peaks that surround it—a delight for photographers.

The towering, jagged mountains surrounding Tasermiut Fjord are why it's often called the 'Patagonia of the North.' At Klosterdal, you are surrounded by three giant mountains: Napasorsuaq, Ketil, and Nalumasortoq. You can walk to a Norse ruin, hike along the valley, or explore the bay by kayak.

Day 8: Nanortalik, Uunartoq

Continue to Nanortalik, the southernmost town in Greenland, located on an island of the same name. Its name derives from the West Greenlandic word ‘Nanoq,’ meaning ‘the place where bears pass through,’ describing the polar bears that were once seen floating past on sea ice. Deep fjords, woodlands and grasslands, and rugged mountainside cliffs, some over 1,000 m (3,280 ft), attract enthusiastic climbers worldwide.

On arrival, receive a warm welcome from the local community, who have opened up their town for you to explore. Nanortalik is a town known for its love of singing and being treated to choir performances.

Visit Nanortalik Church, a wooden Danish Lutheran church built in 1916 that is currently the only church serving the Nanortalik congregation. The church is in the old colonial quarter of the town. Next to the church is a landmark boulder called the ‘Knud Rasmussen Stone,’ named after Greenland’s most famous citizen, Dr. Knud Rasmussen, an explorer and ethnologist.

Day 9: Hvalsey, Qaqortoq

Hvalsey Church is the best-preserved Norse ruin in Greenland. ‘Hvalsey’ is old Norse for ‘Whale Island.’ Christianity arrived in Greenland around 1,000 AD, and churches began gradually being built. Late medieval documents indicate up to 14 parish churches in the Eastern Settlement. Hvalsey was constructed in the early 14th century but was not the first church built on this site.

After exploring Hvalsey ruins, continue to Qaqortoq, where the Zodiacs shuttle you ashore. Qaqortoq is the capital of South Greenland. With a history dating back to 1775, the town offers various cultural activities and attractions, including an outdoor art project called “Man and Stone,’ which features stone carvings created by local artists scattered throughout the town. Qaqortoq is Greenland’s southernmost town and the administrative center of south Greenland. Built from yellow stone and dating back to 1804, the building that now houses the Qaqortoq Museum originally belonged to the town’s blacksmith. Qaqortoq’s landmark building is the Church of Our Saviour. This large wooden Lutheran church, known as the ‘Red Church,’ is near the harbor in the historic part of town.

Day 10: Igaliku

At Igaliku in Tunulliarfik Fjord, lush valleys filled with tall grass hint at Greenland’s first sheep farming settlement. Igaliku also guards the entrance to the well-preserved remains of Norse ruins, allowing visitors to explore Norse history hike within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed surroundings to discover lakes, mountains, and hidden Norse ruins. 

Day 11: Narsarsuaq | Qassiarssuk

Narsarsuaq is the gateway to hiking trails through lush valleys and Norse ruins spotted along Tunulliarfik Fjord.

Narsarsuaq holds historical significance for Greenland’s history. The Norse Vikings settled in this area in the 12th century and named Narsarsuaq to suggest that an Arctic forest covered the immense plain. Taking home stories of lush valleys and plains nestled in deep fjords, the Vikings called this country Greenland. Marked trails allow hikers to enjoy the superb scenery, with one of the most popular hikes leading to the spectacular lookout over icebergs in the Tunulliarfik Fjord and the Qooroq Glacier.

At Qassiarssuk, located directly across the Tunulliarfik Fjord, follow in the footsteps of Erik the Red and discover why he made it his home. The remains of a church, stables, hall, and other buildings can still be seen. Visit the tall statue of Leif Erikson (son of Erik the Red), overlooking the town and fjord.

Sailing between Hvalsey, Igaliku, and Qassiarssuk allows you to connect the dots of Viking history in Greenland.

Day 12: At Sea

As you sail towards Nuuk, enjoy some free time relaxing or attending a presentation from the expedition team. This evening, share stories and celebrate with fellow expeditioners at the Captain’s Farewell Dinner.

Day 13: Nuuk | Disembark | Fly to Toronto

  • 1 Breakfast
During the early morning, you cruise into Nuuk and disembark at approximately 8.00 am. Farewell to your expedition team before transferring to the airport for a charter flight to Toronto for an overnight stay.

Day 14: Depart Toronto

  • 1 Breakfast
After breakfast, check out of your room and continue your journey with a transfer to the airport.

Ship/Hotel

Sylvia Earle

Sylvia Earle
Sylvia Earle Observation Deck
Sylvia Earle Library

Reykjavik - Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

  • Aug 4, 2025from $16,695
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Deal available

Deals

No Single Supplement Arctic 2025 27633
For solo travelers, book now and enjoy no single supplements for a limited time. Eligible on all cabin types excluding Captain’s Suite, Junior Suites, or dedicated solo staterooms or triple staterooms. This promotion is subject to availability and is only valid on new bookings on select Arctic 2025 voyages. This offer is not combinable with any other offers and is based on the full brochure fare. To confirm your booking, a completed booking form and a non-refundable deposit of $2,500 pp in the booking currency is required within 7 days of reserved berth/s. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to Aug 4, 2025 departure

Air Credit 27772
Book now and enjoy an air credit of $2000 per person on select Arctic departures. Bookings must be made and deposited by June 30, 2025. This promotion is valid for new bookings and is capacity-controlled. This promotion is not combinable with the Stateroom Upgrade Offer. A non-refundable deposit of $2,500 per person is required to confirm your booking within seven days of reserved berth/s. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to Aug 4, 2025 departure

Free Stateroom Upgrade 27774
Book now and take advantage of the free stateroom upgrade on select Arctic 2025 departures. Book for Balcony Stateroom Superior at the price of a Balcony Stateroom B, and Balcony Stateroom A or B at the price of a Balcony Stateroom C. This promotion is valid for new bookings and not combinable with Air Credit offers. A non-refundable deposit of $2,500 per person is required to confirm your booking within seven days of reserved berth/s. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to Aug 4, 2025 departure

Per person starting at
$16,695
Aurora Stateroom Triple
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Aurora Stateroom Triple
22.67m2 (244ft2) - There are two Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms.
Aurora Stateroom Superior
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Aurora Stateroom Superior
19.9m2 - 20.8m2(214.2ft2 - 223.9ft2) - Located on Deck 7, the Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area. Perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear.
Balcony Stateroom C
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Balcony Stateroom C
19.5m2 - 28.7m2 (209.9ft² - 308.9ft2) - 11 Balcony Stateroom C cabins - most economical, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These cabins are scattered throughout Deck 6.
Balcony Stateroom B
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Balcony Stateroom B
19.5m2 - 28.7m2 (209.9ft² - 308.9ft2) - 17 Balcony Stateroom B Cabins - standard cabin, many fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups. These cabins are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 and 6.
Balcony Stateroom A
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Balcony Stateroom A
19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)- 23 Balcony Stateroom A cabins - premium cabin, and the most abundant on board. These cabins are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.
Balcony Stateroom Superior
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Balcony Stateroom Superior
29.2m2 - 35.2m2 (314.3ft2 - 378.9ft2) - Located on Deck 4 and 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area. Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.
Junior Suite
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Junior Suite
Up to 41.6m2 (447.8ft2)- 4 Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren't enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony.
Captain's Suite
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Captain’s Suite
43.8m2 (471.5 ft2) - Captain's Suite - the largest of all our rooms, will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you'll need to get in early to secure this suite.
Included
  • 13 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 11 Dinners
  • 12 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Comprehensive pre-departure information
  • Beer, House Wine, and Soft Drinks with Dinner 
  • Educational Lectures and Guiding Services from Expedition Team 
  • Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult)
  • Wifi
  • Port Surcharges, Permits, and Landing Fees
  • Captain's Welcome and Farewell drinks including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
  • A 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket
  • Complimentary use of Muck boots during the voyage
  • All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises
  • On-board accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service
  • One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Reykjavik on Day 1
  • Full-day Golden Circle tour on Day 2
  • One night’s hotel accommodation with breakfast, in Toronto on Day 13
  • Airport arrival and departure transfers to/from your group hotel or port on the first day and the final day of your voyage package
  • Charter flight: Nuuk-Toronto on Day 13
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
  • Airport Departure Tax - Airport arrival or departure taxes
  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, or phone charges
  • Hotels and meals not included in itinerary
  • Optional activity surcharges
  • Reciprocity and Vaccination Charges
  • Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary
  • Passengers traveling with Aurora Expeditions are required to be covered by a reputable travel insurance policy that includes baggage loss, cancellation & curtailment of the holiday, medical, accident, and repatriation/emergency evacuation coverage worth at least $250,000 USD.

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