You are now on an expedition cruise, and your exact route will be determined by weather and ice conditions. Some areas can be filled with ice and, therefore, not always reachable. Please note that the places mentioned below are just examples of places you can visit on this true expedition cruise.
With nearly 2,000 inhabitants, Tasiilaq is the largest settlement in East Greenland and a place where the older Inuit culture remains strong. Here, you can learn more about local myths and legends, such as the story of the tupilaqs – vengeful creatures created through witchcraft. Tasiilaq is also known for its vibrant art scene, where local artists create prints, sculptures, and textiles inspired by nature and traditional stories. During your visit, take a guided tour of the town and visit an art shop. Stop by the church, take part in a traditional kaffemik, and experience the fascinating rhythms of the drum dance.
Venture into the serenity of the Ammassalik fjord system and the small settlement of Kuummiut. This is a relatively unknown pearl of east Greenland, nestled within the Ammassalik Island group. The surrounding fjords, lined by tall mountain tops, offer perfect hiking opportunities, with hidden waterfalls and spectacular views. Kuummiut has a rich Inuit heritage, and you hope to get the chance to learn about the traditional practices.
Further up north is the Ikateq fjord, where you might make a landing at the abandoned military base from World War II, Bluie East Two. It played an important role as a refueling and maintenance stop for aircraft traveling between North America and Europe. Today, it is no longer in operation, but some remnants remain, including abandoned fuel drums, buildings, and vehicles.
Continue into the mighty Sermilik fjord. It stretches over 90 kilometers and cuts through a rugged landscape of towering glaciers and jagged peaks, and you find yourself amongst a myriad of icebergs of all shapes and sizes. Most of them originate from the impressive Helheim glacier at the deep end of the fjord, which produces some of the largest icebergs in all of Greenland. The beauty around you is stunning!
On the southern shores of Sermilik Fjord is the tiny village of Tiilerilaaq. The wooden houses are beautifully situated on a hill, with the grand Sermilik fjord in the background. The local Inuit culture and the traditional hunting and fishing activities play a significant role in the way of life here. Before you wave goodbye, head out on a nice hike to overview the surrounding landscapes and the many icebergs!
If the ice allows, you enter Johan Peterson fjord. On the northern side of the entrance of the fjord is Qeertartivatsiaq Island, where you can find Inuit ruins on the southern shore of the island. At the head of the fjord are some outlet glaciers from the inland ice coming straight down to the sea. This is one of few places you can catch sight of the actual inland ice, although please know that beautiful icebergs often block it.
You are continuously looking for Arctic foxes, seals, and different species of whales.
