Greenland to Iceland: Arctic Explorer

On day one, arrival takes place in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland’s only inland town and an important air hub with ties to Cold War history. After arrival, transfer by Zodiac to the Ocean Victory follows, along with cabin check-in and a safety drill. The journey then begins through Kangerlussuaq Fjord.

On the first full day of the voyage, arrival takes place in Kangaamiut, a village where hunting, fishing, and weather conditions continue to influence daily life. Opportunities may include hiking and a cultural welcome featuring local crafts, food, and performances. In the afternoon, exploration of Evighedsfjorden (“The Eternity Fjord”) by Zodiac includes views of glaciers and bird cliffs as the voyage continues along Greenland’s west coast.

Home to 20,000 residents, Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, offers culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. Inhabited since 2200 B.C. by Paleo-Inuit and later by Norse settlers, Nuuk is now Greenland’s cultural and political center, featuring the Parliament, National Museum (home of the spellbinding Qilakitsoq mummies), Katuaq cultural center, local art workshops, and cozy cafés. Affectionately known as “Nuuk York” by locals, it stands as a singular blend of the ancient and the contemporary.

From Nuuk, sail southward along Greenland’s rugged coast. Nearly all of Greenland’s settlements lie on the western coast, facing the Davis Strait. Warm Atlantic currents enrich these waters, attracting whales, seals, human hunters, and many seabirds—so keep an eye out during your day at sea!

Next, cruise through Tunulliarfik Fjord to Qassiarsuk, a lush village known for sheep farming and its rich Norse history. Founded in 1924, the modern village sits on the site of Erik the Red’s 10th-century farm, Brattahlíð. Legend has it that his wife Thjodhild refused to join her pagan husband’s bed until he built her a church – the first in the Americas. In the afternoon, you hike from nearby Itilleq through lush green fields to Igaliku and the ruins of Garðar bishopric, the seat of Norse Greenlandic power.

In the morning, you reach Aappilattoq, a small, remote village beneath granite cliffs, known for its traditional lifestyle, scenic hiking, and famous local choir. In the afternoon, you continue eastwards as you sail through spectacular Prins Christian Sund, a 60 km iceberg-filled strait linking East and West Greenland. Surrounded by mountains, glaciers, and valleys, it’s one of the world’s most spectacular waterways.

Today, explore Skjoldungen, a stunning fjord on Greenland’s southeast coast, known to locals as Saqqisikuik. Once visited by Inuit and briefly settled in the 20th century, it is now remote and uninhabited. Surrounded by breath-taking peaks, highlights include Thryms Glacier and the valley of Dronning Marie Dal. Weather permitting, you may land to explore ashore or Zodiac cruise by the majestic glacier.

Next stop is the breathtaking Sermilikfjord – a vast ice-choked fjord which drains the colossal Helheim Glacier. Armadas of towering icebergs drift from the Greenland Ice Sheet out into the North Atlantic, creating one of the most spectacular natural sights on Earth. Join your Expedition Team on a Zodiac cruise and marvel at the gigantic icebergs, natural ice sculptures tens of thousands of years in the making!

During the morning, approaching Ikateq, also known as Bluie Two East – a haunting remnant of the American military presence on Greenland during the Second World War. Marvel at the remains of this vital airbase, untouched since it was abandoned in 1947. In the afternoon, you reposition to Kuummiit – a small village deep in the calm waters of Ammassalik Fjord. Here you have a chance to connect with the friendly locals and experience East Greenlandic culture in one of country’s most beautiful and welcoming villages.

Tasiilaq is East Greenland’s largest settlement, sitting on rugged Ammassalik Island. Isolated from European contact until its founding as a trading post in 1894, it preserves the unique culture of the Tunumiit people. Once home to Greenland’s last shamans, Tasiilaq is the origin of the tupilak, a feared magical creature – now a celebrated art form. Visitors can meet sled dogs (with owners’ permission), experience drum dancing, hike tundra meadows, and visit the famous Stunk Artist’s Workshop.

The Denmark Strait, a narrow passage between Iceland and Greenland, teems with rich marine life. Join your Expedition Team on the outer decks to watch for wildlife. Departing Greenland, the team shares insights on ecology, geology, and wildlife, as well as toasting the end of your Arctic adventure at the Captain’s Farewell Cocktail Party. Cheers!

Hallgrímskirkja Church towers over Reykjavik, a vibrant city known for Nordic cuisine, unique museums, and excellent shopping. Such a bustling capital may feel strange after the remote wilderness of the Arctic! After a hearty breakfast, it is time to bid a fond farewell to the Crew and Expedition Team, and descend the gangway back to dry land with memories of the voyage of a lifetime.