West Greenland Voyage

From Nuuk to Kangerlussuaq (Northbound) OR From Kangerlussuaq to Nuuk (Southbound)

Tour Overview

Journey deep into West Greenland, where immense icebergs, dramatic fjords, tidewater glaciers and colourful coastal communities create an Arctic adventure quite unlike anywhere else. Travelling north from Nuuk, cross the Arctic Circle and explore some of Greenland’s most spectacular landscapes by expedition ship, Zodiac and on foot.

Cruise into magnificent Eternity Fjord, surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers, before visiting Sisimiut to experience everyday life in one of Greenland’s vibrant Arctic communities. Continue to Eqi Glacier, where you may witness great sections of ice calving into the sea, and remote Uummannaq, beautifully positioned beneath its distinctive heart-shaped mountain.

A major highlight is Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where enormous icebergs calved from Sermeq Kujalleq fill Disko Bay. Explore by boardwalk and on foot, taking in extraordinary views across this constantly changing landscape, with opportunities to spot whales amongst the ice.

Along the way, discover quieter corners such as Itilleq Fjord and connect with local communities through guided walks and cultural experiences, with optional adventures including sea kayaking and mountain biking. Combining spectacular scenery with genuine encounters with the people who call Greenland home, this is a wonderfully immersive way to experience the wild west coast.

*Choose your direction and experience Greenland your way, Northbound or Southbound, with each itinerary offering its own sequence of remarkable landscapes, wildlife encounters, and authentic cultural experiences.

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Experience the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, where immense icebergs drift through the waters of Disko Bay after calving from Sermeq Kujalleq, one of the world’s fastest-moving glaciers.

Explore by land and sea - Cross the Arctic Circle by ship, cruise deep into Eternity and Itilleq fjords, along with shore visits to explore the town, to hike, plus the option to join unique off-ship activities such as sea kayaking and mountain biking.

Step ashore in Uummannaq, a remote Greenlandic community nestled beneath its iconic heart-shaped mountain. Wander among colorful homes, meet welcoming locals, and discover the traditions and stories that shape life in the Arctic.

Tour Itinerary

 
Day 1
Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrive in the Icelandic capital and make your way to the group hotel near Keflavik Airport. You will have the rest of the day to explore this fascinating city, known for its Norse history,and stunning architecture. If you plan to visit the city of Reykjavik, allow for a one-hour transfer between Keflavik and Reykjavík.


Overnight in Reykjavík

Day 2
Fly to Nuuk, Greenland Embarkation

After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Nuuk, Greenland. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a central downtown location to enjoy time on your own to explore this quaint port town—which is the capital of Greenland—before making your way to the pier for a lateafternoon embarkation.

Day 3
Eternity Fjord

Eternity Fjord lives up to its name—its beauty feels endless. You will be surrounded by precipitous mountains rising straight out of the sea and glaciers spilling down deepcut valleys. Within the fjord, you may explore by Zodiac or foot—or both—with the potential to cruise the coastlines and floating glacial ice. You can anticipate a range of hiking or on-shore walks—always accompanied by our seasoned team, whose expertise bring the world’s largest island into focus. Transiting the fjord by ship will provide excellent opportunities for you to soak in the scenery from the outer decks of the vessel.

Day 4
Sisimiut

Congratulations, you’ve crossed 66°33° north latitude. On our firstoff ship excursion in the Arctic, we’ll visit Sisimiut, a community rich in Greenlandic history and culture. As we approach via the inner harbor, you’ll spot locals coming and going from the marina, bringing halibut, shrimp and other seafood freshly harvested from Baffin Bay. Upon reaching shore, we’ll walk winding roads past colorful homes and Arctic cotton grass blooming under the summer sun. While the waterfront may be lively with boat traffic, life uphill moves at a relaxed pace. You may hear children laughing, sled dogs barking, and locals exchanging greetings—sounds that often bring smiles to both visitors and residents. Greenlandic dogs, often seen in kennels throughout town, reflect the deep bond between owners and their canine teams. As in any Arctic community, always ask before petting or approaching these working dogs. During the visit, we aim to team up with our local mountain-biking partners in Sisimiut, exploring trails that lead outside the town limits.

Our expedition team and local partners will lead guided walks and provide insight into daily life in Greenland—and you will be able to share your own story with locals, who will be eager to learn about your part of the world. One scenic walk leads to the Taseralik Cultural House, beside Nalunnguarfiup Tasia, a small tranquil lake at the base of a 780-meter (2,560 mile) Nasaasaaq mountain. You’ll walk the same paths locals use every day, experiencing not just the look of Sisimiut, but its rhythm, sounds and genuine sense of place.

Day 5
Eqip Sermia

Today you’ll visit Eqip Sermia, also known as Eqi Glacier. This wide-faced tidewater glacier is renowned for its frequent calving, sending chunks of ice crashing into the sea. You’ll likely see icebergs drifting in the bay, accompanied by smaller chunks called brash ice. On quiet days, listen for the soft crackle of those floating shards, and, if you’re lucky, the thunderous roar of calving ice from the glacier’s face. While the glacier is the main attraction, the surrounding landscape is perfect for shore excursions.

You can wander the tundra, photographing the summer vegetation and stunning Arctic scenery, or hike farther (and a little uphill) for an elevated view of the glacier and bay. The terrain, a mix of rock and vegetation, allows for various hiking options. We’ll take care not to disturb the delicate plant life that flourishes during Greenland’s brief summer. Following an invigorating morning ashore—perhaps hiking across ancient tundra—you’ll return to the ship, where warmth, a freshly prepared lunch, and a chance to reset await. But the wild Arctic experience isn’t over for the day.

From the outer decks, you can watch as icebergs drift by like sculpted monuments, seabirds trace circles overhead, and the vast silence of the Arctic settles around you Humpback whales are known to frequent the area on their annual return to the Arctic, lured by rich feeding opportunities, so you may spot them through your binoculars as they swim among the drifting icebergs. This is what we call the quiet middle—where comfort meets wilderness—as the ship carries you steadily toward your next experience.

Day 6
Uummannaq

Arrive in Uummannaq Fjord in the morning and cruise toward the community of Uummannaq. In Greenlandic, Uummannaq translates to “heart-shaped,” inspired by the dramatic mountain that rises above the town. Visiting this remote community is a rare privilege. We reach town by Zodiac and may be greeted by locals— and the ever-smiling chief of police. It’s said that smiles here are as common as drifting icebergs. Winding roads take you past colorful homes before reaching a meadow of turf houses beside a stone church.

You can visit the local museum and artisan market for a glimpse of life in northern Greenland. Another nearby museum honors artist Rockwell Kent, who was inspired by the landscapes of Uummannaq Fjord and Disko Bay. You may choose to join a guided walk or explore on your own. Several homes may open for kaffemik—a social gathering with warm drinks, light snacks, and a chance for locals and visitors to connect. Rest assured, the people of Uummannaq will be curious about your part of the world. Shy smiles and translated conversations are natural parts of these authentic cultural exchanges—and often become some of the most memorable moments of visiting this remote Greenlandic community. A parting gift from one local fisherman: “Keep life simple—simple is beautiful.”

Day 7
Disko Bay & Illulisat

Ilulissat, located in Disko Bay, is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilulissat Icefjord, which serves as the thoroughfare for countless icebergs calved from the world’s fastest-moving glacier, Sermeq Kujalleq. A small boardwalk leads to an elevated overlook, where you can view bergs of all sizes spread out before you. From this vantage point, it feels as though you’re standing where the town ends and the wilderness begins—where the sweeping view of ice evokes a humbling sense of scale.

You will also notice the Arctic cotton grass and summer wildflowers thriving in the long daylight hours. The inner harbor often holds evidence of the icefjord’s reach, with drifting icebergs mingling among fishing boats and skiffs. The town itself is well worth exploring, and has become one of Greenland’s top destinations. Recent years have brought growth— colorful homes now sit beside new restaurants, boutique hotels and small businesses.

History buffs will be excited to know Ilulissat is the birthplace of Arctic explorer Knud Rasmussen, who traveled by dog sled from Greenland to Alaska (and briefly Siberia) during the Fifth Thule Expedition (1921–1924). Fluent in Kalaallisut, he learned from and documented the Circumpolar Inuit he met—considered one of the Arctic’s greatest expeditions. The dramatic landscapes around Ilulissat inspired Rasmussen’s life of exploration. As we approach town, watch out for whales, which occasionally frequent the icebergladen waters.

Day 8
Itilleq Fjord

We will spend the afternoon in Itilleq Fjord, a place that feels both beautifully raw and peaceful at the same time. Elevation rises in all directions, and from the right vantage point, the mountain ranges seem to continue in layers, endlessly into the horizon. A visitor to Itilleq Fjord once said, “I’m not quite sure where Earth stops and heaven begins, but it seems to be somewhere right out there.” Conditions permitting, your Expedition Team will help you explore the shorelines by Zodiac, on foot—or perhaps both.

Rivers wind between jagged peaks, descending picturesque mountain valleys and providing several hiking options. In summer, the shorelines and valleys come alive with grasses, wildflowers, succulents, lichens, and even mushrooms. Small glaciers and snowfields linger year-round at higher elevations, completing this striking mountainous coastal landscape. You may spot the occasional small boat in the fjord—likely belonging to a local f fisherman from the nearby town of Itilleq. Moments like these often leave our guests reflecting on this life—one shaped by the tides, weather, and the rhythms of land and sea.

Day 9
Itilleq Town

The small settlement of Itilleq has always been a favorite among guests and Expedition Team members, thanks to the warm welcome we’ve received over the years. The 100 residents live among brightly painted homes—greens, pinks, purples, baby blues, mustard yellows, and chocolate browns—and many people earn their living at sea, as evidenced by the small seafood processing building near the pier. Despite its size, the village is full of life, from respected elders to playful children. You may be invited to a kaffemik, where people socialize over coffee and cake, or follow a short dirt road to a viewpoint overlooking the f jord and surrounding mountains. Watch your step—lichens, succulents, and mushrooms thrive underfoot.

A longstanding tradition features a friendly football (soccer) match with locals, including guests, staff, crew and residents. It’s a fun, memorable experience—whether you’re on the field or cheering from the sidelines.

Day 10
Disembark in Kangerlussuaq Fly to Reykjavik

Today, you disembark in Kangerlussuaq, formerly known as Søndre Strømfjord, and transfer you to your charter flight to Reykjavik, where you’ll spend the night in your included hotel, both of which are included in your Charter Flight & Hotel Package.

Day 11
Depart Reykjavik

Today, after breakfast, make your way independently to the airport for your f light home, or continue your personal travel plans as prearranged.

Day 1
Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrive in the Icelandic capital and make your way to the group hotel near Keflavik airport—which is included in your Charter Flight & Hotel Package.. You will have the rest of the day to explore this fascinating city, known for its Norse history and stunning architecture. If you do wish to visit the city of Reykjavik, allow for a one-hour transfer (by taxi or public transit) between Keflavik and Reykjavik city center.


Overnight in Reykjavik

Day 2
Fly to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland Embarkation

After an early breakfast at the hotel, guests will transfer together to the airport and board our private charter f light to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. This is a very small town that for decades served as Greenland’s primary airport. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a very small harbor, where your Expedition Team will provide Zodiac shuttles to your awaiting ship. After a late-afternoon embarkation, we will set sail for the stunning Arctic wilderness.

Day 3
At Sea

You have multiple choices for your f irst ship day above 66°33° North latitude, which you will spend aboard Ocean Explorer. You can check out the ship’s amenities, like the Jacuzzis, attend an educational presentation led by our polar experts, or relax in stylish Observation Lounge on Deck 8 while you spot drifting ice, seabirds and other wildlife.

Day 4-5
Uummannaq

Two full days in Uummannaq—a rarity on Arctic expeditions—means you will get to devote one day to Uummannaq town and the second to Uummannaq Fjord. We arrive in Uummannaq Fjord in the morning and cruise toward the community of Uummannaq. In Greenlandic, Uummannaq translates to “heart-shaped,” inspired by the dramatic mountain that rises above the town. Visiting this remote community is a rare privilege. We reach town by Zodiac and may be greeted by locals— and the ever-smiling chief of police. It’s said that smiles here are as common as drifting icebergs. Winding roads take you past colorful homes before reaching a meadow of turf houses beside a stone church. You can visit the local museum and artisan market for a glimpse of life in northern Greenland. Another nearby museum honors artist Rockwell Kent, who was inspired by the landscapes of Uummannaq Fjord and Disko Bay.

You may choose to join a guided walk or explore on your own. Several homes may open for kaffemik, a social gathering with hot drinks, light snacks and a chance for locals and visitors to connect. Rest assured, the people of Uummannaq will be curious about your part of the world. Shy smiles and translated conversations are natural during these authentic cultural exchanges—which are usually memorable. A parting gift from one local fisherman: “Keep life simple— simple is beautiful.” On Day 5, you’ll have the opportunity to venture deeper into Uummannaq Fjord and explore areas seldom seen by travelers. Highlights include narrow fjords with steep cliffs rising straight from the sea, large drifting icebergs, striking naked (exposed) geology, rarelyseen glaciers, and cascading waterfalls-some thunderous after a heavy rain. After these two days, you’ll have experienced parts of Uummannaq that many Greenlanders have yet to see.

Day 6-7
Disko Bay & Illulisat

Ilulissat, located in Disko Bay, is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilulissat Icefjord, which serves as the thoroughfare for countless icebergs calved from the world’s fastest-moving glacier, Eqip Sermia. A small boardwalk leads to an elevated overlook, where you can view bergs of all sizes spread out before you. From this vantage point, it feels as though you’re standing where the town ends and the wilderness—no doubt humbled by the sweeping vista of ice.

You will also notice the Arctic cotton grass and summer wildflowers thriving in the long daylight hours. The inner harbor often holds evidence of the icefjord’s reach, with drifting icebergs mingling among fishing boats and skiffs. The town itself is well worth exploring, and has become one of Greenland’s top destinations. Recent years have brought growth— colorful homes now sit beside new restaurants, boutique hotels and small businesses. History buffs will be excited to know Ilulissat is the birthplace of Arctic explorer Knud Rasmussen, who traveled by dog sled from Greenland to Alaska (and briefly Siberia) during the Fifth Thule Expedition (1921–1924). Fluent in Kalaallisut, he learned from and documented the Circumpolar Inuit he met—considered one of the Arctic’s greatest expeditions.

The dramatic landscapes around Ilulissat inspired Rasmussen’s life of exploration. As we approach town, watch out for whales, which occasionally frequent the icebergladen waters.

Day 8
Sisimiut

Today you'll visit Sisimiut, a community rich with Greenlandic history and culture. As we approach via the inner harbor, you’ll spot locals coming and going from the marina, bringing halibut, shrimp and other seafood freshly harvested from Baffin Bay. Upon reaching shore, we’ll follow winding roads through the vibrant town dotted with colorful homes and Arctic cotton grass blooming under the summer sun. While the waterfront may be lively with boat traffic, life uphill moves at a relaxed pace. You may hear children laughing, sled dogs barking, and locals exchanging greetings—sounds that often bring smiles to both visitors and residents. Greenlandic dogs, often seen in kennels throughout town, reflect the deep bond between owners and their canine teams. As in any Arctic community, always ask before petting or approaching these working dogs.

The expedition team and local partners will lead guided walks and provide insight into daily life in Greenland— and you will be able to share your own story with locals, who will be curious about your homeland. One scenic walk leads to the Taseralik Cultural House, beside Nalunnguarfiup Tasia, a small tranquil lake at the base of a 780-meter (2,550 feet) Nasaasaaq mountain. You’ll walk the same paths locals use every day, experiencing not just the look of Sisimiut, but its rhythm, sounds and genuine sense of place. We also aim to team up with our local mountain-biking partners in Sisimiut, exploring trails that lead outside the town limits.

Day 9
Eternity Fjord

The 75-km-long (47 miles) Eternity Fjord lives up to its name—its beauty feels endless. You will be surrounded by precipitous mountains rising straight out of the sea and glaciers spilling down deep-cut valleys. Within the fjord, you may explore by Zodiac or on foot—or both—with the potential to cruise the coastlines and floating glacial ice. You can anticipate a range of hikes or on-shore walks—always accompanied by our knowledgeable team, whose expertise bring the world’s largest island into focus. Transiting the fjord by ship will provide excellent opportunities for you to soak in the scenery from the outer decks of the ship.

Day 10
Disembarkation in Nuuk Flight to Reykjavik

The morning will find you in the port at Nuuk, the northernmost capital city in the world. If time permits, you may have an opportunity to explore Nuuk. Otherwise, your Expedition Team will shuttle you to ashore by Zodiac, after which you will be transferred to the airport for your charter flight to Reykjavik. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the group hotel for the night, which is included in the Charter Flight and Transfer Package.

Day 11
Depart Reykjavik, Iceland

After breakfast, you can transfer independently from your Keflavik hotel to the nearby airport for your onward journey, or explore Iceland as prearranged.


What’s Included

Accommodation
  • Included Copy 20 1 pre-and post-expedition night at Reykjavík airport hotel, including breakfast
  • Included Copy 20 9 nights onboard
  • Included Copy 31 Cabin/Suite upgrade available
Food
  • Included Copy 20 All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage
  • Included Copy 20 Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
Fees & Services
  • Included Copy 20 All shore landings per the daily program
  • Included Copy 20 All Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program
  • Included Copy 20 Guiding and leadership by expert exploration team and crew
  • Included Copy 20 A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan
  • Included Copy 20 A photographic journal documenting the expedition
  • Included Copy 20 An expedition parka (to keep)
  • Included Copy 20 All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
  • Included Copy 20 Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device
  • Included Copy 20 Mandatory transfer & charter flight package
  • Included Copy 7 International flights, visas, Gratuities, Laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges
  • Included Copy 31 Optional Activities: mountain biking, kayaking and paddling (additional cost)
  • Included Copy 31 Wi-Fi upgrade
Transportation
Ocean Explorer

Ocean Explorer

138 Passengers

Activities

  • Included Cruise through the breathtaking cliffs and glaciers of Eternity Fjord.
  • Included Witness calving ice at the spectacular Eqip Sermia Glacier.
  • Included Zodiac excursions along glacier-framed coastlines and through Greenland’s remote Arctic waters.
  • Included Kayaking in the fjords of Greenland, listen to the sounds of nature
  • Included Discover the vibrant Itilleq and experience authentic Greenlandic hospitality.
  • Included Meet locals and discover the remote Greenlandic community of Uummannaq.
  • Included Explore the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord and its giant icebergs.
  • Included Hike through wild tundra, valleys, snowfields, and Arctic landscapes.
Tap here for dates & prices
Duration

11 days

Price from

$15,190 USD

Per person, sharing

Triple cabin, 25 Aug 2027

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