Greenland to Iceland: Arctic Explorer Expedition

Description

Join us on an expedition cruise from Kangerlussuaq to Reykjavík, tracing the Norse sea route to Greenland in far more comfort than a Viking longship. Our journey begins in the picture-perfect village of Kangaamiut, steeped in Greenlandic tradition and the nearby cliffs and glaciers of Eternity Fjord before exploring Nuuk, Greenland’s colourful capital, where traditional houses stand beside glass towers, and seal hunts meet smartphones.
Next, we sail into the lush green fjords of South Greenland. Here we’ll visit Brattahlíð at Qassiarsuk, the first European settlement in the Americas, and trek to Igaliku, once the seat of Greenland’s Norse bishops. From here we navigate the jaw-dropping glacier-lined Prins Christians Sund, and onwards to the towering peaks and perfect stillness of spellbinding Skjoldungen Fjord.
Our voyage culminates on the rugged East Coast of Greenland, where we’ll experience Tunumiit culture in Tasiilaq and Kuummiut, explore haunting military history at Ikateq, and admire the icy majesty of Sermilikfjord before crossing the Denmark Strait to Reykjavík, Scandinavia’s most hip capital.
Join us for a voyage filled with Norse history, Inuit culture, and breath-taking Arctic wilderness in the majesty of Earth’s largest island.

Trip Name

Greenland to Iceland: Arctic Explorer Expedition

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Luxury X-Bow®-Infinity Class Vessel Passenger Capacity: 174 passengers in 93 cabins Built: 2021 Ocean Victory carries the same next-generation expedition design as its sister ship, purpose-built for the demands of Antarctica and the Arctic. The patented X-Bow structure delivers a steadier, more comfortable ride through heavy seas and deeper ice, while the heated mudroom and multiple exterior access points streamline zodiac operations. Large stateroom windows, broad observation areas and hydraulic platforms keep the Polar environment in constant view, and amenities such as Jacuzzis, spa, gym, lounge spaces and bistro service support a high standard of comfort without dulling the focus on exploration. Efficiency and environmental performance are central to the vessel’s build. Diesel–electric propulsion reduces fuel consumption and lowers emissions by roughly 50 percent compared with traditional expedition ships. Most cabins include private balconies, communal spaces are deliberately generous, and all core expedition infrastructure - photography support, science areas, medical capability and dedicated passenger services - is integrated into daily operations. The result is a modern, stable and environmentally responsible platform for seamless travel across both Polar regions.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1: All Aboard in Kangerlussuaq!

On day one, we arrive in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland’s only inland town and a key air hub with a rich Cold War history. Upon arrival, we transfer by Zodiac to the Ocean Albatros, settle into our cabins, complete a safety drill, and then toast with champagne as we begin our journey through the stunning Kangerlussuaq fjord.

Day 2 - Day 2: Kangaamiut and Evighedsfjorden

On the first full day of our voyage, we arrive in Kangaamiut, a village where traditional hunting, fishing, and weather shape daily life. Guests can hike for panoramic views, and enjoy a warm cultural welcome with local crafts, food, and performance. In the afternoon, we venture into Evighedsfjorden—“The Eternity Fjord”—by Zodiac, cruising past majestic glaciers and dramatic bird cliffs, a thrilling and unforgettable start to our Arctic voyage.

Day 3 - Day 3: Nuuk, Capital of Greenland

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.

Day 4 - Day 4: At Sea, En Route to South Greenland

From Nuuk, we 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 our day at sea!

Day 5 - Day 5: Qassiarsuk and Itilleq Kujalleq

Next, we 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, we hike from nearby Itilleq through lush green fields to Igaliku and the ruins of Garðar bishopric, the seat of Norse Greenlandic power.

Day 6 - Day 6: Appilaattoq and Prins Christian Sund

In the morning, we reach Aappilattoq, a small, remote village beneath granite cliffs, known for its traditional lifestyle, scenic hiking, and famous local choir. In the afternoon we continue eastwards as we 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.

Day 7 - Day 7: Skjoldungen/Saqqisikuik

Today, we 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, we may land to explore ashore or Zodiac cruise by the majestic glacier.

Day 8 - Day 8: Sermilikfjord

Our next stop is the breathtaking Sermilikfjord – a vast ice-choked fjord which drains the colossal Helheim Glacier. Armadas of vast 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!

Day 9 - Day 9: Ikateq and Kuummiit

During the morning, we approach 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 we reposition to Kuummiit – a small village deep in the calm waters of Ammassalik Fjord. Here we will have a chance to connect with the friendly locals and experience East Greenlandic culture in one of country’s most beautiful and welcoming villages.

Day 10 - Day 10: Tasiilaq, East Greenland

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.

Day 11 - Day 11: At Sea, Crossing the Denmark Strait

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 our Arctic adventure at the Captain’s Farewell Cocktail Party. Cheers!

Day 12 - Day 12: Reykjavik, Iceland

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.

Day 13 - Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Norse to Inuit continuum: Erik the Red’s Brattahlíð, Garðar bishopric ruins, and living Greenlandic culture from Nuuk to Tasiilaq.
Extreme fjord systems: Evighedsfjorden, Prins Christian Sund, Sermilikfjord and Helheim Glacier—sheer mountains, active glaciers, and dense iceberg traffic.
East Greenland isolation: abandoned WWII Ikateq base, uninhabited Skjoldungen, and deep cultural immersion in Kuummiit and Ammassalik.