Arctic
Greenland
Arctic
Arctic
Explore South Greenland on a 15-day expedition featuring twin-engine helicopter flights. Land on the massive ice sheet, cruise deep fjords by Zodiac, camp in Tasermiut, and discover Inuit and Viking cultures.
Duration: 15 days / 13 nights on board
Starts: Reykjavík, Iceland
Ends: Reykjavík, Iceland
Language: English speaking voyage
The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
Charter Flights More info about this activity
In departures with charter flights, part of the air transport segment is covered by the operation of the trip as part of the itinerary.
Check in the inclusions and exclusions of the program which air sections are included in your itinerary.
Polar Plunge More info about this activity
The ultimate icy challenge! The Polar Plunge is a classic rite of passage for every explorer, it is a heart-pumping experience that earns you a badge of courage and unforgettable memories.
Ship Cruise More info about this activity
Not only we travel from one point to another and find our shelter on board the ship we chose. We also enjoy from incredible scenery, landscapes and interactions that only our noble vessel can provide.
Everyday the Bridge Team navigates the ship to position ourselves on the best posible spots, looking for unique opportunities.
Many times, this includes sainig through narrow passages, on the vicinity of glaciers or entering bays and fjords only approachable from the ship.
Enjoy this incredible places from the comfort of the common areas on board, open decks or your own private balcony!
Shore Excursion More info about this activity
Shore excursions are the backbone of almost all itineraries, with most ships making landfall at least once every day once they reach their destination. The weather plays a huge role in your daily itinerary, although given the sheer array of fantastic landing sites all over there are plenty of options your Captain and Expedition Leader can choose from. On-shore excursions allow you to visit scientific research stations, communities, prominent wildlife colonies and take hikes to elevated viewing points for fantastic photography.
Photo Workshop More info about this activity
The photography workshops are composed of onboard lectures and practical activities led by dedicated expedition guide. Each session is meant to give you additional skills you can put into immediate practice out in nature.
You'll become more familiar with your own camera equipment while also learning best practices for taking pictures of moving wildlife and wide-open terrain in typical polar conditions, such as dim lighting and falling snow.
Zodiac cruising More info about this activity
On board the Zodiac you will discover a world of possibilities; accessing the most exclusive landing sites, cruising the coast in search of wildlife or simply enjoying a tour in the calm of the polar regions in search of marine wildlife or bird colonies.
The blue ice an its intimate presence is experienced at its best on zodiac tours.
It is not uncommon to meet curious seals, or humpback whales feeding.
Enrichment Program More info about this activity
Expedition cruising must be one of the most incredible ways of travelling. Not only for the amazing places you visit and the unforgetable wildlife but for the wildlife, the sensory overload and the unimaginable memories.
But all of this needs a context in order to understand where you are and what you are experiencing.
On board your expedition vessell you will find a group of experts, naturalists, zodiac drivers and guides that that will translate the language of nature for you, telling you the stories of the places you are visiting, reviewing the historical, biological, ecological and geological aspects of your trips.
You will experience first hand what surrounds you and arrive back home wiser and loaded with new knowledge.
Citizen Science More info about this activity
There’s important work being done every day, at some of the most renowned climate research facilities around the world, to record and study the incredible changes happening in remote places like Antarctica and th Arctic. As you might imagine, gathering critical on-site data on a regular basis would be a virtually impossible task for these groups. So we do it for them, in partnership with different research facilities.
If you’d like to get a first-hand look at how climate change is impacting our birds, sea life, glaciers, oceans, and weather patterns, and help scientists better understand our evolving planet, you’re welcome to join our Citizen Science program. And don’t let the word “science” scare you. We make it informative, interactive, and fun.
Communities More info about this activity
The experience is not only about nature, but about the people who live in the places we visit.
We are always welcomed by the locals and respectfully wander around their towns and villages, shareing their lifestyle for a few moments.
Cultural shows and folcloric dances and arts are part of the hightlights of this encounters.
Hiking More info about this activity
Hiking options include very easy beach hikes (good for photographers who need time for photography), easier short hikes, medium-difficulty extended hikes, and more challenging long hikes.
Helicopter Tours More info about this activity
To access certain colonies, especially Emperor penguin, this type of transport is essential. Enjoy also scenic flights, watching the majestic ice barriers or the tabular icebergs from the air. A unique experience only available with few operators and exceptional itineraries.
Helicopter operations can be influenced by a lot of factors, such as but not limited to weather, sea and sea-ice conditions, flying time/distance restrictions and visibility.
Paddling More info about this activity
Paddle Excursion Program provides sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayaks that provide guests with an intimate, water-level experience in unforgettable locations in both the Arctic and Antarctica. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. On-ship, you'll be provided with instruction and equipment including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by a safety driver in another kayak who will stay close by to provide additional support.
Helicopter Tours More info about this activity
To access certain colonies, especially Emperor penguin, this type of transport is essential. Enjoy also scenic flights, watching the majestic ice barriers or the tabular icebergs from the air. A unique experience only available with few operators and exceptional itineraries.
Helicopter operations can be influenced by a lot of factors, such as but not limited to weather, sea and sea-ice conditions, flying time/distance restrictions and visibility.
This 15-day expedition proposes an immersive and highly active exploration through the most spectacular landscapes of South Greenland, beginning and concluding in the Icelandic capital of Reykjavík. The journey crosses the Denmark Strait toward the remote and uninhabited east coast, a wild territory shaped by ice, towering fjords, and hanging glaciers. The itinerary stands out for utilizing onboard twin-engine helicopters, allowing travelers to enjoy breathtaking flightseeing excursions and experience the exclusive thrill of landing and setting foot on the massive Greenland Ice Sheet, an ancient polar plateau covering approximately 80% of the island.
The adventure continues southward into the dramatic cliff-lined waterways known as "Arctic Patagonia," transiting through the scenic Prins Christian Sund and the 70-kilometer-long Tasermiut Fjord, framed by the imposing peaks of Nalumasortoq and Ulamertorsuaq. Passengers will experience genuine Greenlandic hospitality and cultural highlights in Aappilattoq and Qassiarsuk, engaging in the unique onboard cultural exchange called Tamassa, led by South Greenlanders themselves. The voyage also includes a guided visit to Kujataa, a UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves a remarkable legacy of Norse and Inuit farming, combining hiking, Zodiac cruising, and the option to join a wilderness camping experience.
Highlights:
Soar in a twin-engine helicopter and step foot onto the immense polar plateau of the Greenland Ice Sheet.
Explore Tasermiut Fjord in "Arctic Patagonia" with opportunities for wilderness camping alongside steep cliffs.
Cruise through Prins Christian Sund by Zodiac while searching for humpback whales and marine wildlife.
Visit Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage site and the reconstructions of Brattahlíð, Erik the Red's historic estate.
Engage in the Tamassa onboard cultural exchange and enjoy the innovative Tundra to Table culinary experience.
Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik
Exploring the world's northernmost capital city
Arrive in Reykjavik and transfer independently to your hotel, which is included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore sites of the fascinating capital, known for its mix of modern architecture and Viking heritage. At 64°08’ north, Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital of an independent sovereign state.
Day 2: Embarkation in Reykjavik
The start of the polar voyage
This afternoon, you’ll board your expedition vessel and begin your cruise. Settle into your cabin, take time to explore the spacious common areas, and meet your Expedition Team as we set a course for the great adventure ahead.
Day 3 & 4: At Sea
Crossing the Denmark Strait and expert presentations
As we cruise north across the Denmark Strait, with views of Greenland in the distance, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures ahead. Our polar presentations are an excellent way to learn about the storied history of the Arctic, its fascinating wildlife, geology, glaciology, ecology, and climate. The team will also help you search for soaring seabirds and migrating whales.
Day 5 & 6: The Wild East
Deep fjords, hanging glaciers, and flightseeing
As we arrive in Greenland, towering fjords and hanging glaciers mark our first encounter with the remote east coast. This uninhabited region offers excellent opportunities for exploring via Zodiac cruising, hiking, paddling, and helicopter flightseeing. We plan to explore the fjords of Greenland’s east coast, including Lindenow Fjord (Kangerlussuaq), once home to Paleo-Inuit hunters. Watch for marine mammals, humpback whales, and polar bears drifting down from the north on sea ice floes.
Day 7 to 9: Arctic Patagonia
Prins Christian Sund transit and Tasermiut Fjord camping
Transit through the scenic 105-kilometer-long Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), experiencing dramatic mountain and seascapes with glaciers tumbling to the sea. We plan to visit Aappilattoq, a close-knit Greenlandic Inuit community, to experience local culture, stories, music, and traditional foods. Continue to Tasermiut Fjord, a 70-kilometer, cliff-lined waterway known as “Arctic Patagonia,” framed by the imposing peaks of Nalumasortoq and Ulamertorsuaq, where overnight camping and wilderness hikes unfold.
Day 10 to 12: Westlands and the Greenland Ice Sheet
Walking on the polar ice sheet and UNESCO heritage sites
Follow the footsteps of the Norse into the western fjords, exploring lush valleys, blooming pastures, and remote sheep farms. You will enjoy sweeping aerial views and take part in a helicopter landing to set foot on the massive Greenland Ice Sheet. Onboard, enjoy Tamassa, a unique cultural exchange led by South Greenlanders with stories, food tastings, and performances. You will also explore Kujataa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site preserving Norse legacy, and visit Qassiarsuk settlement to discover the reconstructions of Brattahlíð, Erik the Red’s estate.
Day 13: At Sea
Sailing the west coast and final briefings
We’ll head north along the spectacular west coast of Greenland on our way to Nuuk. As your Arctic adventure winds down, you can take in a final polar presentation by our onboard experts, share your photos with fellow travelers, sip a cocktail in the panoramic lounge, or ask members of the Expedition Team any remaining questions.
Day 14: Disembarkation, visit Nuuk, flight to Reykjavik
Charter flight back to Iceland
Upon arriving in Greenland’s capital, enjoy one more Zodiac ride to shore for the group transfer to the airport to catch your charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we will transfer you to your hotel, which is included along with the flight in your specialized package.
Day 15: Depart Reykjavik
Conclusion of the Arctic odyssey
After breakfast at your included hotel, make your way to Keflavik International Airport for your onward flight, or continue exploring Reykjavik at your leisure as your polar expedition comes to a formal end.
Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik
Exploring the world's northernmost capital city
Arrive in Reykjavik and transfer independently to your hotel, which is included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore sites of the fascinating capital, known for its mix of modern architecture and Viking heritage. At 64°08’ north, Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital of an independent sovereign state.
Day 2: Embarkation in Reykjavik
The start of the polar voyage
This afternoon, you’ll board your expedition vessel and begin your cruise. Settle into your cabin, take time to explore the spacious common areas, and meet your Expedition Team as we set a course for the great adventure ahead.
Day 3 & 4: At Sea
Crossing the Denmark Strait and expert presentations
As we cruise north across the Denmark Strait, with views of Greenland in the distance, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures ahead. Our polar presentations are an excellent way to learn about the storied history of the Arctic, its fascinating wildlife, geology, glaciology, ecology, and climate. The team will also help you search for soaring seabirds and migrating whales.
Day 5 & 6: The Wild East
Deep fjords, hanging glaciers, and flightseeing
As we arrive in Greenland, towering fjords and hanging glaciers mark our first encounter with the remote east coast. This uninhabited region offers excellent opportunities for exploring via Zodiac cruising, hiking, paddling, and helicopter flightseeing. We plan to explore the fjords of Greenland’s east coast, including Lindenow Fjord (Kangerlussuaq), once home to Paleo-Inuit hunters. Watch for marine mammals, humpback whales, and polar bears drifting down from the north on sea ice floes.
Day 7 to 9: Arctic Patagonia
Prins Christian Sund transit and Tasermiut Fjord camping
Transit through the scenic 105-kilometer-long Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), experiencing dramatic mountain and seascapes with glaciers tumbling to the sea. We plan to visit Aappilattoq, a close-knit Greenlandic Inuit community, to experience local culture, stories, music, and traditional foods. Continue to Tasermiut Fjord, a 70-kilometer, cliff-lined waterway known as “Arctic Patagonia,” framed by the imposing peaks of Nalumasortoq and Ulamertorsuaq, where overnight camping and wilderness hikes unfold.
Day 10 to 12: Westlands and the Greenland Ice Sheet
Walking on the polar ice sheet and UNESCO heritage sites
Follow the footsteps of the Norse into the western fjords, exploring lush valleys, blooming pastures, and remote sheep farms. You will enjoy sweeping aerial views and take part in a helicopter landing to set foot on the massive Greenland Ice Sheet. Onboard, enjoy Tamassa, a unique cultural exchange led by South Greenlanders with stories, food tastings, and performances. You will also explore Kujataa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site preserving Norse legacy, and visit Qassiarsuk settlement to discover the reconstructions of Brattahlíð, Erik the Red’s estate.
Day 13: At Sea
Sailing the west coast and final briefings
We’ll head north along the spectacular west coast of Greenland on our way to Nuuk. As your Arctic adventure winds down, you can take in a final polar presentation by our onboard experts, share your photos with fellow travelers, sip a cocktail in the panoramic lounge, or ask members of the Expedition Team any remaining questions.
Day 14: Disembarkation, visit Nuuk, flight to Reykjavik
Charter flight back to Iceland
Upon arriving in Greenland’s capital, enjoy one more Zodiac ride to shore for the group transfer to the airport to catch your charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we will transfer you to your hotel, which is included along with the flight in your specialized package.
Day 15: Depart Reykjavik
Conclusion of the Arctic odyssey
After breakfast at your included hotel, make your way to Keflavik International Airport for your onward flight, or continue exploring Reykjavik at your leisure as your polar expedition comes to a formal end.
INCLUSIONS
Specialist Expedition Leaders with high experience and professional background.
Immersive off-ship activities including guided walks, nature hikes, and Zodiac landings.
Twin-engine helicopter flights for flightseeing and landing excursions onto the Greenland Ice Sheet (excluding Svalbard and Spitsbergen voyages).
On-ship experiences & facilities designed for comfort (maximum 200 guests), including comfortable cabins and spacious common areas.
Food & beverages: Premium dining with a wide selection of options accommodating dietary preferences.
Quark Expedition Perks: Complementary Wi-Fi, alcohol on all voyages, and the Official Quark Expeditions parka to take home.
Essential transportation arrangements, accommodation, and transfers included under the Charter Flight & Hotel Package.
Access to onboard ship amenities such as fitness center, sauna, heated outdoor pool, polar boutique, and theater.
EXCLUSIONS
International airfare & visa expenses.
Travel insurance.
Mandatory expedition gear.
On-ship expenses of a personal nature.
Adventure options booked in advance at an extra cost (such as the Greenland Camp Experience or Tundra to Table Culinary Experience).
Trip extensions.
Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). This suite is perfect for guests traveling solo who want to share their experience with other like-minded travelers of the same gender, or for groups of three traveling together. Featuring three separate single beds, and amenities for each of the three guests.
Features: three single beds (two of which can be combined into a double bed), sitting area, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). These suites are perfect for people traveling together or solo guests looking to share with like-minded individuals. This suite maximizes interior living space while still offering guests the opportunity to stay connected to the outdoors. Our entry-level twin suites are the largest available on a ship of this class.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 m2) of indoor living space, and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 m2) balcony, this entry-level balcony suite is one of the largest available on a ship of this class. This suite is perfect for guests who are looking for both indoor and outdoor living spaces. There are four connecting suites in this category, making this an excellent option for families or groups wanting to stay connected to each other during their expedition.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Located on Deck 6, and approximately 132 sq. ft. (12.3 m2). This suite is perfect for solo guests who appreciate privacy and want to wake up to sweeping views from the comfort of their bed. These are the only solo suites with floor-to-ceiling windows available onboard any ship in its class.
Features: single bed, floor-to-ceiling window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 299 sq. ft. (27.8 m2) of indoor living space, and a 70 sq. ft. (6.5 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting a larger living space, full bathroom, and a substantial balcony. Deluxe Balcony Suites are the first suite type to offer additional privacy in the bathroom with an enclosed toilet, a full bath and shower to make it easier for guests to get ready together in the morning.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 350 sq. ft. (32.5 m2) of indoor living space, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting generous interiors with a wide layout and the largest balconies on the ship. Centrally located on Deck 6, guests will enjoy minimal movement and motion from the comfort of these suites.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private extra-wide balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
The only suite category to be located on Deck 7, with approximately 369 sq. ft. (34.3 m2) of indoor living space, and a 67 sq. ft. (6.2 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting to wake up to unobstructed polar views from the warmth and comfort of their bed onboard the ship. These suites offer the best of everything—views, spacious interiors, full bathrooms and generous balcony sizes—as well as easy access to the wellness centre.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 446 sq. ft. (41.4 m2) of indoor living space and a 46.3 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want it all. A large, luxurious suite featuring a private bedroom, full bathroom, powder room, and two separate living spaces. This suite is perfect for families or couples who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship.
Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 563 sq. ft. (52.3m2) of interior living space, and a 46 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want to travel without compromise. Our largest and most luxurious suite features the most sleeping, entertainment and storage space onboard the ship. It is perfect for families or travelers who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship.
Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional walk-in hallway closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room
* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.
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USA
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