Arctic
Iceland & Greenland
Arctic
Arctic
Explore East, South, and West Greenland on a 15-day expedition from Reykjavík. Discover two UNESCO sites, Norse ruins, and local Inuit settlements while cruising by Zodiac among towering icebergs.
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.
Kayaking More info about this activity
The experience of sea kayaking in the humbling wilderness of Antarctica or the Arctic is guaranteed to stir your soul.
Sea kayaking is one of the highlights for any Polar Traveller, providing ice and weather conditions are assessed as safe by your Expedition Team.
This activity requires previous kayaking experience.
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.
This comprehensive 15-day expedition proposes an unparalleled journey connecting East, South, and West Greenland in a single voyage, beginning and concluding in the Icelandic capital. The itinerary follows a rarely traveled route along the remote southeast coast, charting a path around the greener southern tip before venturing briefly onto the glacier-carved western shores. Travelers will navigate through ice-choked bays and dramatic fjord systems framed by steep, towering mountains and deep valleys, creating a magnificent backdrop for deep polar exploration and immersive wilderness discovery.
Throughout the cruise, guests will uncover the unique intersection of histories in the region by exploring two distinct UNESCO World Heritage sites: the famous Ilulissat Icefjord and the sub-Arctic farming landscape of Kujataa. The voyage offers exceptional opportunities to walk among Greenland's best-preserved Norse ruins at Hvalsey and Igaliku, and experience modern Inuit culture inside the vibrant settlements of Aappilattoq, Itilleq, and the small capital of Nuuk. This active adventure combines regular Zodiac cruising and scenic hikes with expert-led presentations and optional sea kayaking excursions.
Highlights:
Explore the pristine landscapes of East, South, and West Greenland in a single comprehensive cruise.
Visit two iconic UNESCO sites: the productive Ilulissat Icefjord and the Kujataa farming communities.
Discover ancient Norse history at Hvalsey's medieval church ruins and the bishop's residence in Igaliku.
Experience local traditions in the capital of Nuuk and watch a traditional kayak demonstration in Sisimiut.
Zodiac cruise along the steep cliffs and massive active tidewater glaciers of Prins Christian Sund.
Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland
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: Embark
The start of the North Atlantic expedition
This afternoon, you’ll board your expedition vessel and begin your cruise. Take time to settle into your cabin, explore the observation decks, and meet your polar guides as we set sail out of port, heading toward the rugged coastlines of Greenland.
Day 3: Cruising
Sailing the historic Denmark Strait
As we sail across the Denmark Strait, your Expedition Team will host presentations on the wildlife, history, fascinating geology, ecology, and climate of Greenland. Staff will also keep watch from the outer decks for seabirds soaring around your ship, as well as the whales that can be encountered in these nutrient-rich waters.
Day 4 & 5: Exploring East Greenland
Deep fjords, hiking, and abandoned Inuit settlements
Your exploration of Greenland begins along the remote southeast coast, guided flexibly by weather and ice conditions. We hope to visit Skjoldungen Fjord (Saqqisikuik), where you’ll cruise between steep mountains to view active glaciers, launching our Zodiacs for a closer, immersive exploration. If conditions allow, visit the site of an abandoned Inuit settlement whose residents were relocated around 1961. You may also visit deep Lindenow Fjord (Kangerlussuatsiaq), a great spot fed by multiple glaciers that is ideal for hiking through lush and varied flora surrounded by epic mountain vistas, with options to join a paddling excursion.
Day 6 & 7: Exploring South Greenland
Prins Christian Sund navigation and UNESCO Norse ruins
Explore Greenland’s fertile southern coast, nicknamed Arctic Patagonia. You’ll cruise through Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), a mesmerizing maze of narrow fjords and channels where calving glaciers and sheer cliffs plunge into the water, viewing it from the ship or a Zodiac. If conditions allow, venture ashore at Aappilattoq, a close-knit Inuit community of about 100 people. Discover Norse history along the southern shores with a landing at Hvalsey (Qaqortukulooq), the site of Greenland’s largest and best-preserved 14th-century church ruins. Visit the small village of Igaliku, home to 25 inhabitants and Greenland’s oldest sheep-farming settlement, to wander the 12th-century red sandstone foundations of the Gardar cathedral and bishop's residence, which form part of the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 8 to 13: Exploring West Greenland
Old Nuuk, cultural demonstrations, and the Ilulissat river of ice
Discover spectacular glaciers, mountainous landscapes, and vibrant coastal communities along the western coast via daily Zodiac excursions. Visit Nuuk, the charming Greenlandic capital, to wander the historic Old Nuuk neighborhood, viewing the Hans Egede Church and the national museum's famous 15th-century mummies. Land at Sisimiut to explore 18th-century colonial buildings and attend a traditional kayak demonstration tracing back 4,000 years to ancient Inuit roots. Explore the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site hosted at Disko Bay, where the Jakobshavn Glacier (Sermeq Kujalleq) moves 62 feet (19 m) per day as the most productive glacier in the northern hemisphere; enjoy a Zodiac cruise through giant icebergs and hike from the town to view this river of ice. Finally, visit the fishing community of Itilleq, located just north of the Arctic Circle, to chat with friendly locals and join a customary football match.
Day 14: Disembark in Nuuk and Fly to Reykjavik
Charter flight back to Iceland
Upon arriving in Greenland’s capital, enjoy one final 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, both included as part of your specialized Charter Flight & Hotel Package.
Day 15: Depart Reykjavik
Conclusion of the polar voyage
Today, after breakfast at your included hotel, your expedition comes to an end. Make your way independently to Keflavik International Airport for your onward flight home, or continue your personal travel plans as prearranged.
Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland
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: Embark
The start of the North Atlantic expedition
This afternoon, you’ll board your expedition vessel and begin your cruise. Take time to settle into your cabin, explore the observation decks, and meet your polar guides as we set sail out of port, heading toward the rugged coastlines of Greenland.
Day 3: Cruising
Sailing the historic Denmark Strait
As we sail across the Denmark Strait, your Expedition Team will host presentations on the wildlife, history, fascinating geology, ecology, and climate of Greenland. Staff will also keep watch from the outer decks for seabirds soaring around your ship, as well as the whales that can be encountered in these nutrient-rich waters.
Day 4 & 5: Exploring East Greenland
Deep fjords, hiking, and abandoned Inuit settlements
Your exploration of Greenland begins along the remote southeast coast, guided flexibly by weather and ice conditions. We hope to visit Skjoldungen Fjord (Saqqisikuik), where you’ll cruise between steep mountains to view active glaciers, launching our Zodiacs for a closer, immersive exploration. If conditions allow, visit the site of an abandoned Inuit settlement whose residents were relocated around 1961. You may also visit deep Lindenow Fjord (Kangerlussuatsiaq), a great spot fed by multiple glaciers that is ideal for hiking through lush and varied flora surrounded by epic mountain vistas, with options to join a paddling excursion.
Day 6 & 7: Exploring South Greenland
Prins Christian Sund navigation and UNESCO Norse ruins
Explore Greenland’s fertile southern coast, nicknamed Arctic Patagonia. You’ll cruise through Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), a mesmerizing maze of narrow fjords and channels where calving glaciers and sheer cliffs plunge into the water, viewing it from the ship or a Zodiac. If conditions allow, venture ashore at Aappilattoq, a close-knit Inuit community of about 100 people. Discover Norse history along the southern shores with a landing at Hvalsey (Qaqortukulooq), the site of Greenland’s largest and best-preserved 14th-century church ruins. Visit the small village of Igaliku, home to 25 inhabitants and Greenland’s oldest sheep-farming settlement, to wander the 12th-century red sandstone foundations of the Gardar cathedral and bishop's residence, which form part of the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 8 to 13: Exploring West Greenland
Old Nuuk, cultural demonstrations, and the Ilulissat river of ice
Discover spectacular glaciers, mountainous landscapes, and vibrant coastal communities along the western coast via daily Zodiac excursions. Visit Nuuk, the charming Greenlandic capital, to wander the historic Old Nuuk neighborhood, viewing the Hans Egede Church and the national museum's famous 15th-century mummies. Land at Sisimiut to explore 18th-century colonial buildings and attend a traditional kayak demonstration tracing back 4,000 years to ancient Inuit roots. Explore the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site hosted at Disko Bay, where the Jakobshavn Glacier (Sermeq Kujalleq) moves 62 feet (19 m) per day as the most productive glacier in the northern hemisphere; enjoy a Zodiac cruise through giant icebergs and hike from the town to view this river of ice. Finally, visit the fishing community of Itilleq, located just north of the Arctic Circle, to chat with friendly locals and join a customary football match.
Day 14: Disembark in Nuuk and Fly to Reykjavik
Charter flight back to Iceland
Upon arriving in Greenland’s capital, enjoy one final 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, both included as part of your specialized Charter Flight & Hotel Package.
Day 15: Depart Reykjavik
Conclusion of the polar voyage
Today, after breakfast at your included hotel, your expedition comes to an end. Make your way independently to Keflavik International Airport for your onward flight home, or continue your personal travel plans as prearranged.
INCLUSIONS
Specialist Expedition Leaders representing the most professional and passionate team.
Immersive off-ship activities including guided walks, nature hikes, and structural landings.
On-ship experiences & facilities designed for comfort (maximum 200 guests) featuring comfortable cabins, premium dining, and panoramic views.
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, charter flights, and hotel accommodation included under the specific package.
Zodiac cruising excursions to explore local bays, ice floes, and glaciers up close.
Daily educational presentations and informal chats hosted by world-class polar experts.
EXCLUSIONS
International airfare & visa expenses.
Travel insurance.
Mandatory expedition gear.
On-ship expenses of a personal nature outside the standard inclusions.
Adventure options booked in advance at an extra cost (such as Sea Kayaking or Paddling Excursions).
Trip extensions.
Size: 296 – 299
Occupancy: 1 to 3 guests
Bed Configuration: Three twin beds
Class: Standard
Location: Deck 6
Enjoy privacy and elegance at the front of the ship where guests are treated to sweeping views from their private veranda.
Size (sqf): 168-195
Occupancy: 1-2
Bed Config: One double bed made up of two twin berths
Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art infotainment system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.
Size (sqf): 173-272
Occupancy: 1-2
Bed Config: One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class: Standard
Location: Deck 4, 6, 7,
Near the center of the ship on Deck 6, this stateroom offers easy access to the lounge, dining room and a private veranda.
Size (sqf): 200-205
Occupancy: 1-2
Bed Config: One double bed made up of two twin berths plus fold out sofa bed
Class: Standard
Location: Deck 4, 6
Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\"infotainment\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\" system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor..
Size (sqf): 177
Occupancy: 1
Bed Config: One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class: Standard
Location: Deck 3
The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive.
Size (sqf): 296-299
Occupancy: 1-2
Bed Config: Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Class: Premium
Location: Deck 6
Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'infotainment\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Size (sqf): 238
Occupancy: 1
Bed Config: One twin single
Class: Premium
Location: Deck 7
This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TVs, state of the art infotainment system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.
Size (sqf): 269
Occupancy: 1-2
Bed Config: Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Class: Premium
Location: Deck 7
This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities.
Size (sqf): 443
Occupancy: 1-2
Bed Config: Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Class: Premium
Location: Deck 7
* 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.
THE POLAR TRAVEL COMPANY LLC
USA
Tel: +1 (786) 321-5654
WhatsApp: +1 (786) 705-2241
Email:
travel@thepolartravelcompany.com
© 2020 The Polar Travel Company | All rights reserved | Terms & Conditions
THE POLAR TRAVEL COMPANY LLC is registered with the State of Florida as a Seller of Travel. Registration No. ST42392.
 |
Write us via WhatsApp |
