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Exploring Greenland

The Heart of Greenland with Disko Bay

Example 16 Day Cruise aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen
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This 16-day voyage begins and ends in Iceland, taking you to the western Greenlandic coastline with its charming scenery and many colorful settlements. You will meet the warm people who live here, and learn more about their traditions and modern culture. Disko Bay is also renowned for its Arctic landscape of glaciers and impressive icebergs.
Hallgrimskirkja Church in ReykjavikLate summer in West GreenlandView of a glacier in GreenlandMidnight sun light, IlulissatOne of Greenland's many glaciersExploring Greenland
Highlights
  • Discover and explore the western coast of Greenland around Disko Bay
  • Have your breath taken away by the Arctic scenery of icebergs and glaciers
  • Meet the welcoming people of Greenland and learn about Inuit culture
  • Visit the stunning Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Reykjavík, Iceland | Embark

Reykjavík is the northernmost capital city in the world. The name means 'Smokey Bay,' so-called because of the columns of steam that rise from the many hot springs in the area. It is well worth booking a Pre-program to explore the surrounding geysers, mountains, glaciers, and geothermal hot springs before embarking MS Fridtjof Nansen.

Day 2-3: At sea

Leave Iceland behind and sail across the Irminger Sea. This is the same crossing that was used by the Vikings to migrate from Iceland to Greenland some 1,000 years ago.
Enjoy introductory lectures on local history and biology for insight into the upcoming destinations.

Day 4: Qaqortoq

Many consider Qaqortoq one of the most beautiful towns in Greenland for its colorful houses and photogenic setting. It is the biggest town in South Greenland, with some 3,000 inhabitants, but still easy to explore on foot. You can also join one of our excursions to get even more insight into local culture.

Included
Qaqortoq - Great Lake Walk

Qaqortoq rises quite steeply over the surrounding fjord system and is best discovered on foot, which says something about its small size

Optional Excursions
  • Kaffeemik
    Take part in a traditional Greenlandic kaffemik, where a local family serves a large selection of specialty food dishes. And of course, a pot of coffee. This is an authentic experience, which lets you learn more about living like a Greenlander.
  • Great Greenland Tannery
    Visit Great Greenland, the only tannery in Greenland, and see how hides and furs are processed. You will also learn about the old hunting traditions, which are an important part of Greenlandic culture.

Day 5: Kvanefjord

Discover the beautiful region of Paamiut by sailing deep into the Kvanefjord. Our experienced captain and Expedition Leader will take advantage of the current weather and ice conditions to identify our activity for the day. This could be a hike ashore for a scenic view of the area, or possibly small-boat cruising or kayaking.

Day 6: Maniitsoq

Maniitsoq was founded in 1755 and its name means `The Uneven Place,´ referring to the rocky hills and mountains shaping the layout of the town. It is also known as the `Venice of Greenland´ as it is situated in an archipelago, intersected by natural canals. The local museum charts the town´s rich history and culture. 

Day 7: Sisimiut

Sisimiut is situated 25 miles north of the Arctic Circle. The name means `The People Living in a Place of Fox Dens.´ This is the second largest town in Greenland, a modern, picturesque settlement that maintains ancient traditions. We offer a variety of exciting excursions to discover the many things to do in Sisimiut. 

Included
Sisimiut - Kayak Demo and Museum visit

Sisimiut is Greenland's second-largest town with approximately 5.500 inhabitants. That's almost 4 times smaller than the Capital, Nuuk.

Optional Excursions
  • City tour by bus
    If you want to comfortably experience all of Sisimiut in a short amount of time, this sightseeing tour by bus is the perfect excursion for you.
  • Sisimiut Town Walk
    Sisimiut is Greenland's second-largest town with approximately 5.500 inhabitants. That's almost 4 times smaller than the Capital, Nuuk.
  • Hike to Palasip Qaqqaa
    Join a challenging summit hike and be rewarded with an amazing panoramic view!

Day 8: Ilulissat

Ilulissat is set in the stunning scenery of the Ilulissat Icefjord UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the mouth of the fjord you can see enormous icebergs that have run aground. These ice masses originate from the Jakobshavn Glacier, one of the fastest-moving glaciers in the world. Join one of our many excursions here.

Included
Ilulissat - Walk to the Icefjords

Hear the ice cracking in the distance?

Optional Excursions
  • Boat trip to the ice fjord
    Ilulissat is renowned for its breathtakingly beautiful ice fjord - best experienced by boat. Get close to nature and experience the ice that leaves visitors speechless in wonder.
  • Hike to Holms Bakke
    Hike through spectacular surroundings as we take you to Holms Bakke – a traditional hiking trip for locals. Experience Inuit culture, see incredible icebergs and learn about local flora and fauna.

Day 9: Vaigat Sound

Arrive at the northernmost point in our itinerary. There are several excellent landing sites in Vaigat Sound offering breathtaking landscape and Arctic flora. Our experienced captain and Expedition Leader will take advantage of the current weather and ice conditions to identify our activity for the day.

Day 10: Evighed Fjord

On one side of the meandering Evighed Fjord is an ice cap that often crashes massive chunks of ice into the water. Around us are the highest mountains in West Greenland with peaks, up to 26,600 feet in height, sometimes swirling with mist. Conditions on the day will determine the final program and the range of activities on offer by the Expedition Team.

Day 11: Nuuk

Nuuk is situated at the mouth of one of the most spectacular fjord systems in the world. The capital city is where old and new traditions meet, from historic buildings in `Kolonihavnen´ to the modern Centre for Greenland Self Rule. Another feature is the National Museum - home to the famous mummies of Qilakitsoq.

Included
Nuuk - Shuttle & Museum visit

Visit the National Museum of Greenland

Optional Excursions
  • Cultural History Walk
    Don’t miss this opportunity to explore Greenland´s capital city of Nuuk! Join a sightseeing tour of the town before you visit the National Museum, providing a glimpse into Greenland’s interesting past.
  • Nuuk City Tour
    Explore Greenland´s fascinating capital city by bus! Nuuk is a cosmopolitan town in the high Arctic, offering both beautiful nature and an urban vibe.

Day 12: Ivittuut

According to archaeologists, Vikings settled in this area more than a thousand years ago but didn’t remain. Ivittuut is believed to be the last Norse settlement in Greenland, but first to be abandoned. Nowadays, the only inhabitants that might appear in the town are wandering musk oxen that normally graze in the nearby plains.

Day 13: Prins Christian Sund

This long fjord is surrounded by mountains that reach over 3,900 feet, and up to 7,280 feet high. Many glaciers go straight into its waters where they calve icebergs of all shapes, shades, and sizes. If the channel is blocked with ice, we will sail around Nunap Isua (Cape Farewell) instead.

Day 14-15: Irminger Sea

After exploring exhilarating Greenland, we set course back to Iceland. Spend the days at sea recapping your experiences, having fun in the Science Center, or just relaxing on deck, looking at the seabirds which follow our ship or maybe even spotting whales.

Day 16: Reykjavík, Iceland | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
You arrive back in the Icelandic capital early in the morning. Disembark after breakfast.

Ship/Hotel

MS Fridtjof Nansen

Antarctica Wilhelmina Bay Photo by Espen Mills
Reception

Dates & Prices

This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Greenland Cruises & Tours.
$13,849
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Outside cabin on lower/middle deck(RS)
183 sq ft, Cabins on middle decks with queen bed
MS Fridtjof Nansen outside cabin
Outside Cabin on Lower/Middle Decks (RR)
205–248 sq ft, Larger cabins on middle decks with flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofa bed. Most are 215 sq ft.
Outside cabin on upper deck
High deck cabins with balcony. Spacious cabins, different sizes, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee. Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.
MS Fridtjof Nansen outside cabin
Outside Cabin on Lower/Middle Decks (TY)(TT)
258–291 sq ft, Large cabins without balcony. On middle decks, with flexible sleeping arrangements, sofa bed, amenity kit, kettle, tea and coffee.
Outside Cabin with Balcony (XT)(XTD)(XY)
161–205 sq ft, Spacious high-deck cabins with a balcony, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofa bed, amenity kit, kettle, tea and coffee
MS Fridtjof Nansen corner suite
Corner Suite (MF)
237 sq ft, Corner suite with large windows, without a balcony, with flexible sleeping arrangements, mini-bar, amenity kit, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker.
MS Fridtjof Nansen suite w/ balcony
Suite with Balcony (ME)
215–301 sq ft, Suites with a private balcony on high decks, with flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofa bed, mini-bar, amenity kit, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker
MS Fridtjof Nansen large suite w/ balcony
Large Suite with Balcony (MD)
377 sq ft, Large corner suite with a private balcony, flexible sleeping arrangements, sofa bed, mini-bar, amenity kit, bathrobe, kettle, espresso maker. Accessible to guests with limited mobility.
MS Fridtjof Nansen corner suite w/ balcony
Corner Suite with Balcony (MC)
215–323 sq ft, Aft corner suites with a private balcony and hot tub, large windows, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofa bed, mini-bar, amenity kit, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker.
MS Fridtjof Nansen XL suite w/o balcony
XL Suite (MB)
474 sq ft, Extra-large corner suites without a balcony. Aft corner suites with sofa bed, flexible sleeping arrangements, large windows, mini-bar, amenity kit, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker.
MS Fridtjof Nansen XL suite w/ balcony
XL Suite with Balcony (MA)
495–517 sq ft, Extra-large corner suites with a private balcony. The ship’s most spacious cabins, with large windows, flexible sleeping arrangements, sofa bed, mini-bar, amenity kit, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker.
Included
  • 15 Breakfasts, 14 Lunches, 15 Dinners
  • 15 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Gratuities
  • Complimentary Reusable Water Bottle 
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Be aware that we sail in remote areas with very limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
  • Loan of Boots, Trekking Poles, & All Equipment for Activities
  • Use of the Ship’s Science Center which has an extensive library and advanced biological and geological microscopes
  • À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
  • In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
  • Citizen Science Program where you can assist with ongoing scientific research
  • Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
  • Escorted landings with small expedition boats
  • English-speaking expedition team
  • Complimentary tea and coffee
  • Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
  • Use of ship's hot tubs, infinity pool, panoramic sauna, outdoor and indoor gyms, and running track
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Luggage Handling 
  • Mandatory medical evacuation insurance
  • Optional shore excursions with local partners
  • Optional small-group activities with the Expedition Team
  • Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area

Map

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Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen

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