The Heart of Greenland with Disko Bay

About Reykjavik

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Our Greenland expedition cruise explores rare natural beauty and the fascinating Inuit culture. Meet the welcoming people who thrive in this Arctic landscape as we sail among giant icebergs to such natural wonders as Disko Bay in perpetual daylight under the Midnight Sun.
16 days


Like Nowhere Else on Earth

This Greenland expedition cruise explores the Inuit’s rich culture and breathtaking nature. One highlight is the Disko Bay area, where colorful villages cling to rocky hillsides surrounding inland ice. In fact, 80% of amazing Greenland is covered by ice. Together, we will explore long fjords, glaciers and lush meadows, while hopefully encountering whales, seals and sea birds along the way.

“Kalaallit Nunaat” - Land of the People

Our itinerary invites you to discover Greenland’s amazing geography under the Midnight Sun and meet the people that call this wilderness home. This adventurous sojourn explores rarely-visited settlements and lively towns, and encourages you to discover the many attractions in Nuuk.

Close to Natural Wonders

Our landings, excursions and optional activities like kayaking and hiking give you the chance to get out and explore famous natural treasures like the UNESCO World Heritage site, Ilulissat Icefjord. Here, massive icebergs emerge into the sea from the enormous Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, part of the Greenlandic inland ice sheet.

These are just some reasons to visit Greenland, but our expedition cruise adds more by starting and ending in fascinating Iceland, providing you the opportunity to explore the land of fire and ice before or after your cruise.


      Combine the exploration of pristine Greenland nature with fascinating Inuit
      Begin and end your journey in Iceland - a great opportunity to explore further
      Discover Greenland’s immaculate beauty under the Midnight Sun
      Sail into lovely Disko Bay

  • Hurtigruten expedition cruise in the cabin grade of your choice

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN ADVENTURE

  • rich program of included activities on all voyages designed to immerse you in the destinations you visit, including small boat cruising and onshore exploration with the expedition team  
  • Professional English-speaking expedition team - an international, handpicked team of highly educated experts in various academic fields with profound knowledge of the regions we sail in  
  • Complimentary wind- and water-resistant jacket   
  • Loan of boots, trekking poles, and equipment needed for optional and included activities

ENGAGING ONBAORD ACTIVITIES AND EDUCATION

  • In-depth lectures on science, history, biology, geography, geology or culture that provide context to your voyage and help you understand the destinations you will experience  
  • Explorer Science program, with educational and Citizen Science activities that let you learn about the sights you’ll see while contributing to research
  • Introductory photo lecture, including camera adjustments and tips and tricks
  • Photos and film/video footage from the voyage shared in the Expedition Logbook
  • Casual opportunities to engage with the expedition team and other guests, including a welcome event, daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come
  • Opportunities to dine and interact with the expedition team and officers  
  • Destination-focused onboard library  
  • Port presentations providing destination insight
  • farewell event  

PREMIUM ONBOARD COMFORT

  • All meals including beverages (beer and wine, sodas and mineral water in all ship restaurants)
  • Coffee and tea included throughout the day
  • Early riser and afternoon treat offered in addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Fredheim restaurant meals included 
  • A la carte restaurant (only for suite guests) 
  • Gym, outdoor hot tubs and saunas with windows
  • Rejuvenating wellness areas with separate treatment rooms, infinity pool, outdoor gym, running track 
  • Free Wi-fi onboard for all guests. Be aware that we sail in remote areas with limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
  • No gratuities expected   

  • International flights 
  • Optional shore excursions with our local partners  
  • Optional small-group adventures with our expedition team such as kayaking, long hikes (availability pending weather conditions and safety)  
  • Travel protection plan  
  •  Luggage handling 
  • All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
Hurtigruten offers unique expedition cruises to some of the purest and most remote waters of the world. As with all expeditions, nature prevails. Safety is always our top priority. We continuously evaluate our cruises to adapt to unexpected weather, ice and sea conditions, and exciting nature opportunities. That’s why we call it an expedition.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.

Itinerary

  1. Capital of Iceland - Reykjavik, Iceland - Embarkation - Full Day

    Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital city. Norse settlers named the place Reykjavik (meaning “Smoky Bay”) after the columns of steam rising from hot springs in the area. The region offers fantastic natural beauty with geysers, mountains, glaciers and geothermal baths, well worth exploring before embarking on MS Fridtjof Nansen.

    Capital of Iceland - Reykjavik, Iceland - Embarkation - Full Day
  2. Crossing the Denmark Strait - At sea - At sea

    We leave Iceland behind and sail across the Irminger Sea. This crossing was used by the Vikings to migrate from Iceland to Greenland some 1,000 years ago. Enjoy introductory lectures on local history and biology, and get to know our innovative expedition ship.

    Crossing the Denmark Strait - At sea - At sea
  3. “Kalaallit Nunaat” – Land of the People - Qaqortoq - Full Day

    Many consider Qaqortoq one of the most beautiful towns in Greenland for its colorful houses and lovely setting. The biggest town in southern Greenland, with 3,000 inhabitants, Qaqortoq is easy to explore on foot, or you can join one of our excursions to get even more insight into local culture.

    Included activity:

    Great Lake Walk (2 hrs)

    Qaqortoq rises quite steeply over the surrounding fjord system and is best discovered on foot, which says something about its small size. Our hike leads you outside the town to see its water supply, the great lake known as Tasersuaq. Walking along its shoreline provides stunning views and creates awe for nature’s majesty.

    “Kalaallit Nunaat” – Land of the People - Qaqortoq - Full Day
  4. Exploration Day - Kvanefjord area

    We discover the beautiful region of Kvanefjord near Paamiut by sailing deep into the fjord. Our experienced captain will take advantage of the conditions to identify landing sites for onshore walks, places to launch our kayaks, ideal communities to visit, and the best spots to spot wildlife.

    Exploration Day - Kvanefjord area
  5. The Venice of Greenland - Maniitsoq - Half Day

    Founded in 1755, Maniitsoq means “The uneven place,” referring to the rocky hills and mountains shaping the town’s layout. It is also known as the “Venice of Greenland” because it lies in an archipelago, intersected by natural canals.

    The local museum introduces you to the town´s rich history and culture. 

    The Venice of Greenland - Maniitsoq - Half Day
  6. “Where There are Fox Dens” - Sisimiut - Full Day

    Sisimiut lies 25 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Its name means “the people living in a place where there are fox dens.” Greenland’s second largest town is a modern, picturesque settlement that maintains ancient traditions. We offer you a variety of exciting excursions to discover Sisimiut’s many attractions. 

    Included activity:

    Kayak Demo and Museum visit (1 - 2 hrs)

    Enjoy a traditional kayaking demonstration and the Sisimit museum. The Inuit invented the ‘qajaq’ in Greenland. Experience the Greenlander kayak roll first hand. Sisimut museum features local cultural history and exhibits different periods of the city’s history and its surroundings.

    “Where There are Fox Dens” - Sisimiut - Full Day
  7. Icefjord - UNESCO World Heritage Site - Ilulissat - Full Day

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

    Included activity:

    Walk to the Icefjords (2 hrs)

    Hear the ice cracking in the distance? Take a closer look at the beautiful icebergs of Ilulissat Icefjord. Getting a close-up view of these frozen giants will slow your world down and leave you humbled. Join us on a walk to enjoy this UNESCO World Heritage site.

    Icefjord - UNESCO World Heritage Site - Ilulissat - Full Day
  8. Named After Expedition Team Member Friederike Bronny - Camp Frieda - Full Day

    We visit a location near Saqqaq that was without an official name until 2013. The place is special to us, as it is named after a former expedition team member. We land on the beach to explore this northernmost destination of our cruise, amidst breathtaking scenery and Arctic flora.

    Named After Expedition Team Member Friederike Bronny - Camp Frieda - Full Day
  9. Exploration Day - Evighed Fjord (Eternal Fjord)

    Today´s exploration will take us to meandering Evighed Fjord, surrounded by tall mountains (up to 6,600 ft high). The day’s weather and ice conditions will determine the final program and the range of activities we offer.

    Exploration Day - Evighed Fjord (Eternal Fjord)
  10. The Vibrant Capital of Greenland - Nuuk - Full Day

    Nuuk lies at the mouth of one of the most spectacular fjord systems in the world. Greenland’s capital city is where old and new meet, from historic buildings in “Kolonihavnen” to the modern “Center for Greenland Self Rule.” There’s also the National Museum - home to the famous Qilakitsoq mummies.

    Included activity:

    Shuttle & Museum visit (1 - 2 hrs)

    Visit the National Museum of Greenland. Discover exhibitions covering Greenland's history during the past 4,500 years - from the first Arctic Stone Age cultures to the Norse settlements, the arrival of the Thule culture and the gradual transition to modern day Greenland.

    The Vibrant Capital of Greenland - Nuuk - Full Day
  11. Musk Oxen and a Norse Settlement - Ivittuut - Half Day

    The abandoned town of Ivittuut is a stronghold for musk oxen. More than 1,000 years ago, Vikings settled the area, but left no written records behind. Archaeologists believe this was the last Norse settlement in Greenland to be established, and the first to be abandoned.

    Musk Oxen and a Norse Settlement - Ivittuut - Half Day
  12. Heading Back to Iceland - Prins Christian Sund Region

    Prince Christian Sound separates mainland Greenland from Sammisoq and the Cape Farewell Archipelago. If conditions allow, we will sail through this narrow channel and admire the spectacular scenery here. If the channel is blocked with ice, we will sail around Nunap Isua (Cape Farewell).

    Heading Back to Iceland - Prins Christian Sund Region
  13. Heading Back to Iceland - Irminger Sea - Denmark Strait

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

    Heading Back to Iceland - Irminger Sea - Denmark Strait
  14. The Stylish Capital of Iceland - Reykjavik, Iceland - Disembarkation

    You arrive in the Icelandic capital early in the morning. If you want to explore more of the city and country, add one of our exciting pre- or post-cruise Land Adventures to your trip.

    The Stylish Capital of Iceland - Reykjavik, Iceland - Disembarkation
The Heart of Greenland with Disko Bay The Heart of Greenland with Disko Bay The Heart of Greenland with Disko Bay The Heart of Greenland with Disko Bay The Heart of Greenland with Disko Bay The Heart of Greenland with Disko Bay The Heart of Greenland with Disko Bay

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