Greenland Expedition Cruise

I recently had the pleasure of traveling to Greenland with Quark Expeditions. I embarked on an memorable 8-night cruise through the spectacular fjords of southern Greenland aboard the Ultramarine. Our journey began with a charter flight from Reykjavik, Iceland to Narsarsuaq, Greenland. This picturesque gateway to South Greenland sits nestled in the Tunulliarfik Fjord.

About Greenland

Greenland, the world's largest island, offers a unique Arctic experience. It boasts vast, stark landscapes, majestic fjords, and remote wilderness. 

Unlike other destinations, Greenland's primary allure lies not in wildlife encounters or cultural immersion. (Polar bears and Arctic foxes can certainly be found here but are not as readily visible as other Arctic circle destinations.) Instead, visitors explore its breathtaking natural beauty through various means – on foot, by boat, and even by helicopter.

A cruise to Greenland promises an memorable journey into one of the world's last great wildernesses. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and the opportunity for personal growth and connection make it a destination unlike any other. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or a deeper understanding of our planet's polar regions, Greenland offers it all.

The Ultramarine Experience

The Ultramarine, Quark Expeditions' technologically-advanced vessel, is nothing short of gorgeous.

This state-of-the-art ship is designed specifically for polar exploration, offering comfort and luxury without compromising on adventure capabilities. With a capacity for 199 passengers, the Ultramarine provides an intimate setting for exploring the Arctic while minimizing environmental impact.

We loved our perfect room and all of the common spaces, especially the ready room, the panorama lounge, and the ambassador room. The staff also proved incredibly helpful, warm, and efficient.

The ship itself is equipped with multiple observation decks. This provides ample opportunity to spot wildlife or simply marvel at the passing landscapes. The Ultramarine also features a spa and fitness center, which allowed us to relax after a day of exploration.

One of the most impressive features of the Ultramarine is its two twin-engine helicopters. These aircraft open up a whole new dimension of exploration, allowing for extraordinary excursions like Heli-Hiking and the Greenland Ice Sheet Experience. Imagine being whisked away from the ship, soaring over glaciers and fjords, and landing in remote areas inaccessible by any other means. These activities provided epic, unparalleled views of the largest ice mass in the northern hemisphere. I remain beyond impressed with how they navigated the weather... not an easy task!

South Greenland Expedition Cruise

Our Greenland expedition cruise included visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Kujataa. This site offers insights into Viking farming history and the intersection of Inuit and Norse cultures. This area, comprising five sites spread over a large area of southern Greenland, represents an outstanding example of human settlement and agriculture at the edge of the ice cap.

We also explored charming settlements like Qassiarsuk. It allowed us to experience authentic South Greenland culture. Additionally, we learned about the fascinating lives of sheep farmers at the edge of the Ice Sheet. Qassiarsuk is particularly interesting as it's built on the ruins of Brattahlid, Erik the Red's estate from the 10th century. Here, we had the opportunity to visit reconstructions of a Norse longhouse and church, providing a tangible connection to the area's Viking history.

The expedition cruise was flexible, a hallmark of expedition cruising. This adaptability allowed the captain and expedition leader to make decisions based on weather conditions, ice movements, and wildlife sightings. It therefore ensured we could enjoy activities like Zodiac cruises, kayaking, and hiking without encountering other tourists or ships. This approach created a sense of true wilderness exploration, as if we were the first to discover these pristine landscapes.

Bonding in the Arctic Wilderness

One of the most memorable aspects of the trip was the bonding time I shared with my mom. The remote and quiet environment, far removed from our daily lives and technological distractions, provided an ideal setting for relaxation and connection. We immersed ourselves in the incredible natural beauty surrounding us. We thus fostered a deeper appreciation for the environment and each other.

The silence of Greenland is profound and almost tangible. Away from the constant hum of civilization, we found ourselves in a world where the crack of calving glaciers and the gentle lapping of waves against icebergs became the dominant sounds. This quiet environment allowed for introspection and meaningful conversations, strengthening our relationship in ways we hadn't expected.

Greenland Travel Advice

For those considering traveling to Greenland, I strongly advise taking advantage of every opportunity offered. Whether it's whale watching, witnessing the Northern Lights, participating in a polar plunge, or exploring via Zodiac, helicopter, kayak, or on foot, each experience contributes to the richness of the journey.

Whale watching in Greenland can be particularly rewarding. The waters around the island are home to numerous species, including humpback whales, fin whales, and minke whales. Seeing these magnificent creatures breach the surface or fluke their tails against the backdrop of icebergs and glaciers is an unforgettable experience.

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are another highlight for many visitors to Greenland. While sightings are never guaranteed, the dark Arctic skies and minimal light pollution in Greenland provide ideal conditions for viewing this natural phenomenon. The dance of green, purple, and red lights across the night sky is truly mesmerizing and worth staying up late or waking up in the middle of the night to witness.

For the adventurous, participating in a polar plunge is a rite of passage on many Arctic expeditions. While the water is undeniably cold, the exhilaration that comes from taking the plunge is unmatched. It's also a great way to bond with fellow passengers.

The expedition leaders on these cruises are knowledgeable and passionate, ensuring that each excursion is safe and informative. They provide context to the landscapes we explored, sharing insights about the geology, wildlife, and human history of the areas we visit. Their expertise enhanced the experience, turning each outing into an educational adventure.

The Advantages of Small Ship Expedition Cruising

Visiting Greenland on a small expedition cruise offers an exciting and authentic experience. The absence of a rigid itinerary allows for spontaneity and the chance to explore areas that larger ships can't access. This flexibility, combined with the expertise of the expedition team, results in a truly unique and personalized Arctic adventure.

Small ships can navigate narrow fjords and shallow bays, bringing passengers closer to the dramatic landscapes and wildlife. They also have a lower environmental impact, an important consideration in the fragile Arctic ecosystem. The intimate setting of a small ship also fosters a sense of community among passengers and crew, often leading to lasting friendships.

Furthermore, the expedition leaders aboard a small ship Greenland expedition cruise ensure that each excursion was safe and informative. Their experience, knowledge, friendliness, and humor made our trip. I noticed a huge range of abilities in the guests aboard, and the team remained encouraging and helpful to all. As such, everyone could enjoy the excursions at their own pace. 

Planning Your Greenland Adventure

When planning your Greenland adventure, consider the best time to travel to Greenland, as this can affect your experiences.

Best Time to Travel to Greenland

The summer months (June to August) offer milder temperatures and the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, where the sun never sets. This provides extended daylight hours for exploration.

Meanwhile, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall can offer unique experiences like the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights or witnessing the changing colors of the tundra.

Regardless of when you choose to go, Greenland promises an unforgettable journey in one of the world's last great wildernesses.

How to Pack for an Arctic Expedition

Also, make sure you pack well for an Arctic expedition. Layers are key, as temperatures can vary widely. Waterproof outer layers, warm base layers, and good hiking boots are essential. Also, bring a good camera to capture the stunning landscapes and potential wildlife sightings.

Land-Based Options

In addition to expedition cruises, Greenland also has several land-based travel options out of both Nuuk and Ilulissat. These programs offer additional experiences like dog sledding, cruises through Disko Bay, soaks in hot springs, and hiking excursions into national parks. Kayaking, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing are also on offer.

Book a Greenland Expedition Cruise with Ker & Downey

I love matching my clients with the perfect travel experience. I therefore cannot wait to introduce travelers to the beauty of Greenland expedition cruises and Greenland land-based programs.

Therefore, contact Ker & Downey today to discuss your personal Greenland travel dreams. We will create a custom journey just for you. For even more travel inspiration, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.