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Arrive in the Icelandic capital and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the day to explore the city on your own.
This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead!
As we cruise across the Denmark Strait, the Expedition Team will teach you about the wildlife and storied history of Greenland, its fascinating geology, ecology and climate, and the incredible sights you will soon explore. Staff will also keep watch for the seabirds you’ll likely see soaring above your ship, as well as the whales that can be encountered here.
Our exploration of Greenland begins with East Greenland, one of the least visited and most remote parts of the island. Your days sailing along the coast will be guided by weather and ice conditions, with each day and each excursion presenting new adventures. The region is a sight to behold, boasting a mesmerizing maze of vast glaciers, steep mountains and breathtaking fjords. One location we hope to visit if conditions allow is Skjoldungen, where you’ll cruise between the mountains to view glaciers deep within the fjords surrounding this island. The narrow part of the fjord provides an ideal place to put our Zodiacs in the water for a more in-depth exploration. If conditions allow, you may also visit the site of an abandoned Inuit settlement, whose inhabitants were relocated to larger, more accessible towns around 1961. Exploring ashore, you’ll experience a true Arctic ghost town, complete with abandoned buildings, furniture and even shoes! Hiking the rugged terrain rewards with impressive views of snow-capped mountains, deep green waters and the surprisingly colourful Arctic tundra. This site is prone to insects, however, so have your spray or netting at the ready. Another possible destination is Lindenow Fjord, a great spot for Zodiac cruising, if conditions are favorable. This rarely visited deep fjord is fed by a number of glaciers and offers ample opportunities for your camera to get a workout. You’ll also want to keep watch for Bearded seals, as they’re known to haul out on the ice floes.
Sailing on, we’ll explore Greenland’s fertile southern coast. Nicknamed Arctic Patagonia, this region is as rich in spectacular scenery as it is in history and culture. Here, it’s easy to see why Erik the Red gave Greenland its name: everywhere you look rewards with vistas of icy waters set against a backdrop of soaring mountains, crystal-clear waterfalls and unbelievably lush, green valleys. Scattered around the shores of the fjord systems that dominate the area are several small settlements, both ancient and present day, making South Greenland an ideal place to explore. The magical Prins Christian Sund, a complex maze of narrow fjords and channels, is a great place for cruising. You’ll explore this stunning sound, home to calving glaciers, jagged mountains and sheer cliffs that plunge dramatically into the water. Sailing this coastline from the vantage point of your ship or a Zodiac is an exhilarating experience. If conditions allow, venturing ashore provides opportunities for all levels of hiking. Steeped in Norse history, the southern coast of Greenland provides plenty of places to learn about this ancient culture. One such landing we hope to make is at Hvalsey, the site of Greenland’s largest and best-preserved Norse ruins. Exploring the remains of the circa 14th-century church will feel like stepping back in time, as the building appears much as it did when it was abandoned in the 15th century and the surrounding fells and fjord remain similarly untouched. The little village of Igaliku, home to about 30 inhabitants, is Greenland’s oldest sheep-farming settlement. It’s a charming place to go ashore, as sheep peacefully graze on the grass, surrounded by bloom-covered rolling valleys and snow-capped mountains. The area is also known for its storied past, as evidenced by the remarkable red sandstone ruins of the Gardar cathedral (the largest church in Greenland in the Middle Ages) and bishop’s residence, which date back to the early 12th century, when Greenland’s first bishop was appointed. Wandering the foundations, excavated in 1926, you’ll get to see a bit of history firsthand as you learn about this interesting relic of the Viking period. Together with four other historic farming communities, Igaliku is part of a newly established UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Boasting spectacular glaciers, mountainous landscapes, and vibrant communities, the west coast of Greenland will leave you awestruck. Heading north, each day we hope to take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites, discovering some of the quaint villages dotting the islands and fjords in the region and cruising in some of Greenland’s most picturesque places. The west coast is home to Nuuk, the charming Greenlandic capital. You’ll have time to wander the streets of the historic Old Nuuk neighborhood and see the Hans Egede Church and Hans Egede statue near the waterfront, both named after the missionary who founded the settlement. History buffs will want to visit the national museum to view the famous Greenlandic mummies, found under a rock outcrop in 1972 by two brothers who were grouse hunting. Sisimiut is another interesting place to go ashore, as there are more dogsleds here than humans. You’ll have time to wander the town’s historic area, where several 18th-century colonial buildings still stand, including Greenland’s oldest surviving church. You’ll also be treated to a traditional kayaking demonstration. The kayak is Greenland’s national symbol and can be traced back over 4,000 years to the Inuit, who used the vessels for hunting and transportation. Another beautiful locale, and one of west Greenland’s highlights is the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to one of the world’s most active glaciers, Jakobshavn Glacier or Sermeq Kujalleq in Greenlandic, this is a great place to enjoy a Zodiac excursion to experience icebergs from a unique perspective not afforded by land. Venturing ashore at the nearby town, Ilulissat (which means “iceberg”), rewards with its own spectacle: young bergs floating out to Disko Bay. A hike from the town to the icefjord will allow you to view this unforgettable river of ice from the rocky shore. Given that it’s known for having more sled dogs than people, it’s not surprising that Ilulissat is the birthplace of the first European to traverse the Northwest Passage by dogsled, explorer Knud Rasmussen. Surrounded by sea and mountains, the fishing community of Itilleq (meaning “crossing place”) is situated in a scenic hollow on a small island, about a mile (2 km) above the Arctic Circle. Explore traditional wooden houses painted in a rainbow of colors, chat with the locals and join a customary football (soccer) match between visitors and residents, and you’ll be experiencing Itilleq’s famous friendly vibe in no time.
Enjoy one more Zodiac ride to shore, where you’ll board your charter flight back to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we will transfer you to your included hotel.
Today, you can make your way home at your leisure or spend some time exploring this artistic city.
* 12 nights on the ship, 2 nights hotel in Reykjavik
* Expedition cruising in comfortable conditions
All meals while on the ship included.
*Typical Meals*
The ships galley offers good quality service and cuisine throughout, with
excellent chefs preparing international menus including vegetarian dishes,
accompanied by a wide variety of drinks from around the world on sale.
*Breakfast:* Buffet style – unlimited tea and coffee, a selection of fruit
juices, hot options including bacon and eggs or omelettes, a selection of
bread and toast and jam/honey/marmalade, fruit and cereal.
*Lunch:* Three course set meal, or the occasional buffet or BBQ.
*Dinner: *Three courses with a starter of soup, salad or anti-pasto, a
choice of three mains with at least one vegetarian and one seafood option and
a dessert of sweet pudding or ice cream or fruit, tea and coffee.
* 12 nights on the ship, 2 nights hotel in Reykjavik
* Expedition cruising in comfortable conditions
*Travelling Conditions*
The voyages are designed to be as flexible as possible, taking advantage of
circumstances and events as they occur, as well as passengers' wishes and
particular interests wherever possible. The atmosphere on board is relaxed
and friendly with expedition staff, including naturalists and Polar experts,
on hand and the opportunity to mingle with people from all over the world.
The ship is kept warm, clean and comfortable with a wet/mud room in which to
hang gear and store boots ready for the next adventure.
On the Zodiac cruises you are sitting still for most of the time with the
potential for some sea spray and a cold headwind - if you are not dressed
appropriately you will get cold. On the shore excursions, the majority of
landings are wet which means that the Zodiacs beach and you are helped to
slide into the ankle deep shore break before walking up onto dry land
(wellington boots are issued to all passengers). There are, of course, no
paths, so be prepared for slippery, rough terrain and sometimes fairly deep
snow. Back on board the cosy ship after each adventure, you can have a sauna
and/or a hot shower and then relax with a tea, coffee, hot chocolate or
something stronger from the bar.
*Optional activities*
*Sea kayaking option:*
Kayaking in the Arctic is probably one of the most intimate and inspiring
ways you can explore the rugged coastlines and calm bays of the regions we
visit.
Kayaking in the Polar Regions is highly weather-dependent, however we
guarantee at least one outing throughout your voyage, but your kayak guides
will take you out as many times as possible throughout your voyage.
Offered on most Arctic voyages, spaces are limited and require some kayaking
experience. All equipment, guides and instructions are provided by Quark.
*Paddling Excursion: *
Explore the ocean from a more intimate vantage point on a sit-on-top kayak.
No experience is required to manoeuvre these very stable kayaks, allowing you
to enjoy an unforgettable experience on the water, taking in breathtaking
landscapes and wildlife. Whether it’s your first time in a kayak or you
want greater flexibility to try other Adventure options, this shorter
excursion is for you.
Paddling in the Polar Regions is highly weather-dependent and a one-time
experience. Your kayak guides will attempt to take you out on the water for
1-1.5 hours of paddling. Offered on most voyages, spaces are limited. All
equipment, guides and instructions are provided by Quark.
*Polar Itineraries*
All Polar itineraries should be treated as a guide only - it is possible
that, amongst other things, the capricious nature of wind, visibility and
ice, intelligence from previous sailings, changes in local landing
regulations or the expert opinion of the crew onboard may lead to adjustments
to the route published.
*Booking Conditions*
Please note that the booking conditions for this trip differ from our
standard conditions.
As with all Polar holidays and voyages, the required deposit is 20% per
person of your selected travel arrangements (minimum £1000 per person or
equivalent) and the balance of the price of your travel arrangements must be
paid at least 133 days before your departure date. The deposit is
non-refundable, and at 133 days before departure date, our cancellation
penalties are 100% of the holiday cost.
Polar Adventure Ship
The *Essential Greenland: Southern Coasts and Disko Bay* voyage is offered
on the *Ultramarine *which is a Polar Adventure Ship. Two nights in a
standard hotel in Reykjavik is included. Full board accommodation on the
ship, generally on a twin share basis in a variety of cabin types, all with
en suite facilities. Please visit the Polar Fleet page [1] for Ship
Information and Deck Plans.
*Polar Adventure Ships*
These are small ice rated vessels well qualified for Polar waters. Intimate
adventures are always more enjoyable with like-minded passengers and staff,
so these voyages are for people who like flexible itineraries and plenty to
keep them busy. Activities include frequent Zodiac excursions, trekking,
kayaking and many hours on deck in areas that other ships only dream about
accessing. Food and staff are superb and every guest benefits from the
technical advances of this superb fleet. Rest assured our Polar Adventure
Ships enable any traveller to maximize their experience sensitively in the
Poles.
[1] node/935
The Exodus group forms part of the ship’s complement (max of approx. 100),
enjoying the relaxed, intimate and informal atmosphere, which breaks into
smaller groups to facilitate the frequent excursions. We offer these cruises
in conjunction with our partner, Quark Expeditions, and Exodus participants
will join an international group, not all of whom have booked through Exodus.
Occasionally some of these may be younger than 12 years old, the Exodus'
stated minimum age for this trip. We work with many fine Expedition Leaders
and Polar Experts, bringing a diversity of interests including zoology, Polar
history, geology, ornithology and ocean sciences. The ship’s operating crew
is Russian and have many years of experience in Polar Regions and are
committed to ensuring a safe and memorable journey. Each day your cabin will
be serviced by the housekeeping crew, and your meals served by the friendly
and attentive restaurant staff. There is also a resident medical officer.
All meals while on the ship included.
*Typical Meals*
The ships galley offers good quality service and cuisine throughout, with
excellent chefs preparing international menus including vegetarian dishes,
accompanied by a wide variety of drinks from around the world on sale.
*Breakfast:* Buffet style – unlimited tea and coffee, a selection of fruit
juices, hot options including bacon and eggs or omelettes, a selection of
bread and toast and jam/honey/marmalade, fruit and cereal.
*Lunch:* Three course set meal, or the occasional buffet or BBQ.
*Dinner: *Three courses with a starter of soup, salad or anti-pasto, a
choice of three mains with at least one vegetarian and one seafood option and
a dessert of sweet pudding or ice cream or fruit, tea and coffee.
During the expedition, you will visit remote and isolated sites that are
accessible only by Zodiac landing craft. Designed for expedition work, these
large and heavy-duty inflatable vessels are extremely safe.
*Travelling land only: 15 days starting and ending in Reykjavik*
Your trip normally starts at our hotel in Reykjavik in the afternoon of Day 1
of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are provided in the
Final Joining Instructions - sent approximately two weeks before departure.
Greenland has an Arctic climate with average temperatures that do not exceed
10° C in the warmest summer months. However, the conditions in the coastal
regions of the Arctic during the northern summer are both mild and
changeable. Enjoyable sunny days can swiftly change to cold, windy storms
with snow flurries and rolling seas. Average daily temperatures in mid-season
are between -4 and +2 Celsius; however, wind conditions can make it seem
colder. It is common that you will experience daytime temperatures below
freezing.
Boots – Rubber boots are essential for a Polar expedition, but to eliminate
these from your packing list we will loan you a pair for the duration of the
voyage.
Parkas – A complementary Quark parka will be provided on the ship.
Trousers – Waterproof trousers are essential for Zodiac travel as well as
activities on shore.
Gloves – To keep your hands warm and dry, pack a minimum of two pairs of
gloves: a pair of thin polypropylene gloves to be worn underneath warm outer
gloves.
Hat and Scarf – Pack a warm, woollen hat or cap that covers your ears, as
well as a scarf, neck gaiter or other face protection.
Socks – For maximum warmth, we suggest that you wear two pairs of socks to
wear inside the rubber boots.
Outer Clothing – Pack woollen or fleece jumpers and tops, plus several
turtlenecks for layering.
Underclothing – Pack silk or polypropylene underwear since it will keep you
warm without adding bulk.
Knapsack or Backpack – To keep your hands free for shooting photograph,
bring a water resistant or waterproof knapsack or backpack.
Shoes – Non-slip shoes for walking around the vessel.
Swimsuit
Sunglasses
Binoculars
Camera, extra batteries, film or memory cards
Protective sunscreen
Electric converter with adapter plug set
Small medical kit containing prescription medicines and over-the-counter
medication for basic ailments such as stomach upsets, allergies, headaches
and seasickness
Snow poles or trekking poles
On board the ships all transactions are in US dollars.
At the conclusion of your voyage, you will be presented with an account. This
will include any drinks from the bar, laundry or ship’s shop purchases for
which you have signed. You may pay for this in US Dollars cash, credit card
(Visa or MasterCard ONLY) or US dollars Traveller’s Cheques.
Please note: on the last evening, once your ship account has been settled,
credit card payments are no longer accepted. It is therefore advisable to
bring at least some US$ cash if you wish to purchase drinks from the bar or
any items from the on board shop at this time.
The appropriate amount to tip the staff and crew is a personal matter but it
is customary to provide an end-of-cruise gratuity (as a rough guide
approximately US$13-15 per day per passenger would be appreciated)
* Travel insurance
* Single accommodation (available on request)
* Visas or vaccinations
* Mandatory transfer package (including charter flights from Kangerlussuaq
to Reykjavik) which is from £1000 per person (or equivalent in booking
currency) paid on booking
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.