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Explore Greenland, the world’s biggest island, on a Holland America Line cruise. Halfway between the Arctic and Atlantic oceans, Greenland has been inhabited for more than 4,500 years by Arctic peoples who migrated from Canada, and later by Norsemen. Cruise the scenic Prince William Sound. Take a guided walking tour of Nanortalik (“the Place with Polar Bears”). Delve into Pasmiut’s whaling and fur-trading past. Discover the ruins of Qaqortoq’s 14th-century Hvalsey Church and visit Uunartoq Hot Springs—Greenland’s only heated outdoor spa.

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Stretching approximately 2,800 kilometres (1,750 miles) from north to south and approximately 1,000 kilometres (625 miles) from east to west, Greenland is the world’s biggest island. Some do claim that Australia is a bigger island, but according to international definitions, Australia is regarded as a continent. East Greenland is just a short flight from Iceland, but its culture and landscapes are a world away. In a land dominated by the Ice Cap and impossibly steep mountain ranges, 3,500 people have made it their home. Their culture is born from myths and legends, often expressed in bone and rock carvings, but at the same time it is a globally connected culture with strong hunting roots and an everyday spirit of adventure. Discover Scoresbysund where you can paddle and Zodiac cruise along one of the world’s longest, largest and deepest fjord systems. At Ittoqqortoormiit, visit Greenland’s most remote settlement, home to approximately 450 mostly Inuit, people.South Greenland lives up to its name as it is truly a ‘green land’. It is a land of jagged mountains and green pastures where sheep farms directly border ice fjords, and Norse settlement history intertwines with modern fishing and hunting communities. Natural hot springs on a remote island, big wall climbing, and fjord kayaking abound in South Greenland.

Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, located in West Greenland is an arctic metropolis with a small-town feel, shaped by nature and known for its cultural diversity. While Nuuk is the colourful heart of this nation, the smaller communities of Paamiut south of the capital and Kapisillit in the Nuuk Fjord, are places to kick back and spend time in the outdoors. From the Disko Bay area in central West Greenland to the polar extremes of the far north, the scale of North Greenland is hard to fathom. Along a coastline stretching thousands of miles lie small communities based on hunting and fishing, in a land ruled by the Polar Night in winter and the summer’s Midnight Sun. From the strange volcanic rocks along the hiking trails on Qeqertarsuaq, the constant flow of massive icebergs from one of the world’s fastest flowing glaciers in Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Listed site, the diverse landscapes and superb whale and bird-watching opportunities in Disko Bay, makes West Greenland an ideal place to experience an expedition cruise.

At Aurora Expeditions, we have many Greenland cruises for you to explore Greenland in-depth, including West Greenland Explorer as voted by you! Explore the real world.

Greenland Cruises & Expeditions

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Greenland Cruises

Embark on a cruise adventure to the remote coastal regions of Greenland, where you will experience a pristine natural environment that is uniquely Arctic . Situated between the Arctic and Atlantic oceans, east of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago and a part of the Arctic Circle, Greenland is an exciting destination for adventurous travellers.

Aurora Expeditions’ cruises are made for rugged explorers who are excited to experience the magic of the Greenland wilderness. Our Expedition Team provides Greenland tours for those with a keen sense of adventure and a desire to immerse themselves in the natural environment.

• Expeditions

Destination Highlights

Wild Landscapes of West Greenland

USD $ 18,876.00

Southern Greenland: On the Trail of the Vikings

USD $ 15,676.00

Traversing the Northwest Passage

USD $ 38,636.00

Northern Lights Explorer

USD $ 18,796.00

Northwest Passage

USD $ 20,396.00

Jewels of the Arctic: Greenland Solar Eclipse

USD $ 22,495.50

Jewels of the Arctic

USD $ 15,671.25

Why Join a Greenland Expedition Cruise?

As one of the best known Arctic islands, Greenland is a remarkable destination that leaves its imprint in ways not entirely explainable. Whether you’re exploring the East, West or South, our Greenland Expeditions reveal the beauty of the world’s largest island.

Many people still have misconceptions about this alluring Arctic nation. For one, despite being almost completely covered by the Greenland Ice Sheet, there is more to Greenland than glaciers and ice. It is a nation with layers of culture and history that will unfold before you. Greenland has one of the world’s smallest populations, with approximately 56,500 inhabitants. Today, 88% of Greenland’s population is Inuit (predominantly Kalaallit) or a mix of Danish and Inuit. The remaining 12% are of European descent, mainly Danish.

A trip to Greenland takes you to one of the planet’s last great wildernesses, a remote land of ice and snow. Offering remarkable landscapes, exceptional wildlife, iceberg-filled fjords, majestic peaks, vast tundra, Viking history and contemporary Inuit culture, Greenland is truly unlike anywhere else in the world. The fjords and mountains of Greenland are where life is concentrated. Summer is the best time to visit Greenland – when wildflowers are in full bloom, birds start breeding and wildlife sightings are most common. If you’re lucky you can observe bands of caribou, musk oxen, Arctic foxes and polar bears. Seals, walruses and many species of whales including humpbacks, orcas and white belugas also gather near its shores.

In Greenland, tiny, isolated communities are scattered among the fjords, accessible only by small plane (or helicopter when there is no room for a runway), boat, kayak, afoot or by dogsled in winter. Discover this fascinating country’s hidden secrets as you traverse its waters and embark on unforgettable adventures.

Greenland Wildlife Encounters

Greenland is a biodiversity hotspot, and wildlife encounters are expected throughout the cruise. The rugged terrain and sea ice you’ll enjoy panoramic views of throughout our Greenland Arctic expedition provide a unique habitat for the wildlife that lives here. Our Expedition Team includes onboard naturalists that will educate and guide you through your wildlife encounters both on land and at sea.

A largely remote wilderness, Greenland’s unique natural habitats provide a home for a plethora of captivating wildlife. Some highlights for lucky travellers include polar bears, Arctic foxes, reindeer, Arctic hares, humpback whales, blue whales, fin whales, narwhals, ringed seals, countless Arctic bird species and one of the largest populations of muskoxen.

Visit Greenland on an Aurora Expeditions cruise for whale watching, opportunities to see the majestic polar bear and much more.

Unique Greenland Experiences

Being polar expeditions, our Greenland tours include truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences. A cruise in the Arctic Circle around Greenland provides a rare opportunity to take a polar plunge, embark on Zodiac cruises through the ice sheet, and observe unique geological formations and breathtaking scenery on trips ashore.

Our Greenland expedition experts can also take you on optional excursions via our comprehensive activity program . You might want to try an unforgettable journey on our sea kayaks, rock climbing the rugged cliffs of one of the national parks or scuba diving in the polar regions of the Arctic. If you would like to learn more about the included or optional activities, please contact us , we’re here to help!

Greenland Tour Regions

East Greenland

East Greenland is one of the most isolated areas in Greenland and offers fantastic possibilities for big adventures. In East Greenland jagged mountains rise from the sea and giant white and blue icebergs float in deep fjords. Only 120 years ago, there was no connection between West and East Greenland. Therefore, culture and traditions are different to the ones in the west and it is also why East Greenlanders speak a different language. Discover the fascinating geology of the Skaergaard Intrusion, enjoy Zodiac cruises among icebergs and hike through one-of-a-kind tundra.

South Greenland

South Greenland travel also provides opportunities for adventure. Temperatures in southern Greenland are higher than in the rest of the country, sometimes even reaching up to 20° Celsius during summer. The landscapes are greener and the ground more fertile, with many farms along its coast. The area is full of contrasts between the green shades of the landscape and the myriad of blues that paint the ice. The region is popular for those keen on an adventure. Experience hiking tours or go kayaking to see whales and other wildlife. It is easy to take individual trips because the settlements are close to each other with great boat connections. See for yourself when you cruise Prince Christian Sound (Prins Christian Sund), flanked by imposing mountains, where the Viking ruins of Erik the Red still stand from the Middle Ages.

West Greenland

West Greenland is the most populated region of the country, containing the nation’s capital, Nuuk, the starting point for most travellers’ on their Greenland adventures. Here, you can visit the largest ice cap in the northern hemisphere, Ilulissat Icefjord. This UNESCO-listed 55km-long natural sculpture park boasts countless jaw-dropping icebergs. Explore untamed nature on foot or from water level in a kayak or Zodiac. Stop at remote villages along the West Greenland coastline to learn about the traditional lifestyle. Historically West Greenland was known for its fishing and hunting industries, which are still an integral part of the local way of life.

West Greenland is also home to Disko Bay, a large and significant bay on the west coast, steeped in history. Its nutrient-rich waters have made it the perfect home for a wide range of species. Disko Bay is a great place for whale watching and kayaking, with a number of different species of whales visiting the bay during the springtime. Disko Bay also attracts migratory seals that use the teaming waters of the bay to feed.

North Greenland

North Greenland is home to the harsh realities of the Arctic Islands. It’s the land of the polar nights in the winter and of the midnight sun in the summer. The midnight sun is a natural phenomenon in the Arctic Circle where the sun remains visible throughout the night and day. During the winter months however, North Greenland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights because of the long nights, with the dark skies making the perfect backdrop to showcase the lights in all their colours. The area is also known for its dog sledding which is common amongst the locals and a fun experience for tourists.

Greenland Expedition Cruise Activities

Visit Greenland with Aurora Expeditions and our Expedition Team will take you on excursions unique to the High Arctic, fully included in the cost of your expedition. For those interested in a little extra excitement, there are optional activities* designed to get you closer to the action.  Our Greenland expeditions provide a mix of comfort and adventure; for those willing to explore this incredible Arctic destination the memories will last a lifetime.

Bird Watching

Photography

Polar plunge

Trips ashore

Whale and mammal spotting

Zodiac cruises

Lecture on wildlife, our environment, history and destinations

Add-on Activities

Sea Kayaking

Sea Kayaking is one of the most exhilarating ways to experience Antarctica, the Arctic and beyond. Sea kayaking holidays in the humbling…

*Optional add-on activities are available on select voyages. They are listed on each itinerary page and additional fees apply. 

Greenland Cruises FAQs

The cost of a cruise to Greenland with Aurora Expeditions varies based on factors such as the duration of the expedition, the type of stateroom chosen and the specific itinerary. Prices generally start from US $17,595 per person – please check our expeditions listed above for more pricing information. Each expedition includes various inclusions like meals, excursions and expert guides, adding value to the overall experience. Plan and explore our expeditions to find a cruise that suits your preferences and budget.

The duration of a cruise to Greenland with Aurora Expeditions varies depending on the specific itinerary chosen. Expeditions to Greenland typically range from 13 to 17 days, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of the region. Our itineraries are carefully crafted to include highlights such as fjords, glaciers and cultural sites, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of this enchanting Arctic destination. For precise information on the duration of a specific cruise, we recommend that you refer to our detailed itineraries on our official website or contact our friendly team directly.

For a Greenland cruise with Aurora Expeditions, packing essentials include layered clothing for varying temperatures, waterproof outerwear, sturdy and comfortable walking shoes, gloves and a hat. Remember essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen and a camera for capturing the stunning Arctic landscapes. Packing formal wear for onboard events and considering bringing binoculars for wildlife observation is advisable. Check our guide here on what to pack for a trip to the polar regions. Aurora Expeditions also provides a detailed packing list for each specific voyage, so it’s recommended to check their guidelines. Additionally, packing adaptable clothing for the dynamic weather conditions ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience while exploring Greenland’s unique and remote environments.

A Greenland cruise with Aurora Expeditions features Arctic landscapes, colossal glaciers and vibrant wildlife that offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. These expeditions provide opportunities for close encounters with polar bears, whales and other unique species. Aurora Expeditions ensures expert guides, immersive cultural experiences and comfortable accommodations on ice-strengthened vessels. The carefully crafted itineraries showcase Greenland’s awe-inspiring beauty, including fjords and historical sites. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or cultural explorer, a Greenland cruise promises an unforgettable journey, making it a truly worthwhile and enriching expedition into one of the world’s most pristine and captivating destinations.

Depending on your chosen voyage, there are several starting points for our Greenland expeditions, including Norway, Iceland and Canada. Be sure to check each specific expedition for more information.

The optimal time for a Greenland cruise or expedition is during the Arctic summer, generally from June to August. This period offers milder temperatures, wildlife activity and optimal conditions for exploring Greenland’s stunning landscapes. The midnight sun ensures extended daylight hours, enhancing the overall experience. While each month has its unique charm, early summer may provide access to more ice-covered areas, while late summer showcases vibrant flora. Aurora Expeditions carefully plans its itineraries to align with the best seasonal conditions, offering an unforgettable adventure during the warmer months when Greenland’s beauty is in full bloom.

Travellers visiting Greenland should consider several health factors . Consult with a healthcare professional before the expedition to ensure vaccinations are up-to-date. Cold temperatures and potential exposure require appropriate clothing and gear. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is advisable. Aurora Expeditions prioritises passenger safety and their experienced team guides health and safety measures. It’s crucial to disclose any medical conditions to the expedition staff for proper assistance. Ultimately, thorough preparation and adherence to recommended health guidelines contribute to a safe and enjoyable journey to Greenland.

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Nanortalik, Greenland

Description.

Nanortalik means "place of bears" in Greenlandic. Summer visitors to this extraordinary - and extraordinarily isolated - port may spot polar bears on the offshore flow ice. Those offshore waters also teem with seals and Minke, humpback and fin whales. Ashore, brightly painted wooden houses cluster to a rocky peninsula in the harbor. Dramatic boulders dot the landscape, and mountains surround the port. (Nanortalik is well known to the world's elite rock climbers.) Ruined Viking farmsteads and ancient Inuit sites dot the surrounding countryside. The port was founded 1797 as a Danish whaling station. Today, Nanortalik is a fishing port, and many people are traditional seal hunters.

Points of Interest

• Nanortalik Open Air Museum
• Tasermiut Fjord
• Knud Rasmussen Stone
• Nanortalik Town

More about Nanortalik, Greenland Points of Interest

Greenland's most unique museum. Wander through original colonial buildings and peruse items from the Inuit culture, Norse ruins, and local artifacts. Visit the outdoor camp and Eskimo huts.

The peaks rising to the skies from the crystal clear water of the Tasermiut Fjord are often compared to the Alps.

The landscape is strewn with dramatic boulders, the largest, located near the island church, is named after a Danish hero.

Nanortalik was founded in 1797. It currently has approximately 1350 inhabitants making it the 10th largest town in Greenland. Its friendly and genuine locals delight in sharing their lives and thriving culture with visitors.

4 Excursions

Nanortalik on foot, tasermiut fjord by boat, cruise among the icebergs, among the icebergs by rib.

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Cruise to Nuuk, Greenland

Nuuk shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in nuuk.

Step Back in Time

A panoramic view of Nuuk, Greenland

The spacious Greenland National Museum, located in colonial buildings at the old harbor, houses well-presented exhibitions, with pieces dating back 4,500 years. You won't want to miss the bronze sculpture depicting the Greenlandic tale of the Mother of the Sea, the geological room with the world's oldest rocks and the mummy room with three mummified 15th-century women and a child. This museum will have you never wanting to leave the past.

Typical architecture in Nuuk, Greenland

The design of the large Katuaq Cultural Centre, the city's architectural highlight, was inspired by icebergs, the waving Northern Lights and the play of light on ice and snow. Head here to check out a Greenlandic art exhibition, to attend a concert or to meet the locals in the pleasant cafe during your cruise to Nuuk. Witness an architectural feat at Katuaq.

Aging Architecture

For a glimpse of Greenland's history, head to the yellow-colored Hans Egede House, built in 1728 and located in old harbor. The oldest house in Greenland, this building is now the venue for government receptions. At the Egede House, you'll find a bit of history, amazing views and incredible, centuries-old architecture.

Local Cuisine

Most of the food in Greenland comes from the sea and is often smoked, dried or salted, and served with sauces. Stop into any local restaurant to feast on Greenland's national dish, suaasat, a thick soup made of meat, potatoes, onion and rice. If you're looking to indulge, try some panertut, dried fish or meat with butter and apples.

Imaneq Street is the place to go for traditionally made goods when you visit Nuuk with your cruise. Check out Qiviut to shop for garments knitted from muskox wool, an incredibly warm and soft material. You'll find a taste of native Inuit culture with Nuuk Couture, and you'll discover much more variety at the Nuuk Center, the country's first shopping mall, located next to the Katuaq Cultural Centre.

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Greenland Cruises

Welcome to Greenland Cruises, your gateway to unforgettable boat tours in Nuuk and Ilulissat.

We offer private and cruise ship tours for guests seeking an adventure on the pristine waters of Greenland. Our top-quality boats are designed to provide maximum comfort and safety, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.

Explore the stunning landscapes of Greenland, from towering icebergs to majestic fjords and hidden bays. Our experienced guides will provide you with a unique insight into the history, culture, and natural beauty of this remote part of the world. Book your tour today and let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Our Services

Cruise Ship Tours

Private boat tours, charter tours, greenland cruises.

Greenland Cruises offers a wide range of tours in the beautiful Nuuk Fjord.

Kapisillit & Qoornoq

Nuuk fjord adventure, fishing in nuuk, færingehavn, færingehavn, whalesafari in nuuk, tours in ilulissat.

Greenland Cruises offers a wide range of tours in Ilulissat.

Icefjord sailing in Ilulissat

Eqi - the calving glacier, whalesafari, midnight sailing, sailing to ilimanaq, visit the villlage ilimanaq, sailing to oqaatsut.

Greenland Cruises ApS

Niels Hammekenip aqq. 26B 3900 Nuuk

CVR nr.: 43263080

Contact Information

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: +299 54 97 48

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Greenland Cruises & Tours

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Greenland Travel Guide

• Aurora Borealis: Known also as "the Northern Lights," you'll have a front row seat to this natural marvel, as the neon rainbow dances across the Arctic sky.
• Whale watching : The majestic humpback and Greenland whales can be seen breaching here in these icy waters.
• Sailing past icebergs bigger than houses along the Coast of South Greenland.
• Trekking across glaciers that have helped form the country or exploring the Polar seas by Zodiacs  around the world's biggest fjord system in Scoresbysund .
• A visit to some of the most secluded parts of the northern hemisphere and expeditions to traditional fishing villages .
• Discovery of the seafaring ways of the Vikings, and the cultures of the Inuit peoples who have made this land their home.

10 Best Things to Do in Greenland - Top Activities & Experiences

The best times to visit greenland, explore the world’s largest island on a greenland cruise, top 11 cruise ports in greenland - must-see destinations & experiences, arctic cruise: when to go, wildlife guide to polar regions, best greenland small ship cruise lines for 2024-2025.

• Quark Expeditions - has been a leader in polar adventure, forever driven to forge new paths in polar explorations. On the Ultramarine , visit indigenous communities in Greenland's West and Southern Coasts for a richer and more intimate glimpse of what life in the Arctic is really like. 

Aurora Expeditions - offers customizable itineraries. If weather or sea ice prevents travel, Plan B, C, and D are available. They are constantly on the hunt for new locations to explore and are not hesitant to adjust their schedules to take advantage of unexpected wildlife displays. On the Greg Mortimer , encounter summer in Greenland when 24-hours of sunlight can still be experienced above the Arctic Circle where migratory birds arrive to nest and whale numbers are at their greatest.

Oceanwide Expeditions - aim to take you off the ship and into action as often as possible. Its sea routes are short and direct, allowing for maximum shore time, and activities are designed to accommodate a wide range of experience and fitness levels. Join the MV Hondius on a cruise to Greenland to meet a world where European culture combines with the Inuit in a beautiful landscape of ice, tundra, and the sea. 

Poseidon Expeditions - is a leading provider of polar expeditions in the cruise business, founded in 1999. The  Sea Spirit offers 114 guests large cabins and the friendliness of small ships. An ice-hardened hull, Zodiacs, and retractable fin stabilizers make this ship a breeze to sail.

Polar Quest  - Polar Quest, established in 1999, specializes in small-ship expedition cruises to Svalbard and other polar destinations, offering unique and memorable wildlife adventures. With a focus on sustainability, all trips are 100% climate compensated, allowing guests to explore remote wildernesses with a clear conscience.

Secret Atlas - Secret Atlas specializes in small-group polar cruises with a capacity for 12 to 48 guests, offering a more personal and sustainable way to explore the Arctic. Their low-impact expeditions focus on untouched wilderness areas, providing unique opportunities for wildlife photography and deep exploration in pristine environments.

Adventure Canada - is a leader in expedition cruising with a deep commitment to safety. Their staff is rigorously trained and certified for their roles, and crews have lifetimes of experience. Enjoy the stunning mountain scenery of Kangerlussuaq Fjord (Søndre Strømfjord) as you sail south from Kangerlussuaq to the Baffin Bay aboard the Ocean Endeavour .

Ponant - has purposefully designed ships to welcome a limited number of guests with 32 to 132 staterooms. Its nine ships offer comfort comparable to the finest luxury hotels. Discover the extreme northeast of Greenland on the liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueled icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot , the first hybrid electric polar exploration vessel.

Lindblad Expeditions - has ships that feature comfortable cabins, a lounge, a library, and wellness services so that you can unwind after an active day. Chefs on board create delicious meals that reflect the cuisine of the regions we visit using fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients wherever possible. Embark the National Geographic Resolution for a true polar exploration to discover the Northeast Greenland National Park, West Greenland, and the towering icebergs of UNESCO World Heritage Ilulissat Icefjord.

Iceland Pro Cruises - is part of the Iceland ProTravel Group, the leading tour operator in Europe, specializing in Iceland. The MS Seaventure has been assigned the highest ice class for passenger ships. A greater density of steel plates in the hull and a massive stem are just two elements that allow the expedition ship to glide safely through the waters.

​ Silversea Cruises - is a luxury cruise line owned by Royal Caribbean Group and headquartered in Monaco, pioneer of all-inclusive luxury cruising. Tour Greenland’s most coveted destinations from Kangerlussuaq. Explore the uniquely Greenlandic character of the country’s capital, Nuuk, to the still waters and eerie silence of the Uumanaq Fjord, on a voyage aboard the Silver Wind . 

Greenland Travel FAQs & Tips

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Tours for Cruise Guests

Greenland is a unique destination with very limited availability so just a small part of tours is available on cruise ship days.

Bellow, please find tours that are available on cruise calls in different ports in Greenland. If you are bigger than a group of 4 please contact us before booking.

Showing 1–24 of 32 results

Closed boat fjord safari | Nuuk

Midnight Cruise To Ilulissat Icefjord | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Evening Kayaking Among Icebergs | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Iceberg Safari | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Morning Kayak among Icebergs | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Private guided tour by car in the capital of Greenland | Nuuk

UNESCO Icefjord Flightseeing | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Northern Glacier & Icefjord Flightseeing | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Fishing Tour | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Ghost Village Boat Cruise | Sisimiut | West Greenland

Private Qoornoq Island Adventure | Nuuk

Private Glacier Cruise | Narsap Sermia Glacier | Nuuk

Photo tour | Nuuk

Town Walk – Sculptures and Myths | Nuuk

Sea Safari | Sisimiut | North Greenland

Glacier Landing by Helicopter | Qaqortoq | South Greenland

Master Exploring Ilulissat Icefjord From Above | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Best of South Greenland by Helicopter | Qaqortoq | South Greenland

Sightseeing By Bus | Sisimiut | West Greenland

Private Catch'n'Eat | Qooqqut Nuan | Nuuk

Private Deep Sea Fishing Tour | Nuuk

Hot Spring Uunartoq & Glacier landing by Helicopter | Qaqortoq | South Greenland

World Heritage Hvalsey by Helicopter | Qaqortoq | South Greenland

Icebergs and Summit View by Helicopter | Qaqortoq | South Greenland

More about tours for cruise guests.

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Greenland Tours & Travel Packages

Its enormous size and breathtaking landscapes make Greenland travel exceptional on so many levels.

Greenland tourism has grown recently as for the adventure traveler; few places can offer similar experiences. Our Greenland vacation packages offer many possibilities for adventurers and nature enthusiasts to explore gigantic glaciers, fantastic wildlife like seals and whales, and the rich local Inuit culture.

You are invited to visit Greenland for thrilling adventures as well as for a relaxed and full of enjoyment vocation. Everything is possible here.

GREENLAND ADVENTURES

We offer the largest selection of Greenland Adventures.  At Nordic Saga Tours, you find the selection of tours all year round.  Trips to Greenland from us can be short 4 days breaks and longer travel packages escorted by a guide, individual tours or expedition-like explorer tours. Greenland can be reached with a short 2-hour flight from Iceland, or you can choose to visit Greenland from the USA.

Tourism in Greenland is a relatively young but the country has spectacular scenery as well as historic sites. Our travel packages offer not only the main tourist adventures such as sailing among icebergs, dog sledding trips, ice cap treks,  whale and iceberg watching but also the everyday life and local culture experiences.

Visiting Greenland can be a rare thrill, and you must prepare appropriately to get the most out of your days to spent on this island. To enjoy the arctic nature closely, you can join our boat and hiking tours or unique small group adventure trips in the Disko Bay area. Greenland offers unique experiences for everybody. Exploring natural wonders like northern lights, whales, icebergs as well as unique Inuit culture are among the most popular ones.

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Greenland Winter Tours

Ice, Northern Lights and Dogsledding in Greenland

COPENHAGEN - KANGERLUSSUAQ - ILULISSAT - COPENHAGEN Get in touch with the marvelous Greenlandic nature in winter. Dog sledding, northern lights, and icebergs are only some of the many keywords. You will never forget it!

Long Weekend by Disco Bay

COPENHAGEN - KANGERUSSUAQ - ILULISSAT - DISCO BAY - COPENHAGEN Experience the fall highlights of Greenland. A peaceful season after a brief and hectic summer, offers beautiful sunny days, draping the mountains in shades of yellow-brown, and amazing arctic Northern Lights. Max. group size - 12 people

Arctic Autumn: Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut

COPENHAGEN - KANGERLLUSUAG - SISIMIUT - COPENHAGEN The Arctic world is a beautiful and unforgettable experience. On this trip to Greenland, you enjoy three days on the edge of the inland ice in Kangerlussuaq and four days in the lovely town of Sisimiut, which promises a wealth of experiences. Group size - max. 6-8 people

Greenland Highlights: Kangerlussuaq and Ilulissat

COPENHAGEN - KANGERLUSSUAQ - ILULISSAT - COPENHAGEN Ilulissat in West Greenland is an Arctic winter wonderland. Search for northern lights, sail between enormous icebergs, dress up in a polar suit fur and explore the wilderness by dog sledge.

Greenland Northern Lights on Top of the World

COPENHAGEN | KANGERLUSSUAQ | COPENHAGEN What a fantastic autumn experience in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland! Enjoy and explore the Greenland Ice Sheet, the Russell Glacier, and the northern lights.

Greenland Tours From Reykjavik

Discover Iceland and Greenland Tour

RING ROAD AROUND ICELAND - ILULISSAT Iceland ring road's stunning scenery and dramatic landscapes. Ilulissat in West Greenland, a breathtaking location with huge icebergs, unspoiled wilderness, glittering glaciers, large whales and the exciting mix of authentic Intuit culture. Group size - max. 25 people Local English speaking tour escort - guide

Disco Bay and Icebergs in the Midnight Sun

REYKJAVIK - ILULISSAT - DISCO BAY - REYKJAVIK Take a convenient flight from Reykjavik and visit the huge icebergs of the Ilulissat Ice Fjord in Disko Bay. Enjoy whale watching, sailing, and hiking near icebergs under the midnight sun. Group size - max. 12 people

Icebergs in the Midnight Sun

REYKJAVIK - ILULISSAT - DISCO BAY - REYKJAVIK Discover Ilulissat, the modern Greenlandic town north of the Arctic Circle, the picturesque Disko Bay, and see the Greenlandic settlement north of the Polar Circle. Watch the calving glaciers and enormous icebergs up close. Group size - max. 12 people

Ilulissat - 5 days

Greenland tour of Ilulissat Icefjord listed on UNESCO World Heritage, the most popular tourist destination in Greenland. The town of Ilulissat is beautifully situated at the mouth of this fjord filled with enormous icebergs. Experience the glacial beauty of this area with walking tours and a boat tour. Daily activities are included.

Ilulissat - 4 days

This tour is the perfect introduction to Arctic nature and the Inuit culture. Ilulissat - the town of the icebergs - offers dramatic views of the World Heritage Site of Ilulissat Ice Fjord. Experience the traditional Inuit culture combined with modern life north of the Polar Circle.

The Best of Greenland

Greenland tour of Ilulissat Icefjord listed on UNESCO World Heritage, the most popular tourist destination in Greenland. The town of Ilulissat is beautifully situated at the mouth of this fjord filled with enormous icebergs. Experience the glacial beauty of this area with walking tours and a boat tour.

Greenland Tours from Copenhagen

The Golden Triangle of Greenland

COPENHAGEN - SISIMIUT - ILULISSAT - COPENHAGEN This tour is led by a tour escort, however it gives you an opportunity to have time on your own and choose your own activities and tours. The tour guide will always present you with information, stories, guided tours, and practical help

Summer, Sun and Icebergs in Greenland

Our summer bestseller! Set foot on the Greenland Ice Sheet in Kangerlussuaq and explore Ilulissat in the Disko Bay near the UNESCO World Heritage site, Ilulissat Ice Fjord.

Dream Adventure in Disco Bay

Want to visit Ilulissat in Greenland? Stay at Hotel Arctic with a view of the Ilulissat Ice Fjord and the Disko Bay. Sail on the Icefjord among huge icebergs!

Greenland and Arctic Cruises

In The Wake of Eric The Red

ICELAND - GREENLAND Join us on an expedition cruise from Reykjavík to Kangerlussuaq, which follows the same maritime course set by Norse settlers over a thousand years ago.

Natural Wonders of Greenland from Reykjavik 2024

Reykjavik  → Day at Sea/Denmark Strait → Ammassalik Island → Day at Sea/Prince Christian Sound → Qaqortoq → Qeqertarsuasiat → Nuuk → Sisimiut → Ilulissat → DiskoBay/Qeqertarsuaq →  Kangerlussuaq

Greenland Disko Bay Expedition

Copenhagen/Reykjavik → Kangerlussuaq → Sisimiut → Qeqertarsuaq on Disco Island → Uummannaq → Eqip Sermia Glacier → Ilulissat → Kangerlussuaq

Natural Wonders of Greenland from Kangerlussuaq 2024

Kangerlussuaq  → Qeqertarsuaq → Ilulissat → Sisimiut → Nuuk → Ikka Fjord → Prince Christian Sound → At Sea → Ammassalik Island → At Sea/Denmark Strait →  Reykjavik

West Greenland Adventure 2024

Kangerlussuaq → Attu → Ilimanaq / Equip Glacier → Uummannaq / Ikerasak → Karrat Fjord/ Nuugaatsiaq → Kangerluk/ Aasiaat → Itilleq → Kangerlussuaq

The Ultimate Greenland Explorer

Reykjavik → Day at Sea/Denmark Strait → Ammassalik Island → Day at Sea/Prince Christian Sound → Qaqortoq → Qeqertarsuasiat → Nuuk → Sisimiut → Ilulissat → Disko Bay/Qeqertarsuaq → Kangerlussuaq → Attu → Ilimanaq / Equip Glacier → Uummannaq / Ikerasak → Karrat Fjord/ Nuugaatsiaq → Kangerluk/ Aasiaat → Itilleq → Kangerlussuaq

Join us on great package tours to Greenland from Reykjavik in Iceland combining your stay in Iceland with Greenland, or you can join a tour of your choice flying directly from the USA.

Our experienced team will give you the very best introduction to the Greenland vacation package with special focus on nature, culture, and history. We are always working within all safety frames required on the arctic trips, both on land and at sea.

Come with us to the land of icebergs and explore the wonders of Greenland.

Find your perfect getaway to Greenland.

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Greenland cruise overview

Special offers.

• Discounted cruises (1)
• Combination cruise (1)
• Arctic (20)

Destination

• Greenland (20)
• Iceland (8)
• Jan Mayen (5)
• Svalbard (66)
• s/v Rembrandt van Rijn (7)
• m/v Plancius (5)
• m/v Ortelius (2)
• m/v Hondius (6)
• German language assistance (1)
• English speaking voyage (18)
• Bilingual voyage, English - German (2)
• Sep 2024 (1)
• Aug 2025 (4)
• Sep 2025 (2)
• Oct 2025 (1)
• Aug 2026 (7)
• Sep 2026 (4)
• Oct 2026 (1)
• Northern Gannet (2)
• Brünnich's Guillemot (1)
• Arctic Fox (6)
• Arctic Hare (16)
• Bearded Seal (8)
• Blue Whale (2)
• Fin Whale (2)
• Humpback Whale (5)
• Minke Whale (11)
• Beluga Whale (3)
• Musk Ox (16)
• Great Northern Diver (3)
• Collared Lemming (4)
• Kittiwake (4)
• Polar Bear (17)
• Hooded Seal (3)
• Harp Seal (7)
• Ringed Seal (11)
• Ptarmigan (9)
• Svalbard reindeer (3)

Experiences

• Alkhornet (1)
• Antarctic Sound (1)
• Antarctichavn (3)
• Northern Lights (16)
• Bird Watching (2)
• Blomsterbugt (4)
• Shore-Based Walking (4)
• Cape Hofmann Halvø (2)
• Coastline of Greenland (4)
• Danmark Ø | Danmark Island (3)
• The Inuit (5)
• Wildlife in Greenland (4)
• Icebergs (12)
• Scoresby Sund (16)
• Harbor Seal (3)
• Greenland hiking (4)
• Greenland scenery (4)
• Isfjord (5)
• Ittoqqortoormiit (16)
• Jameson Land (5)
• Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord (7)
• Longyearbyen (3)
• Narsarsuaq (1)
• Zodiac Cruising & Shore Program (5)
• Svalbard Museum (5)
• Sydkap (13)
• Total Solar Eclipse (2)
• Trygghamna (1)

Outdoor activities

• Polar Diving (1)
• Long Hikes (5)
• Photo Workshop (2)

East Greenland - Scoresby Sund - Iceland, Aurora Borealis, Fly & Sail

Experience the northern lights on Earth’s largest fjord

RVR15-24 Sail through Earth’s largest fjord system on a historic three-masted vessel, getting the chance to encounter exotic Arctic wildlife like musk oxen and Arctic hares under the enchanting aurora borealis. Greenland whales may also appear between landing...

s/v Rembrandt van Rijn

Cruise date:

28 Sep - 9 Oct, 2024

Berths start from:

East and South Greenland Explorer, Aurora Borealis, Incl. flight from Narsarsuaq to Copenhagen

Explore the remote fjords and shorelines of East Greenland, seeing remains from Thule, Norse, and Viking cultures in addition to Arctic wildlife

PLA11-25 East Greenland is among the most remote and least populated areas of the Arctic, a wild place of dramatic fjords, small Inuit settlements, and ancient remains from Viking and Thule cultures. Sail and explore the coastlines of this ruggedly beautiful...

m/v Plancius

13 Aug - 2 Sep, 2025

23 Days Extensive Spitsbergen - Northeast Greenland - Aurora Borealis

HDS10c25 A full circumnavigation of Spitsbergen combined with a voyage into northeast Greenland, this expansive expedition cruise explores some of the best spots in the high Arctic - including a visit to Scoresby Sund, Earth's largest fjord, along with exhilarating...

m/v Hondius

14 Aug - 5 Sep, 2025

Spitsbergen - Northeast Greenland - Aurora Borealis, Including Long Hikes

A classic three island voyage: Ice , Inuit and Remoteness

HDS11-25 The Spitsbergen and Northeast Greenland cruise sails waters filled with breath-taking scenery. The expedition passes through areas that are home to seals, seabirds, whales, and polar bears, topped off with nighttime viewing of the Northern Lights.

23 Aug - 5 Sep, 2025

East Greenland, Scoresby Sund - Aurora Borealis, Including Long Hikes

Witness the Northern Lights at Scoresby Sund

OTL12-25 The East Greenland – Scoresby Sund cruise crosses the Arctic Circle into the home waters of multiple species of whale. The expedition will spot huge icebergs as it journeys into the largest and deepest fjord system in the world. Along the way the Northern...

m/v Ortelius

30 Aug - 8 Sep, 2025

South Greenland Explorer, Aurora Borealis, Incl. flight from Copenhagen to Narsarsuaq

Experience history, dazzling glaciers, and search for polar bears in aurora-lit southeast Greenland

PLA12-25 Southeast Greenland offers many historic sites relating to ancient Thule, Norse, and Moravian culture while also allowing us to walk in the footsteps of famed polar explorers like Fridtjof Nansen. Glaciers, icebergs, and fjords make for a dazzling environment...

2 Sep - 11 Sep, 2025

HDS12-25 The East Greenland – Scoresby Sund cruise crosses the Arctic Circle into the home waters of multiple species of whale. The expedition will spot huge icebergs as it journeys into the largest and deepest fjord system in the world. Along the way the Northern...

5 Sep - 14 Sep, 2025

RVR15-25 Sail through Earth’s largest fjord system on a historic three-masted vessel, getting the chance to encounter exotic Arctic wildlife like musk oxen and Arctic hares under the enchanting aurora borealis. Greenland whales may also appear between landing...

1 Oct - 12 Oct, 2025

Northeast Greenland Solar Eclipse Explorer Voyage

View the solar eclipse, embark on long hikes away from our landing sites, and experience the iconic wildlife of Svalbard and Greenland

HDS10-26 Get the ultimate Arctic experience on this amazing voyage of Svalbard and Greenland, experiencing not only the solar eclipse but also getting the option for long hikes far from our landing sites. Our route takes us through some of the best areas for...

2 Aug - 15 Aug, 2026

PLA10-26 Get the ultimate Arctic experience on this amazing voyage of Svalbard and Greenland, experiencing not only the solar eclipse but also getting the option for long hikes far from our landing sites. Our route takes us through some of the best areas for...

3 Aug - 16 Aug, 2026

Spitsbergen - Northeast Greenland, Fly & Sail

A classic three island voyage: Ice, Inuit, and Remoteness

RVR15-26 The Spitsbergen and Northeast Greenland cruise sails waters filled with breath-taking scenery. The expedition passes through areas that are home to seals, seabirds, whales, and polar bears.

12 Aug - 31 Aug, 2026

Northeast Greenland Extreme

Remote Greenland off the beaten path

HDS11-26 Venturing to the dramatic, rugged coastline of Northeast Greenland, you'll enter the world's largest fjord, Scoresby Sund, encountering whales, seabirds, and musk oxen before voyaging north through the most beautiful straits and fjords. Along the way,...

15 Aug - 28 Aug, 2026

East & South Greenland Explorer

PLA11-26 Southeast Greenland offers many historic sites relating to ancient Thule, Norse, and Moravian culture while also allowing us to walk in the footsteps of famed polar explorers like Fridtjof Nansen. Glaciers, icebergs, and fjords make for a dazzling environment...

16 Aug - 29 Aug, 2026

South & East Greenland Explorer

PLA12-26 Southeast Greenland offers many historic sites relating to ancient Thule, Norse, and Moravian culture while also allowing us to walk in the footsteps of famed polar explorers like Fridtjof Nansen. Glaciers, icebergs, and fjords make for a dazzling environment...

29 Aug - 7 Sep, 2026

East Greenland, Scoresby Sund - Aurora Borealis, Fly & Sail

RVR16-26 The East Greenland – Scoresby Sund cruise will spot huge icebergs as it journeys into the largest and deepest fjord system in the world. Along the way the Northern Lights is guiding our way.

31 Aug - 10 Sep, 2026

OTL14-26 The Spitsbergen and Northeast Greenland cruise sails waters filled with breath-taking scenery. The expedition passes through areas that are home to seals, seabirds, whales, and polar bears, topped off with nighttime viewing of the Northern Lights.

4 Sep - 17 Sep, 2026

Northeast Greenland Extreme - Aurora Borealis

HDS13-26 Explore the northern extremes of Northeast Greenland and sail deep into the loose sea ice, searching for whales, seabirds, and polar bears on this voyage into remote Greenland. With plenty of landing opportunities, wildlife encounters, historical sites,...

6 Sep - 19 Sep, 2026

RVR17-26 The East Greenland – Scoresby Sund cruise will spot huge icebergs as it journeys into the largest and deepest fjord system in the world. Along the way the Northern Lights is guiding our way.

10 Sep - 21 Sep, 2026

RVR18-26 The East Greenland – Scoresby Sund cruise will spot huge icebergs as it journeys into the largest and deepest fjord system in the world. Along the way the Northern Lights is guiding our way.

21 Sep - 1 Oct, 2026

East Greenland, Scoresby Sund - Iceland , Aurora Borealis, Fly & Sail

RVR19-26 Sail through Earth’s largest fjord system on a historic three-masted vessel, getting the chance to encounter exotic Arctic wildlife like musk oxen and Arctic hares under the enchanting aurora borealis. Greenland whales may also appear between landing...

1 Oct - 12 Oct, 2026

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Greenland & Iceland Cruises

The land of fire & ice and greenland’s hinterlands inspire unforgettable arctic circle adventures.

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• Greenland & Iceland Experiences

Majestic Landscapes

Our Greenland & Iceland cruises bring you to the edge of the Arctic Circle and fill your days with magnificent fjords, dramatic natural wonders and outdoor adventures on these remote North Atlantic island countries. Cruise Iceland, the Land of Fire and Ice, to experience the famed Blue Lagoon, the popular Golden Circle route, Reykjavik’s Viking Settlement Exhibition, stark lava fields, volcanoes, glaciers and much more. Meanwhile, the shores of Greenland give way to sparsely populated hinterlands, impressive fjord systems, the colonial harbor of Nuuk and Paamiut’s rich Inuit culture.

Greenland & Iceland Special Offers

From insider tours of this region’s boundless natural wonders and immersions in local communities to fascinating historical explorations, our Greenland & Iceland shore excursions bring you the best of the local attractions, culture and history. More extended evening stays across the region give you the chance to immerse yourself in Greenland & Iceland with in-depth explorations, adventures ashore and leisurely, meaningful touring.

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Dream. Plan. Discover.

We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment.

Baltic & Scandinavia Ports

Extend your stay before or after your Greenland & Iceland cruise at one of these luxurious hotels, carefully selected for their superb location, ambiance, world-class standards of service, cuisine and amenities. Our hotel packages include free air date changes up to 3 days before or after your cruise; free transfers between the airport, hotel and ship; and porterage. You’ll also enjoy the services of our exclusive Oceania Cruises hospitality desk at each hotel.

Featured Greenland & Iceland Hotels

Grand Hotel Reykjavik

Reykjavik, iceland.

Grand Hotel Reykjavik is a first-class hotel for travelers who demand excellent service and facilities. As the largest hotel in Iceland, Grand Hotel Reykjavik features more than 300 rooms and is situated in an ideal location in the city – a quiet area and yet close to services, restaurants and recreation. All of the hotel rooms are very spacious and equipped with desirable amenities. The hotel restaurant, Brasserie Grand, offers a varied menu to suit every need. The chefs create both international delights and mouth-watering, fresh Icelandic seafood specialties. The wine list includes a wide range of internationally recognized choices.

LOTTE NEW YORK PALACE

New york, united states.

With a nod to its illustrious past, Lotte New York Palace has taken an ambitious leap into the future by combining old-world elegance with present-day luxury. Lotte New York Palace turned an iconic New York City property from a historic Madison Avenue gem to Midtown’s premier modern hotel. This Midtown Manhattan hotel features 909 rooms and suites – including 176 spacious Towers accommodations – which provide the perfect setting for relaxation and inspired stays in New York City. Unique dining venues, such as the newly opened VILLARD Restaurant and Pomme Palais, offer everything from imaginative breakfast dishes to signature pastries and sandwiches. The hotel’s famed Villard Mansion built in 1882 is recognized as a New York City landmark and gracefully blends with a contemporary 55-story tower. The Madison Avenue Courtyard provides a dramatic entryway to the hotel’s grand lobby.

Our Iceland Pre- and Post-Cruise Land Programs invite you to immerse yourself in the culture and spectacular natural beauty of this region. These multi-day, in-depth Land Programs include exclusive tours, premium hotel stays, airport transfers when arriving and departing the day your program begins and ends, and often times locally inspired meals and porterage too.

Greenland & Iceland Land Programs

Super Jeep Adventure: The South Shore

Set off on a thrill-seeking exploration of the Icelandic wilds in a 4x4 Super Jeep and a snowmobile. This four-day adventure is punctuated with visits to hot springs, ancient glaciers, lagoons, roaring waterfalls and mountain lakes in Thingvellir National Park, Langjökull, Hafnarfjörður and several other unique locations in the Icelandic highlands.

• 2 nights at the Hilton Hotel or similar
• 1 night at the Land Hotel or similar (standard room)
• Lunches (1 drink included)
• Day tours and admission fees per the program itinerary
• Excess luggage storage in Reykjavik

Today’s Featured Greenland & Iceland Cruises

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Arctic Island Odyssey

Svalbard, greenland and iceland.

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Cruise Overview

Greenland cruise | arctic island odyssey - svalbard, greenland and iceland.

Heading from Oslo to Greenland via Svalbard, you explore the largest national park and the grandest fjord system on Earth.

Discover epic scenery and captivating nature in true explorer style as our flexible route makes the best of the conditions.

Enjoy a fully immersive learning experience with onboard lectures, Citizen Science projects and demos.

From Svalbard to Greenland

Setting sail from Longyearbyen, we’ll first visit the polar research station of Ny-Ålesund before heading to Greenland to explore the Northeast Greenland National Park. This gigantic natural reserve of 375,000 square miles occupies the remote northeastern quarter of the country. In the absence of people, wildlife abounds and with some luck you might see iconic Arctic species like musk oxen and even polar bears. 

From Greenland to Iceland

Further south, Scoresby Sund is an immense system of fjords and glaciers fanning out over 24,000 square miles. Expect majestic fjord landscapes, historical ruins, abundant Arctic wildlife and a potential visit to one of the most remote communities in the world before we sail to Iceland at the end of the cruise.

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Practical information you need to know

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Health and Safety

Health & Safety Onboard

The safety of our guests, our employees, and the communities we visit is our top priority.  This is why we have partnered with leading experts in health and safety to design and implement protocols/procedures across our expedition fleet.

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Arrive in Longyearbyen

From Oslo to the town at the top of the world 

After a flight from Oslo, your adventure begins with an overnight stay in the world’s northernmost town, Longyearbyen.  

A colorful frontier settlement where people are outnumbered by snowmobiles, Longyearbyen is a unique place on the edge of the Arctic wilderness. If you have time, head out to take a look at this special town, before enjoying a relaxing evening at your leisure.   

Longyearbyen adventures

Explore this colorful frontier town  

After breakfast, it’s time to experience Longyearbyen. The town is perfect for exploring on foot. Stroll down the main street and you might see Svalbard reindeer saunter by. Although wild, they're curious and tame. 

Before boarding your ship in the afternoon and continuing your Arctic discovery, join an included excursion and get a glimpse of this amazing polar bear–inspired region at the top of the world. And if you’d like to discover even more of Longyearbyen’s special surroundings, why not join our optional Pre-Programme.

Peaceful Ny-Ålesund

Experience science, serenity and epic scenery 

Today, you’ll discover the serenity of Ny-Ålesund, a former mining town and one of the northernmost settlements in the world, strategically located at the entry into beautiful Kongsfjord.  

The coal deposits were claimed in 1909 and exploitation started shortly after, supported by investors from the Norwegian town of Ålesund, hence the name of Ny-Ålesund. After operations ceased in 1962, the town was abandoned until polar scientists realized it would be a fantastic base for all kinds of Arctic research.  

Now an international hub for global science and climate research, including China’s Yellow River station, you can still see remnants of the town’s history, closely connected to Roald Amundsen’s expeditions north with the airship ‘Norge’. 

Disconnect and enjoy a day without distractions as the Norwegian Mapping Authority’s nearby geodetic station means we must switch off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.  

Relaxing at sea

Getting ready for Greenland – Kalaallit Nunaat

As we sail into the Greenland Sea on our way to the world’s largest island, it’s time to relax, find your sea legs and get acquainted with the onboard facilities.

The Expedition Team will give talks about your upcoming adventure and explain the protocols of respectfully visiting wildlife habitats and Indigenous Arctic communities. In the lecture hall, you’ll find out what to expect in the epic landscapes of East Greenland National Park and the stunning fjords of Scoresby Sund.

If you’re feeling active, head to the gym and work out with a view. On the other hand, you could try out the sauna, relax in a hot tub, indulge yourself at the onboard eateries or just find a quiet corner to read a book with a hot drink. Love science? Then join one of our onboard Citizen Science projects, a fun and engaging way to contribute to global research.

Northeast Greenland National Park and Scoresby Sund expedition days

Explore the wild east

We’ll spend the next eight days exploring Greenland’s remote and pristine east coast. Extending for over 1,740 miles from north to south, this long stretch of coast is cold, isolated, and remote even by Greenlandic standards. The south-flowing East Greenland Current brings lots of sea ice directly from the Arctic Ocean, challenging human settlement but creating a heaven for ice-dependant wildlife, including the polar bear.  

Local weather and ice conditions will dictate our exact route, but our plan is to sail first to Scoresby Sund, the world’s largest fjord system. You’ll feel a deep sense of serenity in this wild and rugged region with white and blue icebergs floating in mirror-like waters surrounded by looming mountains. If conditions permit, we’ll visit Ittoqqortoormiit – the most remote inhabited community in the western hemisphere.

Should the sea ice be favorable, we’ll continue our journey north to the beautiful Northeast Greenland National Park – the world’s largest national park. Visiting this fragile Artic wilderness is a rare privilege as only a few visitors are permitted here each year.

Apart from old trapper huts, some science research stations, and a military outpost, there are very few traces of human life in this 375,000 square mile park. Be assured that this is one of the quietest places on Earth, and you’ll enjoy a feeling of great peace as we explore this beautiful wilderness.

As this is an expedition cruise, the Captain and Expedition Team will guide us to the most favorable spots on a day-by-day basis. Our goal will be to pack in as many shore landings, small boat cruises, nature walks, kayaking adventures and wildlife sightings as possible.

Denmark Strait

Heading to Iceland

After exploring the remote beauty of Greenland, we’ll set our course back to Iceland. Spend the days at sea recapping your experiences with your new friends, studying nature in the Science Center, listening to a lecture or two, or just relaxing on deck. Look out for the seabirds that follow our ship and keep an eye out for whales.

East Greenland’s beauty is sure to have left its mark on you, so reflect on what you’ve seen – from the delicate ecology of the fjord systems to the ethereal elegance of the floating ice.

End of the expedition

We say a fond farewell to MS Fram as we end our expedition cruise in the lovely city of Reykjavík. With its interesting museums, stylish galleries, restaurants and geothermal pools, there’s so much to enjoy in Iceland’s capital.

And if you want to discover more of Iceland, you can join our optional Post-Program before you head home. Or simply extend your stay to enjoy more of Reykjavík and its surrounding geothermal attractions. It’s a great place to end an epic journey!

- - - Attempted route depends on ice conditions

Our Attempts are cruises where we challenge the elements in true expedition style. As we explore these remote and captivating areas in a safe way, our adventure will ultimately be guided by nature. If weather, sea or ice conditions do not allow our planned navigation, our experienced crew will offer an adapted itinerary. Flexibility and our deep knowledge of the area combine to give you an amazing exploration experience.

What's included

• Flight in economy class from Oslo to Longyearbyen before the expedition cruise 
• All transfers in Longyearbyen, including an excursion and lunch before the expedition cruise
• Overnight in Longyearbyen before the expedition cruise, including dinner and breakfast 

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws; excludes premium drinks)
• All day coffee, tea, and soft drinks
• Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
• A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX gear
• Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
• Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note that streaming is not supported.
• Use of sauna, hot tubs, fitness room, lounges, and more
• Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX (though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated).
• Range of included activities 

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full access to the ship’s Science Center
• The Citizen Science Program allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research 
• An onboard professional photographer will give tips and tricks for taking the best landscape and wildlife photos
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

• Escorted landing with small expedition boats
• Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you
• All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
• Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight stay might be needed (not included)

What's not included

International flights

Additional overnight stay(s) if required due to international flight schedules

Travel protection

Baggage handling

Optional shore excursions with our local partners

Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team

Special offers

Expedition exclusive cost savings and rare opportunities.

* Certain offers may not be combinable, up to two savings opportunities except where noted otherwise

Save up to 25% on your 2026-2027 expedition

Get a head start on your next adventure to Antarctica, the Galápagos, Greenland, & more!

95 days left to take advantage of our best price guarantee

Set sail in style with our limited time suite offer

Save up to $5,500 when you book a suite before 23 December 2024.

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Excursions & Activities

Learn more about what you can experience when going with us

Pre-post programs

Discover Iceland’s South Coast (Post)

Explore the black sand beaches, mountains, and waterfalls along the south coast of Iceland.

Related cruises

Discovering Greenland – From Reykjavík to Nuuk

MS Fridtjof Nansen

Grand Greenland – The Icy Giants of Disko Bay

Grand Greenland – Mythical Lands of the North

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East Greenland Ocean Albatros Cruises — Anne Kalosh Reviews a Glorious Adventure in an Immense, Wildly Beautiful Place Like No Other 

Sep 24, 2024 | 2

Ocean Albatros Cruises to East Greenland

By Anne Kalosh

Now is the time of year when a handful of expedition cruise ships flock to East Greenland, home to the world’s largest national park.

It offers breathtaking, otherworldly beauty on a grandiose scale. Gigantic glaciers. Towering icebergs. Massive mountains. Deep fjords. The northern lights.

If you’ve cruised to Glacier Bay in Alaska , impressive as that is, the glaciers in East Greenland dwarf it. The geology is fascinating and varied. At times I felt like I was in a flooded Grand Canyon. But mostly Greenland was unlike anything else I’ve seen, including Antarctica.

There is intimate beauty, too. While crunching across the tundra, I bent down to eye exquisite, lacy lichens, ice patterns like (un)stained glass, seashells and fluffy white cotton grass.

East Greenland is also rich with exploration history and remains a wild place, largely unpopulated. In the park, the only dwellings are rustic camps or huts to shelter sled patrols or researchers.

White cottongrass. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Beautiful ice patterns under foot. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

I’ve always been intrigued by Greenland, especially having lived in Scandinavia and read Viking history, and I’m interested in Inuit culture. The Danish writer Peter Høeg’s 1992 novel “ Smilla’s Sense of Snow, ” a crime thriller partly set in Greenland, also resonated with me.

One year ago (September 2023), I traveled with the most experienced Greenland expedition operator, Denmark’s family-owned Albatros Expeditions , aboard its brand-new 174-passenger Ocean Albatros .

An immediate assurance I’d made the right choice was reading the bios of the expedition team. All seasoned hands, some live in Greenland, and our expedition leader served in the elite Sirius Dog Sled Patrol that surveils the far north.

Over eight nights, on a roundtrip from Reykjavik, Iceland, I had a great adventure cruising East Greenland on Ocean Albatros , starting with a spectacular, hours-long northern lights display with everyone on the top deck aahing in delight like a group orgasm. We spotted whales our first morning out on the crossing to Greenland.

Rugged, ever-changing scenery and plenty of deck space to spread out. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Early wake-up calls summoned us to breakfast and nonstop views. Dawn would break on an orange sherbet horizon to reveal dramatic vistas of colossal rock formations with names like Bastion and Teufelsschloss (Devil’s Castle) , and icebergs in fanciful shapes bobbing before backdrops of snow-dusted mountains.

Teufelsschloss, with its bright bands of sedimentary rock. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

I expected brutal cold. It was cold though not terribly. Dressing in the layers, parka and waterproofs advised by Albatros Expeditions proved adequate. We had mostly glorious weather all the way. And on one spectacularly calm afternoon I was mesmerized by mirror-like reflections in the water.

Getting to know fascinating fellow travelers including the expedition team; making a friend in Ittoqqortoormiit , the one town we visited; and kayaking with a Greenlandic woman were among the highlights. There were wonderfully engaging lectures about photography, polar bears, the northern lights, the explorers who competed to claim Greenland, geology, icebergs, climate change, lichens and what daily life is like in a Greenland town.

The most gripping narrative was our expedition leader Kim’s on his military service in the Sirius Patrol , when he and a partner spent months on the move in winter, skiing alongside teams of sled dogs pulling all their food, supplies and tents and with dramas sad (the lead sled dog killed) and happy (the birth of pups).

And we had our own drama. At our first wilderness landing, a logistic support site for the Sirius Patrol, things were amiss — containers toppled and equipment strewn in the water. What in the world could have happened?

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International Complement

Ours was an expedition on a sturdy but nimble and very comfortable ship with good food, friendly service and a terrific 15-member expedition team.

Since Albatros is a Danish company, many of the passengers were Danish, with the rest a mix of Americans, Britons, Germans, Dutch, Japanese, Chinese, Australians. It is an English-speaking shipboard experience, but passengers are assigned to color-coded groups for Zodiac excursions mainly by language.

The Danes were fun to travel with, welcoming and instantly switching to English around non-Danish-speakers.

The expedition team came from Denmark, Norway, Germany, France, Poland, the U.S., Canada, Argentina, South Africa, Australia and China.

The hotel department was mostly Filipino and Indonesian. The captain was Panamanian.

A Grounding of Sister Ship Ocean Explorer

The day I embarked in Reykjavik, news broke that a sister ship of Ocean Albatros , operated by another company, had been re-floated after getting stuck in mud and silt for several days in Northeast Greenland National Park, where we were heading.

Ocean Explorer was freed with the help of a Greenland research vessel. There were no injuries or environmental damage, but the incident raised concerns about expedition cruising safety.

I haven’t seen an accident investigation report, however someone with knowledge of the incident told me climate change may have played a role, with moraine from melting glacial ice creating an unstable seabed in an area that was poorly charted.

Once again, I felt assured sailing with Albatros Expeditions thanks to its experience in this remote place.

Magnificent Northeast Greenland National Park

Most of Greenland — the world’s largest island — is covered by an ice sheet, the second largest on the planet after Antarctica. Towns hug the coastline, and Greenland’s total population is only 56,600 and concentrated in West Greenland, where most cruises (and all the bigger ships) go.

East Greenland is almost entirely wilderness.

My Ocean Albatros voyage was to Northeast Greenland National Park, sprawling over 972,000 square kilometers/375,291 square miles — almost the same area as Spain and France combined and more than 100 times larger than Yellowstone National Park, according to Visit Greenland.

Our journey charted. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

The park is home to polar bears, Arctic wolves, walrus, narwhals, musk oxen and lemmings. Just two bird species stay year-round; others migrate.

Nobody lives there, apart from personnel at a few meteorological, research and military stations. There are no roads, harbors, commercial airports, hotels, guesthouses or accommodations.

Ittoqqortoormiit, population 360, was the only town we visited. With the park to the north and the world’s largest fjord system, Scoresby Sund, to the south, it is Greenland’s most isolated town.

Ocean Albatros off Ittoqqortoormiit, observed by a bust of explorer Ejnar Mikkelsen, the settlement’s founder. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Day 1 — Embarking in Reykjavik for My East Greenland Cruise on Ocean Albatros

At 8,181 gross tons and 104.4 meters/343 feet, Ocean Albatros is small enough to dock in central Rejkjavik at Miðbakki, the Old Harbor.

When I arrived on the airport bus, the sturdy blue ship with its inverted X-BOW — a design that promotes better seakeeping and a quieter ride — was drawing curious onlookers.

Day 1 -Anne embarking at Reykjavik, Iceland, where she got a first look at that distinctive Ocean Albatros X-BOW

Embarkation consisted of giving our name and cabin number at the gangway and putting a tag on our bags, to be carried aboard by the crew. Check-in took just minutes in the lounge, all very efficient. The outgoing Oliver, hotel manager, welcomed me by name.

Oliver, the friendly Ocean Albatros hotel director. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

I gasped when I opened the door of my balcony cabin, #436, on a lower deck, aft, near the staircase to the mudroom. This is the ship’s standard/most numerous cabin category (C, superior balcony, approximately 24 square meters/258 square feet including balcony).

I wasn’t expecting it to be so spacious (other cruise lines may categorize this a mini-suite), with a queen bed, large desk, sofa, two hanging closets and plenty of drawers and shelves for storage. The bathroom (shower only) had a heated floor. My balcony was just above one of the hatches where the Zodiacs loaded from the mudroom, very convenient for our frequent outings.

My cabin bed and sofa. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Most stunning was a panoramic glacier photo over the bed. One ominous sign, though: the desk chair and balcony furniture were chained to the floor.

My comfortable cabin. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

The mini-fridge was stocked with water, sodas and beer. Other touches included a fresh fruit basket, bathrobe and interactive flat-screen television.

Ocean Albatros is one of the nicest expedition ships I’ve been on — very comfortable, elegant without being fussy, bright, easy to navigate, open to the views and with lots of observation points.

It has an open-seating main dining room and smaller upper-deck casual buffet venue (that turned into a hot rocks restaurant, by reservation, no charge, at night), a main lounge/lecture theater with big screens and adjacent bar, an observation lounge, small gym, ocean-view sauna, boutique, outdoor pool and two hot tubs.

With its big screens, the lounge was our central meeting place for expedition briefings, lecturers and entertainment. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

A corner of the library. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

The bar, in an uncharacteristically empty moment. At left, a faux fireplace. At right, the reception desk. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

All inside a rugged Polar Class 6/1A Ice Class vessel.

Ocean Albatros food was tasty and varied, with international specialties (Castilian garlic and bread soup, tom yum soup), salads, beef, pork, lamb, seafood, pasta, “always available” items like New York sirloin, Atlantic salmon and chicken breast, with desserts like tarts, pies, pudding, baked Alaska, ice cream (including plant-based), fresh fruit and cheeses. Every menu had gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Cakes and pastries were set out in the bar for teatime.

Unlike some expedition ships, wine and beer were not included with meals.

In the lounge for an hour-long introductory briefing, Gaby, the American member of the expedition team, gave a reassuringly thorough safety rundown.

After we sailed, that night at dinner — on my own and knowing nobody — I agreed to the smiling Balinese headwaiter Wayan’s offer to seat me at a “nice table.”

My dining companions turned out to be Danish royalty: the most traveled customer of Albatros, with 108 trips to his credit, and a noted opera singer, I learned later, with a couple of his musician friends.

After flying overnight, I ached to hit the sack but at 9:20 p.m. an announcement: “Northern lights, Deck 8!” Everyone scrambled outside. It was a real wow of flickering greens, suddenly appearing in different shapes, then fading. This went on for hours.

Not one of my pictures turned out. Luckily a professional photographer was part of the expedition team and documenting our trip. The next day Werner from South Africa told me the expedition team stayed up most of the night watching the sky and it was the best display he’d ever seen.

An exciting start!

Day 2 — Crossing the Denmark Strait, En Route to Greenland

I ate breakfast as Iceland faded into the distance on a slate gray morning and met Margit, a solo traveler from Denmark.

A call, the first of many, rang out: “Orcas off the port bow!”

Later I was in the library when we were alerted to humpbacks. As always, I grabbed my jacket, binoculars and camera and joined the stairway migration up to Deck 8 (there’s also an elevator). With its X-BOW, Ocean Albatros doesn’t have a conventional bow where passengers typically stand to observe wildlife. I thought I might miss this vantage point, but I didn’t.

The ship has viewing spots aplenty including outdoors forward (directly in front of and above the bridge) and aft.

Barstools with a view on the pool deck. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

You can also see a lot on this expedition cruise to Greenland from the big windows of the forward-facing observation lounge, the main lounge (where there’s also an outside but enclosed viewing area) and the dining room. If I got cold, I ducked into the bridge — there’s an open bridge policy — to chat quietly with expedition staff and use the spotting scope.

This first morning out, the lounge was packed for a mandatory briefing with Greenland visitor guidelines from the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators. Main point: “Leave the Arctic as it is.”

I was especially impressed by the cultural aspects: “Work against prejudiced attitudes. Talk to, and not about, people you meet.” … “Ask before you photograph people. If they hesitate, it’s no.” … “Don’t look in windows or pet Arctic (working) dogs.”

A Zodiac safety briefing was followed by a sobering polar bear briefing by René, the rifle master.

Since we were headed to polar bear country, the expedition team, armed as required, would create a safety perimeter at each landing site (an area of less than a square mile). We had to stay inside that.

René, a Norwegian, lived several years in Svalbard and goes back in season. He’s seen hundreds of polar bears and fired many warning flares but never a shot.

An afternoon lecture enlightened us about the Danish explorer Ejnar Mikkelsen , whose Northeast Greenland expedition (1909-1912) was a feat of survival. In 1924, Mikkelsen established a settlement at Scoresby Sund — now Ittoqqotoormiit, our next day’s stop.

At the captain’s cocktail party, passengers toasted with Champagne. I dined with Margit and a British woman, Kate, also traveling on her own. We instantly hit it off. It turned out Margit had worked at Thule Air Base in Northwest Greenland and Kate had made numerous scientific research trips to Greenland (plus we share an alma mater). What luck! I was with two real Greenland aficionados, fun and interesting fellow travelers. Kate would astound me on a shore landing later, and she became a kind of celebrity on board.

I’ve always met cool people on expedition ships, one reason this is my favorite way to cruise. On such trips, travelers are going with purpose, deeply into the destinations and an esprits de corps develops by sharing adventures in incredible places.

Ocean Albatros has 10 single occupancy staterooms; I also met several solo travelers in larger rooms who’d taken advantage of a no-single-supplement offer Albatros Expeditions occasionally runs.

Plus, in a rare practice, the line will match two solo travelers of the same gender willing to share a Category C (like the room I was in) or a Category F (triple porthole room).

Day 3 — Tiny Ittoqqortoormiit

At 7 a.m. expedition leader Kim gave his universal wake-up call. I opened the curtains to a glassy sea and icebergs! Beautiful day — a balmy 4 degrees C/39 F. Out on deck it was silent and calm.

Known as Scoresbysund until 1996, tiny Ittoqqortoormiit with its colorful houses was our only chance to meet Greenlanders.

Zodiac transfer between the ship and tiny Ittoqqortoormiit. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Visit Greenland describes Ittoqqortoormiit’s backyard as an “unspoiled, pristine wilderness where wild animals thrive, millions of seabirds nest, enormous icebergs form a constantly changing sculpture gallery and local hunters still follow the ancient traditions,” adding: “Ittoqqortoormiit is the best place in Greenland to experience the traditional Inuit style of living and where you have the highest chance/risk of meeting a polar bear.”

Ashore I did see a polar bear — skin, hanging on a rack.

Polar bear skin drying in the sun at Ittoqqortormiit. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Passengers were assigned to a color-coded group for the duration of the O cean Albatros cruise. Each group was called to the mudroom at about 20-minute intervals to suit up for the Zodiacs. The order of colors was rotated so we each got a chance to go first. Also, this prevented crowding at the landing sites; in the wilderness areas one group returned to the ship as another arrived.

We each had mudroom lockers with rubber boots loaned by Albatros for the trip. Kate was on my Zodiac, and together we trekked up to the town’s general store. We’d been told not to buy things since all supplies are shipped in and needed by the townspeople.

I was surprised by the donut case (fresh donuts here?) and all the frozen fish. Why sell frozen fish in Greenland, where fishing rules? Kate told me most fishing is on the west coast.

The community had prepared for our visit, offering a feeding where sled dogs devoured chunks of walrus. A weather balloon was launched, and the pretty red church and a small museum were opened, where I lingered over the black and white photos of people past. The tourist office displayed traditional clothing and sold sealskin items.

I walked uphill to the Ejnar Mikkelsen monument and a panoramic view. A smiling man on his porch greeted me on the way up and waved me over on the way down. He spoke good English and invited me to sit with him. Lots of expedition ships visit, he said, and most locals were out hunting so the town was quiet. (Also, there’d been a big party the night before for his granddaughter’s 18th birthday.) More family members came out, and the man’s wife showed me a handsome ulu (knife) she’d crafted.

Meeting a new friend in Ittoqqortoormiit. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

After this delightful encounter that made me feel very welcome as a visitor, I trudged to the cemetery where graves were covered in plastic flowers, bottles and lanterns. Grimly, eight graves, dug during the summer when the ground wasn’t frozen, lay open, waiting.

The graveyard at Ittoqqortoormiit — a sobering sight with graves dug when the ground isn’t frozen — and waiting. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

I caught the last Zodiac back to the ship at 1. The afternoon’s geology lecture informed us that long ago Greenland was tropical and previewed the types of rocks we’d be seeing. Another lecture delved into the northern lights.

Someone thought they spotted a narwhal and the ship turned around. I’ve always yearned to see one of those elusive creatures with its long tusk. Alas, a false alarm.

At the expedition briefing we learned about Ella Ø (Island), where we’d go the next day. Kayak master Julien, a Frenchman and a hunter living in Greenland with a Greenlandic wife, gave a somewhat daunting kayak briefing. After hearing it would be three hours, cold and in two-person kayaks, I decided not to go. I’m not a seasoned kayaker and I didn’t have a partner.

The kayaking excursion was discussed at dinner. It cost $250, leading a man to quip: “Do you get to keep the kayak?”

Day 4 — Ella Island, Tsunami, Vega Sund and Kayaking

I awoke very early and went outside to see steep, snow-dusted cliffs. Expedition leader Kim said to prepare for an amazing sight as daylight broke.

Suddenly there it was off the starboard side: Bastion, a 1.4 kilometer/4,593 feet high chunk of sedimentary rock tinted red by iron. To port, glaciers. Beyond, soft pinkish light and snow-dusted mountains with rounded tops.

I asked rifle master René if it reminded him of home (Norway), and he said this is maybe more beautiful. It was bitterly cold, yet the opera singer padded around deck in slip-ons with no socks.

With expedition team member, René, the rifle master, on deck. Look at that backdrop! * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Via Zodiac, we arrived at Ella Island, a supply post for the Sirius Patrol. What a memorable place, nestled in a deep fjord, at water’s edge, against a backdrop of mountains tinted gold in the sun.

Thomas the Zodiac driver pointed to toppled containers and a boat on a trailer and equipment in the water — perhaps caused by a tsunami triggered by a glacier calving, an iceberg tipping or a landslide. The ground was still wet.

Inside the small, rustic cabin that shelters the Sirius Patrol, Kate said: “I think this was my room.” What?! She amazed me. Turns out Ella Ø was one of the places Kate stayed during her many scientific expeditions. She explained how, in these shelters, the matches are always left out on the stove because you’d arrive with cold hands, fingers too stiff to pluck a match from the box.

A red hut outside labeled “Niagara” contained the shower.

VIDEO: Below, Kate shares some of her memories of scientific expeditions that included long stays at Ella Ø.

At 9:45 a.m. it was already time for my group to go back. The muscular Thomas used a hook to retrieve a device in the water. The expedition team had been rescuing as much as they could.

This was not the end to the tsunami story. Later we’d learn our visit was news-making. From Wikipedia:

On 16 September 2023, an unwitnessed  tsunami  of undetermined origin struck the northern part of  Ella Island , penetrating 50 metres (55 yd) inland and devastating the Sirius Dog Sled Patrol station there, washing much of it into the sea. The station was closed for the winter, and no one was present when the wave hit. The  cruise ship   Ocean Albatros  arrived on the scene on 17 September and contacted the  Joint Arctic Command  with the first report of the damage. On 19 September, personnel from the Sirius Dog Sled Patrol and the  Royal Danish Navy   patrol vessel   HDMS Knud Rasmussen began clean-up and salvage work at the site, which they completed by 21 September despite a 20 September warning by officials to ships in the area to avoid putting crew members or passengers ashore because of a risk of additional tsunamis. 

And more here, from the Polar Journal and here from the Santa Monica Observer.

VIDEO: Below, our landing at Ella Island, where we saw the fresh affects of the recent tsunami.

Back aboard, I took in the vista from the observation lounge. Kate brought her diary from a 1994 expedition when she stayed at Ella Ø, in a balmy August, getting chased by a musk ox (she climbed on a rock), showering in Niagara, washing her hair in a pond, hiking to a waterfall, documenting Inuit mosaics and relishing a meal of fresh salmon after a couple weeks of packaged provisions. I read it, rapt.

By now it was super-sunny on the pool deck. A couple climbed into a hot tub.

As Ocean Albatros continued on to Vega Sund, assistant expedition leader Anette told us about her work in Greenland launching weather balloons, like that we’d seen at Ittoqqotoormiit. Then Kate was called up for an extemporaneous recap of her expeditions, research and polar bear encounters. I felt proud to know her.

Expedition team member Lisa talked me into kayaking by saying she’d find me a partner. Suddenly I was in the mudroom, tugging on a dry suit — with lots of help — and special boots over thick socks. I wore leggings, fleece pants and waterproof pants under the suit. I felt like I was going on a space mission and about as anxious.

In the mudroom, suited up for kayaking. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

But then I met my kayaking partner, the kind and friendly Tina, a Greenlander who lives in Denmark. Other kayakers included a Chinese honeymoon couple, a Danish mother and daughter, and several singles. Everyone got paired.

Anne getting ready to kayak in Greenland. * Photo: Tina Lauritsen

We paddled far, skirting the coast. Kayak master Julien, so stern in his briefing, was now smiling and laughing. A hunter, he was in his element, and when someone spotted a baby ringed seal, Julien motioned to keep our heads low and be quiet. We got close, silently observing the seal. Tina whispered, earnestly, that she wished we could eat it.

Seal tastes “Mmmmm, like nothing else,” she told me.

I later asked Tina her thoughts about cruises to Greenland, which are booming. She thinks small ships like Ocean Albatros are ideal, but she doesn’t like the big ones because they overwhelm the towns in West Greenland.

She added there was some negative sentiment after expedition ship Ocean Explorer’s grounding. She’d also like to see like to see Greenlandic food served on board, perhaps by companies engaging a hunter, and more job opportunities for Greenlanders in travel, especially the chance to work abroad to gain experience.

Subsequently I asked the firm that provides ship management (including catering) to Albatros Expeditions about this. I was told some fresh fish and seafood are purchased in Greenland, and musk ox is available on some ships.

An Albatros executive said “There are animals we cannot serve because guests will not appreciate it. Whale is eaten in Greenland. We don’t judge it … But we choose not to serve whale to our guests, or seal.” Both companies said they’re open to hiring Greenlanders (and Albatros does so shoreside).

Back aboard after kayaking, I dashed upstairs, wine bottle in hand, to the hot rocks restaurant for a pre-reserved meal with Kate and Margit. The waiter brought raw meat for diners to cook on our individual hot rocks plates, the scent of sizzling steak filling the room. A vegetarian, I had veggies.

As we swapped stories, I learned one Zodiac group spotted a polar bear poking its head above a boulder.

Day 5 — Teufelsschloss, Polar Plunge, Musk Ox Fjord

Kim woke us 6:30 a.m. as we headed through Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord toward Teufelsschloss with its bright bands of sedimentary rock. It was 3 degrees C/37 F. People swarmed the forward decks, shooting with massive telephoto lenses. So I went aft.

The snow and dawn colors were beautiful with sun glittering on the rocks and the bergy bits (pieces of floating glacial ice).

Day 5 – Teufelsschloss. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Today the colors and variety were so rich. Snow and rounded hills here. Craggy rocks there. Glaciers there. Julien pointed out a musk ox ashore. It was a dot; how could he see it? A hunter’s eyes. Arctic skuas were on the wing.

One of Northeast Greenland’s expansive glaciers. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

In a calm bay beside a glacier were three huts. Kim said supplies and food were stored there, adding: “In summer you can catch salmon with your hand. And Arctic char, delicious.”

VIDEO: From the X-Bow to the Mountains, below.

I gazed down at the X-BOW and watched new ice forming in the undulating water. We dropped anchor.

For days passengers had chattered about the polar plunge. On some expeditions, it’s a tradition. My stance: Go ahead, but I already know what cold water is like.

So I didn’t take the plunge but, from my cabin balcony, I had a bird’s eye view of the Zodiac below where, one by one and tethered to a line, people jumped in and even more quickly, out. There were some shrieks. One woman executed a graceful swan dive.

Lunch was a barbecue on the pool deck with a roast suckling pig. Immediately Wayan met me: “Miss Anne, Mr. Oliver prepared a veggie burger for you.” So thoughtful! People piled plates high then lined up for apple pie with ice cream.

It was too cold for me. Indoors, I asked expedition team member Sandra to show me on the map where we’d been:

VIDEO: Below, an Ocean Albatros team member charts our journey through the maze coastal waters of East Greenland.

That afternoon, we sailed a long stint past the face of a glacier that Kim said was 40 to 50 meters/131 to 164 feet high. It was dotted with ice caves and darkened in places by moraine. Lots of ice, some of it black (transparent) ice, floated all around. A seal bobbed on a piece.

VIDEO: Glaciers that go on and on, below.

I watched from the warmth of my cabin, often ducking out to the balcony.

And jotting notes: “Really wow! scenery. After the glacier, a brown mountain topped by red square rock, with a perfect reflection in the glassy water below, flecked by bits of ice.

“It’s like the red rocks of Sedona piled on a mountain of desert sand atop a reflecting pool.

“Now there’s a towering brown blob of a mountain with red around the collar and snow frosting.

“3:40 p.m. The water is like glass with near perfect reflections of the brownish-reddish hills, reddish lichen on the lower slopes, snow dusting on top.”

VIDEO: Below, Anne captures the splendidly calm day in East Greenland with mirror-like reflections.

We were in Musk Ox Fjord and making a surprise landing. What a gorgeous, peaceful spot, with a cozy hut: Hoelsbru, with low doorways, a stove, stores and half bottles of Bacardi Limón and Jaegermeister.

Kim had stayed here. Kate, too.

VIDEO: Ocean Alabatros Expedition Leader Kim at Hoelsbru.

Chugging uphill in back, I was enthralled by the low reddish plants, the orange lichen on the stones, the idyllic views and the sound of gurgling streams.

That night I enjoyed a rollicking dinner with my kayaking partner Tina, and Thomas, the boat master, yet another expedition team member with a vast Greenland resumé. When he lived there, he owned 23 sled dogs.

In the lounge a classic Greenland movie aired but after such a full, rich day, I needed my bed.

Day 6 — Myggbukta

I didn’t like the 6 a.m. wake-up call. And the self-serve coffee machine in the lounge — the single most vital piece of equipment apart from the ship’s engine for keeping us going — was temporarily out of order, a crisis!

The wonderful Wayan came to my rescue with a big barista-prepared cappuccino.

At 7:30 a.m. Anette briefed us on Myggbukta, a Norwegian hunting hut. In response to the presence of Norwegian hunters, Denmark created the East Greenland Company in 1919. When Norway claimed a large patch of East Greenland in 1922, “This is war,” Anette, a Dane, growled with mock menace. Denmark went to the Hague and reached far back into history including the 1600s when a French king said Greenland was Denmark’s. And in 1917 when Denmark sold its Caribbean islands to the United States, the U.S. agreed not to oppose Denmark’s claims to the northern territory.

Low, rounded brown mountains were close by with a rifleman silhouetted against snowcapped mountains in the distance. Polar foxes were sighted on shore. Our Zodiacs landed on a pebbly beach.

I wandered with my head down, looking at the lichen, artworks it pained me to be crushing beneath my boots. I nearly walked into Polish expedition team member Syzmon, guarding the beach perimeter.

Ice and lichen. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Day 6 – Ocean Albatros expedition team member Szymon on polar bear watch at Myggbukta. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Afternoon on board consisted of a bevy of lectures. Kim captivated us with his adventures on the Sirius Patrol. Sandra gave a witty talk on lichens (a feat). Other expedition team members’ topics ranged from geology to why icebergs are blue, and the difference between cultural history and trash.

As usual, questions from the ship’s question box were answered:

• How many people did the polar plunge? 32.
• How many ships called in Ittoqqortoormiit this short season? 60.
• The highest latitude reached on the trip? 73° 47′ 58.6″ N.

How many cups of coffee produced by the self-serve machines? Incalculable.

Most northern point of our voyage. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

After dinner, the Ocean Albatros bar was hopping, as usual. Lots of passengers were regulars in this cozy central spot with a faux fireplace on the side but I never managed to stay up for the nightlife.

Day 7 — Carlsberg Fjord

I awoke at 6:45am before our “late” call by Kim as we didn’t have a scheduled landing. Our adventure was coming to an end. It was 1 degree C/34 F in Carlsberg Fjord. I saw glaciers from my cabin. A bonus Zodiac tour was announced.

We were in a huge bowl, ringed by glaciers. Our Zodiac driver steered toward a small berg as light broke over the brown mountains on a gloomy day. We watched a glacier calve then steered to another glacier we were told is one kilometer/.62 miles long. A berg with diagonal lines was eye-catching. As we headed toward still another glacier, two seals popped out of the water.

I asked our driver about electric Zodiacs and was told yes, Albatros Expeditions wants them but there are challenges with the batteries in polar regions.

Day 7 – Zodiac on a gloomy day in Carlsberg Fjord. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Back aboard, patches of ice formed on the decks. On the bridge, the staff captain told me we were anchored at a depth of 80 meters/262 feet.

At lunch I talked with an American disappointed about not seeing many animals or being able to take long hikes. An expedition team member said people shouldn’t expect to see lots of wildlife because they’re spread across such a vast expanse.

If it’s polar bears you want, go to much smaller Svalbard.

But it’s precisely because there are polar bears in Greenland that we had the enclosed safety perimeters, which limited the ability to take the kind of long hikes the other American had expected.

I wasn’t disappointed about wildlife. I was wowed by the scenery. Though as an avid hiker, I, too, would have liked to roam further afield.

With the cruise almost over, the Ocean Albatros boutique was luring in shoppers with items like sealskin gloves, books on polar bears, lusciously soft sealskin totes dyed red and blue ($305) and a snazzy yellow sealskin clutch ($295). (Note, in Greenland, seal is hunted for food and the rest of the animal is used for gloves, coats etc. It’s illegal to import sealskin to the United States.)

Outside, it was snowing, the perfect backdrop for Szymon’s lecture on polar bears.

The ship was rolling a bit; we’d been told at a disembarkation briefing that we might encounter some “seas” en route back to Iceland.

That evening was the captain’s farewell party. Ocean Albatros is a casual ship, no fancy attire or neckties required. I changed into a blue cashmere V-neck and a silk scarf, and an Aussie man teased me: “You’ve done yourself up!”

Our recap session featured Werner’s photos of the polar plunge, funny questions that have been asked on expeditions (“Does the water go all the way around the island?”) that got us all laughing and an expedition team member’s clever presentation, “A Year in Greenland,” covering the seasons, customs, holidays and newspaper headlines where she lives.

Kate, who’d been given a bottle of Champagne as thanks for her impromptu presentation, shared it at dinner. Each place setting also had a bottle of Carlsberg beer, a treat to toast our day in Carlsberg Fjord.

Day 7 – Farewell dinner toast, treated to Champagne by Kate and beer by Carlsberg after our visit to Carlsbergfjord. * Photo: Wayan

Day 8 — At Sea, Crossing to Reykjavik

No wakeup call on our day at sea before arriving back in Reykjavik. Of course, my eyes popped open at 6.

A morning lecture was about the Norwegian polar explorer Roald Amundsen .

Passengers seemed to particularly enjoy the special spread at lunch: big battered pieces of cod for fish and chips and a fancy sushi selection. Ice cream, rice pudding and lemon pie for dessert.

The afternoon lecture on Greenland’s ice future, climate change and global warming was dire. But climate change is also a reason why some people want to see Greenland now. And when you learn about the retreat of the ice shelf, you feel the urgency to do something.

The seas were calmer. It never got rough. We passed land on the port side: Iceland. The clouds were low with patches of pale blue sky peeping through. (We were told crossing the Denmark Strait could be rough, which was one day over and one day back; we had one day of some rolling but not bad. I think the unusual thing about our trip was that it was mostly sunshine, fair, sparkling, not cloudy or windy. Only Carlsberg Fjord was overcast.)

Bright and early the next morning, we were back in Reykjavik.

Greenland was extraordinary, one of my best trips. Like coming back from Antarctica, I felt a halo from having been somewhere really special on this Earth — immense, wildly beautiful, fierce and mysterious yet fragile at the same time.

I could well understand why Kate and the expedition team kept being drawn back to it.

Ocean Albatros set amidst icebergs and snow-dusted mountains. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Interested in this Expedition Cruise to East Greenland on Ocean Albatros?

If you’re considering one of the best luxury small boat cruises to Greenland, here are details and pricing about Ocean Albatros cruises in East Greenland for 2025.

Albatros Expeditions varies its Greenland itineraries from year to year.

In 2025, there’s a new 11-night Complete East Greenland trip departing Sept. 17 that visits two settlements in addition to Ittoqqotoormiit and the Blosseville Coast south of Ittoqqotoormiit, described as “Possibly the most dramatic coast outside of Antarctica … guarded by Greenland’s highest mountains and steepest fjords.”

The Complete East Greenland Cruise. * Photo: Albatros Expeditions

It’s currently priced at $11,095 per person, double occupancy in a Category C balcony cabin (the kind I was in).

Fares include:

• Landing fees

Fares do not include:

• Alcoholic drinks
• Gratuities (the recommended amount is $16 per day, pooled for all the crew)
• Note, medical evacuation insurance coverage is required

Keep an eye on the company’s last minute offers and special promotions. And note, there are also Ocean A lbatros Antarctica cruise expeditions to consider; here’s more info.

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© This article is protected by copyright, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission from the author. All Rights Reserved. QuirkyCruise.com.

About The Author

Anne Kalosh

Anne Kalosh has written about cruises for decades and her favorites involve small ships. She is the editor of Seatrade-Cruise.com and senior associate editor of Seatrade Cruise Review.

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Oh my! What a brilliant piece of creative, informative and engaging journalism! Anne Kalosh is the ultimate writer, exquisitely weaving a great story around all the necessary facts for someone who is seeking the ideal adventure, The itinerary and ship sound perfect! Very ominous indeed, about the tsunami and how delightful that you almost walked into your expedition leader following those ice formations — a perfect way to meet someone! And, as ever, Anne looks dashing in her cashmere top and scarf! Thank you for the best read I’ve enjoyed in quite some time! Epic! Yet another reason QuirkyCruise is the best resource for small ship cruising.

Well said Peter, I couldn’t agree more! Anne’s evocative story brings such a remote and little-known destination into our hearts and minds, thank you Peter!! And Anne!

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As the country's capital and largest city (population less than 18,000), Nuuk sits at the mouth of an expansive fjord in southwest Greenland. Though the city was founded in 1728, the region's first inhabitants arrived around 2200 BC. Learn about the area's storied past at the Greenland National Museum, and then discover the modern boutiques, vibrant cafes and delicious local cuisine as you explore the city and its rainbow-coloured wooden houses facing the sea. Or take to the water on a boat or sailing tour in Nuup Kangerlua - one of the world's largest fjord systems - where you may encounter whales, seals, walruses and more.

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Cruise Itinerary

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Reykjavik, Iceland

Fri, Aug 15, 2025

Departs: 7:00PM

Isafjordur, Iceland

Sat, Aug 16, 2025

Tendered: 8:00AM to 5:00PM

Akureyri, Iceland

Sun, Aug 17, 2025

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At Sea - Cruising

Mon, Aug 18, 2025

Prins Christian Sund (Cruising) - Cruising

Tue, Aug 19, 2025

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Wed, Aug 20, 2025

Tendered: 7:00AM to 6:00PM

Thu, Aug 21, 2025

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Thu, Aug 28, 2025

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Celebrity Silhouette Ship

Celebrity Silhouette® is impressive, with chic upgrades to the iconic Lawn Club. We've created more space to relax, and socialize in the fresh sea air and provided an interactive outdoor grilling experience. 85% of the ship's staterooms are enhanced by sweeping veranda views. We've created an extraordinary vacation experience. Again.

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The airy Main Restaurant offers exquisite menu selections, which change nightly to give you a variety of classic and contemporary choices. And the service? Legendary.

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Clean, crisp flavors and inventive cuisine meet an extensive list of sustainable and biodynamic wines. Exclusively for AquaClass guests.

The exclusive restaurant for guests of The Retreat. Select and cutting edge, the globally inspired menus at Luminae are not available in any other restaurant on board.

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Ensemble Lounge is the ideal setting for an aperitif en route to an extraordinary dining experience, or a digestif afterward.

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Sit back and relax, listening to up-tempo tunes and enjoying a collection of rare vodkas and a portfolio of fine caviars.

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The Retreat is an unparalleled vacation experience that includes every stunning suite, a private restaurant, an exclusive lounge, and a sundeck that rivals any high-end resort.

Say "Ahh" in spa-inspired staterooms designed just for you. Savor clean eating at Blu and escape to the Relaxation Room.

Tailored services and amenities await you in these exceptionally appointed staterooms. We're here to help you make the most of your time on board and on shore.

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For our Camp at Sea program, we’ve designed more than 500 activities that make every sailing a brand new experience and an unforgettable memory for our junior cruisers.

Relax, recharge, and play the hottest slots and table games at Casino. It offers a sophisticated ambiance and a captivating atmosphere that comes alive with plenty of action.

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Celebrity's European-inspired piazza and elegant galleria hold riches of chic sophistication. Marble walkways lead you to modern boutiques and fine jewelry stores.

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Who said grass can’t be on a ship? Enjoy a friendly pick-up game of leisure sports like Croquet, Bocce, golf putting, Blongo or Baggo.

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A serenely beautiful adults-only pool and hot tub experience, The Solarium let’s you relax and daydream of the next destination you’ll be exploring.

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Price is per person and applies to selected sailing, lowest available fare stateroom category, based on double-occupancy, reflects any promotional savings, and is subject to change and availability until booked. Additional terms and conditions apply to offers. Full deposit must be paid by deposit payment required due date. Standard full deposit penalty is applied if booking is cancelled within final payment period; see Celebrity’s cancellation policy for details. Non-Refundable Deposit Bookings (“NRDB”): To qualify for the lowest available cruise fare, guest must choose a non-refundable deposit. All deposit payments for NRDB made after 03/02/23 are non-refundable from the time of booking. NRDB are applicable to groups at prevailing rates. Not applicable to incentive, contract, or charter groups. Nonrefundable deposit offers are applicable to sailings within final payment, however full deposit is due at time of booking. 

Celebrity Edge® Series Iconic Suites, Edge Villas, Penthouse Suites, Royal Suites, Celebrity Suites, AquaClass® Sky Suites, and Sky Suites (and Family Suites during Holiday sailings) require double the deposit amounts listed.

All Included  pricing applies to sailings booked and departing on or after October 4, 2023, excluding Galapagos cruises, in an inside, ocean view, veranda, Concierge Class, or AquaClass stateroom (“Eligible Bookings”). All guests within an Eligible Booking who choose “All Included” pricing, will receive a Classic Drinks Package and an unlimited Basic Wi-Fi package. All guests in the same stateroom must choose the same rate.  Please visit www.celebritycruises.com/things-to-do-onboard/onboard-packages/beverage-packages for further information on available beverages and full restrictions and www.celebritycruises.com/things-to-do-onboard/onboard-packages/internet-and-phone-packages for further information on wi-fi.

All Included pricing applies to new individual bookings only. Changes to booking may result in removal of Offer. Prices and Offers are subject to availability and change without notice, may be withdrawn at any time, and not applicable to charters or contracted groups. All Included pricing is non-transferable and not combinable with certain rates including, Travel Agent, Interline, Net, Exciting Deals, or worker cabins.  Single occupancy guests paying 200% cruise fare are eligible for All Included pricing. Refer to celebritycruises.com and the Cruise Ticket Contract for additional terms and conditions. Celebrity Cruises reserves the right to cancel offer at any time, correct any errors, inaccuracies, or omissions, and change or update fares, fees, and surcharges at any time without prior notice.

Imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries. These may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice.

*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.

Departing Aug 15, 2025

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A new residential cruise ship plans to sail around the world every 2½ years. Cabins start at $11 million.

Ulyssia Residences plans to launch a residential ship in 2028.

The 132-condo Ulyssia would sail around the world every 2½ years.

Buyers need a net worth of at least $27.9 million to be considered for its $11 million-plus cabins.

Do you have a travel itch, a love of sailing, and an extra $11 million to spare? If so, Ulyssia Residences has a ship for you.

The Switzerland-based company says its first 132-cabin residential vessel will launch in October 2028. From then on, the floating condominium would sail around the world every 2½ years, from the cold waters of Greenland to the warm beaches of Madagascar.

Ulyssia is one of several new contenders vying for cruise lovers' hearts and wallets. But unlike competitors such as Villa Vie and  GlobeCruises , this newcomer is marketing its vessel as a "superyacht" replete with high-end amenities like helicopters and submarines for ultra-high-net-worth travelers.

Ulyssia's condos would be some of the priciest and largest in the niche residential cruise industry.

The ship's 132 cabins would accommodate up to 300 residents and guests. However, Alain Gruber, the CEO of Ulyssia Residences, told Business Insider in an email that he estimates the vessel will have an average of 200 guests onboard.

The one- to six-bedroom condos would start at 9.8 million euros, or about $10.95 million.

It's a relatively steep starting cost — one of Villa Vie's most expensive cabins was reserved at $469,000, although it's about three times smaller than Ulyssia's smallest 1,216-square-foot accommodation.

Yet both are compact compared to Ulyssia's penthouses, the largest of which would span 10,570 square feet. As expected, with this size comes a steeper starting cost of €60 million, about $67.04 million.

No matter the square footage, Ulyssia's floating condos would all have amenities like reception rooms, kitchens, terraces, and floor-to-ceiling windows.

It's the price of a permanent around-the-world vacation on a luxury ship.

Gruber said residents would vote on management's itinerary options, finalized three years in advance.

Like many mass-market around-the-world cruises , the ship would spend at least three nights — up to one week — at every port, giving travelers more time to immerse themselves in each destination.

Expect up to two "major expedition" segments every year, one in a cold climate (like the Northwest Passage or the Arctic) and one in warmer weather (like Madagascar or Micronesia).

Gruber noted that most interested travelers have been families and folks in their 50s.

The ship would have children and education services to accommodate the youngest travelers.

As for the older guests, the company's CEO expects most to be "entrepreneurial" — the kind of people who would own multiple homes in different countries, Renato Chizzola, Ulyssia's senior vice president of lifestyle and development, said in a press release.

But there's one major roadblock between these wealthy would-be residents and a life at sea.

Ulyssia doesn't have a ship yet, and the vessel acquisition process has become an infamously difficult challenge for similar startups.

Residential cruise companies can either build a new ship (as Ulyssia plans to) or refurbish an older used vessel.

Storylines is pursuing the former by building its own luxury residential ship. However, its launch has been delayed eight years to 2027, and former employees, consultants, and investors told BI in 2023 that they'd started to doubt the vessel would ever be built.

Life at Sea Cruises intended to purchase a used vessel for its three-year sailing. But it failed to secure enough funding and canceled its voyage two weeks before its planned departure in November 2023.

The company filed for bankruptcy eight months later.

Villa Vie successfully purchased a more-than-30-year-old vessel for its never-ending cruise, which could set sail in the coming days. However, its launch has already been delayed four months amid issues like the ship's aging rudder stocks and certifications.

Ulyssia's team tapped Meyer Werft to build its superyacht, a €1.7 billion — about $1.9 billion — project.

The popular German shipbuilder has constructed cruise ships for recognizable companies like Disney, Celebrity, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean.

Ulyssia said construction on its vessel is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2024 "but no later than" September 2025. The ship would then be completed in October 2028 (but by March 2029).

Gruber said his team is 'fully funded' and 6 months ahead of schedule.

Frank Binder, the company's founder and chairman, is the principal investor. Customer deposits and financial institutions will also help finance the shipbuilding process.

The ship's amenities could provide some insight into its massive price tag.

Ulyssia is promising amenities like a spa and gym with indoor padel and pickleball courts.

Take a dip in the ocean water at the ship's marina, which would be outfitted with water toys and dive equipment, including two submersibles.

Or, head to the skies with one of the two eight-seater helicopters.

Feeling peckish? The ship would have seven restaurants and four bars.

Residents can also expect traditional cruise ship facilities like pools, a cigar lounge, a nightclub, a theater, and a medical center.

The latter would be upgraded with equipment for diagnostics and surgery, such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner.

Several members of Ulyssia's team, including its CEO, previously worked for The World, currently the only luxury residential ship in operation.

The World and Ulyssia have two key differences — their vessels' ages and their residents' net worth.

The World's ship would be 26 years old by the time of Ulyssia's planned launch in 2028.

The World requires its buyers to have a minimum net worth of $10 million.

Ulyssia's minimum is €25 million — about $27.87 million.

At least its travelers would get to see the world on a luxury superyacht. The helicopters and submarines probably help, too.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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