GREENLAND EXPLORER

Day 1 Reykjavik, Iceland

Overview:

Arrive in the Icelandic capital this morning and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the day to explore the city on your own. In the evening, join us at your hotel for a welcome briefing.

Day 2 Embark – Akureyri Iceland

You’ll fly from Reykjavik to the north coast town of Akureyri where you are traneferred to the port to board your the Ocean Adventurer and begin your expedition.

Days 3-4  East Greenland

Experience a true arctic ghost town when we visit the abandoned settlement of Skjoldungen, where inhabitants were forced to move to larger, more accessible towns in 1961. The narrow part of Skjoldungen Fjord is an ideal place to explore by Zodiac. Those who opt for our kayaking program may have an opportunity to get out on the water to glide past icebergs and capture some great photographs.

Days 5-7  South Greenland

Climbers and mountaineers around the world know Tasermiut Fjord, one of the world’s most prolific big-wall playgrounds. This part of Greenland is particularly dramatic, being nicknamed the Arctic Patagonia. A bit of a history lesson will be provided here as you learn about the settlements of the area, founded by Erik the Red. As we round Cape Farewell, the southernmost point of Greenland, we will call in at the natural hot springs found in the Uunartoq area, soak in the geothermal waters and watch the icebergs pass by.

Days 8-13  Greenland’s West Coast

Heading north, you’ll stop at some of the quaint villages that dot the islands and fjords of Greenland’s western side. You’ll find friendly faces, local artisans and colourful houses on the wildflower- covered tundra. You’ll visit Nuuk, the capital of Greenland and home to fewer than 16,000 people. You’ll have time to wander the streets and see the Hans Egede Church and Hans Egede statue near the waterfront, both named after the missionary who founded the settlement. You’ll also visit the museum to see the famous Greenlandic mummies.

The nearby town of Sisimiut is an interesting place to visit, as there are more dogsleds here than humans. Evighedsfjorden, which means “Fjord of Eternity,” is a favoured place for us to put the Zodiacs in the water for some more in-depth exploration. This long, deep fjord has very few settlements, so you’ll come to appreciate nature in its rawest form. There will be an opportunity for hiking among the towering mountains, and you’ll have plenty of chances to photograph the colourful tundra and dramatic landscapes.

The west coast of Greenland provides many dramatic, mountainous landscapes where fjords open into the sea. You will explore the Ilulissat Icefjord, home to one of the world’s fastest-moving glaciers. Moving approximately 62 feet (19 meters) per day, the glacier provides you with a great opportunity to photograph ice crashing into the sea. Continuing along, the Amerloq Fjord offers a chance for you to stretch your legs by exploring abandoned villages and ancient Thule sites.

Day 14  Kangerlussuaq

Today, you’ll board your direct charter flight back to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we will transfer you to your hotel.

Day 15  Reykjavik

Overview:

After breakfast, you can make your way home at your leisure or spend some more time in Reykjavik.