GREENLAND’S NORTHEAST NATIONAL PARK
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12 DAYS
Explore Northeast Greenland National Park, the world’s most expansive Arctic preserve, where epic fjords and pristine ice shape a landscape of rare beauty. Spanning the remote northeast corner of the planet’s largest island, this vast wilderness is home to iconic Arctic wildlife—polar bears, whales, musk oxen and immense seabird colonies. Ice permitting, venture into Scoresbysund, the largest fjord system on Earth, and visit Greenland’s most isolated community. In autumn, as darkness returns, turn your eyes to the sky for the chance to witness the incomparable northern lights.
ITINERARY SUMMARY
| Day | Place | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Reykjavik, Iceland | Explore the world's northernmost capital before embarking the ship |
| Day 2 | Westfjords | Towering waterfalls, abundant wildlife including whales, seals and countless nesting seabirds |
| Day 3 | Denmark Strait | Scan the water for marine life and enjoy life on board |
| Days 4 - 10 | Northeast Greenland and Scoresbysund | Greenland ice sheet, village of Ittoqqortoormiit, iconic Arctic wildlife |
| Day 11 | Denmark Strait | Reflect on your experience in the largest national park in the world |
| Day 12 | Reykjavik | Disembark after breakfast and continue on your onwards journey |
SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY
National Geographic Endurance
Launched in 2020, the National Geographic Endurance is a next-generation expedition ship, purpose built for polar navigation. The Category A vessel is a fully stabilized, highly strengthened ship designed to navigate polar-passages and uncharted waters all year round. Designed to provide an extremely smooth ride in even the most adverse of conditions, reduced spray on deck and wave-splicing action making for superior observation. The National Geographic Endurance is outfitted with kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac landing crafts, underwater cameras, video microscopes to explain elements of the surrounding environments, a hydrophone to listen to the vocalisations of marine mammals, an open bridge to constantly talk to your captain and expedition crew along with snorkeling gear and wet suits for underwater excursions.
Day 1 Reykjavik, Iceland
Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport to the city and spend the day exploring at your own pace. Check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.
Day 2 Westfjords
Sailing along the Westfjords region of Iceland, take advantage of expedition activities such as hiking to a remote waterfall, explore the remote fjords by kayak or take a Zodiac cruise alongside stunning scenery and wildlife. As the ship navigates northwards towards Greenland, hone your photography skills from the bow alongside your National Geographic Photographer.
Day 3 Denmark Strait
Sail west across the Denmark Strait, where the cold East Greenland current carries icebergs south. Scan the water for marine life and enjoy life on board. Take a yoga class, unwind with a massage in the wellness centre and curl up next to the fireplace in the library. Visit the Bridge and learn about navigation. Relax in one of the twin infinity hot tubs or spend some time in the only igloo at sea. Learn about the area from your onboard historians, naturalists and photographers and enjoy exceptional dining options. As the days grow shorter in August, this is also a great time to keep watch for the northern lights as they start to reappear on clear nights.
Days 4 – 10 Northeast Greenland and Scoresbysund
Encompassing roughly 80 percent of the surface of Greenland, the Greenland ice sheet is the second-largest body of ice in the world. Weather and ice dictate the exact route, but plan to explore well north of Scoresbysund in the largest national park in the world: Northeast Greenland National Park.
Scoresbysund is the largest and longest fjord system on earth, with the village of Ittoqqortoormiit at its entrance. At the end of summer, the ice has retreated as far as it ever does, allowing you to explore the fjords, bays and nooks and crannies of this stunning coastline. With luck, you’ll see iconic Arctic wildlife: polar bears, seals and whales. You’ll also be on constant watch for the northern lights, conditions permitting.
Day 11 Denmark Strait
Sail back across the Denmark Strait once more as you reflect on your experience in the largest national park in the world, exchanging stories with your fellow travellers or editing photos with the help of your certified photography instructor.
Day 12 Reykjavik
Disembark in Reykjavík and transfer to the airport for flights home.