SOUTH GREENLAND ADVENTURE – THE MAJESTIC ALPINE ARCTIC
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13 DAYS
The Majestic Alpine Arctic itinerary is for those seeking to explore the majestic fjords, glaciers and mountains of South Greenland. Offering unique excursions some only made possible on this ship equipped with two twin–engine helicopters.
Developed in partnership with local communities—a first of its kind in expedition travel—this itinerary offers unprecedented opportunities to explore the majesty of South Greenland’s diverse fjordlands.
ITINERARY SUMMARY
| Day | Place | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Reykjavik | Explore this beautiful city at leisure |
| Day 2 | Nuuk | Fly to Nuuk |
| Days 3-5 | Nuuk to the Westlands | South along the spectacular west coast of Greenland, access points to the Greenland Ice Sheet, Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Days 6-8 | Arctic Patagonia | Maze of fjords, sounds, islets, inlets and skerries in and around Cape Farewell, Prins Christian Sund and Tasermiut Fjord |
| Days 9-11 | East Greenland | Wild fjords of the uninhabited east coast, Kangerlussuatsiaq, Humpback whales, wildlife and rare sightings of polar bears |
| Day 12 | Nuuk | Disembark in Nuuk and fly to Reykjavik |
| Day 13 | Reykjavik | Make your way to the airport for your homeward flights or onward journey |
SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY
Ultramarine
The newest ship in the Quark fleet, Ultramarine is designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to discover new places, and immerse you in the best the region has to offer. Ultramarine accommodates 199 guests and is equipped with two twin-engine helicopters to offer the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size. With two dining areas, four bars, a panoramic lounge, theatre, library, spa and fitness centre, Polar boutique and an ocean view sauna your days at sea can be as busy or relaxing as you decide.
Day 1 Reykjavik
Arrive in the Icelandic capital and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the rest of the day to explore the city on your own.
Day 2 Embark
This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead!
Days 3 and 4 Sailing to South East Greenland
As we sail across the Denmark Strait, your Expedition Team will teach you about the wildlife and enthralling history of Greenland, its fascinating geology, ecology and climate, and the incredible sights you will soon explore. Staff will also keep watch for the seabirds you’ll likely see soaring around your ship, as well as the whales that can be encountered here.
Days 5 and 6 South East Greenland
Explore one of the least visited and most remote parts of the island. Your days sailing along the coast will be guided by weather and ice conditions. Boasting a mesmerizing maze of vast glaciers, steep mountains and breathtaking fjords.
If you’re feeling even more adventurous, try an optional paddling excursion (extra cost), an unforgettable opportunity to glide past icebergs and glaciers and capture some photographs from a unique perspective.
Another possible destination is Lindenow Fjord (Kangerlussuatsiaq), it’s a great spot for hiking through lush and varied flora, surrounded by epic mountain vistas. This rarely visited deep fjord is fed by a number of glaciers and offers ample opportunities for your camera to get a workout.
Days 7 and 8 South East Greenland
This region is as rich in spectacular scenery as it is in history and culture. Everywhere you look rewards with vistas of icy waters set against a backdrop of soaring mountains and unbelievably lush, green valleys.
The magical Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), a complex maze of narrow fjords and channels, is a great place for cruising. You’ll explore this stunning sound, home to calving glaciers, jagged mountains and sheer cliffs that plunge dramatically into the water. Sailing through this fjord from the vantage point of your ship or a Zodiac is an exhilarating experience. If conditions allow, venturing ashore provides opportunities for all levels of hiking.
Exploring the remains of the circa 14th-century church will feel like stepping back in time, as the building appears much as it did when it was abandoned in the 15th century and the surrounding fells and fjord remain similarly untouched.
The little village of Igaliku, home to about 25 inhabitants, is Greenland’s oldest sheep-farming settlement. It’s a charming place to go ashore, as sheep peacefully graze on the grass, surrounded by bloom-covered rolling valleys and tall mountains. Together with four other historic farming communities, Igaliku is part of the newly established UNESCO World Heritage Site Kujataa.
Days 9-11 West Greenland
Boasting spectacular glaciers, mountainous landscapes, and vibrant communities, the west coast of Greenland will leave you awestruck. Heading north, each day we hope to take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites, discovering some of the quaint communities dotting the islands and fjords in the region and cruising in some of Greenland’s most picturesque places.
The west coast is home to Nuuk, the charming Greenlandic capital. You’ll have time to wander the streets of the historic Old Nuuk neighborhood.
Day 12 Nuuk
Enjoy one more Zodiac ride to shore, where you’ll board your charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we will transfer you to your included hotel.
Day 13 Depart Reykjavik
Today, you can make your way home at your leisure or spend some time exploring this artistic city.