WEST GREENLAND – EXPLORING THE FAR NORTH  

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Ocean Explorer

The Ocean Explorer is part of the Quark fleet, offering modern and elegant design. This 138 passenger vessel is purpose-built for polar exploration, featuring well-appointed and spacious public areas and ample outdoor viewing areas for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design and almost all have verandas. Guests can relax and find comfort in the spacious gym, sauna with large windows, and two outdoor Jacuzzis.

Day 1 Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrive in the Icelandic capital and make your way to the group hotel near Keflavik Airport. You will have the rest of the day to explore this fascinating city, known for its Norse history and stunning architecture. If you plan to visit the city of Reykjavik, allow for a one-hour transfer between Keflavik and Reykjavík.

Day 2 Reykjavik to Nuuk, Greenland

After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board a private charter flight to Nuuk, Greenland. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a central downtown location to enjoy time on your own to explore this quaint port town—which is the capital of Greenland—before making your way to the pier for a late afternoon embarkation.

Day 3 Sisimiut

Congratulations, you’ve crossed 66°33’ north latitude. On your first off-ship excursion in the Arctic, visit Sisimiut, a community rich with Greenlandic history and culture. As you approach via the inner harbour, you’ll spot locals coming and going from the marina, bringing halibut, shrimp and other seafood freshly harvested from Baffin Bay. Upon reaching shore, walk winding roads through this vibrant town dotted with colourful homes and Arctic cotton grass blooming under the summer sun. While the waterfront may be lively with boat traffic, life uphill moves at a relaxed, peaceful pace. As in any Arctic community, always ask before petting or approaching these working dogs. Today’s activities feature a locally guided town walk that includes admission to the museum, and a taste of local Greenlandic food. You will also be able to converse with locals who will be eager to learn about your part of the world.

Day 4 Disko Bay

In September, Disko Bay is bathed in an ethereal autumn light—a phenomenon specific to the high latitudes. Giant icebergs drift with the currents, many of which can be seen in nearby Illulisat Icefjord, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 because of its outstanding natural beauty and its significance in understanding ice-cap glaciology. You’ll quickly realize that icebergs come in all shapes and sizes— some of them larger than Ocean Explorer. Disko Island shelters the expansive bay, where you should make landfall at or near the small community of Qeqertarsuaq. Colourfully painted homes dot the gentle rocky slopes of this quiet community, which moves at a pace set by the changing seasons, the tides, and the steady rhythm of small skiffs heading out from the harbour into the vast surrounding landscape. The sea horizon here feels endless. From this point, you’ll begin to leave behind the more populated regions of West Greenland and push farther northwards. Shortly after lunch, set a course northward toward Ultima Thule—the extreme far north.

Day 5 Upernavik

Wake up surrounded by icebergs and mountainous landscapes to the east and arrive at the beautiful community of Upernavik around midday. Although much farther north than most Greenland communities, Upernavik is relatively large, with a population topping 1,000, most of whom live in brightly painted homes that climb the hillside from the sea. The signature quiet of the town amplifies the lap of waves on rock, barking sled dogs, children’s laughter, and the hum of ATVs. Down in the small harbour, you may see fishermen and hunters heading out or just returning from sea. Although Upernavik is an active harbour town, the pace is noticeably slower than in Sisimiut. There’s a deep connection to the sea and sea ice. Here, meet friendly, welcoming locals—proud of their home and local culture. Visit the grave of Navarana, the wife of famous Arctic explorer Peter Freuchen, who was buried here in the 1920s. Navarana, a seasoned Arctic traveler, joined her husband and Knud Rasmussen on numerous expeditions, using her vast knowledge to guide them through the coastlines, ice, and cultures of northern Baffin Bay.

Day 6 At Sea

Reaching Ultima Thule, at the highest latitude on our voyage, is no small feat—it requires covering great distances at sea. Today you’ll be able to relax on board, gaze out at the horizon, spot icebergs and possibly marine mammals. The Expedition Team will host a variety of presentations as they recap recent experiences and set the stage for what lies ahead. Sea days also offer opportunities to connect with fellow travellers from around the world—united by a shared passion for Arctic travel. Conversations flow easily here, many leading to lifelong friendships.

Day 7 Kap Alexander

Today marks the northernmost point of your journey, in the region of Kap Alexander and Smith Sound—the famous narrow body of water separating Greenland and Canada by less than 55 kilometres. On clear days, both coastlines may be visible from Smith Sound. This dynamic area is shaped by drifting sea ice from the Arctic Basin. Conditions vary daily—packed sea ice one day, open water the next. You may Zodiac cruise here, immersed in the remote, far-north landscapes—where drifting ice, resilient wildlife, and distant mountains of Greenland and Canada surround us. Shore landings may be possible in places few have ever set foot. In early September, migratory birds often gather, and other iconic Arctic species— polar bears, muskoxen, Arctic foxes, and belugas—are sometimes spotted. Wildlife is never guaranteed, but always worth watching for. While daylight hours still offer warmth by day and Northern Lights when darkness falls, you’ll sense the polar night approaching—ready to return and cloak this region in darkness for months.

Day 8 Qaanaaq

Located hundreds of miles farther north than most settlements, Qaanaaq is a very remote town home to fewer than 700 people, and is difficult to reach by boat, helicopter or plane. As a result, the community continues to rely on traditional skills refined over centuries of adaptation to this high Arctic environment. Expect to see a mix of modern conveniences—as well as tried-and-true practices of past generations. Reach this community by Zodiac, arriving at the end of the pier. In town, you’re welcome to wander among the colourful homes, where you’ll meet friendly locals and see many working sled dogs. Visit the Qaanaaq Museum, which showcases the ingenious tools of Inuit hunters—including collapsible barbed hooks crafted from ivory, bone and animal hide. Historic photographs offer a glimpse into life at these northern extremes, and the friendly museum staff are happy to answer questions. Locals may also share stories of life on the sea ice, where hunting and fishing remain vital to survival. The legacies of explorers like Knud Rasmussen, Robert Peary, and Peter Freuchen and his Greenlandic Inuit wife, Navarana, are also celebrated in this museum. For those keen to explore outdoors, short hikes above town may be possible. Keep your camera ready to capture the sweeping views of endless landscapes and seascapes.

Days 9 – 10 At Sea

Spend two full days journeying southward until you reach the fjords just north of Disko Bay, where you will visit areas unexplored earlier in the voyage. Indulge in the amenities of Ocean Explorer: the two-story, light-filled library at the bow of the ship; two outdoor Jacuzzis, sauna and fitness centre; unique observation areas on Decks 7 and 8 that allow for higher, longer-view landscape photography; and stylish lounges where you can share a drink with new-found friends while enjoying even more incredible views.

Day 11 Uummannaq

Arrive in Uummannaq Fjord in the morning and cruise toward the community of Uummannaq. In Greenlandic, Uummannaq translates to “heart-shaped,” inspired by the dramatic mountain that rises above the town. Visiting this remote community is a rare privilege. Reach town by Zodiac, before winding roads take you past colourful homes to a meadow of turf houses beside a stone church. You can visit the local museum and artisan market for a glimpse of life in northern Greenland. Another nearby museum honours artist Rockwell Kent, who was inspired by the landscapes of Uummannaq Fjord and Disko Bay. You may choose to join a guided walk or explore on your own. Several homes may open for kaffemik—a social gathering with warm drinks, light snacks, and a chance for locals and visitors to connect. Rest assured, the people of Uummannaq will be curious about your part of the world. Shy smiles and translated conversations are natural parts of these authentic cultural exchanges—and often become some of the most memorable moments of visiting this remote Greenlandic community. A parting gift from one local fisherman: “Keep life simple—simple is beautiful.”

Day 12 Eqip Sermia

Today, explore the northern regions of Disko Bay, possibly including the Eqi Glacier—known locally as Eqip Sermia. This tidewater glacier is a highlight for many reasons. Its wide glacial face makes it one of Greenland’s most active glaciers, regularly calving ice into the sea. You’ll likely see icebergs drifting in the bay, along with smaller pieces called brash ice. On quiet days, you can hear the ice popping and crackling—and if you’re lucky, the thunderous rumble of the calving glacier. Though the glacier is the main attraction, the surrounding landscapes make for interesting shore excursions. Whether you prefer a slow walk among the tundra, taking in autumn vegetation and sweeping views, or a more vigorous hike for elevated glacial vistas, the terrain suits all levels. Underfoot, expect a mix of rock and vegetation, and tread carefully to protect the fragile plant life that thrives during the brief Arctic summer.

Day 13 Illulisat

Ilulissat, located in Disko Bay, is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilulissat Icefjord, which serves as the thoroughfare for countless icebergs calved from the world’s fastest-moving glacier, Sermeq Kujalleq. A small boardwalk leads to an elevated overlook, where you can view bergs of all sizes spread out before you. You will also notice the Arctic cotton grass and summer wildflowers thriving in the long daylight hours. The inner harbor often holds evidence of the icefjord’s reach, with drifting icebergs mingling among fishing boats and skiffs. The town itself is well worth exploring, and has become one of Greenland’s top destinations. Recent years have brought growth— colourful homes now sit beside new restaurants, boutique hotels and small businesses. History buffs will be excited to know Ilulissat is the birthplace of Arctic explorer Knud Rasmussen, who traveled by dog sled from Greenland to Alaska (and briefly Siberia) during the Fifth Thule Expedition (1921–1924). The dramatic landscapes around Ilulissat inspired Rasmussen’s life of exploration. As you approach town, watch out for whales, which occasionally frequent the iceberg-laden waters.

Day 14 Itilleq

The small settlement of Itilleq is a favorite among guests and Expedition Team members. When it comes to community charm, Itilleq stands out. Approximately 100 residents live among brightly painted homes—greens, pinks, purples, baby blues, mustard yellows, and chocolate browns. Many people earn their living at sea, as evidenced by the small seafood processing building near the pier. Despite its size, the village is full of life, from respected elders to playful children. You may be invited to a kaffemik (where people socialise over coffee and cake), or follow a short dirt road to a viewpoint near the cemetery. The view into the fjord and surrounding mountains is worth the walk. Watch your step— lichens, succulents, and mushrooms thrive underfoot. A longstanding tradition is a friendly soccer match with locals, including guests, staff, crew, and residents. It’s a fun, memorable experience—whether you’re on the field or cheering from the sidelines.

Day 15 Kangerlussuaq to Reykjavik, Iceland

Today, disembark in Kangerlussuaq, formerly known as Søndre Strømfjord, and transfer to your charter flight to Reykjavik, where you’ll spend the night in your included hotel, both of which are included in your Charter Flight & Hotel Package.

Day 16 Reykjavik

Today, after breakfast, make your way independently to the airport for your flight home, or continue your personal travel plans as prearranged.