Wild Fjords of South Greenland: Land of the Vikings

13 days
Jan 1970
Included: transfers, flights, hotels
Kayaking
Hikes
Zodiac Landings
Request price

Guests who book the 13–day Wild Fjords of South Greenland: Land of the Vikings explore this fascinating region on our game-changing ship, Ultramarine. Enjoy an ultra-immersive exploration of Greenland’s serene shores, sailing the icy waters of the rarely traveled southeast coast, traveling down to the lush southern tip, and stopping to visit local communities, Viking sites, and observe imposing glaciers on the south and southeast coasts, which are the featured regions of this voyage. While onboard, guests can take advantage of Ultramarine’s luxurious suites, spa and wellness amenities and incredible wilderness viewing spaces. Ultramarine enables us to offer guests more Adventure Options than any other operator in the Polar Regions.

Visits to picturesque communities and Viking sites will provide guests with an intimate look into Greenland’s distinct culture and history, while the rugged landscape, highlighted by dramatic fjords, imposing glaciers, towering mountains, verdant valleys and incredible wildflowers will leave you breathless.

On Wild Fjords of South Greenland: Land of the Vikings, spectacular, unspoiled wonders await at every turn.

Highlights

Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland

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!

Day 3-4 | Transit from Iceland to Southeast 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.

Day 5-6 | Exploring Southeast Greenland

Your exploration of Greenland begins with South East Greenland, 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, with each day and each excursion presenting new adventures. The region is a sight to behold, boasting a mesmerizing maze of vast glaciers, steep mountains and breathtaking fjords.

If you’re feeling even more adventurous, perhaps you’ll treat yourself to 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), and if conditions are favorable, 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.

Day 7-8 | Exploring Southeast Greenland

Sailing on, we’ll explore Greenland’s fertile southern coast. Nicknamed Arctic Patagonia, this region is as rich in spectacular scenery as it is in history and culture. Here, it’s easy to see why Erik the Red gave Greenland its name: everywhere you look rewards with vistas of icy waters set against a backdrop of soaring mountains and unbelievably lush, green valleys. Scattered around the shores of the fjord systems that dominate the area are several small settlements, both ancient and present day, making South Greenland an ideal place to explore.

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.

Steeped in Norse history, the southern coast of Greenland provides plenty of places to learn about this ancient culture. One such landing we hope to make is at Hvalsey (Qaqortukulooq), the site of Greenland’s largest and best-preserved Norse ruins. 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. The area is also known for its storied past, as evidenced by the remarkable red sandstone ruins of the Gardar cathedral (the largest church in Greenland in the Middle Ages) and bishop’s residence, which date back to the early 12th century, when Greenland’s first bishop was appointed. Wandering the foundations, excavated in 1926, you’ll get to see a bit of history firsthand as you learn about this interesting relic of the Viking period. Together with four other historic farming communities, Igaliku is part of the newly established UNESCO World Heritage Site Kujataa.

Day 9-11 | Exploring 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 and see the Hans Egede Church and Hans Egede statue near the waterfront, both named after the missionary who founded the settlement. History buffs will want to visit the national museum to view the famous Greenlandic mummies, found under a rock outcrop in 1972 by two brothers who were ptarmigan hunting.

Day 12 | Disembark in Nuuk and fly to Reykjavik for post voyage hotel night

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.

What's included

Inclusions

RATES INCLUDE:

  • Mandatory Transfer Package*

  • Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities

  • All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program

  • All shore landings as per the daily program

  • Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping

  • All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage. Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ship’s galley cannot prepare kosher meals.

  • Free beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner Complimentary coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock

  • Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled

  • A photographic journal documenting the expedition

  • A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions

  • An official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep

  • Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data-intensive applications.)

  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program

  • All luggage handling aboard the ship

  • Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person

  • Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax

*MANDATORY TRANSFER PACKAGE INCLUDES:

  • One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Reykjavik

  • Group transfer from the Reykjavik hotel to the ship on Day 2

  • Group transfer from the ship to the Nuuk airport on disembarkation day

  • Charter flight from Nuuk to Toronto

  • Group transfer from Toronto Pearson Airport to hotel

  • One night’s post-expedition hotel accommodation in Toronto

Exclusions

RATES SPECIFICALLY DO NOT INCLUDE:

  • International airfare

  • Arrival transfers in Reykjavik

  • Airport Transfers in Toronto

  • Passport and visa expenses

  • Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above

  • Meals ashore unless otherwise specified

  • Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended

  • Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights

  • Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned

  • Laundry, bar and other personal charges unless specified

  • Phone and Internet charges (connectivity mayvary by location)

  • Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew

  • Additional overnight accommodation

Excursions

Zodiac Cruising in the Arctic

Included

Zodiacs are used for transferring you ashore, transporting your luggage when necessary and for taking you ocean-level cruising among icebergs, whales and seabirds. During the expedition, you will visit remote and isolated sites that are accessible only by Zodiac.

These large, heavy-duty inflatable vessels are extremely safe and were specially designed for expedition work. Zodiacs are the workhorses of Polar expeditions. Separate air compartments retain a large reserve of buoyancy even if these sturdy boats are damaged. Their flat bottom design permits the craft to land directly onto the cobble and ice-strewn beaches that you will encounter on your Polar expedition.

Polar Plunge in the Arctic

Included

The Polar Plunge is scheduled once during each voyage. Throughout the journey, the Expedition Leader and Captain constantly monitor conditions in order to choose the optimal time and location. The Polar Plunge sometimes takes place onshore or, in many cases, from the gangway or Zodiac. All participants wear a tethered harness and plunge into the polar waters from the side of Zodiac or safety of the gangplank cheered on, of course, by fellow passengers and Expedition Team.

Safety is paramount—the onboard physician always attends the Polar Plunge. Guides in survival gear circle the area in Zodiacs as guests take their turn jumping or cannon-balling into the polar waters.

Sea Kayaking in the Arctic

Included

Positioning yourself in the seat of a kayak is one of the most intimate ways travelers can connect with the polar regions—at water level, up close, where you can touch and feel every polar sensation imaginable. The Sea Kayak Program enables a small group of like-minded individuals to forge bonds as they explore fjords, glacial faces or mazes of sea ice.

Quark Expeditions Sea Kayak Program is a voyage-length program available in the Arctic, in which kayakers (those who have minimal experience as well as seasoned paddlers) will enjoy the polar regions from a unique perspective.

Conditions and logistics permitting, your kayak guide(s) will endeavor to have you paddling as often as possible throughout the voyage. Typically, sea kayakers are shuttled by Zodiac from the ship to an ideal starting point, where the kayak excursion begins. Guests return to the ship by Zodiac at the end of their paddling experience. Some kayak excursions are designed so guests can go ashore and explore.

In addition to the kayak guides, a safety driver in a Zodiac will always stay nearby to offer assistance if required. Excursions typically last one and a half to three hours.

Note: Due to its popularity and limited space, if you want to ensure a space in the Sea Kayak program, please register when you book your expedition. While the program routinely fills up well before the voyage, if there are vacant spaces when you board the vessel you may sign up. Quark Expedition guides attempt to lead guests on as many sea kayak excursions as possible, but the number of excursions will depend on weather and sea conditions as well as logistical factors. Be prepared to paddle in a double or single kayak depending on availability.

Is Kayaking Experience Necessary?

The Sea Kayak program was developed to accommodate kayakers with a range of experience. Please don’t hesitate to consult with our polar travel advisors if you have any questions.

Provided gear

  • Sea kayaks (single or double)

  • Paddle

  • Spray-skirt

  • Drysuit

  • Insulated rubber gloves and pogies*

  • PFD (personal flotation device)

  • Neoprene booties

  • 10L dry bag

  • Water bottle (provided in rooms upon embarkation)

Other recommended gear/clothing

  • Thermal base layer top and bottom (synthetic or wool, no cotton)

  • Thin fleece 200 weight top or wool sweater

  • Fleece pants

  • Liner socks

  • Thick wool socks

  • Neckwarmer

  • Thin fleece or wool liner glove to wear under rubber gloves (if you wish)

  • Warm hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Waterproof and sweatproof sunscreen

  • Camera (either waterproof, in exterior waterproof housing, or stored in a drybag)

  • Waterproof backpack or a drybag

Hiking in the Arctic

Included

Hiking in the polar regions differs from your typical trail experience. Here, in a tree-less terrain, you are the tallest figure on the landscape as you walk over spongy tundra, crusty snow or sandy beaches in remotes parts of the Arctic and Antarctica. Stepping ashore anywhere in the polar regions means you’re not a distant observer.

Our organized hikes range from short jaunts to the top of lookouts or visits to see wildlife or longer walks of several kilometers over ice and rock and snow. Hiking excursions may last from two to three hours with plenty of time for photographs of wildlife, learning moments from your experienced guides, or just time to stand back and admire the incredible polar surroundings.

No experience is necessary but participants should be able to get in and out of a Zodiac and walk on uneven terrain. Hiking options are tailored to all interests and abilities, from those who want to contemplate the landscape in silence to photographers who want that perfect image to energetic travelers who want to summit a peak in the hopes of seeing wildlife in their natural habitat.

Equipment you’ll be provided with for hiking outings

  • Trekking poles are available upon request

  • Bring your Quark Parka and collapsible water bottle provided at embarkation (they’re yours to keep)

  • Muck boots (loaned to you for the duration of your expedition)

Other recommended gear/clothing

  • Base and mid-layer clothing

  • Waterproof breathable pants

  • Wool or synthetic hiking socks

  • Warm hat

  • Brimmed hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Waterproof and sunscreen and lip balm (minimum SPF 30)

  • Backpack, preferably water-resistant (or with a rain cover)

  • Warm gloves

  • Camera and accessories

Flightseeing in the Arctic, Aboard Ultramarine

Included

While polar landscapes are spectacular from the sea, they’re even more stunning from the air, a view you can enjoy while seated in one of the two twin-engine helicopters stationed on Ultramarine. Typically in groups of 7 to 9, you will experience an unforgettable aerial tour of the Arctic during a 10- to 15-minute flightseeing excursion that’s included in the cost of the voyage. Additional helicopter activities may also be available for purchase onboard. Please note: all helicopter operations are weather- and logistics-dependent.

Paddling Excursion in the Arctic

Included

Every sweep of the paddle as your craft glides through the pristine polar waters creates an incredible soundtrack: the jostle of glacial ice, the lapping of waves against the rocky shore, the perpetual drip from your paddle, the call of seabirds, and the occasional splash as wildlife break the surface of the water.

Our Paddle Excursion Program provides sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayaks that provide guests with an intimate, water-level experience in unforgettable locations in both the Arctic and Antarctica. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. On-ship, you’ll be provided with instruction and equipment including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by a safety driver in another kayak who will stay close by to provide additional support.

Excursions last a minimum of one hour and are offered to participants once per voyage. Each group includes 10 paddlers, 1 guide and 1 one safety Zodiac driver. The wind, weather and water conditions determine the timing and location of Paddling Excursions.

Is Kayaking Experience Necessary?

The Paddle Excursion was created for guests with little or no paddling experience, or for those who want a single paddle experience to add variety to their expedition. Participants must be fit enough to enter and exit the kayak from the Zodiac, and to maneuver with your paddle.

Provided Gear

  • Inflatable Super Lynx sit-on-top kayak

  • Paddle

  • Drysuit

  • Insulated rubber gloves

  • PFD (personal flotation device)

  • Neoprene booties

  • 10L dry bag

  • Water bottle

Other recommended gear/clothing

  • Thermal base layer (top and bottom)

  • Thin fleece or wool sweater

  • Fleece pants

  • Liner socks

  • Thick wool socks

  • Neckwarmer

  • Warm hat

  • Brimmed hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Waterproof and sweatproof sunscreen and lip balm

  • Camera (either waterproof, in exterior waterproof housing, or stored in a drybag)**

  • Waterproof backpack

Tip: It’s a good idea to protect any camera gear in a drybag. Small waterproof cameras should be attached to your PFD with a string and carabiner.

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Practical information

The best time to visit Greenland on a cruise is between June and September, when the ice has melted enough to allow ship access.

  • June – Early Summer: Midnight Sun, calving glaciers, and Arctic wildflowers in bloom.

  • July & August – Peak Season: Warmer temperatures, best time for whale watching, and access to remote fjords.

  • September – Late Season: Stunning autumn colors, fewer visitors, and increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Greenland is home to incredible Arctic wildlife, including:

  • Whales – Humpback, Fin, Minke, and even Narwhals.

  • Musk Oxen – Large, woolly mammals roaming the tundra.

  • Arctic Foxes & Arctic Hares – Well-adapted to the cold.

  • Seals – Bearded, Harp, and Ringed Seals.

  • Seabirds – Puffins, Kittiwakes, Gannets, and Gyrfalcons.

Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark but has a separate immigration policy.

  • Most travelers do NOT need a visa if they have a valid Schengen visa or a passport from a visa-exempt country.

  • Schengen residents must carry a valid passport, as national ID cards are not sufficient for entry.

  • Swan Hellenic will provide necessary permits for landing in protected areas.

Always check entry requirements before departure.

Greenland’s climate is Arctic but varies by region and season. During the cruise season, expect:

  • June - July: 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F)

  • August - September: -2°C to 8°C (28°F to 46°F)

Coastal areas are milder than inland. Weather can change rapidly, so layering is key.

acking properly for your Greenland expedition is key to staying warm, dry, and comfortable while exploring the Arctic. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Clothing & Footwear

  • Layering is essential – choose wool, silk, or synthetic fabrics over cotton for better insulation.

  • Waterproof & Windproof Outerwear – a warm winter jacket and wind/water-resistant trousers or ski pants (some cruises require waterproof pants for landings and Zodiac excursions).

  • Thermal Base Layers – long-sleeved tops and leggings made of wool or synthetic materials.

  • Warm Mid-Layers – wool jumpers and fleece jackets for insulation.

  • Gloves & Mittens – fleece and wool gloves provide warmth in cold and windy conditions.

  • Warm Hat or Headband – protects against Arctic winds.

  • Scarf or Fleece Tube – extra warmth for your neck and face.

  • Warm Socks – wool socks to keep your feet warm and dry.

  • Regular Indoor Shoes – for comfort while onboard.

  • Sturdy Hiking Shoes – essential for shore excursions and exploring Greenland’s rugged terrain.

  • Sunglasses with UV Protection – Arctic sunlight reflects off ice and water, making this a must-have.

  • Sleeping Mask – helpful for sleeping under the Midnight Sun in summer.

Expedition Gear & Accessories

  • Small Waterproof Backpack – useful for Zodiac excursions and landings.

  • A Good Pair of Binoculars – ideal for spotting whales, seabirds, and distant icebergs (ask the Cruise Norway team if they are included in your cabin).

  • Camera & Extra Memory Cards – Greenland’s glaciers, fjords, and wildlife provide stunning photo opportunities.

  • Extra Batteries & Power Banks – cold temperatures reduce battery life quickly.

  • Chargers, Electrical Adapters & Converters – check your travel documents for ship-specific power requirements.

  • Sea Sickness Medication – Greenland’s waters can be unpredictable, especially in the Denmark Strait.

Personal Care & Essentials

  • Your Passport & a Copy of It

  • Cash in the Applicable Currency – check your travel documents for onboard payment details.

  • Sun Protection – high-SPF sunscreen and UV lip balm to protect against Arctic sun exposure.

  • Moisturizer – the cold, dry Arctic air can dry out your skin quickly.

  • Enough Medication & Essentials – bring extra in case of unexpected delays.

Meet your expedition cruise experts

USA and Canada

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+1 (305) 607 2339 gordon@cruisenorway.com WhatsApp

Daniel

+1 (970) 227 9767 Daniel@cruisenorway.com WhatsApp

Ann

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Steve

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Diana

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Europe & Global

Anne

+372 5299832 Anne@cruisenorway.com WhatsApp

Matthew

+372 56506164 Matthew@cruisenorway.com WhatsApp

Sarah

+372 56371351 Sarah@cruiseonorway.com WhatsApp

Mari

+372 5878 7335 Mari@cruisenorway.com WhatsApp

Australia and
Latin America

Danielle

+61 7 5641 4902 Dani@cruisenorway.com WhatsApp

Germany

Ivo

+372 56225369 Ivo@cruisenorway.com WhatsApp

India

John

+91 9830053005 John@cruisenorway.com WhatsApp

DISCLAIMER: Rates are per person, subject to availability and can change at any time

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