South Greenland: Exploring Glaciers, Fjords and Viking Culture 9% Advantage

This expedition combines nature observation and cultural history in a region that independent travellers rarely reach. Along the coast, icebergs, glacier fronts and widely branching fjords shape the scenery, while on land small settlements and historic sites provide insight into life in South Greenland. A key focus is Kujataa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where traces of Norse and Inuit land use overlap, as well as selected ruin sites dating back to around 985. In addition, a helicopter flight to the Greenland Ice Sheet is planned in the Westlands, allowing you to view the inland ice and the transition from the high plateau down towards the coast. On sea days, talks by the expedition experts add context on glaciology, ecology and history. Depending on weather and ice conditions, Zodiac cruises, landings and optional activities such as kayaking may be included.

Itinerary: South Greenland Expedition

Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavík
You travel to Iceland and make your own way to the group hotel, which is provided as part of the charter flight and hotel package and is located near Keflavík Airport. The rest of the day is at leisure. If you would like to visit Reykjavík, allow around one hour for the transfer between Keflavík and the city centre, depending on your mode of transport. Use the time to settle in, get your bearings, or gather first impressions of Iceland’s capital.

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Day 2: Flight to Nuuk and embarkation
After an early breakfast, the group transfer to the airport takes place, followed by the charter flight to Nuuk. On arrival, and if the schedule allows, you will have some free time in town before continuing to the pier. Embarkation takes place in the late afternoon. The ship then departs Nuuk and sets course for the coast of South Greenland, where landings and excursions are planned over the coming days.

Day 3: At sea along the west coast
Today you spend the day on board as the ship travels south along the west coast. The expedition team offers presentations on Greenlandic history, glaciology and ecology. From the outer decks, you may be able to spot drifting ice, seabirds and other Arctic wildlife, depending on conditions. Mandatory briefings and preparations for Zodiac cruises and off ship activities are also scheduled for today.

Day 4: The Westlands, culture and landscape
In the Westlands you experience the contrast between the Greenland Ice Sheet and the coastal valleys of South Greenland. Planned activities include landings, short hikes and cruising through ice filled waters. A key focus is Kujataa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Norse and Inuit history meet. A visit to Qassiarsuk is also planned, as well as the remains of Brattahlíð, the estate of Erik the Red.

Day 5: The Westlands, Ice Sheet by helicopter
Further excursions in the Westlands remain the focus today. In addition, this region offers good access points to the Greenland Ice Sheet, which is reached by helicopter. From the air, the scale of the inland ice and the transition from the high plateau to the coast become particularly clear. Depending on conditions, Zodiac cruises or additional landings may complement the day’s programme.

Day 6: Prins Christian Sund
You pass through Prins Christian Sund, a fjord of around 105 kilometres known for its varied landscape. The passage itself is a central part of the day, as narrow fjord sections alternate with more open stretches. Depending on ice and weather, additional Zodiac cruises or landings may be possible.

Day 7: Aappilattoq, meeting local culture
A visit to the village of Aappilattoq is planned. Here you gain insight into life in a coastal community, complemented by local culture, music and traditional foods, if offered on a small scale. Depending on the schedule, there may be time for a walk in the village or nearby surroundings before the journey continues through the southern fjords.

Day 8: Tasermiut Fjord, Arctic Patagonia
In Tasermiut Fjord, also known as Arctic Patagonia, excursions take place in a landscape of steep rock walls, glaciers and distinctive peaks. Depending on conditions, hiking and helicopter excursions are possible. An optional camp overnight may be offered, subject to weather and organisation.

Day 9: Hvalsey, Norse ruins
Today you visit Hvalsey with the preserved walls of the 14th century church, one of Greenland’s best known Norse ruin sites. The location lies in open terrain and is also suitable for a walk in the surrounding landscape. On site, there is an opportunity to place the history of Norse settlement in South Greenland into context.

Day 10: Northbound to Nuuk
On the way back to Nuuk, you can enjoy the coastline from the deck or attend further presentations by the expedition team. Weather permitting, there may be a final opportunity for a shore landing near Ivittuut. This is also the last chance to use the spa and sauna on board, if open.

Day 11: Disembarkation, explore Nuuk, flight to Reykjavík
After breakfast, disembarkation takes place. You are then transferred to the town centre and have around half a day to explore Old Nuuk, including the Hans Egede Church and the waterfront statue. Optionally, you may visit the Greenland National Museum, which provides insight into cultural history, including the well known mummies and the long kayak tradition. Afterwards, you meet at a designated point for the transfer to the airport and the charter flight back to Reykjavík.

Day 12: Departure from Reykjavík
The final day begins with breakfast at the included hotel. You then make your own way to Keflavík International Airport for your onward flight, or continue your independent exploration depending on your departure time. The travel package ends with breakfast.

Accommodation: You stay on board the expedition ship Ultramarine. The ship offers various lounge areas with views, presentation rooms for the daily expert programme, and a library as a quiet retreat. Facilities also include a fitness area, spa and sauna, which can be used depending on the day’s schedule. Embarkation takes place in Nuuk, and disembarkation also takes place in Nuuk, followed by the return journey to Iceland by charter flight as part of the charter flight and hotel package.

Included services:

• Group hotel at the start near Keflavík Airport as part of the charter flight and hotel package
• Charter flight Reykjavík to Nuuk and return to Reykjavík as part of the charter flight and hotel package
• Transfers as per programme on Day 2 and Day 11
• Overnight stays on board Ultramarine
• Full board on board plus selected beverages in line with the onboard concept
• Presentations and support by the expedition team
• Zodiac cruises and landings as per programme and subject to weather conditions
• Briefings and safety equipment for off ship activities
• Photography support from photo guides on board

Not included:

• International travel to and from Iceland
• Individual transfers between Keflavík and Reykjavík
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses on board and ashore
• Visa costs and official fees, where applicable
• Mandatory expedition gear, if not provided

Optional activities:

• Kayaking excursion
• Greenland Camp Experience
• Tundra to Table culinary experience
• Polar Plunge
• Spa treatments
• Cabin upgrade

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