Greenland - The Ultimate Fjord and National Park Expedition (Itinerary 1)

Reykjavik is the northernmost capital city in the world. The name means 'Smokey Bay', so called because of the columns of steam that rise from the many hot springs in the area. It is well worth booking a Pre-Programme to explore the surrounding geysers, mountains, glaciers and geothermal baths before embarking MS Fram.

Today, the Expedition Team will introduce you to AECO – the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators – and their work to ensure that tourism in the Arctic preserves the vulnerable, natural environment, local cultures and cultural remains.
You can also spend time learning more about the wildlife and ecosystems of the Arctic in the onboard Science Center.

Heading south, we will attempt a landing at the entrance to the Scoresbysund fjord. This is the world’s largest fjord system which extends 350 km inland and 600 m deep. It offers spectacular scenery: white and blue icebergs float in the still waters of the fjord, surrounded by bare green brown mountains.

The fjord’s steep basalt mountains, some reaching up to 2,000 m not only create a stunning backdrop, but also provide shelter from the winds. Add this to the availability of open water in the wide fjord mouth, and areas of water which do not freeze even in winter, and it explains why the fjord has become a haven for an unusual abundance of Greenlandic wildlife.

You might be able to spot muskox, Arctic foxes, mountain hares, and even reindeer. Little auks, Atlantic puffins, fulmars, snowy owls, the Greenlandic gyrfalcon, and great black-backed gulls are just some of the bird species that can be admired in the skies above. Various species of seal dominate the shores and the clear waters below. Keep on the look-out also for Atlantic walrus, narwhal, beluga whales, and the rare bowhead whale.

We begin our exploration of the largest national park in the world, which is also the least visited national park in the world. Only a small number of expeditions are permitted to visit the park over its very short summer season. Thanks to our expertise and experience here, we are always one of them.

Apart from trapper huts, some science research stations, and two military outposts, there are no traces of human life here. The only others we might be lucky to meet are the Sirius Patrol park rangers who supervise the area on dog-sleds.

Once inside the park, there are large fjords, giant icebergs, alpine landscapes, hanging glaciers, and vertical granite cliffs reaching as far as the eye can see. The likes of hares, muskoxen and Arctic foxes roam the coasts and tundra in the summertime. They are usually spread out across this enormous region, making it a real highlight if we do manage to spot one or more of them.

The captain and Expedition Leader will assess the ice conditions and choose the best locations for landings accordingly. You can also participate in exciting optional activities such as kayaking and long guided hikes.

Located on a stunning peninsula that is encased by sea ice for nine months of the year, Ittoqqortoormiit is the most remote inhabited community in the western hemisphere. Less than 500 hardy souls call this home and they’ll be proud to show you around the community, including a museum, church and even a photo exhibition.

After exploring exhilarating Greenland, we set course back to Iceland. Spend the day at sea recapping your experiences, having fun in the Science Center or just relaxing on deck, looking at the sea birds which follow our ship or maybe even spotting whales.

You arrive back in the Icelandic capital early in the morning. If you want to explore more of the country, add one of our Post-Programmes, or simply extend your stay to enjoy the city and its surroundings before you head home.