West Greenland Ice Odyssey: Glaciers and Icebergs

Welcome to Iceland! Your adventure begins in Reykjavik – one of the most cosmopolitan and multicultural cities in the country. When you arrive at the International Airport, make your way to your hotel and check in. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city at your leisure. Maybe head to the National Museum, which depicts the history of Iceland from the 9th century, when the first Vikings from mainland Scandinavia arrived and settled, to the present day, or join locals who gossip and chatter in the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool. This city is also known for its brilliant nightlife – so perhaps end your evening at one of the trendy dining spots or hit the bars for some craft beer and cocktails.

This morning, you’ll catch a charter flight to Kangerlussuaq – a small town in western Greenland. This is where you’ll board your vessel, the Ultramarine, and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead! When aboard, you’ll have a welcome and safety briefing from your leader and meet your expedition team, as well as the other travellers in your group. (B/D)

Over the next couple of days, you’ll sail Disko Bay – a wide, southeastern inlet of Baffin Bay and the largest open bay in western Greenland. Try to get out on deck as you navigate this iconic bay, where whales are often spotted in the deep sea. Disko Bay is full of exciting destinations to explore, including the community of Illulissat, at the head of the outlet fjord for Sermeq Kujalleq (Jakobshavn Glacier). Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, the fjord is a sight to behold, and there are many optional marked hiking trails to explore further.

Discover the wild beauty of Equip Sermia or the Torsukatak Fjords, in the northeast corner of Disko Bay. Both of these remote areas offer fantastic vistas of large, active glacial faces, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, paddling and Zodiac cruising. This is where, if conditions allow, you might be treated to a ride in one of the twin-engine helicopters to appreciate the immensity of this region from above.

You may also get the chance to visit one of the oldest settlements in Greenland, Qeqertarsuaq, settled by whalers in 1773 (but archaeological evidence suggests that people lived here at least 6000 years earlier). The town and surrounding area are the island’s only volcanic region. The area offers unusual geology and colourful landscapes, with particularly lush vegetation. More than half of Greenland’s plant species are found here, tucked between columns of basalt rock and black sand beaches littered with ice fragments. In town, you don’t want to miss Qeqertarsuaq’s Vorherres Bleaekhus, which hosts musical performances by resident artists. Local guides will also lead walking tours to the church, shopping area and the local museum. If time and weather permit, there’s the chance to hike to the incredible basalt columns 10 km down the coast. (Bx3/Lx3/Dx3)

During the next two days, your expedition team will work with the local partners to create a balance of community and wilderness-focused activities during your time in Qeqqata. This will likely include a visit to Sisimiut, where you can wander through the open-air museum, participate in local tastings or join a hiking group to venture beyond the town limits along one of many incredible hiking trails on Sisimiut’s doorstep. If you’re keen, you can also opt to take on the mountain biking activity here.

Further south, your team will seek to take you beyond the ordinary and into these fjords for magical, one-of-a-kind experiences, including in Eternity Fjord – home to the tallest mountains in all West Greenland. Another fascinating community in this region is Itilleq. Surrounded by sea and mountains, Itilleq is located about a mile (2 km) above the Arctic Circle. Here, the locals will often invite the group to join in on a game of soccer or football. (Bx3/Lx3/Dx3)

Today, you’ll disembark in Kangerlussuaq, formerly known as Sondre Stromfjord. Take a private transfer to your charter flight to Reykjavik, where you’ll spend the night. When you arrive, why not head out for a farewell dinner at one of the trendy restaurants? (B)

With no further activities planned, your adventure comes to an end this morning. Make your way to the airport to connect with your onward flight, or if you’d like to stay longer, get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation. (B)