Scoresbysund Northern Lights Photo Tour
Chasing Light in East Greenland: Landscapes, Icebergs & Northern Lights
For landscape photographers and aurora chasers, East Greenland in autumn offers the ultimate expedition of Earth and sky. Under the guidance of world-class polar photographers Virgil Reglioni and Randy Hanna, this journey is your chance to capture otherworldly beauty – from towering icebergs and wildlife-strewn tundra to the shimmering dance of the northern lights.
At the heart of this voyage is Scoresbysund, the world’s largest fjord system – a place of labyrinthine waterways, cathedral-sized icebergs, and stark, majestic mountains. As you explore this mythical region, you’ll also have the chance to photograph Arctic wildlife such as musk oxen, Arctic foxes, hares, and perhaps even the elusive narwhal or polar bear.
By night, look to the skies. With zero light pollution and peak-season conditions in late September, East Greenland becomes one of the best places on Earth to witness and photograph the aurora borealis. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just starting out, Virgil and Randy will help you master the techniques needed to capture the aurora – images that truly stay with you forever.
This is a rare opportunity to shoot in a place where nature speaks in silence and light – a place where every landscape and night sky tells a story.
Some departures may have slightly modified itineraries. Please confirm the itinerary with an Expedition Specialist.
Meet other guests and Secret Atlas rep at the pre-arranged meeting point in Keflavik Airport, Iceland, before going through security together and boarding our charter plane to Nerlerit Inaat Airport (Constable Point), Greenland.
From the airport, we will take a short hike to the shore and board Zodiac boats to take us to our expedition ship.
Explore Viking Bay by Zodiac cruise, marvelling at the bird cliffs and stunning basalt columns.
Hike on Danmark Island, a striking island in the fjord, spotting divers and maybe even musk oxen, alongside ancient Thule remains.
Sail into Hare Fjord, which likely gained its name from the Arctic hares that preside here.
Tour steep-sided Ofjord and land on the Bear Islands for panoramic views of this scenic stretch of Scoresbysund.
Land on Sydkap to discover Thule remains and a hunters’ cabin, gaining a dramatic view of the surrounding icebergs on the border of the Northeast Greenland National Park.
Sail to Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the remotest towns on the planet, with an idiosyncratic culture and way of life.
Fly back to Keflavik on a charter plane, enjoying dinner and a night in a hotel before returning home.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Signature Twin/Double
Signature Single
Signature Penthouse (Double)
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Signature Twin - Cabins 1–2 & 4–5
Signature Single - Cabins 6–7
Signature Penthouse (Double)
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Book now |
Signature Twin - Cabins 1–2 & 4–5
Signature Penthouse (Double)
Signature Single - Cabins 6–7
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Book now |
Signature Twin - Cabins 1–2 & 4–5
Signature Penthouse (Double)
Signature Single - Cabins 6–7
Vessel Type: Ice Class Small Ship
Length: 45 meters
Passenger Capacity: 12
MV Freya is a high-strength ice-class expedition vessel originally built for lighthouse construction, now refitted to provide first-class Arctic exploration. Its sturdy 1A ice-class hull allows access deep into the pack ice, offering unique perspectives on remote regions. The ship accommodates small groups with seven characterfully decorated cabins, including twin, double, and single options, all with ensuite bathrooms and windows. Multiple observation decks, a sauna, and an outdoor hot tub ensure guests can relax and enjoy panoramic views of the Arctic environment.
Life on board is centred around a cosy saloon-style dining room and bar, complemented by a comfortable lounge for lectures, presentations, or quiet reading. Guests are welcome on the open bridge to observe navigation and wildlife spotting firsthand. MV Freya also carries two Zodiacs for closer shore landings and wildlife encounters. Designed for intimate, itinerary-free expeditions, the vessel provides a seamless blend of adventure, comfort, and immersive engagement with the Arctic wilderness.
Vessel Type: Ice-Strengthened Expedition Vessel
Length: 41.8 m
Passenger Capacity: 12
Vikingfjord is a purpose-built micro-expedition vessel designed for only 12 guests, combining ice-strengthened capability with modern Scandinavian comfort. Its 1B-rated hull allows access deep into pack ice and remote terrain that larger ships cannot approach, while its energy-efficient engine and advanced NOx filtration system deliver a 95% emissions reduction. Multiple viewing points — including an L-shaped observation lounge, bridge lounge, and extensive open-deck platforms — give uninterrupted sightlines across the Arctic environment from every angle.
Interiors are contemporary and restful, with eight ensuite cabins arranged in single, twin, and suite layouts. Social spaces include a light-filled lounge with a bar and library, a cosy dining room lined with windows, and open access to the bridge. On-deck amenities such as the sauna and outdoor hot tub extend the experience outdoors, providing rare vantage points in warmth and comfort. Vikingfjord operates as a true small-ship expedition platform: quiet, compact, environmentally progressive, and designed to maximise immersion in the polar landscape.
Inclusions
SVALBARD
• Expert Svalbard Expedition Leader
• Lectures on Svalbard
• Use of Zodiac (Dinghies) for shore landings and photography opportunities
• Polar Bear protection guides for shore landings
• Full Board (breakfast, lunch and dinner + alcoholic drinks with evening meal)
• Bedding and towels
• Highly experienced Captain and Cook
• Rubber boots for shore landings
• Transfers from airport to hotel and to vessel for embarkation + vessel to airport/hotel after disembarkation
ANTARCTICA
• Expert Antarctica Expedition Guide Team
• Lectures on Antarctica
• Use of Zodiac (Dinghies) for shore landings and photography opportunities
• Full Board (breakfast, lunch and dinner )
• Bedding and towels
• Highly experienced Captain and Cook
• Rubber boots for shore landings
Exclusions
• Flights
• Travel and cancellation insurance
• Any additional expenses such as museum entry
Small Ship Cruise
Highlights
• The best time of year for photographing the northern lights• Numerous opportunities to capture East Greenland’s wild, perspective-altering landscapes from the ship and shore
• Visit the remote settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit and learn about the unique Greenlandic way of life
• We only work with award-winning legends of polar photography who are in-field tuition experts – you’re learning from the very best
Our Associates Include
