Blanketed in ice and sculpted by glaciers, Greenland is a dazzling tableau of the Arctic’s wild glory. Trace the enduring ingenuity of the country’s people—from the storied ruins of Brattahlið, Erik the Red’s legendary estate, to the living cultural landscape of Kujataa, a UNESCO World Heritage site where Norse and Inuit traditions intertwine. Cruise through fjords hemmed by towering cliffs in Prins Christian Sund and Skjoldungen Island, then step ashore to hike or kayak alongside locals who know the region best. This is an expedition into the heart of untamed wilderness—where Norse legends linger, Inuit heritage thrives and the Arctic’s timeless beauty reigns.
Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport to the city and spend the day exploring at your own pace. Check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.
Sail away from the Land of Fire and Ice and across the Denmark Strait. Connecting the Arctic and Atlantic Ocean, the strait is home to the world's largest waterfall, caused by powerful currents and glaciers. Listen to talks by experts, relax with a book in the lounge or the observation deck and keep an eye out for wildlife as the ship sails across the continental shelf.
The coast of the world's largest island is etched with thousands of fjords, some of which reach back to the Greenlandic ice sheet. Spend these days exploring these stunning inlets of the eastern coast, using underwater cameras and a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to discover marine life and fascinating underwater geology. Ice permitting, sail deep into majestic fjords and soak in your arrival to Greenland on a Zodiac cruise or paddling a kayak among the icebergs.
Sail into Prins Christian Sund, which cuts into the southern tip of Greenland. Pass between soaring pinnacles and glaciers and through the sheltered waters of this dramatic landscape. As you round the southern coast of Greenland, enter Tasermiut Fjord, known as Arctic Patagonia for its sheer granite rock faces and dramatic valley filled with glaciers or their moraines. Spend time exploring by foot, kayak or Zodiac along its shores.
Your exploration of Erik the Red’s Eastern Settlement begins in the fjords around Qaqortoq. The Sissarluttoq World Heritage Center is dotted with ruins of Inuit and Norse farms, stables and storerooms made of sandstone and granite blocks, allowing you to imagine what farming was like on the edge of the ice cap over 1,000 years ago. Explore the ruins of the 14th-century Hvalsey Church, and venture deep into the fjord to witness how these ancient remnants create the backdrop for daily farming life in southern Greenland. Continue to Qaqortoq, inhabited since the Viking era and now the largest town in South Greenland, with just over 3,200 residents. Stroll through the town square and visit the museum, where Greenlandic kayaks, hunting equipment and local art and handicrafts are on display. Sample traditional Greenlandic food this afternoon.
Spend your day in present-day Qassiarsuk. Visit Brattahlíð, where Erik the Red established his farm in 982 A.D. after his exile from Iceland. Erik’s wife, Þjódhild, built the first Christian church in the western hemisphere here. Visit replicas of the church and Erik the Red’s longhouse, and see the shores from which their son, Leif Eriksson, launched the first voyages to North America—500 years before Columbus. Later, visit a local family farm that continues the farming tradition that has earned this region a UNESCO World Heritage designation for Arctic farming on the edge of the ice cap.
Between the southwestern farmland and the central capital region of Nuuk lie miles of fjords filled with opportunities for modern-day explorers. Following the lead of your experienced expedition team, navigate unchartered waters and savor the unspoiled nature Greenland is known for.
Disembark in Nuuk and join the recommended group flight to Keflavík. Transfers to the nearby hotel and luggage assistance will be provided.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for flights home.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Vessel Type: Expedition Ship
Passenger Capacity: 126
Length: 124 m
Built: 2020
National Geographic Endurance is a state-of-the-art expedition vessel purpose-built for year-round polar navigation. Named in honour of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s legendary Endurance expedition, she is the first polar ship in Lindblad’s history designed from the keel up for exploration. With an ice-class rating of PC5 (Category A) and a fully stabilised hull, she grants access to remote and often uncharted corners of the Arctic and Antarctica in exceptional comfort and safety.
Her revolutionary X-Bow®—a striking forward-leaning design—enables superior wave-cutting performance, ensuring a smoother, quieter ride and minimising spray on deck for better wildlife observation. On board, guests enjoy thoughtfully designed public spaces including a wraparound observation lounge, library, and an expedition base for gear and briefings. Dining is offered across three flexible venues, all serving sustainable, locally inspired cuisine. With a full suite of tools for exploration and a design deeply rooted in expedition heritage, Endurance is the ultimate platform for discovering Earth’s most remote regions.








Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: 108 meters
Passenger Capacity: 148 (single & twin cabins)
Built / Refurbished: 1982 / 2008
Originally constructed for Norway’s renowned Hurtigruten Coastal Express, National Geographic Explorer was a natural fit for the Lindblad Expeditions fleet thanks to her exceptional manoeuvrability, ice-strengthened hull, and purpose-built expedition design. Now fully stabilised and refitted with over five decades of exploration expertise, she is ideally suited for navigating the most remote corners of the globe—from the rugged coasts of Europe to the icy passages of the polar regions. With vast windows throughout and a Scandinavian-inspired interior, the ship invites guests to stay connected with their environment at every turn.
Aboard National Geographic Explorer, every feature is tailored to enhance discovery. From the open Bridge and observation deck to the Chart Room and mudroom for expedition gear, the ship is an authentic platform for adventure. Her recently updated suites offer comfort and understated elegance, while public spaces such as the library, Global Gallery, and multiple dining areas encourage camaraderie and relaxation. Carrying expert guides, state-of-the-art tools, and a fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks, this 148-guest ship brings guests closer to nature with all the style and substance expected of a flagship expedition vessel.






