Arctic, Greenland
South Greenland: Alpine Exploration by Helicopter
Experience the rare thrill of landing on the massive Greenland ice sheet—an exclusive highlight of our 15-day South Greenland: Alpine Exploration by Helicopter itinerary. This activity-packed voyage is perfect for travelers who love spending time off-ship, hiking, cruising by Zodiac, visiting local communities, camping, kayaking icy waters, and soaring above fjords and mountaintops in one of our twin-engine helicopters. Suited to guests of all fitness levels, you can choose how adventurous you want to be or enjoy a slower pace on board—relaxing in the spa and gym, unwinding in spacious common areas, or indulging in our Tundra to Table culinary experience.
Highlights
• Soar over the massive Greenland Ice Sheet
• Choose from unique off-ship excursions, such as helicopter landings, and camping alongside Tasermiut FJord
• Experience Greenlandic cultural highlights with local partners
• Visit the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage site to learn about the intersection of Inuit and Viking cultures.
Arrive in Reykjavik and transfer independently to your hotel, which is included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore sites of the fascinating capital, which is known for its mix of modern architecture and Viking heritage. At 64°08’ north, Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital of an independent sovereign state.
This afternoon, you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead.
As we cruise north across Denmark Strait, with views of Greenland in the distance, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures ahead. Our polar presentations are an excellent way to learn about the storied history of the Arctic, its fascinating wildlife, geology, glaciology, ecology, and climate, and the incredible sights that await you. The team will also help you search for seabirds soaring around your ship, as well as whales that frequent the surrounding waters.
As we arrive in Greenland, towering f jords and hanging glaciers grab our attention, marking our first encounter with the remote east coast. This uninhabited region offers excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings, including humpback whales and the occasional polar bear. Depending on conditions, you may explore this iceshaped landscape by sea, land, and air— through Zodiac cruising, hiking, paddling, and heli-landings. Look forward to exploring the fjords of Greenland’s east coast, including Lindenow Fjord (Kangerlussuaq). Thousands of years ago, Paleo-Inuit hunters and fishermen lived in these isolated landscapes, sustained by the sea long before European explorers and mass settlements. Traces of their presence remain today, set against cascading glaciers and steep mountains. The fjords are where you can observe plenty of wildlife, especially marine mammals. Rare sightings of polar bears are also possible as they drift down from the north on sea ice floes propelled by the East Greenland Current. Humpback whales are often sighted when entering fjords as the shallowing seas bring an upwelling of nutrients to the surface. As we watch for wildlife, the alpine terrain invites exploration by sea, land, and air, offering a fully immersive experience of this remote icescape. Conditions permitting, activities may include heli-landings, hiking, paddling, Zodiac cruising, and shore landings.
We’ll transit through the scenic 105-kilometer-long Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), and explore the dramatic fjords of South Greenland. Our team plans a visit to the village of Aappilattoq, where you can experience local culture, music, and traditional foods. The journey continues to Tasermiut Fjord—a 70-kilometer, cliff-lined waterway known as “Arctic Patagonia”— where overnight camping and excursions unfold among glaciers and towering peaks. The maze of fjords, sounds, islets, inlets, and skerries around Cape Farewell (Nunap Isua), Greenland’s southernmost tip, has a distinct character. Transiting Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq)—one of the world’s most scenic fjords—is unforgettable. Expect dramatic mountain and seascapes, with glaciers tumbling to the sea and striking views at every turn. This region is home to Southern Greenlanders living on the frontier, where migrating hunting peoples from the east eventually settled near European trading posts. The few villages in this southern region are known for communities that remain closely tied to hunting and fishing traditions. We hope to visit Aappilattoq, a close-knit Greenlandic Inuit community on the shores of Prins Christian Sund, where you’ll meet local partners and residents. Guests may have the opportunity to hear stories and music, sample traditional foods, learn about hunting practices, and perhaps even join a friendly game of soccer. Your time in Arctic Patagonia will allow you to marvel at the impressive glacier at its head, with rivers of ice tumbling toward the sea, and the imposing peaks of Nalumasortoq and Ulamertorsuaq that dominate the skyline, making for the most scenic backdrops to your hike or helicopter excursion.
Following in the footsteps of the Greenlandic Norse into the western fjords, it’s easy to see why Erik the Red chose this land and gave Greenland its name. In every direction, blue, ice-strewn waters meet lush valleys and blooming pastures. Warm microclimates deep within the f jords—rare across the Arctic—create surprisingly fertile landscapes. Farming traditions dating back to Viking times continue today, with families tending remote sheep farms and producing seasonal crops along the shores. This quiet, pastoral landscape is a sharp contrast to what comes next: the Greenland Ice Sheet. With an average thickness of 1,673 meters (5,489 feet) and a maximum depth of over 3,488 meters (11,444 feet) at its thickest point, the Greenland Ice Sheet covers approximately 80% of the island. You will enjoy sweeping aerial views of the world’s second-largest ice mass from your seat in one of our helicopters—and upon landing, experience something few others humans do: set foot on the Greenland Ice Sheet. Visitors often feel unprepared for the reality and scale of the Ice Sheet, where the absence of edges—as it stretches into the horizon—and the sheer physical presence of this ancient ice crackling underfoot transforms the abstract into something deeply tangible. Tamassa, meaning “Come in everyone” or “You are welcome,” is a unique onboard cultural exchange—offered on the same day as the Ice Sheet Experience—led by South Greenlanders themselves. Moving naturally through shared spaces onboard Ultramarine, local Greenlanders connect with guests through conversation, stories, hands-on workshops, food tastings, and performances. Tamassa, in this instance, invites Greenlanders into our home, the ship. You’ll also explore Kujataa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves a remarkable legacy of Norse and Inuit farming. We also hope to visit Qassiarsuk, a small settlement across the water from Narsarsuaq, where you can experience true South Greenland hospitality and gain insight into life at the edge of the Ice Sheet. Take time to visit the remains and reconstructions of Brattahlíð, Erik the Red’s estate and once the heart of the Norse Eastern Settlement.
We’ll head north along the spectacular west coast of Greenland on our way to Nuuk. As your Arctic adventure winds down, you can take in a polar presentation by our onboard experts, share your photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar, or watch a movie. This is a great opportunity to ask members of the Expedition Team any remaining questions you have about any aspect of your voyage.
Upon arriving in Greenland’s capital, enjoy one more Zodiac ride to shore for the group transfer to the airport to catch your charter flight to Reykjavik, Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we will transfer you to your hotel. Both your hotel and charter flight are included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package.
After breakfast at your included hotel, make your way to Keflavik International Airport for your onward f light, or continue exploring Reykjavik at your leisure.
Itineraries are subject to change.
|
Book now |
Explorer Triple
$17,951 AUD pp
Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). This suite is perfect for guests traveling solo who want to share their experience with other like-minded travelers of the same gender, or for groups of three traveling together. Featuring three separate single beds, and amenities for each of the three guests. Features: three single beds (two of which can be combined into a double bed), sitting area, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Explorer Suite
$21,115 AUD pp
Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). These suites are perfect for people traveling together or solo guests looking to share with like-minded individuals. This suite maximizes interior living space while still offering guests the opportunity to stay connected to the outdoors. Our entry-level twin suites are the largest available on a ship of this class. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Balcony Suite
$23,252 AUD pp
Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 m2) of indoor living space, and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 m2) balcony, this entry-level balcony suite is one of the largest available on a ship of this class. This suite is perfect for guests who are looking for both indoor and outdoor living spaces. There are four connecting suites in this category, making this an excellent option for families or groups wanting to stay connected to each other during their expedition. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Deluxe Balcony Suite
$27,442 AUD pp
Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 299 sq. ft. (27.8 m2) of indoor living space, and a 70 sq. ft. (6.5 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting a larger living space, full bathroom, and a substantial balcony. Deluxe Balcony Suites are the first suite type to offer additional privacy in the bathroom with an enclosed toilet, a full bath and shower to make it easier for guests to get ready together in the morning. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Terrace Suite
$28,468 AUD pp
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 350 sq. ft. (32.5 m2) of indoor living space, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting generous interiors with a wide layout and the largest balconies on the ship. Centrally located on Deck 6, guests will enjoy minimal movement and motion from the comfort of these suites. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private extra-wide balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Penthouse Suite
$30,605 AUD pp
The only suite category to be located on Deck 7, with approximately 369 sq. ft. (34.3 m2) of indoor living space, and a 67 sq. ft. (6.2 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting to wake up to unobstructed polar views from the warmth and comfort of their bed onboard the ship. These suites offer the best of everything—views, spacious interiors, full bathrooms and generous balcony sizes—as well as easy access to the wellness centre. Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Solo Panorama
$32,572 AUD pp
Located on Deck 6, and approximately 132 sq. ft. (12.3 m2). This suite is perfect for solo guests who appreciate privacy and want to wake up to sweeping views from the comfort of their bed. These are the only solo suites with floor-to-ceiling windows available onboard any ship in its class. Features: single bed, floor-to-ceiling window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Owner's Suite
$38,044 AUD pp
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 446 sq. ft. (41.4 m2) of indoor living space and a 46.3 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want it all. A large, luxurious suite featuring a private bedroom, full bathroom, powder room, and two separate living spaces. This suite is perfect for families or couples who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship. Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Ultra Suite
$42,233 AUD pp
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 563 sq. ft. (52.3m2) of interior living space, and a 46 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want to travel without compromise. Our largest and most luxurious suite features the most sleeping, entertainment and storage space onboard the ship. It is perfect for families or travelers who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship. Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional walk-in hallway closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room. Standard Amenities: hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship
Length: 128 metres
Passenger Capacity: 199
Built: 2019-2020
The Ultramarine is a next-generation polar expedition ship designed to push the boundaries of exploration and comfort. Carrying up to 199 guests, this advanced vessel features two twin-engine helicopters that open access to rarely visited polar regions and breathtaking aerial perspectives. With its expansive wraparound deck, spacious suites, and more outdoor viewing areas than any other ship in its class, Ultramarine offers an unmatched sense of connection with the surrounding landscapes. Its design balances adventure and elegance, featuring stylish lounges, an impressive theatre, two gourmet dining venues, a tranquil spa and sauna with panoramic windows, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Every detail of the ship is crafted for immersive, luxurious discovery in the world’s most remote environments.
Setting a new standard in sustainable exploration, Ultramarine is equipped with cutting-edge environmental technology, including the Micro Auto Gasification System (MAGS), which converts waste into energy, and an industry-leading operational range of 40 days. With four embarkation points and an internal Zodiac hangar for faster landings, guests spend more time adventuring and less time waiting. From heli-hiking and exclusive landings to relaxed evenings in the glass-enclosed Panorama Lounge, Ultramarine combines thrilling exploration with exceptional comfort—delivering the ultimate polar expedition experience.
Greenland Camp Experience
Tundra to Table Culinary Experience
Paddling Excursion
Save 10%
Offer ends 31 December, 2050
Inclusions
• An official Quark Expeditions parka to keep
• Leadership throughout the voyage by our experienced Expedition Team, including shore landings and other activities
• All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program
• All shore landings as per the daily program
• Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
• All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage
• NEW Free beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
• Complimentary coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
• Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
• A photographic journal documenting your expedition
• A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
• Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
• NEW Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more dataintensive applications.)
• All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
• All luggage handling aboard the ship
• Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person
____________
• Two helicopter excursions: Flightseeing and Ice Sheet Experience
• One 10-15 minute heli flightseeing excursion
• One helicopter-supported Greenland Ice Sheet Experience
Exclusions
• International airfare
• Passport and visa expenses
• Government arrival and departure taxes
• Any meals ashore with the exception of breakfast at the host hotel before embarkation
• Baggage, cancellation and medical travel insurance - strongly recommended
• Excess baggage charges
• Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landing and cruising excursions, or any other gear not mentioned
• Laundry, bar, massage services and other personal charges, unless specified
• Phone and Internet charges
• Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for expedition staff and shipboard crew
• Additional overnight accommodation
• Arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated
• Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities
___________
Expedition
15 Days from
$1,197 AUD per day
Our Associates Include
