Arctic, Greenland

West Greenland: Discovering Massive Icebergs and Inuit Communities, Northbound

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Our 11-day West Greenland: Discovering Massive Icebergs and Inuit Communities, Northbound itinerary is designed for travelers who want the most immersive journey possible into West Greenland—where tidewater glaciers, storied fjords, colossal icebergs, and picturesque coastal communities bring the spirit of the region to life. You will journey deep into both Eternity Fjord—and the rarely-visited Itilleq Fjord. You’ll also explore Ilulissat, Eqip Sermia and Uummannaq—West Greenland’s crown jewels of ice and stone—all in one seamless trip. And thanks to our partnerships with locals, we’ll take you beyond the guidebooks, connecting you with Greenland through those who call it home. Plus, you’ll cross the iconic Arctic Circle.

Highlights

• Dive deep into Eternity and Itilleq fjords

• Cross the Arctic Circle by ship

• See three of West Greenland’s most spectacular wonders on one epic trip: Ilulisat, Eqip Glacier and Uummannaq

• Experience authentic Greenlandic culture through the eyes of our local partners

• Join unique off-ship activities such as sea kayaking and mountain biking.

This itinerary is also available in reverse. Click here for additional dates.

Day 1 - Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrive in the Icelandic capital and make your way to the group hotel near Keflavik Airport. You will have the rest of the day to explore this fascinating city, known for its Norse history,and stunning architecture. If you plan to visit the city of Reykjavik, allow for a one-hour transfer between Keflavik and Reykjavík.

Day 2 - Fly to Nuuk, Greenland and Embark

After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Nuuk, Greenland. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a central downtown location to enjoy time on your own to explore this quaint port town—which is the capital of Greenland—before making your way to the pier for a lateafternoon embarkation.

Day 3 - Eternity Fjord: Towering cliffs and glaciers

Eternity Fjord lives up to its name—its beauty feels endless. You will be surrounded by precipitous mountains rising straight out of the sea and glaciers spilling down deepcut valleys. Within the fjord, you may explore by Zodiac or foot—or both—with the potential to cruise the coastlines and floating glacial ice. You can anticipate a range of hiking or on-shore walks—always accompanied by our seasoned team, whose expertise bring the world’s largest island into focus. Transiting the fjord by ship will provide excellent opportunities for you to soak in the scenery from the outer decks of the vessel.

Day 4 - Sisimiut: First stop above the Arctic Circle

Congratulations, you’ve crossed 66°33° north latitude. On our firstoff ship excursion in the Arctic, we’ll visit Sisimiut, a community rich in Greenlandic history and culture. As we approach via the inner harbor, you’ll spot locals coming and going from the marina, bringing halibut, shrimp and other seafood freshly harvested from Baffin Bay. Upon reaching shore, we’ll walk winding roads past colorful homes and Arctic cotton grass blooming under the summer sun. While the waterfront may be lively with boat traffic, life uphill moves at a relaxed pace. You may hear children laughing, sled dogs barking, and locals exchanging greetings—sounds that often bring smiles to both visitors and residents. Greenlandic dogs, often seen in kennels throughout town, reflect the deep bond between owners and their canine teams. As in any Arctic community, always ask before petting or approaching these working dogs. During our visit, we aim to team up with our local mountain-biking partners in Sisimiut, exploring trails that lead outside the town limits. Our expedition team and local partners will lead guided walks and provide insight into daily life in Greenland—and you will be able to share your own story with locals, who will be eager to learn about your part of the world. One scenic walk leads to the Taseralik Cultural House, beside Nalunnguarfiup Tasia, a small tranquil lake at the base of a 780-meter (2,560 mile) Nasaasaaq mountain. You’ll walk the same paths locals use every day, experiencing not just the look of Sisimiut, but its rhythm, sounds and genuine sense of place.

Day 5 - Eqip Sermia: Epic Tidewater Glacier

Today you’ll visit Eqip Sermia, also known as Eqi Glacier. This wide-faced tidewater glacier is renowned for its frequent calving, sending chunks of ice crashing into the sea. You’ll likely see icebergs drifting in the bay, accompanied by smaller chunks called brash ice. On quiet days, listen for the soft crackle of those floating shards, and, if you’re lucky, the thunderous roar of calving ice from the glacier’s face. While the glacier is the main attraction, the surrounding landscape is perfect for shore excursions. You can wander the tundra, photographing the summer vegetation and stunning Arctic scenery, or hike farther (and a little uphill) for an elevated view of the glacier and bay. The terrain, a mix of rock and vegetation, allows for various hiking options. We’ll take care not to disturb the delicate plant life that flourishes during Greenland’s brief summer. Following an invigorating morning ashore—perhaps hiking across ancient tundra—you’ll return to the ship, where warmth, a freshly prepared lunch, and a chance to reset await. But the wild Arctic experience isn’t over for the day. From the outer decks, you can watch as icebergs drift by like sculpted monuments, seabirds trace circles overhead, and the vast silence of the Arctic settles around you Humpback whales are known to frequent the area on their annual return to the Arctic, lured by rich feeding opportunities, so you may spot them through your binoculars as they swim among the drifting icebergs. This is what we call the quiet middle—where comfort meets wilderness—as the ship carries you steadily toward your next experience.

Day 6 - Uummannaq: Mountains, ice, and Greenlandic smiles

We arrive in Uummannaq Fjord in the morning and cruise toward the community of Uummannaq. In Greenlandic, Uummannaq translates to “heart-shaped,” inspired by the dramatic mountain that rises above the town. Visiting this remote community is a rare privilege. We reach town by Zodiac and may be greeted by locals— and the ever-smiling chief of police. It’s said that smiles here are as common as drifting icebergs. Winding roads take you past colorful homes before reaching a meadow of turf houses beside a stone church. You can visit the local museum and artisan market for a glimpse of life in northern Greenland. Another nearby museum honors artist Rockwell Kent, who was inspired by the landscapes of Uummannaq Fjord and Disko Bay. You may choose to join a guided walk or explore on your own. Several homes may open for kaffemik—a social gathering with warm drinks, light snacks, and a chance for locals and visitors to connect. Rest assured, the people of Uummannaq will be curious about your part of the world. Shy smiles and translated conversations are natural parts of these authentic cultural exchanges—and often become some of the most memorable moments of visiting this remote Greenlandic community. A parting gift from one local fisherman: “Keep life simple—simple is beautiful.”

Day 7 - Disko Bay & Illulisat: Explore a UNESCO World Heritage site

Ilulissat, located in Disko Bay, is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilulissat Icefjord, which serves as the thoroughfare for countless icebergs calved from the world’s fastest-moving glacier, Sermeq Kujalleq. A small boardwalk leads to an elevated overlook, where you can view bergs of all sizes spread out before you. From this vantage point, it feels as though you’re standing where the town ends and the wilderness begins—where the sweeping view of ice evokes a humbling sense of scale. You will also notice the Arctic cotton grass and summer wildflowers thriving in the long daylight hours. The inner harbor often holds evidence of the icefjord’s reach, with drifting icebergs mingling among fishing boats and skiffs. The town itself is well worth exploring, and has become one of Greenland’s top destinations. Recent years have brought growth— colorful homes now sit beside new restaurants, boutique hotels and small businesses. History buffs will be excited to know Ilulissat is the birthplace of Arctic explorer Knud Rasmussen, who traveled by dog sled from Greenland to Alaska (and briefly Siberia) during the Fifth Thule Expedition (1921–1924). Fluent in Kalaallisut, he learned from and documented the Circumpolar Inuit he met—considered one of the Arctic’s greatest expeditions. The dramatic landscapes around Ilulissat inspired Rasmussen’s life of exploration. As we approach town, watch out for whales, which occasionally frequent the icebergladen waters.

Day 8 - Itilleq Fjord: Glaciers, snowfields, picturesque valleys, and jagged peaks

We will spend the afternoon in Itilleq Fjord, a place that feels both beautifully raw and peaceful at the same time. Elevation rises in all directions, and from the right vantage point, the mountain ranges seem to continue in layers, endlessly into the horizon. A visitor to Itilleq Fjord once said, “I’m not quite sure where Earth stops and heaven begins, but it seems to be somewhere right out there.” Conditions permitting, your Expedition Team will help you explore the shorelines by Zodiac, on foot—or perhaps both. Rivers wind between jagged peaks, descending picturesque mountain valleys and providing several hiking options. In summer, the shorelines and valleys come alive with grasses, wildflowers, succulents, lichens, and even mushrooms. Small glaciers and snowfields linger year-round at higher elevations, completing this striking mountainous coastal landscape. You may spot the occasional small boat in the fjord—likely belonging to a local f isherman from the nearby town of Itilleq. Moments like these often leave our guests reflecting on this life—one shaped by the tides, weather, and the rhythms of land and sea.

Day 9 - Itilleq Town: A Greenlandic Welcome

The small settlement of Itilleq has always been a favorite among guests and Expedition Team members, thanks to the warm welcome we’ve received over the years. The 100 residents live among brightly painted homes—greens, pinks, purples, baby blues, mustard yellows, and chocolate browns—and many people earn their living at sea, as evidenced by the small seafood processing building near the pier. Despite its size, the village is full of life, from respected elders to playful children. You may be invited to a kaffemik, where people socialize over coffee and cake, or follow a short dirt road to a viewpoint overlooking the f jord and surrounding mountains. Watch your step—lichens, succulents, and mushrooms thrive underfoot. A longstanding tradition features a friendly football (soccer) match with locals, including guests, staff, crew and residents. It’s a fun, memorable experience—whether you’re on the field or cheering from the sidelines.

Day 10 - Disembark at Kangerlussuaq and fly to Reykjavik

Today, we disembark in Kangerlussuaq, formerly known as Søndre Strømfjord, and transfer you to your charter flight to Reykjavik, where you’ll spend the night in your included hotel, both of which are included in your Charter Flight & Hotel Package.

Day 11 - Depart Reykjavik

Today, after breakfast, make your way independently to the airport for your f light home, or continue your personal travel plans as prearranged.

Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

This itinerary is also available in reverse. Click here for additional dates.

17 August, 2027 to 27 August, 2027
Ocean Explorer Save up to $4,871 AUD

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Triple Suite

~~$18,495 AUD~~
$15,814 AUD pp

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites, specifically designed for three guests, are configured with two singles in the inner bedroom and a third bed in the outer room beside the bedroom. Also, the other portion of the outer room is furnished with a sofa. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub (with shower head) , vanity and heated floor.

Deluxe Veranda Forward

~~$20,695 AUD~~
$17,695 AUD pp

Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Veranda Stateroom

~~$21,695 AUD~~
$18,550 AUD pp

Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There are also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: Cabins include a separate sitting area except 609, 610, 611, 612, 614 and 615.

Veranda Suite

~~$23,095 AUD~~
$19,747 AUD pp

Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Studio Single

~~$29,895 AUD~~
$25,561 AUD pp

Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Junior Suite

Sold Out

Please contact Wild Earth for alternative options or to waitlist.

Penthouse Suite

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Studio Veranda Single

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Owners Suite

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Ocean Explorer

Vessel Type: Polar Expedition

Length: 342 ft (104.4 m)

Passenger Capacity: 138

Built: 2021

The Ocean Explorer is a modern, purpose-built expedition vessel combining contemporary elegance with advanced polar exploration technology. Accommodating up to 138 guests, this state-of-the-art ship features the innovative ULSTEIN X-BOW® design, which ensures smooth, stable sailing even in rough seas. A highlight of the vessel is its stunning two-story, glass-walled library located at the bow—perfect for quiet reflection with panoramic views of the polar landscapes. Almost all spacious cabins include private verandas, while the ship’s sleek Scandinavian-inspired interiors create a sense of understated luxury. Guests can unwind in the fitness centre, sauna with large windows overlooking the ice, or one of two outdoor Jacuzzis while taking in the surrounding scenery.

Designed with both exploration and comfort in mind, Ocean Explorer offers generous outdoor viewing spaces and elevated observation decks for exceptional photography and wildlife watching. A fleet of 15 Zodiacs ensures quick, safe embarkation for off-ship adventures. Social spaces such as the elegant Main Dining Room, Latitude Bar, and Observation Lounge provide a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, complemented by fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and cutting-edge sustainability systems, including waste-to-energy technology. Every detail of the Ocean Explorer reflects innovation, comfort, and environmental consciousness—setting a new standard for luxury expedition cruising.

Sea Kayaking

The kayak adventure option is open to all levels of experience. However, it is highly recommended that you have some sea kayaking related experience prior to kayaking in the polar regions with Quark Expeditions. Our sea kayaks are the ideal means by which to slow down and connect with the pristine natural environments and surroundings.

Paddling Excursion

Glide through the pristine polar waters in a sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayak for an unforgettable experience in the Arctic and Antarctic wilderness. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by an additional safety driver who will stay close by to provide additional support.

Mountain Biking

Feeling like a more active adventure? Our team has joined with local partners to identify incredible mountain biking routes through the stunning scenery just beyond the town boundaries of Sisimiut, Greenland. While others explore the community our expert guides and local partners will take you to the best terrain to start your adventure and be with you throughout the activity. Participants must be fit, and intermediate to intermediate-strong mountain bikers. Riders should expect a combination of single track and remote gravel roads. Riders should be able to roll over small obstacles (like roots or rocks), and shift gears comfortably when anticipating and responding to changing terrain.

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

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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