East Greenland Expedition Cruise

Arrive individually to Reykjavik and check in to your hotel (included in the flight and hotel package described below).

Explore the lovely city of Reykjavik on your own. In the afternoon, transfer to Keflavik and your flight to Kulusuk, and the airport built by the US Air Force in 1956. Kulusuk means “the village with the mountain that looks like the breast of a bird” in Greenlandic, referring to the Isikajia Mountain located directly behind the airport. In the evening, board the expedition ship and begin your great exploration.

You are now on an expedition cruise and the exact route will be decided by weather and ice. Some areas can be filled with ice and therefore not always reachable. Please note that the places mentioned below are just examples of places you can visit on this true expedition cruise.

Visit the town of Tasiilaq. With just under 2,000 inhabitants, it is the largest settlement in East Greenland. It is home to an older and different Inuit culture, where shamanism and native culture is much more vibrant than in other parts of Greenland. During your expedition here, you will learn more of local myths and legends, as the one about tupilaqs. In Greenlandic Inuit religion, a tupilaq was an avenging monster fabricated by a practitioner of witchcraft or shamanism by using various objects such as animal bone, skin, hair, or sinew. Tasiilaq is also known for its art scene, where local artists create prints, sculptures, and textiles mostly portraying the animals, landscapes, and traditional stories of the area.

Venture into the serenity of the Ammassalik fjord system and the small settlement of Kuummiut. This is a relatively unknown pearl of east Greenland, nestled within the Ammassalik Island group. The surrounding fjords, lined by tall mountain tops, offer perfect hiking opportunities, with hidden waterfalls and spectacular views. Kuummiut has a rich Inuit heritage, and we hope to get the opportunity to learn about the traditional practices.

Further up north is the Ikateq fjord, where you might make a landing at the abandoned military base from World War II, Bluie East Two. It played an important role in serving as a refueling and maintenance stop for aircraft traveling between North America and Europe. Today it is no longer in operation, but some remnants still exist, such as abandoned fuel drums, buildings, and vehicles.

Farther east are two impressive glaciers: Karale and Knud Rasmussen. Sailing in this area, you are likely to hear and see the thunderous calving of these two very active glaciers.

Continue into the mighty Sermilik fjord. It stretches over 50 miles and cuts through a rugged landscape of towering glaciers and jagged peaks, and we find ourselves among a myriad of icebergs of all shapes and sizes. Most of them originate from the impressive Helheim glacier at the deep end of the fjord, which produces some of the largest icebergs in all of Greenland. The beauty around us is stunning!

On the southern shores of Sermilik fjord is the tiny village of Tiilerilaaq. The wooden houses are beautifully situated on a hill, with the grand Sermilik fjord in the background. The local Inuit culture and the traditional hunting and fishing activities play a significant role in the way of life here. Before you wave goodbye, head out on a nice hike to overview the surrounding landscapes and the many icebergs!

If the ice allows, enter Johan Peterson fjord. On the northern side of the entrance of the fjord is Qeertartivatsiaq Island, where Inuit ruins are found on the southern shore of the island. At the head of the fjord are some outlet glaciers from the inland ice coming straight down to the sea. This is one of few places you can catch sight of the actual inland ice, although please know that it is often blocked by beautiful icebergs.

As you travel, keep an eye out for Arctic foxes, seals, and different species of whale.

After breakfast, disembark at Kulusuk. You'll have one last tour before it is time for the airport and the flight to Keflavik. Once in Iceland, check into your hotel for a good night's sleep. (Included in flight and hotel package).

Bid your farewells and return home or onwards for new adventures.


Please note: The exact route will depend on ice, weather conditions, and wildlife. The places mentioned are just examples of some of the sites this region of Greenland has to offer. We always strive to maximize your experience. Please remember that flexibility is the key to a successful expedition!