![](https://polarcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/QuarkExpeditions_Carlo-Lukassen-Quark-Reconnaissance-27.jpg)
South Greenland Adventure: The Majestic Alpine Arctic - 13 days
Aboard Ultramarine – 199 passengers
Developed in partnership with local communities—a first of its kind in expedition travel—this itinerary offers unprecedented opportunities to explore the majesty of South Greenland’s diverse fjordlands. Ultramarine’s two helicopters will take you to areas in South Greenland that others can’t reach, especially for off–ship excursions.
The following adventure options are included in the voyage cost: Flightseeing, Heli-Hiking, Heli-Ice Sheet Experience and Paddling excursion. Guests can also enjoy hikes, community visits and Zodiac cruises. Camping is offered at an additional cost (spots limited).
This voyage—accessible to guests of all fitness levels—offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in soaking up the serene mountain views, sailing through the icebergs on a Zodiac cruise, or trying optional activities such as heli–hiking or camping in style on the shores of Tasermiut Fjord with local hosts.
Tour Dates
-
Jul 29 - Aug 10, 2025 (13 days)
Itinerary
Arrive at Toronto Pearson International Airport and make your way to your included hotel. You will have the rest of the day to explore this cosmopolitan Canadian city on your own.
In the morning after breakfast, guests and their luggage will be transferred to the airport for their charter flight to the Greenlandic capital of Nuuk. This picturesque city of 17,000 is situated on a fjord with the Sermitsiaq mountain in the background. Upon arrival, guests will be transferred to their ship.
Today, we’ll head south along the spectacular west coast of Greenland on our way to the The Westlands. Following in the footsteps of the Greenlandic Norse into the Western fjords, it’s easy to appreciate why Erik the Red chose this land as his home and gave Greenland its name: every direction you look rewards visitors with vistas of blue, ice– strewn waters set against a breathtaking backdrop of lush, verdant valleys and pastures bursting with blooms.
Unique to Greenland, and indeed the entire Arctic, warm microclimates deep in the fjords have created a surprisingly fertile Arctic Garden of Eden. South Greenlandic farming traditions dating back to Viking days are still kept alive. Many families work their remote sheep farms along the shores of the fjords, their lives very much attuned to the seasons as they produce a variety of organic home–grown produce (such as potatoes, turnips and kale).
Also in the West, we find the perfect access points to the Greenland Ice Sheet, which we’ll reach by helicopter. You’ll enjoy the most incredible views of the largest mass of ice in the northern hemisphere and second largest in the world, flowing from the heights of the polar plateau to sea level. Become one of the very few people to ever set foot on this incredible body of ice during our included Greenland Ice Sheet Experience. Over these two days you will have the opportunity to explore the Ice Sheet, hike the surrounding foothills, cruise or paddle through the azure ice–filled waters, and engage with our local friends and partners during the most meaningful and in–depth community experiences offered on any Quark Expeditions voyage.
Guests will learn more about the history and culture of this region at the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a living history lesson in Viking farming. We hope to offer you the opportunity to visit charming Qassiarsuk, a small sheep farming settlement across the fjord from Narsarsuaq, where you can experience true South Greenland hospitality and gain insight into the fascinating lives of sheep farmers living at the edge of the Ice Sheet. We suggest you take time to explore the remains and replicas of Brattahlíð, Erik the Red’s estate, once the epicenter of the Greenland Norse Eastern Settlement.
The stunning maze of fjords, sounds, islets, inlets and skerries (rocky islands) in and around Cape Farewell (Nunap Isua) at Greenland’s most southern tip possesses its own particular magic. Transiting the 100–km long Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq)—one of the world’s most scenic fjords—will be truly unforgettable. Guests can then look forward to dramatic mountain and seascapes with glaciers tumbling down to down to the sea, and stunning vistas around every corner. Inhabiting this domain are Southern Greenlanders living on the frontier, a people as unique as the landscape they call home. This is where the migrating hunting peoples from the east finally settled around the European trading posts.
The few villages in this southern region have gained a level of fame thanks to the inhabitants who remain steadfastly faithful to their hunting and fishing heritage. We hope to visit Aappilattoq, perched on the shores of Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), to introduce you to our friends and partners there. We hope to offer you the opportunity to listen to their stories, hear their music, taste their food, learn about their hunting traditions, and perhaps even join a friendly game of soccer as a player or spectator.
If you are looking for the most iconic peaks of South Greenland, you’ll be in your glory when we reach the Tasermiut Fjord in the heart of what’s known as “Arctic Patagonia,” where guests can sign up for overnight camping (with local hosts) along the 70–km fjord. Marvel at the impressive Sermeq glacier at its head with rivers of ice tumbling almost down to sea level, and the imposing peaks of Nalumasortoq and Ulamertorsuaq dominating the skyline, making for the most scenic backdrops to your hike or helicopter–enabled excursions.
We set out for the wild fjords of the uninhabited east coast, one of which is Lindenow Fjord, also known by its Greenlandic name, Kangerlussuatsiaq. Thousands of years ago, groups of paleo– Inuit hunters and fishermen made their home in these isolated fjords, living off the land and surviving mostly on the resources the sea provided, before European explorers and the subsequent establishment of settlements prompted one of the biggest waves of migration in Greenland. Traces of these once proud peoples can still be found today against the backdrop of cascading glaciers and steep–walled mountains.
These fjords are frequented by marine mammals. Rare sightings of polar bears are 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. While we keep our eyes peeled for wildlife, the magnificent alpine terrain invites us to explore by sea, land and air to immerse ourselves completely in the remote icescapes of the region. The wild east is ideal for heli landings and hiking, paddle excursions, Zodiac cruises and shore landings.
Day 12: Disembarkation, Explore Nuuk, Flight to TorontoAfter breakfast, guests will be transferred from the pier to the town. You’ll have time to wander the streets of the historic Old Nuuk neighborhood and see the Hans Egede Church and Hans Egede statue near the waterfront. You will also have an opportunity to visit the Greenland National Museum & Archives to view the collections and exhibitions and to better understand Greenland’s cultural heritage, such as the significance of the kayak, which is Greenland’s national symbol and can be traced back over 4,000 years. There will also be an opportunity to visit the famous 500-year-old Greenlandic mummies. After a half-day of exploring Nuuk, guests will meet at a designated spot in town for the transfer to the airport for their charter flight to Toronto.
After a restful night at your included hotel, make your way to Toronto Pearson International Airport for your onward flight, or continue your independent explorations of Toronto at your leisure.
Route Map
![](https://polarcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/1704728808-south-greenland-adventure-2025-768x900.png)
Trips and Rates
Please note, rates are Per Person in USD
Transfer Package is an additional cost and not included in the cabin pricing. See the neon green box in the pricing grid for the cost of transfer package, which varies based on departure.
A 5% Goods & Services Tax (GST) will be added to both the cabin & transfer package cost on all “Canada’s Remote Arctic” and “Arctic Express Canada” departures and is not included in the above prices.
Single Travelers:
- Can book a dedicated Solo Panorama at the pricing listed above
- Can book into a share cabin in the following categories: Explorer Triple, Explorer Suite & Balcony Suite
- Can book a twin cabin at solo occupancy at 1.7x the per person share price in Explorer Suite & Balcony Suite and 2x the per person price for all other categories
Adventure Options:
- Kayaking (full program, multiple paddles): $795/person – requires experience
- Paddling (one-time): $195/person
- Tundra to Table: Inuit Culinary Experience: $125/person
- Greenland Camp Experience: $795/person
- Mountain Biking: $195/person
- Exclusive Heli-Landing: $395/person
Mandatory Transfer Package is $995/person and not included in the cabin cost. Transfer package includes a hotel night in Buenos Aires on Day 1 and roundtrip flights between Buenos Aires & Ushuaia. See additional notes in the Inclusions section on itinerary page.
Single Travelers:
- Can book a dedicated Solo Panorama at the pricing listed above
- Can book into a share cabin in the following categories: Explorer Triple, Explorer Suite & Balcony Suite
- Can book a twin cabin at solo occupancy at 1.7x the per person share price in Explorer Suite & Balcony Suite and 2x the per person price for all other categories
Adventure Options:
- Kayaking (full program, multiple paddles): $995/person – requires experience
- Paddling (one-time): $295/person
- Exclusive Heli-Landing: $395/person
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding: $295/person
Availability & prices are subject to change at anytime. Please contact us for the real time availability & prices.
Cabin Descriptions
![](https://polarcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Quark-Expeditions_Ultramarine_Ultra-Suite_Cabin-619_-3_Web.jpg)
Ultra Suite
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. The largest and most luxurious suite features the most sleeping, entertainment and storage space 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. Amenities include hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle, upgraded bedding, in suite coffee, binoculars on loan.
![Owners Suite](https://polarcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/02-Owners-Suite.jpg)
Owner's Suite
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. Amenities include hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle, upgraded bedding, in suite coffee, binoculars on loan.
![Penthouse Suite](https://polarcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/03-Penthouse-Suite.jpg)
Penthouse Suite
The only suite category to be located on Deck 7, with approximately 369 sq. ft. (34.3 m2) of indoor 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. Amenities include hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle, upgraded bedding and in suite coffee.
![Terrace Suite](https://polarcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/04-Terrace-Suite.jpg)
Terrace Suite
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. Amenities include hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle, upgraded bedding and in suite coffee.
![Deluxe Balcony Suite](https://polarcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/05-Deluxe-Balcony-Suite.jpg)
Deluxe Balcony Suite
Located on Decks 4 & 6, with approximately 299 sq. ft. (27.8 m2) of indoor 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. Featuring one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors. Amenities include hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
![Balcony Suite](https://polarcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/06_Balcony-Suite.jpg)
Balcony Suite
Located on Decks 4 & 6 with approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 sq. m) of indoor space and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 sq. m) balcony. The Balcony Suite is the entry level balcony cabin. Featuring one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Amenities include hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle. Some suites in this category offer interconnecting rooms. The balconies in suites 421, 422, 423, and 424 are partially enclosed.
![Explorer Suite](https://polarcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/07-Explorer-Suite.jpg)
Explorer Suite
Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). Large entry-level double occupancy suites maximizing interior living space while still offering guests the opportunity to stay connected to the outdoors. Featuring one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Cabin amenities include hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle. Suites 319 and 322 offer modified layouts and bathrooms for wheelchair accessibility.
![Explorer Triple](https://polarcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/08-Explorer-Triple.jpg)
Explorer Triple
Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). This cabin is for solo passengers looking to share a cabin with other passengers of the same gender or 3 people traveling together. Featuring three separate 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. Cabin amenities include hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
![Solo Panorama cabin](https://polarcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/09-Solo-Panorama.jpg)
Solo Panorama
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 a single bed, floor-to-ceiling window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Cabin amenities include hair dryer, bathrobe, slippers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, complimentary water bottle.
Deck Plan
![](https://polarcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ULT-3.jpg)
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions:
- Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities
- All Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program
- All shore landings per the daily program
- Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
- All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals.)
- Free beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
- Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
- A photographic journal documenting the expedition
- A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
- An official expedition parka to keep
- Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
- 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
- Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax
- 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 data intensive applications.)
Exclusions:
- International airfare
- Arrival transfers in Toronto
- Departure airport transfer in Toronto
- Passport and visa expenses
- Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above
- Meals ashore unless otherwise specified
- Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended
- Excess-baggage fees on international flights
- Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
- Laundry, bar and other personal charges unless specified
- Phone and Internet charges (connectivity may vary by location)
- Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew
- Additional overnight accommodation
- Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities