Select Dates: June - July 2024
Experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the world - amazing icebergs, fjords, and rich wildlife. And, get to know the rich cultural traditions, meet the fascinating Inuit people, and visit their colorful settlements.
Member Benefit: 90 Euro onboard credit per person for all sailing dates
Expedition Cruise
Landing Activities
Onboard Activities
Day 1: Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavík is the northernmost capital city in the world. The name means 'Smokey Bay,' so called because of the steam columns that rise from the many hot springs in the area. Board the MS Fridtjof Nansen at Reykjavik harbor. After you collect your complimentary expedition jacket and check-in, you’ll have time to settle in your cabin.
Day 2 – 3: At Sea - Crossing the Denmark Straight
Leave Iceland behind and sail across the Irminger Sea. This is the same crossing that was used by the Vikings to migrate from Iceland to Greenland some 1,000 years ago.Enjoy introductory lectures on local history and biology for insight into the upcoming destinations.
Day 4: Qaqortoq - Picture Perfect Greenlandic Town
Many consider Qaqortoq one of the most beautiful towns in Greenland for its colorful houses and photogenic setting. It is the biggest town in South Greenland, with some 3,000 inhabitants, but still easy to explore on foot. You can also join one of our excursions to get even more insight into local culture.
Day 5: Kvanefjord Exploration Day
Discover the beautiful region of Paamiut by sailing deep into the Kvanefjord. Our experienced captain and Expedition Leader will take advantage of the current weather and ice conditions to identify our activity for the day. This could be a hike ashore for a scenic view of the area, or possibly small-boat cruising or kayaking.
Day 6: Maniitsoq – The Venice of Greenland
Maniitsoq was founded in 1755 and its name means `The Uneven Plac´ referring to the rocky hills and mountains shaping the layout of the town. It is also known as the `Venice of Greenland´ as it is situated in an archipelago, intersected by natural canals. The local museum charts the rich history and culture of the town.
Day 7: Sisimiut – Where There Are Fox Dens
Sisimiut is situated 25 miles north of the Arctic Circle. The name means `The People Living in a Place of Fox Dens.´ This is the second largest town in Greenland, a modern, picturesque settlement that maintains ancient traditions. We offer a variety of exciting excursions to discover the many things to do in Sisimiut.
Day 8: Ilulissat Icefjord – UNESCO World Hertitage Site
Ilulissat is set in the stunning scenery of the Ilulissat Icefjord UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the mouth of the fjord you can see enormous icebergs that have run aground. These ice masses originate from the Jakobshavn Glacier, one of the fastest-moving glaciers in the world. Join one of our many excursions here.
Day 9: Vaigat Sound Exploration Day
We now arrive at the northernmost point in our itinerary. There are several excellent landing sites in Vaigat Sound offering breathtaking landscape and Arctic flora. Our experienced captain and Expedition Leader will take advantage of the current weather and ice conditions to identify our activity for the day.
Day 10: Evighed Fjord – Exploration Day
On one side of the meandering Evighed Fjord is an ice cap that often crashes massive chunks of ice into the water. Around us are the highest mountains in West Greenland with peaks, up to 26,600 feet in height, sometimes swirling with mist. Conditions on the day will determine the final program and the range of activities on offer by the Expedition Team.
Day 11: Nuuk – The Vibrant Capital of Greenland
Nuuk is situated at the mouth of one of the most spectacular fjord systems in the world. The capital city is where old and new traditions meet, from historic buildings in `Kolonihavnen´ to the modern Centre for Greenland Self Rule. Another feature is the National Museum - home to the famous mummies of Qilakitsoq.
Day 12: Ivittuut – Muskoxes and a Norse Settlement
According to archaeologists, Vikings settled in this area more than a thousand years ago but didn’t remain. Ivittuut is believed to be the last Norse settlement in Greenland, but first to be abandoned. Nowadays, the only inhabitants that might appear in the town are wandering musk oxen that normally graze in the nearby plains.
Day 13: Prins Christian Sund
This long fjord is surrounded by mountains that reach over 3,900 feet, and up to 7,280 feet high. Many glaciers go straight into its waters where they calve icebergs of all shapes, shades, and sizes. If the channel is blocked with ice, we will sail around Nunap Isua (Cape Farewell) instead.
Day 14-15: Irminger Sea
After exploring exhilarating Greenland, we set course back to Iceland. Spend the days at sea recapping your experiences, having fun in the Science Center, or just relaxing on deck, looking at the seabirds which follow our ship or maybe even spotting whales.
Day 16: Reykjavik
Say a fond farewell to MS Fridtjof Nansen as your expedition comes to an end where it began – the Icelandic capital of Reykjavík.
*Please refer to vendor brochure or their website for general information, itineraries and all terms, conditions and responsibility statements. As with all expeditions, nature prevails; weather, and ice and sea conditions, sets the final framework for all operations; safety and unparalleled guest experiences are at all times top priorities. All itineraries and dates are subject to change without notice. Cruise only unless otherwise specified. Wi-Fi may have limited connection in remote areas and streaming is not supported. Fees/taxes, optional excursions, travel insurance and gratuities not included unless otherwise specified. Restrictions and limitations apply per product. Ask AAA for details Agency #178-018-521