Greenland Expedition - FAQs

Clothing & Equipment Will we receive a packing list?  Yes. You’ll receive a detailed packing list in your travel documents, which will be sent approximately two months before your trip.

Will we receive a jacket on board?  Yes. All guests travelling to Greenland with HX receive our high-quality blue expedition jacket. It is wind- and water-resistant, sustainably produced, made from recycled materials, and available in sizes XS–XXXL. You may also try on different sizes onboard, and if you already own an HX jacket, you’ll receive onboard credit upon presenting it during check-in.

Is the jacket warm enough? Should I bring extra layers? Yes, the jacket is high-quality, windproof, and waterproof. However, we highly recommend bringing additional warm layers (for example: wool or insulated mid-layers) as temperatures can vary. Packing layers ensures comfort in changing conditions.

What should I wear in Greenland?  Layering is key to staying comfortable in Greenland’s variable conditions. We recommend thermal base layers, a warm mid-layer such as a fleece or sweater, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Waterproof trousers are essential, especially for Zodiac rides and landings. Avoid wearing only synthetics as they trap moisture and can make you feel colder.

What if I’m allergic to wool? If you’re allergic to wool, natural fibres like cotton or bamboo are great alternatives. Bamboo has similar insulating properties to wool, while cotton provides comfort. Try to avoid synthetic materials, as they can trap moisture and make you feel cold.

Do I need waterproof trousers? Yes. Waterproof trousers are essential, especially for Zodiac rides and landings.

What type of gloves are best?  A combination of thin liner gloves and thicker wind- and waterproof gloves works best. This allows you to adjust layers depending on the conditions while keeping your hands warm and dry.

Do I need a hat?  Yes. A well-fitting hat is recommended, ideally with a chin strap to prevent it from blowing away. Because of the strong sunlight, some guests prefer a peaked hat to protect their face from the sun.

What footwear should I bring?

Do I need hiking boots?  Yes. Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended, as many landings involve uneven terrain, tundra, or rocky trails.

Can you recommend brands for waterproof gloves or trousers?  We don’t recommend specific brands but suggest high-quality ski gloves and durable waterproof trousers for best protection and comfort.

Can we bring walking sticks on board?  Yes. You’re welcome to bring your own walking sticks. We also provide walking sticks for all guests on every landing, and the Expedition Team will take them ashore for you.

Can I bring a waterproof case for my phone?  Yes. A waterproof case helps protect your phone from splashes during Zodiac rides. A neck strap is also recommended for added safety and convenience.

Do I need to bring binoculars?  Yes. Bringing binoculars will help you get the most out of Greenland’s incredible wildlife and landscapes. We recommend models with 8x or 10x magnification and an objective lens size of 32 mm or 42 mm.

What activities are included?  All guests can enjoy a range of included experiences such as nature landings, community visits, expedition cruising, wildlife spotting, science centre visits and onboard lectures. These activities are designed to enhance your journey without the need for additional sign-ups. The exact locations of landings and activities depend on weather and ice conditions - such is the nature of an expedition cruise.

Are there optional activities available?  Yes. In addition to the included activities, we offer a selection of optional excursions that can be booked for an additional cost. These may include experiences such as kayaking, hiking, or other guided adventures. Availability can vary depending on the voyage and weather conditions.

Is kayaking available in Greenland?  Yes, kayaking is offered on all voyages, with options for Guided Sea Kayaking (€99) or self-guided Discovery Kayaking (€69). You can register your interest on board during an orientation session with the Expedition Team. Please note that kayaking is weather-dependent and may be modified or cancelled for safety reasons.

How do I find and book optional excursions?  You can view a selection of possible excursions for your voyage on our Excursions Hub, though please note that the catalogue may contain inaccuracies and is currently being updated - especially for Greenland. To pre-book excursions, you will need to contact us by phone. Additional excursions may also be available once you’re on board, where they can be booked via the HX app from February or with the Expedition Coordinator.

Do optional excursions cost extra? Yes. Optional excursions are not included in the voyage fare. Also, pre-booked optional excursions receive a 10% discount compared to when booked on board.

Are there any experience or fitness requirements for using Zodiacs?  Our Zodiacs are designed for all guests. The main requirement is being able to get in and out of the Zodiac safely and comfortably. Our Expedition Team is always on hand to assist and ensure everyone can enjoy the experience safely.

How do I register for activities?  A briefing will be held on board to explain how to register for optional activities, including any specific requirements or safety briefings.

Is ground transportation included?  This depends on the package you have booked. Please always check your personal itinerary, and if you’re not sure, contact our local customer service centre and someone will be happy to help.

How do we book an airport transfer?  Please contact our customer service team for details regarding airport transfers. If you booked your flights through HX, then your transfers to the ship are included. The transfer from the airport to the hotel can be booked with HX and should also be found on your itinerary if booked. Otherwise, transfers can be booked separately through customer service.

Can I guarantee early check-in at the hotel?  Yes. To guarantee an early check-in, you must request this in advance through us, and it will incur an additional charge.

Can I bring my own alcoholic beverages onboard?  No, only alcohol from our bar, restaurants, and cabin mini bars can be consumed onboard. If you bring alcohol with you, please hand it to our crew during embarkation, and they’ll return it to you on the final day of the sailing. However, with our all-inclusive service, there's no need to worry!

Are there non-alcoholic options on board?  Yes, we offer a selection of non-alcoholic wines and beers, as well as a wide range of soft drinks, teas, and coffees.

Will I need certain visas?  Remember to bring your passport, regardless of your nationality. Your passport must remain valid for at least six months after disembarkation. It’s your responsibility to obtain any visas and travel documents required by the countries you visit during your trip. Please check your travel documents, as visa information will be included.

Is there a dress code for dinner?  The overall dress code on board is casual and comfortable, so you can wear whatever you feel best in at dinner. There’s no formal dress requirement - just be sure to pack a pair of shoes suitable for walking around the ship.

Will there be regional dishes available onboard to taste?  Yes, at our Aune restaurant, our menus feature regional dishes, crafted with local ingredients where possible. This allows you to enjoy the authentic flavours of the areas you visit during your voyage.

Is WiFi complimentary?  Yes, WiFi is complimentary and available throughout the ship. However, connectivity may be limited due to the remote areas we explore. We recommend completing any phone updates and downloading apps and media before boarding the ship.

Is there a shop onboard?  Yes, there is an onboard shop that offers a range of products, including clothing, souvenirs, books, and travel essentials.

Are drones allowed on the ship or during excursions?  Unfortunately, drones are not allowed either on the ship or during excursions and activities off the ship.

What types of card payments are accepted onboard?  The ship accepts Visa, MasterCard, and AMEX for onboard purchases. However, thanks to the all-inclusive nature of your voyage, most of your needs are already covered!

Can I tip onboard servers?  Tipping is not expected at HX, as service charges are not added to your bill. If you wish to thank the crew, you can leave a tip at Reception or in the tipping box. Collected tips are shared among crew members, but please do not tip individuals. Officers and the Expedition Team are excluded from this.

Is there a bar on board, and is alcohol charged separately?  Yes, there is a bar onboard. Our expeditions are all-inclusive, meaning most drinks are free. Some selected premium drinks are available for an additional cost.

Is there a professional photographer on board who shares their photos?  Yes, we have an onboard photographer on every expedition. They share a selection of photos in your HX Logbook, which you’ll receive after returning home.

Is there laundry service on board?  Laundry facilities and services vary slightly by ship:

What kind of power sockets are used on board?  Power sockets are standard European 220V two-pin outlets. We recommend bringing an adaptor if your devices use a different plug type.

Are there wellness facilities on board?  Wellness facilities differ slightly by ship:

What onboard medical facilities are available?  There is a medical centre staffed with one doctor and at least one nurse.

Does the onboard medical facility provide prescribed medication?  No, the onboard medical facility does not supply prescribed medication. It’s important to pack enough of your prescribed medicine to cover the entire length of your trip.

Do I need to do a medical before travelling?  No, this is not required for your trip to Greenland.

I need to keep medication refrigerated. What are my options?  On many ships, a small minibar fridge in your cabin will be enough. If your cabin doesn’t have one, or if you have a larger supply that won’t fit, the medical centre can store it for you securely.

Is travel insurance absolutely necessary?  It is not mandatory; however, we highly recommend comprehensive travel and health insurance. We would advise that your policy should include medical evacuation and repatriation coverage, with a minimum recommended coverage amount of $200,000.

Is there a way for solo travellers to mix with fellow solo travellers?  Yes, we have a ‘welcome’ event for solo travellers, typically on the first or second day on board. There are solo tables during both lunch and dinner, and the head waiter will accommodate any requests.

What kind of social atmosphere can solo travellers expect onboard?  HX fosters a warm and welcoming community for solo travellers, with flexible dining arrangements and opportunities to socialise or enjoy solitude as preferred.

What about onboard connectivity? WiFi is available most of the time but may slow or drop in remote areas. Short videos can usually be viewed.

What are the typical daily temperatures in Greenland at this time of year?  Temperatures in Greenland typically range from 0°C to 15°C during the summer months. On calm, sunny days, it can feel warmer than expected due to the dry air, especially when there's no wind. However, the weather can shift quickly and unpredictably. Dressing in layers is essential to stay comfortable in changing conditions.

Is it possible to see the Northern Lights? Yes. Northern Lights in Greenland typically appear between October and March. From late September, there is a small chance of sightings, especially in the northern regions of Greenland or on late-season voyages to Northeast Greenland National Park or Scoresby Sund.

Are there any cultural “dos and don’ts” when visiting Greenland? Yes. Always ask permission before taking photos of people, children, private homes, or culturally important events. Be open, patient, and curious. Avoid criticizing local lifestyles, wandering into private areas, or walking between houses or near drying racks without guidance.

Is it okay to take photos of local people or communities? Yes - but only with permission. Always ask before photographing individuals, children, private homes, or cultural activities. Respect for privacy and local customs is essential.

Are there important customs or traditions I should know about? Yes. Many communities still celebrate Inuit traditions such as drum dancing, storytelling, and kaffemik - an open-house gathering where visitors are welcomed with coffee, cake, and local foods. These are meaningful cultural experiences and an important part of the communities we visit.

Where can I track whale sightings? You can use happywhale.com or the HappyWhale App, which works onboard and can be used with our Science Team.