Grand Greenland – Mythical Land of the North

Gateway to the Greenlandic Arctic 

Arrive in Nuuk, Greenland’s compact capital, set along a deep fjord system framed by rugged mountains. Despite its small scale, the city is a vibrant centre of modern Greenlandic life.  

If time allows, we’ll explore this fascinating city. Nuuk is also where you start to feel the essence of the Arctic: ice, sea, and the mountainous peaks of Quassussuaq and Ukkusissat.   

Once on board, meet the Expedition Team, settle into your cabin, and enjoy your first dinner on board. 

At sea through the Arctic Circle

As we set sail towards the Arctic Circle, you’ll have time to settle into life on board. There will also be mandatory AECO briefings on the rules and recommendations for exploring the fragile Arctic environment, which are essential if you wish to join our planned landings further north. 

Our Expedition Team will also take lectures to introduce to Greenland, and explain the Citizen Science projects you can participate in. 

At some point during the crossing, we’ll pass over the Arctic Circle, entering the realm of the Midnight Sun at the height of summer. 

Explore the volcanic island landscape

Today we spend more time exploring the inky blue waters of Disko Bay. In our Zodiacs, cruise between ice floes and towering glaciers, taking in the sheer scale of this Arctic landscape. 

We'll also step ashore on Disko Island, the only major island in Greenland formed by ancient basalt lava flows, giving it a completely different character to the mainland: dramatic columns, red flat-topped peaks, and unusually lush vegetation fed by volcanic soils. Hike through tundra rich with wildflowers and birdlife, and visit the colourful town of Qeqertarsuaq, nestled beneath towering basalt cliffs where a small community lives amid one of the Arctic's most striking geological landscapes. 

Entering through the gateway to the north

Greenland’s far north begins beyond the Nuussuaq peninsula. Here, life moves at the rhythm of the Arctic; unhurried and guided by the elements. 

This rugged, beautiful land has drawn people for over 4,000 years. Early settlers navigated its coastline and carved out a life in conditions few could endure. Today, archaeological sites stand as quiet markers of their resilience, including the famous Qilakitsoq mummies discovered in this very region. 

Potential landings may include visits to small, remote communities like Uummannaq, watched over by its striking heart-shaped mountain, or Ukkusissat. Weather and ice permitting, we’ll explore the Qilakitsoq site, cruise into secluded fjords, or step ashore to take in Greenland’s raw Arctic landscapes. 

Relax and learn at sea

We’ll spend the day on the open seas crossing Melville Bay. This is a huge bay bordering the icy coast of Lauge Koch, where the ice caps meet the sea. Known by the locals as Qimusseriarsuaq, meaning ’The Great Dog Sledding Place‘, the bay was renamed by British explorers after Robert Dundas, 2nd Viscount of Melville in the mid-19th century. 

As we sail well beyond 70 degrees north, relax on board and join wildlife watches out on deck with the Expedition Team. You could also learn more about the Arctic with the ongoing series of lectures covering its nature, geology, and mythology. 

Explore life at the edge of the world

Ultima Thule is the term used by Greek explorer Pytheas in the 4th century BC to describe a mythical land in the far north. Nobody knows for sure which land he meant, but the name has come to refer to the far north in Greenland. 

Even by Arctic standards, the Thule region is harsh. And yet, it was the first region in Greenland to be populated, some 4,500 years ago, by the forerunners of the Inuit. How they managed to survive and thrive here still puzzles archaeologists, but the abundant bird and animal life provides sustenance, and the traditional hunting culture has survived better here than elsewhere in Greenland. The polar travel know-how of the locals has been highly sought after on European and American expeditions, either as guides or saviours. 

Over the coming days, we'll explore the region, always adapting our programme to the weather and ice conditions as we go. Expect visits to local communities, Zodiac landings, and sailing through icy channels. 

Crossing Baffin Bay 

We're now sailing south, our adventures in the north complete. These sea days invite a slower pace: long lunches, conversations with new friends, or a soak in the hot tubs while icebergs drift quietly past.  

Meanwhile, make sure you watch for wildlife on deck, and join the Expedition Team for lectures and science sessions, to gain fresh insights on Greenland, the Arctic, and the wider themes of our voyage.

Marvel at the UNESCO-listed wonder

This spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site regularly tops the list of things to see and do in Greenland, and today you'll find out why. Enjoy the scenery as you walk along the wooden path to the breathtaking ice fjord.

Marvel at giant icebergs floating in the deep blue waters as they take on different hues of white, grey, and blue. All photographers, regardless of skill, will return to the ship with the most enviable images. Back in pretty Ilulissat, visit the Icefjord Centre to learn more about the ice in this fascinating area and take a hike to Sermermiut to take in the incredible views. 

Modern towns on the edge of the wilderness

The central west coast of Greenland is a land of contrasts, where long fjords cut deep into a vast and sparsely populated landscape. Here, distances are great, and the sense of remoteness is part of everyday life. 

 As we sail south, we'll visit communities where Greenlandic traditions remain strong. A possible call is Itilleq, a small fishing and hunting village perched near the Arctic Circle, where warm local welcomes, traditional kaffemik gatherings, personal stories, or maybe even a friendly soccer match offer an authentic glimpse into everyday Greenlandic life. 

Return to Greenland’s capital

Today, as we arrive at Nuuk, you will say a fond farewell to MS Fridtjof Nansen, the crew, the Expedition Team and the new friends you will have made. The lively capital of Greenland is a big city to all other towns in the country you have visited over the last couple of weeks. If you have time before flying back home, it is a fascinating window onto modern Greenland. 

From here, you'll catch a flight back to London, taking with you a wealth of fantastic memories that will no doubt   endure.